Abstract: An implantable apparatus for treating a heart of a living organism which contains a device for withdrawing blood from the heart, for imparting helical flow to the blood, for recording at least one energy characteristic of the heart, and for imparting energy to the living organism.

Abstract: An anti-G pressure garment system incorporates an inflatable pressure bladder covering portions of the wearer's body. The bladder is provided with an area made of a first material formed by a flexible air and liquid impermeable, vapor permeable, micro-porous material that facilitates the passage of water vapor therethrough whereby pressurized gas will be retained by the said bladder and water vapor adjacent said inside layer will pass through said material into the interior of the bladder. The bladder also includes a second area made of liquid impermeable, air and water vapor permeable material so that the second area permits a preselected amount of controlled leakage from the bladder to the wearer while maintaining adequate pressure in the bladder.

Abstract: An incontinence insert device and a method for placing an incontinence insert within a vagina. The device includes an expandable insert and a single piece applicator. The applicator assists in the proper placement of the insert into the vagina. Once inside the vagina, the insert expands to its expanded position, providing support to the urinary tract and thereby decreasing the tendency for the involuntary escape of urine.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating a wall of a body cavity comprising an elongate probe member having a distal extremity with an outer surface and at least one recess opening onto the outer surface. When a suction source is coupled to the apparatus, a suction is created in the recess to draw a portion of the wall into the recess. A needle is slidably disposed in the elongate probe member and actuatable from outside the body for movement from a retracted position to an extended position in which the distal end portion of the needle extends into the recess whereby the needle can be extended into the portion of the wall drawn into the recess.

Abstract: Microfluidic embryo scaled channels for handling and positioning embryos provide the opportunity to evaluate and treat embryos in improved manners Fluid flow is used to move and position embryos within microfluidic channels and channel geometries may be used to place embryos at specific locations. Surface properties and compliance (deformation) properties of embryos are evaluated as a predictor of viability. The microfluidic channels provide the opportunity for fine controls of pressure to conduct various evaluations at forces slightly below which damage to embryos is known to occur.

Abstract: The invention provides (1) a method for stabilizing an egg or embryo in the uterus of a female mammal, (2) eggs or embryos having improved stability in the uterus, and (3) a method for preparing these eggs or embryos. The invention involves the use of magnetic particles and a magnetic field.

Abstract: The device comprises a tube or catheter 1 that is introduced into the animal's vagina up to the cervix duct 19; a flexible probe 6 constituted of a first flexible tubular body 7, to allow that the probe, after reaching the distal end of the tube 1, may progress through the cervix duct 19 and thereafter through the cervix horn 22, this structure allowing to carry out a method of introducing a fluid with spermatozoids, embryos or therapeutic solutions to the anterior third of the uterus horn, or to obtain embryos from the anterior portions of the uterus horn, without needing sedation or anesthesia and without disturbing the animal's well-being, the device, the probe and the method being essentially applied to porcine livestock, small ruminants and any other animal species.

Abstract: This device aims at correcting distortions in spatial geometry and function of the heart muscle, thereby restoring valvular integrity and optimizing myocardial performance. The device is applied externally to the heart, fixed in the chest cavity or wall, while maintaining flexibility and selectively targeting specific points of varying size, tension, and force requirements. This minimally invasive device and method of application will contribute toward a reduced rate of mortality and morbidity from heart disease.

Abstract: This is a surgical device and a method of using it. In particular, the device is one for supporting or constraining at least some part of the epicardial surface of the heart during a portion of the heartbeat, in particular during diastoly. This device may be used to assist in the treatment of congestive heart failure. The device, generically, is an enclosure having an interior and an exterior. The interior surface is preferably made in such a way that it tends not to or does not form adhesions with or accept ingrowth with the myocardial tissue of the epicardium. The device preferably has at least on rib-like structural member. The rib component may extend from end-to end or preferably extends helically around the heart, preferably with at least one revolution. The device may be configured to be self-adherent, i.e., preferably adherent only to itself, and to form a unitary support in the pericardial space after installation.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing a virtual reality sexual experience. The apparatus including audio reproduction means, visual reproduction means and tactile means for sexual stimulation. The apparatus further comprising a control system to correlate the audio means, visual means and tactile means to relate to one another to simulate a sexual experience. The apparatus being adapted for connection to a computer based drive system to provide a scenario for audio and visual outputs which is selected from a database and advances in a manner corresponding to user movements and engagement with the tactile system.

