Patents Issued in April 1, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040064140
    Abstract: The invention concerns an equipment comprising at least a shoring rod and at least an anchoring assembly (1) of the shoring rod to a vertebra; each anchoring assembly (1) comprises a base (3) integral with a hook (2), said hook (2) having a substantially planar part (2b), extending in a parallel plane, or forming a slight angle, less than 15 degrees, with said base (3). The invention is characterised in that the base (3) has a hole (10) which runs right through it, having an oblong cross-section, and the anchoring assembly comprises a hook-shaped component (4) whereof the part (4b) corresponding the base of the hook is linked to a threaded rod (5), said rod (5) capable of being engaged in said hole (10) with the possibility of pivoting about an axis and of displacement in said plane, and capable of receiving s screw (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Jean Taylor, Bernard Villaret, Patrizio Parisini, Jean-Luc Clement, Yves Adam
  • Publication number: 20040064141
    Abstract: A modular tool connection assembly includes a housing which defines the main axis of assembly with a linear bore for containing the components of the assembly. The housing contains a connector component presenting a first taper portion. The connector is retained in the linear bore of the housing with a spring interposed between the connector and the housing. A tool containing a second taper portion is placed in axial engagement with the first taper causing the components to be securely connected. The spring limits the force applied between the taper portions allowing them to be disconnected easily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Andre Lechot
  • Publication number: 20040064142
    Abstract: A jig for trialing a head and conjoining portion of a humeral (shoulder) prosthesis and transferring the spatial positioning to a final implant allows a surgeon to adjust humeral head position thereof in three-dimensional space with respect to a humeral component of the humeral prosthesis that has been either previously implanted into a humerus of a patient or not. The jig utilizes a rotatable body such as a sphere that is non-translatable relative to a jig body. A trial implant construct, having a head and neck that is fixed relative to one another (is spatially positioned), is placed in the jig with the neck thereof in contact with the rotatable sphere. As the head is caused to align with markings on the jig and situated flush with the jig, the rotatable sphere replicates the angular position of the neck with respect to a fixed position head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Robert J. Ball, Jennifer M. Franklin
  • Publication number: 20040064143
    Abstract: A cannulated threaded bone tunnel dilator that accurately advances through bone and dilates a bone tunnel in a gentle, controlled manner, including a distal tapered, threaded tip and a body mounted on the distal end of a shaft. The proximal end of the shaft includes a drive attachment for rotating the dilator so as to threadingly advance the dilator. In use, a guidewire is driven into bone, and then the surgeon advances the dilator along the guidewire until the tip of the dilator engages the bone. The surgeon then rotates the dilator clockwise so as to threadingly advance the dilator through the bone until the dilator reaches a desired depth. After reaching the desired depth, the surgeon removes the dilator by rotating the dilator counterclockwise and retracting the dilator from the then-compacted bone tunnel. The peaks and troughs of the dilator's thread compact the bone so as to create the dilated bone tunnel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Greg Hicken, Greta Jo Hays, T. Wade Fallin
  • Publication number: 20040064144
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting two tissue surfaces. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the two tissue surfaces to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the tissue surfaces so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Wes Johnson, Tyler Lipschultz, Larry Wales, Robert Kieval
  • Publication number: 20040064145
    Abstract: An impacting device includes a hollow body and a movable member. The hollow body includes an inner chamber having an interior surface, the interior surface including at least one interference member extending radially inward therefrom. The hollow body also includes an impact surface at one end thereof. The movable member has a proximal impacting surface and is at least partly disposed within the hollow body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Robert J. Ball, Jared Shoup
  • Publication number: 20040064146
    Abstract: Disclosed is a deployment catheter for deploying a tubular endoluminal vascular prosthesis, useful in treating, for example, an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The deployment catheter includes a proximal tubular section and a distal tubular section which are axially movable in opposite directions to deploy a prosthesis. A central core extends throughout the proximal tubular section and into the distal tubular section. A reinforcing structure is carried by the central core, spanning the junction between the proximal tubular section and distal tubular section, to improve flexibility characteristics of the catheter. In one embodiment, the proximal tubular section and/or distal tubular section are rotationally linked to the central core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Samuel M. Shaolian, Gilbert Madrid, Thanh Van Nguyen, Trinh Van Pham
  • Publication number: 20040064147
