Patents Issued in November 6, 2001
  • Patent number: 6312399
    Abstract: The invention provides exemplary devices and methods for increasing cardiopulmonary circulation when performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In one exemplary method, a patient's chest is actively compressed during a compression phase. At least some of the respiratory muscles are stimulated to contract during a decompression phase to cause an increase in the magnitude and duration of negative intrathoracic pressure during the decompression phase. In this way, the amount of venous blood flow into the heart and lungs is enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: CPRx, LLC
    Inventors: Keith G. Lurie, David G. Benditt, Todd M. Zielinski, Wolfgang Voeckel, Robert Patterson
  • Patent number: 6312400
    Abstract: In a positioning device, expandable bodies which expand and contract by air pressure are disposed at opposite sides of a movable member in its moving direction, the movable member being able to reciprocate, and a valve device for holding the expandable bodies in their extended states by valve-closing action is provided in an air path device which supplies air from an air supplying device to the expandable bodies. In a massager including this positioning device, the movable member is movably guided in up and down directions by a guide member provided in a back rest of a chair body, and the movable member is provided with a massage element which is projected from a surface of the back rest and is abutted against a body of a person sitting on the chair body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiromitu Itikawa, Syouji Hosino, Yuuji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6312401
    Abstract: A collapsible cervical traction device having an elongated primary support leg and a elongated secondary support leg that are pivotally connected to each other so that they are collapsible toward each other. Each support leg has a transversely extending foot member at its rear end. An elongated body support beam has its front end pivotally connected to the top wall of the primary support leg and it has a plurality of laterally spaced roller assemblies attached to its side walls at longitudinally spaced intervals along its length. A neck support assembly is removably received in a tubular sleeve that is pivotally mounted on the front end of the primary support leg. The neck support assembly has a Y-shaped support member having foam cushion members mounted on its upwardly extending arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: David W. Smith
  • Patent number: 6312402
    Abstract: A catheter useful for improving blood flow to a patient's heart has an elongated catheter body with a proximal end and a distal end. The elongated catheter body defines a catheter lumen. The elongated catheter body has an introducer distal portion with a tissue piercing distal end. An ultrasound transducer is positioned in the introducer distal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Ekos Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas R. Hansmann
  • Patent number: 6312403
    Abstract: An eye dryer device has a main body that includes a chamber which receives gas from an external source through an inlet port formed in the main body. The main body includes a lower shell section that has a plurality of exit ports such as 25 to 125 exit ports of relatively small size such as 0.5 mm to 2 mm which are arranged above the eye for providing a gentle, highly dispersed plurality of gas streams well suited for quickly drying a flap or cap of an eye following repositioning in a laser surgery (LASIK) procedure. The main body features an outer cover section which is joined such as by way of an adhesive with the lower or inner shell section about their common periphery or integrally joined such as by way of a common hardened melt region or an initial monolithic formation. The chamber is positioned between the inner shell section and outer cover section with each preferably having a convex-shape with a generally oval-shaped periphery for sealing position over an eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Luis Antonio Ruiz
  • Patent number: 6312404
    Abstract: Catheter for use in biliary procedures, including a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. A guidewire lumen is carried by the shaft extending from a location proximal the distal end of the shaft to a location proximate the distal end of the shaft. An opening is included for accessing the guidewire lumen from a location exterior the catheter shaft located distal the proximal end of the shaft. The guidewire lumen may be formed integral the catheter shaft. The catheter may be used in rapid exchange catheter procedures. The catheter may further include a port and channel design including a first opening into the guidewire lumen located proximal the distal end of the shaft, a second opening located proximal the first opening, and a channel extending longitudinally between the first opening and the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Agro, Joseph Levendusky, Charles Warich, Ronald Paille
  • Patent number: 6312405