Abstract: The self-propelled colonoscope (1) is self-inserted into a colon by driving endless belts (17) mounted on the outside of the bending section (15) of the insertion tube (9). The cross section of the endless belt (17) is substantially circular and a rack gear teeth having a circular cross section are formed on the outside of the endless belts (17). A recess having a circular cross section and pinion gear teeth which correspond to the shape of the endless belt and the rack gear teeth. Since the endless belt (17) has a circular cross section, it can easily bend in all radial directions. Upon insertion of the insertion tube (9) into the colon, the endless belt (17) can easily follow the movement of the insertion tube (9).

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices, systems, and methods for obtaining a quick diagnostic view of a cavity or joint of a patient and/or delivering a therapeutic treatment to that cavity or joint. The invention relates specifically to a cannula device that is sized for insertion into a patient for diagnosis or treatment in an office-based procedure and that has a securing mechanism that allows a scope or other instrument to be adjusted with respect to the cannula. Various optional features of the invention include a rotatable sleeve and an adapter for changing the working length of the cannula. The invention also relates to methods for performing an office-based diagnostic procedure and to kits for assisting the performance of such procedures.

Abstract: A surgical instrument fluid shield is disclosed having a radially proximal edge, at least a portion thereof defining an adjustable aperture for engaging an elongated object, and a conical-shaped section which opens outward from the radially proximal edge, to a wider radially peripheral edge. A portion of the adjustable aperture preferably is in the shape of a sleeve or the like which sealingly engages the elongated object, forming a generally fluid tight seal between the shield and the elongated object and helping to maintain proper alignment of the shield while on the endoscope or other device. The shield may be made of a rubber material such as silicone or a biocompatible elastomer material. The shield may be sufficiently stiff to generally maintain its shape while being simultaneously resilient to allow the aperture at the radially proximal edge to adjust to the outside dimension of the elongated object.

Abstract: A control and indicator apparatus for a variable direction-of-operation endoscopic instrument comprises a handle, a coinciding pointer, and a linking system connecting the handle to the endoscopic instrument. The handle affords the user intuitive and integrated control of the available degrees of freedom and the pointer conveys to the user the direction and orientation of the endoscopic working vector by shadowing its movement.

Abstract: An optical lens assembly containing a plural number of lens elements for an optical system to be incorporated into a tip end portion of an endoscopic insertion instrument. Of a plural number of lenses which constitute an optical system, a metal film layer is formed on confronting outer peripheral surface portions of at least two adjacently located lenses, outside respective effective lens areas, and the two adjacently located lenses are assembled and fixedly bonded together by applying solder to the outer peripheral surface portions with a metal film layer.

Abstract: An equine dental speculum maintenance system utilizing rotatable and replaceable wear components in order to extend the useful life of an equine dental speculum. Both the toothed rack and the pawl are rotatable and replaceable.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for enabling battery packs of different sizes to be used with an ultrasound device. The apparatus of the present invention comprises an ultrasound device having a battery pack installment apparatus configured to be capable of being coupled with battery packs of different sizes. The method comprises the step of providing the ultrasound device with a battery pack installment apparatus that is configured to couple with battery packs of different sizes.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for generating ultrasound images of a plurality of scatterers disposed in a target region. More particularly, a method of the invention derives model response functions for each of a plurality of transducers for a given distribution of scattering media. The interrogation pattern can be selected to include a set of unfocused ultrasound waves generated by one or more of the transducers. The interrogation pattern is transmitted into the target region, and the transducers are utilized to detect echoes generated by the scatterers in the target region in response to the interrogation pattern. The methods and systems of the invention advantageously allow obtaining ultrasound images of a target region without employing beamforming either in transmission of ultrasound waves into the region or in detection of echoes generated by scatterers in the target region in response to the transmitted waves.