    Abstract: An introducer system for performing lead replacement includes a reclosable, split sheath introducer. The sheath may preferably be a two-part sheath assembled around an implanted lead body and advanced into an existing venous entry point over an implanted lead. The sheath may optionally be provided with a distal dissecting edge to aid in advancing the introducer through fibrous tissue that may adhere or interfere with the lead. The implanted lead may be removed and a replacement lead may be introduced through the same venous entry point via the introducer. The introducer may then be withdrawn and disassembled from the replacement lead. In alternative embodiments, the introducer may preferably include a one-part sheath having curvilinear overlapping flaps that enclose the sheath lumen but may be parted to allow assembly of the introducer over an implanted lead. Another embodiment of the present invention provides a reclosable, split guide catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Chester L. Struble
  • Publication number: 20040064148
    Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a device for inserting medical instruments into the human body. In a specific embodiment, the subject device can be made from a material which is invisible under Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The subject device can incorporate three or more MRI compatible marks. The imaging of these three or more markers can allow the determination of the orientation of the device. A virtual image of the device can then be shown in an MRI image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Wolfgang Daum, Axel Winkel
  • Publication number: 20040064149
    Abstract: A probe holder for holding a fibre optic probe is described. The probe holder comprises a probe engagement member and supports extending outwardly from the probe engagement member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Frederick E. Doern, Gary J. Young
  • Publication number: 20040064150
    Abstract: A set of sinus balloon catheters are provided for treating a patient's paranasal sinus system, including dilating prepared openings, and natural ostia and ducts and excising sinus cavities. These include a balloon catheter with a bend placing a distal segment at 90° to a proximal segment and a balloon catheter which is substantially straight. The catheters have sufficient stiffness and column strength that the balloon carrying distal segment of the catheter can be pushed into the prepared opening, natural ostium or duct, or sinus to be excised. The catheters have appropriate inflated working diameters and appropriate outer diameters with the balloon deflated that will enable the catheter to be pushed into the respective prepared opening, natural ostium or duct, or sinus cavity to be excised. The methods use the balloon catheters to dilate prepared openings to selected parts of the sinus system, to dilate natural ostia and ducts of the sinus system, and/or to dilate sinus cavities to remove them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Bruce B. Becker
  • Publication number: 20040064151
    Abstract: Ultrasonic forceps adapted for use in open surgical forceps. The device is provided in the form of traditional open surgery forceps or tweezers, and the transmitting rod which transmits ultrasonic vibration from a proximally located transducer to the distally mounted welding horn runs through a lumen in one of the arms of the forceps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: Starion Instruments Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth H. Mollenauer
  • Publication number: 20040064152
    Abstract: The present invention is of systems, devices, and methods for cryogenic treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. More particularly, the present invention is of cryoprobes cooled by Joule-Thomson cooling and having particularized shapes of treatment heads, adapted and adaptable to specific loci of treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. The present invention is further of cryogenic methods for treating cardiac arrhythmia comprising three successive stages of cooling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Roni Zvuloni
  • Publication number: 20040064153
    Abstract: A system for magnetically assisted surgery includes a magnetic support structure, a patient support structure and a magnet having at least four poles attached to the magnetic support structure so that the magnet provides a near-field magnetic field in an operating region of a patient supported by the patient support structure. The magnet is moveable so that the direction of the magnetic field lines in the operating region is adjustable. The magnet may include a pair of essentially semicircular half-segments permanently magnetized and joined in an extremely stable disk configuration. The magnetic field and gradient field provided by the magnet is such that movement of the disk in one plane combined with rotation of the disk is sufficient to orient the magnetic field during surgical use, thereby reducing interference to medical imaging devices needed during surgery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Francis M. Creighton, Rogers C. Ritter, Andrew F. Hall, Roger N. Hastings
  • Publication number: 20040064154
    Abstract: A medical device for electrical termination of an arrhythmic condition of a patient's heart in embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following features: (a) at least one battery; (b) means for detection of an arrhythmic condition of a patient's heart; (c) at least one high voltage capacitor; (d) converter means for providing charging current from said battery to said capacitor; (e) means for maintenance of a charge on said capacitor between arrhythmia therapies; (f) controller means responsive to detection of an arrhythmic condition of said patient's heart and for providing a discharge control signal; and (g) discharge circuit means for delivering voltage stored on said capacitor to said patient's heart in response to said discharge control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: John D. Norton, Anthony W. Rorvick