    Abstract: A detachable balloon system includes an inflatable balloon with a self-sealing valve. The balloon has an elastomeric membrane and a proximal opening. The self-sealing valve is made up of a valve body for receiving an inflation instrument to inflate the balloon. The valve body is preferably formed of a biocompatible elastomeric material and includes a base portion and a sealing portion. The base portion is bonded to the elastomeric membrane so as to seal the proximal opening of the balloon. The sealing portion is located within the balloon and extends distally from the base into the balloon. The sealing portion is compressibly sealable in response to a pressure within the balloon following inflation of the balloon and removal of the inflation instrument. A balloon dispenser for housing a balloon prior to receipt of an inflation instrument is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: American Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph Meyer, John D. Walker, Paul Volpini, Michael J. Magliochetti
  • Patent number: 6312406
    Abstract: A balloon catheter for use with a guidewire is disclosed. The catheter has a body with a balloon located thereon, preferably at the distal end. A lumen within the catheter body communicates with the interior of the balloon which can be inflated by known methods with saline solution. A series of sleeve members of predetermined lengths and sizes are coupled to and positioned along the length of the catheter body. One or more of the sleeve members can span the length of the balloon. Each sleeve member has a passageway and both an exit and entry port so that the guidewire can pass therethrough. Instead of a balloon, the catheter can include a device member that forms a chamber which can store medicine until discharged at the desired site within the blood vessel. Apertures or pores on the catheter body allow for the perfusion of blood or the delivery of medicine to the site of the blood vessel. A method of operation is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Iowa-India Investments Company Limited
    Inventor: Swaminathan Jayaraman
  • Patent number: 6312407
    Abstract: A device for occluding a vessel employs one of a number of different expansion members joined to one or more elongate members. The expansion member may include a braid, one or more coils, ribs, a ribbon-like structure, a slotted tube, or a filter-like mesh. If the expansion member is enclosed by a suitable membrane, the device seals with the vessel wall to partially or completely occlude the vessel. A perforated membrane may be used to permit the perfusion of blood. The expansion member may be self-expanding, or it may be expanded by engaging it with one of the elongate members. Alternatively, the expansion member may be expanded by heating it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Medtronic PercuSurge, Inc.
    Inventors: Gholam-Reza Zadno-Azizi, Celso J. Bagaoisan, Mukund R. Patel, Ketan P. Muni
  • Patent number: 6312408
    Abstract: An electrosurgical probe includes a shaft having an electrode array at its distal end and a connector at its proximal end. The array includes a plurality of isolated electrode terminals, and an electrosurgical power supply is provided with a multiplicity of independently limited or controlled current sources and a connector. The electrosurgical probe and the power supply may be connected through their respective connectors so that the independent current sources are connected to individual electrode terminals. By applying very high frequency electrical energy to the electrode array, target tissue may be cut or ablated while heat dissipation through low impedence paths, such as blood and normal saline, will be minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: ArthroCare Corporation
    Inventors: Philip E. Eggers, Hira V Thapliyal
  • Patent number: 6312409
    Abstract: A device (10) for generating a pulsatile fluid drug flow comprises a housing (11) containing an expandable-contractible chamber (12) having an inlet (14) and an outlet (15), a valve (16) associated with the outlet (15) which is actuated by the expansion and contraction of the chamber (12), and means (13, 23) for biasing the chamber (12) to its contracted state. When the inlet (14) is connected to a pressurised fluid drug supply the chamber (12) is expanded by the drug, and this expansion of the chamber (12) actuates the valve (16) to open, thereby allowing release of the drug from the chamber (12), following which the chamber (12) contracts under the influence of the biasing means (13, 23), this contraction in turn actuating the valve (16) to close thereby allowing the chamber (12) to refill. By this mechanism, a constant supply of liquid, such as from an osmotic or elastomeric drug delivery pump, can be converted to a pulsatile flow, which may provide a more suitable delivery of certain drugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Elan Corporation, PLC
    Inventor: Joseph Gross
  • Patent number: 6312410
    Abstract: An auxiliary appliance for syringe fixation according to the present invention comprises a syringe adaptor for fixing a flange part of a syringe to an injection head, and a piston adaptor for connecting a piston to a plunger. Thus, it is possible to attach a syringe, having a different shape from a syringe which can be directly mounted on the injection head, to the injection head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Sugan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetsuya Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6312411