Abstract: A method for visualization of ultrasound images comprises the steps of deriving ultrasound images of an object; freezing and storing in space and time selected ones of the images; displaying the selected ones of the images as a set; selectively freezing and adding to the set a further one of the images; and, optionally, selectively removing an image from the set.

Abstract: Methods and systems for estimating fetal weight at birth and risk of macrosomia are disclosed. Information regarding maternal characteristics and ultrasound measurements are obtained for the fetus. A computer program selects the most accurate equation from a hierarchy of birth weight/risk of macrosomia estimation equations based on the available information. Program outputs include estimated birth weight, risk of macrosomia, and confidence intervals.

Abstract: A method for destructing, reducing or removing mammalian tissue with an ultrasonic device IS disclosed, comprising contacting the tissue with a transverse mode ultrasonic probe, and transmitting ultrasonic energy to the probe, until the tissue is fragmented by emulsification. The probe can be used with acoustic and/or aspirations sheaths to enhance destruction and removal of an occlusion and in combination with an imaging device to effect remodeling of human tissue in medical and cosmetic surgical procedures.

Abstract: An ultrasonic tissue ablation device comprising a transversely vibrating elongated probe, and a coupling assembly for probe attachment detachment that enables the probe assembly and separation from the device body that includes the ultrasound energy source and a sound conductor, and a method of use for removal of vascular occlusions in blood vessels. The coupling assembly enables incorporation of elongated probes with small cross sectional lumens such as a catheter guidewires. The probe detachability allows insertion manipulation and withdrawal independently of the device body. The probe can be used with acoustic and/or aspirations sheaths to enhance destruction and removal of an occlusion. The horn assembly of the device that contains a sound conducting horn functions as an energy regulator and reservoir for the probe, and precludes loss of probe cavitation energy by its bending or damping within the blood vessel.

Abstract: A digital multiline beamformer is provided which produces multiple receive beams in response to a single transmit event. An embodiment of the present invention includes a bulk delay which provides a common steering delay applicable to all of the beams received at one time. The bulk delay is succeeded by parallel filter processing paths which produce finely focused multiple beams simultaneously. In one embodiment a multiphase filter produces the samples for multiple beams, which is advantageous when the number of simultaneously produced beams is greater than the number of phases produced by the fine focus filter.

Abstract: A method is provided for observing three-dimensional pulsatile activity in a volume of a subject's tissue, which includes activating an ultrasonic probes array (25) subset portion (20) having a curvature including focussing the ultrasound energy of probes (25) constituting a selected contiguous portion of the subarray in a selected portion of a selected slice of tissue (21) along a line, converting the reflected ultrasound energy to output signals and providing output data corresponding to the pulsatile activity, varying the focus of ultrasound energy along the line and repeating the converting and processing steps to thereby select additional lines within the selected slice, selecting additional subsets of the ultrasound array of probes so as to select additional slices within the volume, and performing tomographic analysis of the output data corresponding to pulsatile activity in the plurality of selected portions of tissue, so as to obtain a three dimensional image of pulsatile activity in the presele

Abstract: A catheter including an elongated body member, an ultrasound transducer located on the elongated body member, and dampening means for forming an ultrasound dampening region adjacent to a portion of the ultrasound transducer, is disclosed. The ultrasound transducer is configured to transmit or receive an ultrasound signal. The ultrasound dampening region is configured to improve uniformity of said ultrasound signal in three-dimensional space. Preferably, the dampening means includes air or a material containing air.

Abstract: An instrument guide is described for mounting an invasive instrument such as a biopsy needle to an imaging probe, controlling its position, monitoring its position, and/or predictively displaying its position on a user display of the medical imaging system. A plurality of substantially rigid segments are hingeably connected to the probe, to an instrument handle, and to each other such that movement of the biopsy needle is restricted to within the imaged plane. However, substantial freedom of movement within the imaged plane is provided such that the instrument may be inserted into the patient over a wide range of angles. In one preferred embodiment, angle detectors are provided at each segment intersection and measurements provided for computing and displaying the instrument position and orientation on the user display. The instrument guide/position monitor is preferably made with low-cost components such that it is disposable after a single use.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for improved administration of brachytherapy in the treatment of prostate disease. More particularly, a prostate visualization device is provided comprising a catheter coupled to at least one deployable member at the distal end of the catheter. The deployable member is preferably manufactured from a shape memory alloy having a petal-shaped configuration suitable for engaging and defining the proximal region of a patient's bladder. The deployable member may comprise tubing filled with air or other radiopaque agents to facilitate ultrasonic imaging of the deployable members near the bladder/prostate junction.