  • Publication number: 20040064155
    Abstract: A capacitor in an implantable medical device is provided. The capacitor comprises an anode, a cathode including a conductive coating, and an electrolyte disposed and in contact between the anode and the cathode. The conductive coating is composed of a chemisorbed conductive layer that is interposed between a metal substrate and a layer including a mix of activated carbon with a metal-oxide and electrolyte disposed and in contact between the anode and the cathode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: John D. Norton, Craig L. Schmidt, Joachim Hossick-Schott
  • Publication number: 20040064156
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the integrity of an implantable sensor. Voids formed between an outer tubing and a sensor substrate or spacing element may be back-filled with a curable, implantable material, minimizing the extent to which unwanted fluids diffuse within the sensor. An enzyme or protein matrix pellet below the sensor window may be pre-treated with a reducing agent to enhance its bond stability, and to reduce undesired swelling that may cause the sensor window to detach or leak. The bonding between the enzyme pellet and a hydrogel layer may be reinforced by application of an intervening bonding layer of a protein material, such as human serum albumin (HSA). The size of the window may be minimized by minimizing the size of an underlying electrode, providing reduced flux and lengthening sensor. A coating may be deposited on the surface of the sensor leads, providing stiffening and lubrication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Rajiv Shah, Yanan Zhang, Rebecca Gottlieb, Bahar Reghabi, Michael E. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040064157
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for performing maintaining a charge in an electrical energy storing device, such as a capacitor. A set-point voltage for the electrical energy storage device is used during an initial device charging process to charge the storage device to the set-point voltage. A charge maintenance process is also performed that offsets charge loss due to leakage currents, polarization currents and the like. The charge maintenance process involves providing a charge maintenance current to the storage device until the storage device is therapeutically discharged (e.g., during cardiac defibrillation therapy delivery).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: John D. Norton
  • Publication number: 20040064158
    Abstract: A physiological pacing system including a physiological pacing lead having an electrode array and a means for fixation, including a collar for securing the fixation means to a lead body of the pacing lead, is inserted into a bore within a heart wall at a physiological pacing site. The system further includes a means to create the bore, the means being a piercing tip, which is either coupled to a piercing tool or the pacing lead. The piercing tool may be an elongated hollow shaft into which the pacing lead is slideably insertable or a stylet wire, which is slideably insertable within a lumen of the pacing lead. Once the electrode array is implanted within the bore, a first pair of electrodes is selected for sensing and a second pair of electrodes is selected for pacing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: George J. Klein, Timothy G. Laske
  • Publication number: 20040064159
    Abstract: The invention concerns an implantable cardiac stimulating device (1). The device (1) comprises a pacing circuit (2) with means (13, 14) adapted to be connected to a first elecrode (23) to stimulate and detect activity in the left ventricle. The control circuit (3) further comprises means (10, 11) and (12) to enable stimulation and activity detection in the right atrium (6) and to enable activity detection in the left atrium (7). At a spaced or sensed event in the right atrium (6) a first AV-delay is started. When the subsequent left atrial depolarization is detected by the detector (12) a new AV interval is started that will provide an optimized left side AV-interval. Either the left ventricle only or both ventricles are paced at the optimized left side AV-interval.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Carl Johan Hoijer, Hans Schuller
  • Publication number: 20040064160
    Abstract: Techniques for preventing inadvertent detection of AT termination may involve predicting potential undersensing of atrial events, and delaying detection of AT termination when undersensing of atrial events is predicted. For example, an implantable medical device may measure ventricular-atrial (VA) intervals of a heart rhythm using tracked atrial and ventricular events. The device calculates a slope of the series of the VA intervals, and estimates a prospective VA interval using the calculated slope and the most recently measured VA interval. The device determines whether the estimated VA interval is within a threshold range. When the estimated VA interval is outside of the threshold range, the device predicts possible undersensing of atrial events and delays detection of the AT episode termination. The delay detection of AT episode termination improves the accuracy of information collected by event counters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Douglas A. Hettrick, Jacqueline Mittelstadt
  • Publication number: 20040064161