    Abstract: A fluid supplying apparatus having a rubber elastic film (11) with fluid contained therein, an upstream tube (30), an intermediate station (40) disposed at a distal end of the upstream tube (30) and a downstream tube (27) connected to the intermediate station (40) is provided. The upstream tube (30) has two flow paths (31A and 32A) formed in a predetermined length extending in a longitudinal direction. The intermediate station (40) has a case (41), the case (41) having a fluid outlet (51) to which the downstream tube (27) is connected, a first communicating channel (52) for intercommunicating the fluid outlet (51) and one of the flow paths (31A), a reservoir (53) in communication with the other flow path (32A), a second communicating channel (55) having a check valve (54) at an intermediate portion thereof and intercommunicating the reservoir (53) and the fluid outlet (51), and a pressing member (56) for discharging the fluid stored in the reservoir (53) to the second communicating channel (55).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Aubex Corporation
    Inventor: Masahiro Kanai
  • Patent number: 6312412
    Abstract: A painless injection apparatus includes a first injector having a first storage chamber storing a numbing agent, a first needle, and a first plunger, and a second injector having a second storage chamber storing a medication, a second needle, and a second plunger. The injection apparatus further includes a plunger actuation device coupled to the first and second plungers and the second storage chamber. The plunger actuation device is adapted to sequentially advance the first plunger, the second storage chamber, and then the second plunger to inject the numbing agent and then the medication painlessly into a patient's tissues at the desired depths. The needles and medicine storage chambers are enclosed in a disposable portion of the injection apparatus which can be disposed of properly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventors: V. C. Saied, Patrick A. Dillon
  • Patent number: 6312413
    Abstract: A cylinder ampoule (1) having a first end sealed by a closure through which an injection unit can communicate with a medicament in the ampoule and a second end closed by a piston (3) which can be forced into the ampoule (1) to press out a dose of a medicament stored in the ampoule between the closure and the piston (3) through said injection unit, which cylinder ampoule (1) has a non-circular inner cross section and which piston (3) has a non-circular cross section corresponding to the inner cross section of the ampoule (1). A piston rod (4) has a pressure foot (5) which has a cross section corresponding to the inner cross section of the ampoule (1) and is non-rotatably connected to the piston rod (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Novo Nordisk A/S
    Inventors: Jens Møller Jensen, Thomas Buch-Rasmussen, Jens Ulrik Poulsen
  • Patent number: 6312414
    Abstract: A blood suction apparatus for aspirating blood from a patient is developed as a one-hand held instrument having a handgrip. A centrifuge chamber, shaped to narrow from its tangentially directed top blood inlet to its bottom blood outlet end, like a funnel. A gas outlet opening from a gas collection space above the chamber and to which a suction device can be connected. A blood outlet at the lower end of the centrifuge chamber with both outlets connectable to a source of suction. The orientations of the handgrip and of elements passing through the handgrip are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventors: Alexander Brockhoff, Hans Plechinger
  • Patent number: 6312415
    Abstract: The invention relates to an ostomy appliance comprising a body side member comprising an adhesive wafer or pad for securing the appliance to the user's skin, the wafer or pad having a hole for receiving a stoma, and a separately exchangeable receiving member or bag secured to the body side ostomy member for receiving secretions from the ostomy, the ostomy appliance further comprising a separate sealing member disposed in the hole of the wafer or pad surrounding the stoma wherein the separately exchangeable receiving member or bag is secured releasably to the body side ostomy member by a mechanical fastening means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Inger Mann Nielsen, Eskil Hoejland Olsen, Laila Busk Gothjaelpsen
  • Patent number: 6312416
    Abstract: The present invention provides a sanitary napkin that is thin (less than 5 mm in thickness), highly absorbent and has a lateral flexibility allowing for controlled deformation when in use, namely the assumption of a “W” pattern (good for absorption performance) or a “M” pattern (which enhances comfort). This controlled deformation provides a good comfort potential and simultaneously reduces the likelihood of bunching due to compression forces exerted laterally against the napkin by the thighs of the wearer. In a specific example, the sanitary napkin is characterized by a lateral stiffness of not less than about 400 g and comprises a cover layer, a barrier layer and an second absorbent layer having at least one preferential bending zone which allows the napkin to adopt a certain three-dimensional deformation profile in response to lateral compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson, Inc.