Abstract: A method for measuring hemodynamics of an experimental animal enabling repeated measurements, the method comprising the following steps: (i) ligating at least two parts of an artery, between which a part to be incised is located, of the experimental animal, the parts comprising at least one proximal ligated part and at least one distal ligated part, and then incising a part between the ligated parts; (ii) inserting through the incised part a blood pressure-volume simultaneously measuring catheter provided with multiple conductance electrodes and at least one pressure sensor; (iii) loosening the distal ligated part so as to allow an insertion of the catheter and not to cause bleeding in the opened part; (iv) further inserting the catheter so as to introduce the multiple conductance electrodes and the pressure sensor(s) into the heart ventricle; and (v) simultaneously measuring pressure and volume of the heart.

Abstract: A non-invasive blood pressure measurement device is used for determining blood pressure of an artery. The device comprises a housing unit, a base unit and a sensing unit. The base unit is pivotally connected to the housing unit and comprises electrical circuitry, a flexible ring, and a receptacle. The sensing unit comprises a pressure transducer for sensing pulses of the underlying artery, the transducer having a sensing surface, a flexible diaphragm having an active portion for transmitting blood pressure pulses of the underlying artery, interface means coupled between the sensing surface of the transducer and the flexible diaphragm for transmitting the blood pressure pulses within the underlying artery from the flexible diaphragm to the sensing surface of the transducer, a compressible ring, and connection means for detachably connecting the sensing unit to the receptacle of the base unit.

Abstract: A method of determining kidney failure in a patient using an implantable medical device is described. In one embodiment, a first magnitude of a first polarization signal is measured. An additional magnitude of an additional polarization signal is measured after a first interval. A deflection differential between the first magnitude and the additional magnitude is determined and kidney failure in the patient is determined when the deflection differential is greater than an established threshold.

Abstract: A system and method provides for the capture of body tissue samples such as lymph nodes. The system includes a bag formed of a flexible material having a first end opened for receiving the body tissue sample and a second end which is closed to the body tissue sample but which permits a vacuum to be pulled through the bag. The system further includes a vacuum tube in which the body tissue sample capture bag may be disposed and a vacuum source that pulls a vacuum through the body tissue sample capture bag for pulling the body tissue sample into the bag through the opened end of the bag.

Abstract: A urine collection device (10) for animals has a support portion (60), which is positioned between the buttocks of the animal, directly below the anus; and a deflector plate (80) supported by the support portion (60) and having a front contact edge (88). Arms (92) and breeching straps (112) can be tensioned to conform the front contact edge (88) of the deflector plate (80) against the buttocks of the animal to assist in deflecting faeces away from the buttocks of the animal.

Abstract: An improved guide catheter provides a distal tip with one or more members that assist a surgeon with locating and inserting the guide catheter through the ostium in the wall of the right atrium that leads to the coronary sinus of the heart. The guide catheter is used to implant a cardiac lead so that its electrodes are positioned in the vasculature associated with the left side of the heart.

Abstract: A light weight, wearable, and balanced active tremor control system including a mount; a proof mass frame moveable with respect to the mount; at least one actuator on the proof mass frame for imparting a force on the mount; a motion sensor for detecting movement of the mount due to tremors; and a controller for driving the actuator in response to the motion sensor.