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically detecting and diagnosing lead-related conditions is provided. Specifically, relatively short-term and relatively long-term impedance parameters are determined for detecting an impedance trend indicative of a lead-related condition such as an open circuit, which may be due to a conductor fracture or poor connection to an associated implantable medical device, or a short circuit due to an insulation breach. Monitoring of multiple lead impedance parameters is performed to diagnose a lead-related condition based on a number of diagnostic criteria. Supplementary analysis of multiple lead impedance parameter trends may be performed to identify lead-specific conditions, such as metal ion oxidation induced insulation degradation. A lead-related condition diagnosis and supporting data are stored in memory for uplinking to an external device for review by a clinician.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Bruce D. Gunderson, Amisha S. Patel, Chad A. Bounds, Edwin G. Duffin
  • Publication number: 20040064162
    Abstract: Undersensing of an evoked response during an automatically initiated search of the stimulation threshold in a stimulation channel of an IMD, e.g., the pacing threshold in a pacing channel of a pacing system, is minimized by repeating the search using the sense amplifier of the stimulation channel configured in bipolar and unipolar sensing configurations. A failure to sense an evoked response in the search in one sensing configuration can be confirmed, and stimulation energy set to a high output, if an evoked response is not sensed in an alternate sensing configuration or refuted if an evoked response is sensed in the alternate sensing configuration. If the failure is refuted, the alternate sensing configuration is employed until the next search.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher M. Manrodt, Todd J. Sheldon, Bradley C. Peck
  • Publication number: 20040064163
    Abstract: A battery having an electrode assembly located in a housing that efficiently utilizes the space available in many implantable medical devices is disclosed. The battery housing provides a cover and a shallow case a major bottom portion, an open top to receive the cover; and a plurality of sides being radiused at intersections with each other and with the major bottom portion to allow for the close abutting of other components located within the implantable device while also providing for efficient location of the battery within an arcuate edge of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Paul B. Aamodt, Franise D. Bartley, Steve M. Bruesehoff, Kurt J. Casby, David P. Haas, Karl E. Hokanson, Thomas M. Nutzman, Andrew J. Ries, Scott J. Robinson, Randy S. Roles, Sonja K. Somdahl, Walter C. Sunderland, Jason T. Papenfuss, William J. Farrell, Kimberly A. Chaffin
  • Publication number: 20040064164
    Abstract: A dual chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is configured for enabling quadrapolar dual lead systems, having differing lead connector configurations, to properly function in corresponding quadrapolar ports of the ICD. A header assembly, mounted on the ICD provides an electrical junction point between the cardiac leads and electrical circuitry in the ICD. The header assembly includes at least two ports therein, wherein each port includes a first and a second substantially longitudinal bore. Terminal blocks are located in the first bores, and spring clip contacts are located in the second bores. Electrical isolation is provided between electrical contacts located in the ports and corresponding lead connectors. A jumper connection includes electrical connection to certain spring clip contacts, one contact being located in a separate port. Subsequently, cardiac leads with differing lead connectors may be inserted into the ports to enable proper function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew J. Ries, Timothy W. Holleman
  • Publication number: 20040064165
    Abstract: An implantable medical device is provided which provides for more flexibility in re-programming of the control software, or program, which is controlling the functionality of an implanted pacemaker. The system comprises an external programmer device, which is capable both of programming the implanted device in a conventional way, and also downloading new control software to the implanted device. The downloaded software is programmed into a PLD integrated into the microprocessor, I/O, memory, and a clock control system via a standard data bus. The PLD may be configured to modify the function of the microprocessor, system I/O, random logic, and/or firmware function. The system enables increased processing capabilities, speed, flexibility, and attenuation of battery current drain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: David L. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20040064166
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a programmer for communication with different medical devices that utilize different telemetry communication techniques. The programmer receives telemetry signals from a given medical device, and selects an appropriate communication mode, which can be pre-programmed into the programmer as one of a plurality of possible communication modes. The programmer can configure itself for communication with a given medical device based on the telemetry signal it receives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: David L. Thompson, Daniel R. Greeninger, Koen J. Weijand
  • Publication number: 20040064167