    Inventors: Henri Brisebois, Louis Canuel, Christiane Lariviere, Zulfikar Murji
  • Patent number: 6312417
    Abstract: The invention concerns an absorbent product such as a sanitary napkin, a pantyliner or an incontinence protector with an essentially elongated shape which has at least one attachment flap (22) arranged on a longitudinal side edge (8) of the product and folded over the liquid-permeable surface (2) of the product and having at least one adhesive attachment means (24) on the surface of the attachment flap (22) facing away from the product in the folded condition, and further a packaging wrapper (17) also of essentially longitudinal shape, whereby the packaging wrapper (17) lies on the liquid-impermeable surface (3) of the product and is folded together with the product along at least one transverse fold line (14) on the product to form a package (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Roy Hansson
  • Patent number: 6312418
    Abstract: An individually packaged absorbent article having a pair of first flaps and a pair of second flaps with fasteners, such as adhesive fasteners thereon, is disclosed. The absorbent article is wrapped by a wrapper for individually packaging the absorbent article. The wrapper comprises a main wrapper sheet and a flap fastener cover. Adhesive fasteners of the first and second flaps are releasably covered by the flap fastener cover which is joined to a part of the main wrapper sheet. The flap fastener cover protects the fasteners located on the first and second flaps of the absorbent article. The main wrapper sheet overlays one major surface of the absorbent article and by folding the article and sealing the wrapper in that folded orientation, an individually packaged disposable absorbent article is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Shimizu, Maki Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 6312419
    Abstract: An accessory in the form of a tab, tassel or puff ball attached to a tampon string to facilitate the tactile location and manipulation of the tampon string during urination. The accessory may also help prevent the tampon string from being retracted into the vagina. Additional embodiments are illustrated along with a method for extending the tampon string with the accessory attachment having the capability of being adhered to the user's body or undergarment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Maxie A. Durel-Crain
  • Patent number: 6312420
    Abstract: A pants-type disposable diaper includes a pants-type outer cover and an absorbent pad attached on an inner surface of the outer cover, the outer cover having first elastic members which circumferentially extend in the vicinity of a waist-opening of the outer cover and second elastic members which circumferentially extend in the vicinity of the uppermost points of a pair of leg-opening of the outer cover, the pad having an elongate pad body provided with a pair of barrier cuffs, the barrier cuffs having third elastic member at distal edges of the barrier cuff and fourth elastic members between the distal edges and proximal edges of the barrier cuffs, the fourth elastic member intersecting the second elastic members in front and rear waist regions of the outer cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Toru Sasaki, Nariaki Shimoe, Yoshinori Kumasaka, Toshifumi Otsubo, Yasushi Inoue
  • Patent number: 6312421
    Abstract: The present invention includes a method for treating an aneurysm. The method includes providing a biocompatible polymeric string and transporting the string to an aneurysm. The aneurysm is filled with the string. The string is cut when the aneurysm is substantially filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: NeuroVasx, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Boock
  • Patent number: 6312422
    Abstract: A process for monitoring and controlling the adjustment of treatment parameters in an ophthalmic treatment device which comprises a radiation source generating at least a treatment beam and, optionally, a target beam and an applicator which is connected with the radiation source via at least one optical element and can be attached to a slip lamp, wherein the following steps are provided: a) the irradiation parameters such as intensity, magnification of the contact lens placed on the eye, radiation dose per unit area, and spot size on the retina are adjusted by the operator at the radiation source; b) first parameters to be adjusted at the applicator are calculated on the basis of patient-related influencing variables such as contact lens magnification and the size of the spot to be realized on the retina, so that a determined spot size and intensity of the treatment beam to be applied can be realized at the treatment site on the retina; and c) parameters adjusted at the applicator are compared with the first
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Jena GmbH
    Inventor: Steffen Dubnack
  • Patent number: 6312423
    Abstract: In a laser treatment apparatus, a treatment laser beam emitted from a laser source 10 is coaxially aligned to an aiming beam emitted from an aiming light source 18 by a beam splitter 20. The coaxial beams are delivered to a patient's eye E through a light delivery optical system, when a controller 60 controls an inclination angle of a filter 57 to change its spectral characteristics such that the filter cuts off the treatment laser beam during the treatment laser irradiation, while allows to the aiming beam to pass during the observation of the patient's eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuo Ota, Tokio Ueno
  • Patent number: 6312424