Abstract: Continuous passive body motion is efficiently and effectively treated by a therapy device which includes at least one movable body carrying element which is driven by a controlled motion drive to produce the desired movement. The motion drive controller includes at least data reading element which cooperates with a program data media to provide individualized control of the therapy device. This individual control will be specifically adapted for each particular patient, thus allowing therapy to occur without the need for operators.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device that stimulates and provides chiropractic therapy to the neck and head area of the body. Using a hand-held remote control 68, the doctor or patient 12 utilizes a toggle stick 64 to perform single directional movement of the head 14 in a forward, backward, or side to side motion, or in a clockwise or counter clockwise rotational motion. The head cushion 16 includes a vibration and heating element 58 that is applied to the neck area that can be used alone or in conjunction with the directional and rotational movement. The present invention 10 cradles the head 14 within a cushion 16 that is adjustable vertically and laterally to optimize the positioning of the head and allow for comfort. The vibrating and heating element 58 is isolated from the rest of the head cushion 16 to eliminate transmission of vibrations or heat.

Abstract: A foot support system for actively and passively supporting a foot of an individual suffering from drop foot. The foot support system includes an upper support removably attachable to the leg, a lower support removably attachable to the foot, and an elastic member attached between the upper support and the lower support for applying an upward force upon the distal portion of the foot. The upper support and the lower support preferably include an upper loop and a lower loop respectively for catchably receiving the elastic member. The elastic member may include an engaging member attached to a first end and a hook member attached to a second end thereof for selectively engaging one another.

Abstract: An air cushion bed. The air cushion bed includes a massaging device. The massaging device includes an air cushion, vibrating motor, motor casing, massaging plate and adhesive strip. The air cushion includes air bladders that are linked together, and the vibrating motor is installed in the motor casing, whereon the massaging plate is installed. An adhesive strip is installed on the outer surface of the motor casing so that the motor casing can be fixed on the air bladders of the air cushion, allowing the air cushion bed to be a detachable device. The air cushion bed utilizes a microcomputer to activate the vibrating motor, which causes the motor casing to vibrate, which causes the massaging plate to vibrate, so that a patient resting on the massaging device can be massaged on the back portion through the vibration of the massaging plate, and the patient's blood circulation can be improved to minimize any bedsores for the patient.

Abstract: A relaxation apparatus which comprises a reclining chair for supporting thereon a whole body of a person who desires relaxation. The person resting on the reclining chair is cyclically vibrated at a frequency not higher than 25 Hz. A control is provided for controlling the vibrating device. The maximum absolute value of acceleration of the vibration produced by the vibrating device to vibrate the person supported on the reclining chair is not greater than 0.1 G. The control controls the acceleration in dependence on the frequency of vibrations outputted by the vibrating device such that the acceleration is small when the frequency of vibrations outputted by the vibrating device is low while the acceleration is large when the frequency of vibrations is high.

Abstract: A device for treating a user's hand with a treatment fluid is provided. The device includes a housing that defines a basin for holding the treatment fluid. The device includes a hand rest portion for supporting the user's hand with the fingers in the basin. The treatment fluid is circulated within the basin to provide therapy to the user's hand. The treatment device may also provide a vibratory massage and heat therapy to the user's hand.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for creating and using a lightweight custom-molded orthopedic appliance are disclosed. The orthopedic appliance is made up of an inner and an outer bladder containing components which, when combined by rupturing the inner bladder, react to form a rigid foam substance which may be conformed to the shape of the body part or surface in need of support, cushioning, or immobilization, and which quickly cures to form a firm, supportive brace for the affected body part.

Abstract: An ear cleaner device for cleaning the wax and dirt from a user's ear. The ear cleaner device includes an elongate flexible support member; and also includes a pair of conical-shaped ear cleaning members being attached to the elongate flexible support member and being adapted to clean a user's ear canal.

Abstract: A blood processing system (2), includes a housing (4), to which a user control panel is mounted, having an access opening (47) therein. A cassette assembly (22), mounted to the housing for movement between a use position covering the access opening and a cassette-replacement position, includes a cassette holder and cassette (26) removably mounted to the holder. The cassette includes in part by tubing aligned with a through-hole (45) in the cassette. A door (34) is mounted to the housing for movement between a latched position, capturing the cassette between the panel and the door, and a released position. Independently-driven roller assemblies (46, 54, 72) pass part-way through the access opening to capture first tubing portions (44A, 52A, 68A) between the roller tracks (100, 102, 104) and the roller assemblies for peristaltic pumping of fluid. A number of movable pinch elements (48, 80, 90, 96) are extendable through the front panel to selectively pinch the tubing against the door and thus seal the tubing.