    Abstract: Dermatological treatment apparatus is disclosed. The treatment apparatus comprises a treatment head for generating intense pulses of light to an area of skin under treatment. Most typically, the treatment head generates pulses by a high-intensity source of non-coherent light, such as a flashtube. The apparatus includes a controller for controlling operation of and for driving the treatment head. A sensing means is associated with the treatment head for detecting a condition of an area of skin under treatment. The sensing means is operative to send a signal to the controller indicative of the detected condition, and the controller being operative to modify operation of the treatment apparatus in response to that signal. Most typically, the control unit selects initial parameters for a treatment operation, and these parameters are subsequently modified in response to signals received from the sensing means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew J. Berry, Andrew Charlton, Jonathan Exley, Benjamin Dickinson
  • Publication number: 20040064168
    Abstract: A thermal pack apparatus including a shell at least partially filled with a thermal material. The shell typically includes an outer perimeter, opposed sides of the outer perimeter each having a respective notch formed therein, the notched being sized to enable an upper portion of the shell to be folded to form a first end surrounding a limb on a first side of a joint, and a lower portion of the shell to be folded to form a second end surrounding the limb on a second side of the joint, the shell further including a central portion configured to act as a hinge to enable flexing of the first end relative to the second end, to thereby accommodate movement of the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Clement G. Eischen
  • Publication number: 20040064169
    Abstract: In general, the invention concerns techniques for communicating between a user, such as an emergency medical professional, and one or more medical devices, such as a cooling device. A user interface may display data, such as data received from sensors of a cooling device or other medical device, data received from other sensors proximate to the body of the patient, or information entered by the user. The user interface may display the data in multiple display modes based upon patient parameters. The display mode may further be based on the medical devices used to monitor or provide therapy to the patient. For example, the user interface may have a cooling device display mode and a defibrillator display mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Kathleen E. Briscoe, Michael D. McMahon, Stephen W. Radons, Joseph L. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20040064170
    Abstract: In general, the disclosure presents techniques for rapidly cooling the body of a patient. A cooling garment is placed in contact with the body of the patient. Spacers within the cooling garment create a space between at least a portion of the cooling garment and the body of the patient. The cooling garment receives a coolant from a coolant supply and delivers the coolant to the body of the patient. The heat from the body of the patient may evaporate the coolant. A carrier gas, which circulates within the space between the cooling garment and the patient, carries the gaseous coolant out of the cooling garment via an exit port. The rapid cooling of the patient may slow the neurological damage to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Stephen W. Radons, Larry R. Nygaard, Martin S. Abbenhouse, Steven M. Chester
  • Publication number: 20040064171
    Abstract: In general, the disclosure presents techniques for control of a cooling garment in response to a signal that is a function of a patient parameter such as body temperature. In particular, a cooling garment that receives a coolant and a carrier gas is placed in contact with the body of a patient. A sensor within the cooling garment may generate a signal as a function of a patient parameter. A controller receives the signal via communication link, and may send a signal to a regulator that may regulate delivery of the coolant and/or carrier gas, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Kathleen E. Briscoe, Stephen W. Radons, Larry R. Nygaard, Joseph L. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20040064172
    Abstract: An implantable medical lead is provided with a distal guidewire extension. A flexible distal guidewire extension, which may take the form of a helically wound wire around a tapered core, extends from the distal end of a lead body. The extension may exit a tip electrode, which may be a generally rounded electrode or an active fixation electrode. The distal guidewire extension is preferably insulated, but may be provided with an uninsulated segment for serving as an electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Rick D. McVenes, Kenneth B. Stokes
  • Publication number: 20040064173
    Abstract: A bipolar cardiac vein lead and method of assembly is provided wherein the lead includes a flexible coil anode electrode such that the lead may be advanced through a tortuous pathway. The coil electrode is coupled to a conductor using a method of assembly that minimizes or eliminates rigid components, maintaining flexibility of the distal lead end. Multi-polar cardiac vein leads may include multiple flexible coil electrodes to achieve pacing and/or sensing in the left atrium and the left ventricle or at multiple left heart sites.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Douglas S. Hine, John L. Sommer, Wayne R. Bass, Mary M. Morris, Peter B. McIntyre, Carla C. Pfeiffer, Roger Lafond, Patricia K. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20040064174
    Abstract: A conductor assembly and methods for mechanically and electrically coupling a small diameter conductor to a lead component having a relatively larger sized conductor bore is provided. The assembly includes a sizing member sized to fit securely around a relatively small diameter conductor and to further fit within a conductor bore so that temporary compression (e.g., crimping, crushing, or staking) of a discrete portion of the conductor bore mechanically couples, and establishes electrical communication between, the conductor and the lead component. Alternately, a conductive sleeve member having a relatively large diameter conductor bore is adapted to receive a sizing unit to downsize one side of the sleeve member in a manner similar to the foregoing. In this case, a relatively smaller diameter one of a pair of different diameter elongated conductors is firmly mechanically coupled and in electrical communication with a relatively larger diameter conductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Elisabeth L. Belden