    Abstract: A method of vision correction comprising shaping first and second regions of a cornea to provide the first region with a first vision correction power and the second region with a second vision correction power which is different from the first vision correction power to enhance vision at first and second distances, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Allergan
    Inventor: James R. Largent
  • Patent number: 6312425
    Abstract: A tip electrode for an ablation catheter mounted at the distal tip of an elongated catheter body member has a distal-end region and a proximal-end region. A tip thermal sensor is located at or near the apex of the distal-end region and one or more side thermal sensors are located near the surface of the proximal-end region. The electrode is preferably an assembly formed from a hollow dome-shaped shell with a core disposed within the shell. The side thermal sensor wires are electrically connected inside the shell and the core has a longitudinal channel for the side thermal sensor wires welded to the shell. The shell also preferably has a pocket in the apex of the shell, and the end thermal sensor wires pass through the core to the apex of the shell. Spaces between the shell and the core can be filled with epoxy resin. Alternatively, the electrode is formed of a solid metal having a plurality of bores for positioning thermal sensors at the tip and near the surface of the electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Simpson, Wade A. Bowe, Thomas M. Castellano
  • Patent number: 6312426
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for inducing large volume heat ablations of tissue in a patient involving electrodes that are in contact with the patient's external surface or the surface of an internal organ. A high frequency signal or output from a generator is applied to the tissue near the area electrodes by connection of the generator to the electrodes. Various applications and configurations of electrodes and temperature monitoring are appropriate for different clinical needs and thermal distributions. The use for interoperative ablation of a tumor site within an internal organ or for ablation of a tumor from electrodes placed on the surface of the patient provides a clinical advantage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventors: S. Nahum Goldberg, Kenneth K. Tanabe, William J. Rittman, III, Eric R. Cosman
  • Patent number: 6312427
    Abstract: A directional reflective shield assembly (25) is provided for a microwave ablation instrument (20) having an antenna (23) coupled to a transmission line (21). The antenna (23) is formed to generate an electric field sufficiently strong to cause tissue ablation. The shield assembly (25) includes a cradle device (26) disposed about the antenna (23) in a manner substantially shielding a surrounding area of the antenna (23) from the electric field radially generated therefrom. The cradle device (26) further provides a window portion (27) communicating with the antenna (23) which is strategically located relative the antenna to direct a majority of the field generally in a predetermined direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: AFx, Inc.
    Inventors: Dany Berube, Robert E. Woodard, Theodore C. Ormsby
  • Patent number: 6312428
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for cauterizing predetermined volumes of abnormal biological tissue using a user selectable or adjustable energy applicator including two or more electrodes having electrode parameters configured cause cauterization of predetermined volumes when operated in a bipolar mode. The energy applicators are employed with a control device that couples the energy applicators to a power source and includes circuitry for interrupting activation of the energy applicator when the current between the two or more electrodes decreases more than a predetermined amount from the current sensed upon initial activation of the energy applicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Neothermia Corporation
    Inventors: Philip E. Eggers, Ascher Shmulewitz
  • Patent number: 6312429
    Abstract: A device for localizing a target tissue mass in a body includes a tubular trocar portion having a distal end and a proximal end portion that is removably attachable to a handle portion. The trocar portion contains at least a first plurality of locator wires that are movable between a retracted position within the trocar and a deployed position extending radially from the trocar. In a preferred embodiment, the trocar portion has an electrosurgical cutting element at its distal end, and first and second pluralities of locator wires that, when deployed, respectively define first and second locating perimeters. The first plurality of locator wires is connected to a first wire carrying member longitudinally mounted for axial movement within the trocar portion between a proximal position corresponding to the retracted position of the first plurality of locator wires, and a distal position corresponding to the deployed position of the first plurality of locator wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Senorx, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred H. Burbank, Frank R. Louw, Paul Lubock, Richard L. Quick
  • Patent number: 6312430
    Abstract: A novel, bipolar, electrosurgical instrument is provided with two end effectors. Current is passed through the second end effector and through an insulated conduit to the distal tip of the first end effector. The first and second end effectors allow the current to travel along exposed conductive strips which are spaced apart cutting surfaces by a gap of preferably approximately 0.020-0.040 inches when the first and second blade supports are brought into contact with tissue. Current flows between the exposed metal strip on the first blade and the exposed metal strip on the second blade thereby effecting cauterization, preferably slightly in advance or at the point of cutting between the ceramic and metal blades. The first and second end effectors may be partially insulated to direct current between the conductive strips, and both may have gaps at their respective surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Endoscopic Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Wilson, John K. Danks, Jim Young