Abstract: This invention is a device for removing occlusive fatty plaque from vascular blood of humans. The action of fatty plaque removal occurs by pumping vascular blood through the device. The device consists of a super-absorbent melt-blown microfiber oleophilic material, structural support for this absorbent material and an outer containment vessel in which the cleansing of blood is performed. Patient blood is directed from the circulatory system to a catheter and then to a pump and the device. After having been cleansed of fatty plaque, blood is directed back through a second catheter to the patient's circulatory system.

Abstract: Systems and methods treat plasma carrying contaminants and leukocytes that are capable of entraining contaminants. The systems and methods separate leukocytes from the plasma by filtration, thereby removing contaminants entrained within leukocytes. The systems and methods also add to the plasma a photoactive material and emit radiation at a selected wavelength into the plasma to activate the photoactive material and thereby eradicate the contaminant that is free of entrainment by leukocytes.

Abstract: An integrated disposable set for dialysis or ultrafiltration treatment of blood is disclosed that includes a memory “key” chip. The key contains information relating to the set, including calibration for sensors, model and date of manufacture and a proprietary secret code to prevent unauthorized duplication of a circuit. The key is activated when treatment of a patient begins to prevent reuse of the set and a delay in use of the set that is too long. Patient data and operational information can be stored in the key during treatment. The key can be returned to the manufacturer or entered into hospital database for analysis. The key is preferably an EEPROM chip that can be embedded in an integral circuit sensor or a separate plug in device, such as a code card.

Abstract: A tubular set portion for circulating blood between a patient and an extracorporeal blood treatment device. The set portion has: an arterial tube for conveying blood from a patient toward the blood treatment device; a venous tube for conveying blood from the blood treatment device back towards the patient; and a pair of spaced, transverse tubes that each connect between the arterial tube and the venous tube, each of the tubes being capable of clamp sealing. The arterial and venous tubes are clamp sealable between the spaced, transverse tubes. Flow reversal on the patient's side of this device is possible by appropriate clamping of two opposed tube sections of the rectangular array which may be formed by the joined tube sections, while flow remains unchanged on the side of the tubular set portion that is connected to the extracorporeal blood treatment device.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for treating a selected patient tissue or organ region, at the surface of such region. The apparatus has an accessing tool for accessing the patient region, the tool having a distal end, and a proximal end at which the tool can be manipulated to place the distal end adjacent to the patient region. The apparatus also has a probe carried on the distal end and defining a contact surface that may be urged against the patient region thereby creating contact pressure. A pressure transducer is operatively coupled to the probe and is capable of producing a measurable response to the contact pressure. A monitoring device is operatively connected to the pressure transducer, for determining the contact pressure. An effector is operatively disposed on the probe for producing a given effect on the patient region when the effector is activated, and an activator operatively connected to the effector, by which the effector can be activated.

Abstract: An intraluminal balloon catheter with an elongated shaft, and an inflatable balloon on the shaft which has an inner layer and a discontinuous outer layer formed at least in part of an elastomeric polymeric material. In a presently preferred embodiment, the catheter is a stent delivery catheter with a stent disposed on the balloon in contact with at least a section of the discontinuous outer layer of the balloon. The discontinuous outer layer of the balloon may comprise fibers or strands of the elastomeric material woven into a braided, webbed, meshed, wrapped or wound outer layer of the balloon.

Abstract: A medical device system and method allows an arterial bypass graft to be proximally anastomosed to an aorta during a beating heart procedure without substantial loss of blood by use of an endolumenal aorta isolation assembly provided along the distal end portion of an elongate catheter body. The aorta isolation assembly includes proximal and distal portions that are separated by an isolation region and that are adjustable to first and second extended positions, respectively, which are adapted to circumferentially engage the aortic wall and isolate upstream and downstream aspects of an exterior space between the elongate body and the aortic wall. The intermediate region is adapted to be positioned along the proximal anastomosis site such that the distal and proximal portions when adjusted to the first and second extended positions circumferentially engage the aortic wall on upstream and downstream sides of the proximal anastomosis site.