  • Publication number: 20040064175
    Abstract: An implantable medical device lead having an integral biostable in-sutu grown oxide insulation and process for forming that includes a lead body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, and a plurality of conductor wires electrically coupling the proximal end and the distal end of the lead body, with one or more of the plurality of conductor wires being formed of a material having a chemically modifiable surface for producing an insulating oxide layer thereon. An insulation layer corresponding to the native oxide layer is formed about the one or more of the plurality of conductor wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph F. Lessar, Peter B. Mcintyre, Gonzalo Martinez, David W. Mayer, Gregory A. Boser, Paul D. Baker, Jeffrey A. Wiser
  • Publication number: 20040064176
    Abstract: An electrical lead equipped with cathode and anode active succession electrodes for positioning in the vicinity of the His bundle tissue. The lead includes a lead body for carrying conductors coupled between electrodes located at or near the distal lead end and a connector assembly located at the proximal lead end for connecting to an implantable pacemaker. The electrode is shaped, at the distal end, for positioning and attachment in the His bundle and branches thereof, cathode and anode electrodes co-extensive with the lead body. The cathode and anode electrodes may be helical screw-in type or equivalent electrodes adapted for secure fixation deep within the His bundle tissue or the tissue in the vicinity of the His bundle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Xiaoyi Min, Terrell M. Williams
  • Publication number: 20040064177
    Abstract: A unitary subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is disclosed which has a long thin housing in the shape of a patient's rib. The housing contains a source of electrical energy, a capacitor, and operational circuitry that senses the presence of potentially fatal heart rhythms. Provided on the housing are cardioversion/defibrillation electrodes located to deliver electrical cardioversion-defibrillation energy when the operational circuitry senses a potentially fatal heart rhythm. The unitary subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator does not have a transvenous, intracardic, epicardial, or subcutaneous electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Gust H. Bardy, Riccardo Cappato
  • Publication number: 20040064178
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a wire to an electrode includes a rigid body which presses downwardly against the wire and presses it into contact with the laminated sheet member of the electrode. The body includes first and second pairs of spaced apart prongs and third and fourth prongs, all of which pierce the laminated sheet member and are bent upwardly into contact with the central portion of the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: Katecho, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Todd, Lorne C. Scharnberg
  • Publication number: 20040064179
    Abstract: A delivery device adapted to insert and deploy a stent within a body lumen. The delivery device includes a guide member adapted to retain a dilation assembly and a stent within a lumen thereof until the stent is to be deployed into the body lumen. The delivery device is configured to enable simultaneous insertion of the guide member, dilation assembly, stent, and optional guidewire within a body lumen. Following deploying the stent, the delivery device can be removed, while providing the capability of optionally maintaining the guide member or the guidewire to function or act as an exchange wire for additional surgical devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: RUBICON MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Richard J. Linder, Daryl R. Edmiston, Steven W. Johnson, Karri L. Schlegel
  • Publication number: 20040064180
    Abstract: An endovascular support device for treatment of chronic restenosis or other vascular narrowing is disclosed together with a method of manufacture and a method for delivering a plurality of such devices to an affected area of a vessel. In a preferred embodiment, the endovascular support device comprises a unitary wire-like structure configured to form a plurality of upper and lower peaks which may be compressed for delivery to an affected area of a coronary or peripheral vessel in a human, and then expanded to maintain a passageway through the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Michael D. Boneau
  • Publication number: 20040064181
    Abstract: A vascular prosthesis configured for direct connection to an artery. The vascular prosthesis may include a tube of material other than autologous vascular tissue, having an end formation, which is configured for surgical connection to an opening formed in the artery, and a narrower portion prior to commencement of the end formation. The end formation may have an enlarged chamber adapted to induce a concave section in said blood vessel upon attachment thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: IMPRA, Inc., a subsidiary of C.R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Lyon Harris, Thien Voon How
  • Publication number: 20040064182