  • Patent number: 6312431
    Abstract: A vertebrae linking system for restricting relative movement between adjacent vertebrae and promoting fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. The invention comprises a system for linking spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae of a vertebral column of a patient, including an elongate linking plate apparatus for extending between the spinous processes of the adjacent vertebrae. The plate has opposite ends, and a pair of securing apertures formed in the linking plate, each of the securing apertures being located toward one of the ends of the linking plate. Preferably, a pair of sets of securing apertures are located at each end of the linking plate, each set of securing apertures comprising at least two apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Wilson T. Asfora
  • Patent number: 6312432
    Abstract: A bone drill extending along an axis has (1) a stabilizing point with first and second cutting edges which extend to a tip, conical wall sections and flutes on opposite sides of each of the first and second cutting edges and (2) first and second lands extending radially outwardly from the conical wall sections, each land having a radially outwardly extending cutting edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Nemco Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Leppelmeier
  • Patent number: 6312433
    Abstract: A deformable intraocular lens injecting apparatus for inserting a deformable intraocular lens through a small incision into an eye. The lens injecting apparatus includes a lens injecting body including a lens receiver configured to be operated between an open configuration and a closed configuration and a nozzle portion provided with a tip portion configured to be inserted through a small incision into an eye. The nozzle portion is configured for connection to the lens injecting body and the nozzle portion and the lens receiver define a lens delivery passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: STAAR Surgical Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Maurice D. Butts, Thomas J. Chambers
  • Patent number: 6312434
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for producing a shock wave to impact an object that includes a transfer member. The device has a voice coil assembly including a permanent magnet and a bobbin member, wherein the permanent magnet provides a first magnetic field. A hammer is attached with the bobbin member; and a coil is operatively attached to the bobbin member, wherein when a voltage is applied to the coil a second magnetic field is generated that opposes the first magnetic field and thereby propels the hammer to contact the transfer member to cause a shock wave to travel along the transfer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Northgate Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Sutrina, Robert R. Mantell, Albert Nowosielski
  • Patent number: 6312435
    Abstract: An improved surgical instrument, which can advantageously be used in the field of minimally invasive surgery, is provided. A method of performing a surgical procedure with such an improved surgical instrument is also provided. The improved surgical instrument includes an elongate shaft defining opposed ends. An end effector is mounted on one of the ends of the shaft. The end effector has at least one finger pivotally connected at the one end of the shaft selectively to be displaceable angularly about an end effector pivot axis at the one end of the shaft, such that a free end of the finger is displaceable about the end effector pivot axis. The finger has a length, defined between its free end and the end effector pivot axis, of at least 18 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel T. Wallace, David J. Rosa, Frederic H. Moll
  • Patent number: 6312436
    Abstract: The depilation system comprises an electric depilation apparatus and a cartridge. The depilation apparatus comprises a depilation head, a drive unit, and a chamber adapted to accommodate the cartridge. The cartridge comprises a reservoir for holding a substance, a discharge channel, and a pump. The chamber extends between the depilation head and the drive unit. The depilation head is movable with respect to the depilation apparatus in such a manner that the chamber is accessible. In order to enable the pump to be actuated, the depilation apparatus comprises an actuator which extends into the chamber. A mechanism couples the actuator to a button at the exterior of the depilation apparatus in such a manner that the actuator can be driven by moving the button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Martinus M. Rijken, Willem A. Westerhof, Matheus J. Van Der Meer
  • Patent number: 6312437
    Abstract: An endoscopic surgical instrument includes a flexible tube, a grasping and fastening end effector coupled to the distal end of the tube, and a manual actuator coupled to the proximal end of the tube. The manual actuator is coupled to the end effector by a plurality of flexible cables which extend through the tube. The tube contains a lumen for receiving a manipulable endoscope and the end effector includes a passage for the distal end of the endoscope. The end effector has a store for a plurality of male fastener parts, a store for a plurality of female fastener parts, a rotatable grasper, a rotatable fastener head for aligning a female fastener part and a male fastener part with tissues therebetween, and a firing member for pressing a male fastener part through tissues grasped by the grasper and into a female fastener part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Symbiosis Corporation
    Inventor: Juergen Andrew Kortenbach
  • Patent number: 6312438
    Abstract: A rotary bur instrument includes an outer tube having an open distal end, and an inner member rotatably disposed in the outer tube. The inner member includes an inner tube having a distal end, a lumen therethrough and a bur tip at the distal end of the inner tube. The bur tip extends distally from the open distal end of the outer tube and has a passage extending longitudinally therethrough in communication with the lumen of the inner tube. The passage and the lumen define an aspiration passage through the inner member communicating with an aspiration port at a distal end of the bur tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Medtronic Xomed, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth M. Adams
  • Patent number: 6312439
    Abstract: The present invention provides a new approach to reshaping of the cornea, e.g., for refraction change, using multiple, displaced planar cuts and a custom shaping template. Large refractive change and/or substantial tissue removal can be obtained by a two-cut approach to reshaping of the cornea to a desired shape using a template or applanator. The process begins with a planar template being applied to the cornea. The template includes one or more moveable sections or cams positioned to provide an overall flat contact surface with the cornea. Then, a first cut is made by a water microjet producing a hinged flap. The first cut is parallel to but displaced from the anterior cornea surface in contact with the template. Then the template cam or cams are repositioned to change the shape of the cornea surface in situ in preparation for the second cut. The hinged flap is not moved; it remains in contact with the stromal bed. The second cut is along the same path as the first cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Medjet, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene I. Gordon
  • Patent number: 6312440
    Abstract: An apparatus for guiding a high speed liquid jet used in forming ophthalmic incisions includes an instrument body having an elongated rectangular portion and a tapered end portion. An applanation suction ring assembly is secured to the tapered end, and is provided with a stepped opening extending axially therethrough. A carriage assembly extends longitudinally within the instrument body, and a pair of high precision crossed roller slides join the carriage and body to permit lateral translation of the carriage. A micro-motor assembly secured within the body is joined to a pinion gear which engages a rack gear joined to the carriage to drive the carriage in lateral translation. The carriage includes a proximal connector for a high pressure fluid hose, and a jet nozzle assembly extending from the distal end. A plurality of guide members are provided, all having common structural features adapted to engage the stepped opening of the distal end of the instrument body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: SurgiJet, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry L. Hood, Rex E. Doherty, William T. Hood
  • Patent number: 6312441
    Abstract: A powered surgical handpiece (20) designed to actuate cutting accessories (22) such as those used to perform endoscopic surgery. The handpiece includes a housing (24) that contains a motor (26). The motor is within its own housing (46). A motor rotor (88) extends out of the motor housing (46) and engages a gear reduction assembly (76). The gear reduction assembly includes a planetary gear assembly for which the motor rotor (88) is the sun gear. The motor housing (46) is formed to have integral therewith a ring gear (96) that is located around the portion of the motor rotor that extends out of the motor housing. There is a valve (44) for regulating suction flow through the handpiece. The valve sits in a valve bore (110) that is closed at one end. There is also coupling assembly (28) for releasably holding the cutting accessory to the housing so that the cutting accessory engages with the gear assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventor: Wenjie Deng
  • Patent number: 6312442
    Abstract: Method for developing an anatomic space for laparoscopic hernia repair comprising separating a first layer of tissue from a second layer of tissue for creating an anatomic operating space for the performance of a surgical procedure by making an incision through the first layer of tissue. A non-elastomeric deflated balloon is introduced into the incision. The balloon is inflated to cause separation of the first layer of tissue from the second layer of tissue to thereby produce an anatomic operating space. The balloon is then deflated and removed from the incision. The anatomic operating space is inflated with insufflation gas. A surgical procedure in then performed in the anatomic operating space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Maciej J. Kieturakis, Kenneth H. Mollenauer, Michelle Y. Monfort
  • Patent number: 6312443
    Abstract: An expandable cannula having a plurality of wall surfaces, the wall surfaces being foldable together one over another such that the cannula assumes a first cross sectional area, and the wall surfaces being unfoldable such that the cannula assumes a second cross sectional area, wherein the first cross sectional area is smaller than the second cross sectional area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Nuvasive, Inc.