    Abstract: A high-myopia intraocular lens (IOL) for anterior-chamber implantation is constructed as a single, integral unit with an optic portion in the shape of a substantially circular concave lens, an annular flange portion extending radially outwards from the circumference of the optic portion, and haptic elements for fixating the IOL in its implanted position. The annular flange is substantially impervious to light and has an outside diameter at least as large as the aperture diameter of a dilated pupil of the eye. The circumferential surface of the optic portion is substantially light-impervious as well as non-reflective. The IOL is at least in part foldable to facilitate surgical implantation in the eye through a small incision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Charles David Kelman
  • Publication number: 20040064183
    Abstract: A stirrup prosthesis for implantation in a middle ear has an elastic clamping member which is displaceable on a long anvil projection and formed as a clip which is open at one side, the clip having an opening, and at least one leg with a portion extending outwardly of the opening and formed as an arch with which the prosthesis is suspendable on the long anvil projection of a human middle ear before the displacement of the prosthesis onto the long anvil projection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel F. a Wengen, Uwe Steinhardt, Heinz Kurz
  • Publication number: 20040064184
    Abstract: A medical implant device for use in spinal surgery, and more preferably for use in laminoplasty surgery is provided. The implant is a cage-like member having a generally hollow, elongate body with open ends. The implant is formed from a generally hollow, elongate body having four sides: opposed cephalad and caudal sides, and opposed posterior and anterior sides adjacent to the cephalad and caudal sides. The four sides extend along a longitudinal axis, and define an inner lumen extending between opposed first and second open ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Jae-Yoon Chung, Michael Carl Michielli
  • Publication number: 20040064185
    Abstract: An interbody spinal fusion implant adapted for placement at least in part across an intervertebral space formed across a disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies and for penetrating engagement into each of those vertebral bodies, the implant having a trailing end adapted to sit upon and not protrude from the anterolateral peripheral rim of bone of the vertebral body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Gary K. Michelson
  • Publication number: 20040064186
    Abstract: A prosthetic trial for a joint prosthesis includes a stem having a proximal section and a distal section for implantation in a bone. A body includes a channel receiving at least the proximal section of the stem. A locking mechanism is at least partially disposed within the body. The locking mechanism is biased into a locking position in which the mechanism locks the stem within the first channel of the body. The locking mechanism is accessible outside said body to be pulled into a releasing position to unlock the stem from the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Larry G. McCleary, Farid Bruce Khalili-Araghi, Marc Weissman
  • Publication number: 20040064187
    Abstract: The humeral portion of a shoulder prosthesis includes a diaphyseal component configured for fixation within the humerus, a metaphyseal component, configured for removable implantation within the metaphysis of the humerus, and an engagement mechanism for removably engaging the two components. The metaphyseal component can initially include a convex articulating surface that can be replaced with a concave surface during the shoulder arthroplasty procedure or in a subsequent revision surgery. The metaphyseal component can also include a feature to facilitate removal of the component from the bone once it has been disengaged from the diaphyseal component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Robert J. Ball, Jeffrey M. Ondrla, Laurent LaFosse, Anne-Celine Godest
  • Publication number: 20040064188
    Abstract: A humeral prosthesis allows a surgeon to adjust humeral head position thereof in three-dimensional space with respect to a humeral component of the humeral prosthesis that has been either previously implanted into a humerus of a patient or not. The humeral prosthesis includes a conjoining component that is configured to releasably mate with the humeral component and to releasably mate with a humeral head. The conjoining component allows the humeral head to be selectively positionable from continuously infinite positions about two orthographic axes with respect to the conjoining component. The selected spatial position of the head is locked by a locking member of the conjoining component. The conjoining component allows the use of various sized heads, allow in vivo head trialing and/or exchange, and retrofit of heads for previously implanted shoulder prosthesis in need of revision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Robert J. Ball, Jeffrey M. Ondrla
  • Publication number: 20040064189
    Abstract: A glenoid component (100) for use with a prosthetic humeral component (102) for use in performing shoulder arthroplasty is provided. The glenoid component (100) may be fitted at least partially into a cavity (104) formed in the glenoid vault (106). The glenoid component (112) includes a body (112) having a stem portion (114) for inserting at least partially into the cavity (104) formed in the glenoid vault (106). The stem portion (114) cooperates with the interior wall (116) of the cavity (104) formed in the glenoid vault (106). The body (112) has a bearing portion (120) for articulating cooperation with the prosthetic humeral component (102).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Brian John Maroney, Gerald Ross Williams