    Inventor: Corbett W. Stone
  • Patent number: 6312444
    Abstract: The invention provides a medical device having an elongate catheter, a balloon occluder mounted on a distal end of the catheter, and optionally a chopping mechanism associated with an aspiration port of the catheter. Continuous or intermittent suction can be applied to the aspiration port which is distal to the occluder to dislodge thromboembolic material in a carotid or cerebral artery. Oxygenated blood or other fluid, which may be hypothermic, can be perfused through at least one perfusion port proximal to the occluder to maintain and augment perfusion of the collateral vasculature proximal to the occlusive lesion. The flow rate of blood or fluid can be controlled by rotating two cylindrical members. Neuroprotective agents or t-PA can also be infused distal to the occluder through the aspiration port or an infusing port. Methods of using the devices in treating patients with acute stroke or occlusive cerebrovascular disease are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: CoAxia, Inc.
    Inventor: Denise Barbut
  • Patent number: 6312445
    Abstract: Surgical clamps, tissue retractors and surgical stabilizers are disclosed having gripping surfaces from which extend resilient filaments. The distal ends of some of the resilient filaments abut against engaged vessels, tissues or organs to restrict movement of the vessels, tissue or organs relative to the gripping surfaces. In the preferred embodiment, the resilient filaments are arranged in rows and oriented at particular angles relative to the gripping surfaces. Methods of applying resilient filaments to pads for attachment to a surgical clamp, tissue retractor or surgical stabilizer are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Novare Surgical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Fogarty, George D. Hermann, Joshua S. Whittemore, Thomas A. Howell
  • Patent number: 6312446
    Abstract: A catheter delivered device to close a septal defect, the device comprising a cylindrical shaft of metal or polymeric material with concentric parallel cuts through the wall of the device which create flattened support struts. The center of the support struts move radially away from the axis in a hinge like fashion in response to the movement of the device's proximal and distal ends toward the center of the device. This movement is reversibly effected through mechanical means. The device can be coated with growth factors, mitogenic factors or other determinants which can improve tissue growth such that tissue ingrowth can occur over a period of time. The catheter itself may be an ultrasonic imaging catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Huebsch, Paul J. Buscemi, Thomas J. Holman, Danney Langanki
  • Patent number: 6312447
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for diagnosing and repairing mitral valve defects such as mitral valve regurgitation. According to an exemplary method, mitral valve function is visualized by transesophageal echocardiography. A catheter (10) is inserted along the venous system of the patient through the left and right atria (a, b) into the mitral valve (26). A suction tip (25) grasps the leaflets (28, 30) of the mitral valve (26) to immobilize and juxtapose the leaflets (28, 30) at a point simulating a stitch, and the mitral valve (26) is again observed to confirm that fastening at that point will repair the prolapse or other defect. The mitral valve leaflets (28, 30) are then fastened together via a fastener such as a staple (44) or shape memory rivet (44). The fastener (44) may be inserted by a stapling assembly (40) in the catheter (10), or by a separate stapler (40) that is inserted along an arterial path from the opposite direction and guided along a transcardiac rail to the immobilized point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignees: The General Hospital Corporation, The Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventor: Randall Y. Grimes
  • Patent number: 6312448
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in positioning an anchor includes a tubular outer member and an inner or pusher member. During use of the apparatus, a slot facilitates visualization of the position of the anchor relative to body tissue. An anchor retainer may be provided at one end of the tubular outer member to grip the anchor and hold the anchor in place during assembly. The anchor retainer also holds the anchor during movement of the apparatus from an assembly location to an operating room or other location where the apparatus is to be used. Indicia may be provided on the inner member to indicate the position of the anchor relative to body tissue. The tubular outer member may be utilized to guide a drill during formation of an opening in body tissue and may be subsequently utilized to guide movement of an anchor into the opening in the body tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti