Abstract: An absorbent product (1) comprising a flexible support (2), having a first layer (4) and a second layer (3) of granulated clay material, and a porous fibrous fabric (5) apt to secure said first and second layer (3, 4) on said flexible support (2) arranged at the top thereof.

Abstract: The present invention comprises methods and compositions for inverse high internal phase emulsion foam (HIPE) technology comprising an oil-in water system prepared by dispersing an oil phase in a water phase. The oil phase forms dispersed droplets surrounded by the continuous monomer containing water phase. When the two phases are emulsified, they polymerize. The water phase contains an in-situ SAP monomer solution and a reducing initiator. The oil phase contains an oxidizing initiator dispersed in an oil. The polymers of the present invention may further comprise fibers dispersed in the foam structure.

Abstract: A liquid distribution unit is contactively disposed directly on that surface of the liquid-permeable sheet positioned in the innermost with respect to a wearer of an absorbent product which is associated with wearer. The liquid distribution unit is provided with a plurality of liquid distribution passageways extending downward with respect to the surface thereof. The liquid distribution unit has the function of uniformly distributing and branching the liquid fed onto the surface thereof, through the liquid distribution passageways over a wide range along the surface of the surface sheet. An absorbent product having such distribution unit is provided.

Abstract: A method of forming preformed absorbent cores wherein the absorbent cores have material properties which vary within the body of the core. The cores are formed by controlling the output of forming heads upon an air-laid non-woven apparatus. The forming heads or other particle distribution units distribute the fibers or particles upon the web such that alternating regions of material properties are created across the web. After each fiber disposition step, the web is optionally densified and the web is slit into several smaller web segments. The web is differentially densified and optionally differentially embossed such that the resulting web has a uniform thickness after being layered into a bundle. The uniform thickness of the web allows the finished non-woven web to be bundled for storage or transportation of the web without problems previously associated with layering webs having non-uniform material profiles.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fastening tab including a manufacturer's bond end, attached to a disposable absorbent product, and a user's end. The user's end includes a mechanical fastener component and is configured to have a disengagement ratio of at least 1.5:1.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel techniques for embolizing blood vessels which are particularly suited for treating vascular lesions via catheter delivery of an embolic composition.

Abstract: An epidural needle has an elongate tube defining a longitudinal axis having a proximal end, a distal end and an axial hollow bore therethrough. The needle has a hub with a proximal end, a distal end and an open passageway having an inside diameter therethrough, the hub being attached to the elongate tube so that the hollow bore of the elongate tube is in fluid communication and substantial axial alignment with the open passageway. The hub further has a cavity disposed between the proximal end and the distal end of the hub. There is a resilient member with an opening therethrough that has an inner diameter disposed in the cavity so that the opening is substantially axially aligned and in fluid communication with the open passageway. The hub of the epidural needle of the invention has a clamp with a releasable latch disposed about the resilient member.

Abstract: A malleable cannula has a body with a proximal end and a distal end, the body having a wall defining a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. A reinforcement member extends along the lumen, the reinforcement member having an interior side facing the lumen and an exterior side facing away from the lumen. A malleable member extends along a portion of the exterior side of the reinforcement member. The malleable member may be constructed of a tube with a wire slidably received within the tube and may include an anchor.

Abstract: A guiding catheter for use in a body lumen having a stiff inner liner that has an uninterrupted length and is fabricated from a material such as polyimide (PI) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is disclosed. The inner liner is created by coating or extruding PI or PEEK on a neckable wire mandrel. A polymeric jacket is provided over the inner liner through a coating and bonding processes. A metallic braid, mesh, or lattice reinforcing member is embedded in the polymeric jacket.

Abstract: The present invention provides an enhanced method and device to inhibit or reduce the rate of restenosis following angioplasty or stent placement. The invention involves placing a balloon tipped catheter in the area treated or opened through balloon angioplasty immediately following angioplasty. The balloon, which can have a dual balloon structure, may be delivered through a guiding catheter and over a guidewire already in place from a balloon angioplasty. A fluid such as a perfluorocarbon may be flowed into the balloon to freeze the tissue adjacent the balloon, this cooling being associated with reduction of restenosis. The catheter may also be used to reduce atrial fibrillation by inserting and inflating the balloon such that an exterior surface of the balloon is in contact with at least a partial circumference of the portion of the pulmonary vein adjacent the left atrium.

Abstract: Electrophysiological probes having tissue insulation and/or tissue heating device cooling apparatus are disclosed.

Abstract: A method, and system, are provided treating a tissue site of a tissue structure that has at least a first and a second tissue plane. An energy delivery device is provided. A barrier is created between the first and second tissue planes. At least a portion of an energy delivery device is positioned at the tissue site. Sufficient energy is delivered from the energy delivery device to create cell necrosis of at least a portion of the first tissue plane.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe (10) comprises a shaft (13) having an electrode array (58) at its distal end and a connector (19) at its proximal end for coupling the electrode array to a high frequency power supply (28). The shaft includes a return electrode (56) recessed from its distal end and enclosed within an insulating jacket (18). The return electrode defines an inner passage (83) electrically connected to both the return electrode and the electrode array for passage of an electrically conducting liquid (50). By applying high frequency voltage to the electrode array and the return electrode, the electrically conducting liquid generates a current flow path between the return electrode and the electrode array so that target tissue may be cut or ablated. The probe is particularly useful in dry environments, such as the mouth or abdominal cavity, because the electrically conducting liquid provides the necessary return current path between the active and return electrodes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for accessing the pericardial space which provides for stable short term or long term placement of a delivery catheter or cannula having its distal most end located in the pericardial space. The catheter or cannula may be introduced into the pericardial space either transvenously through the wall of a heart chamber or transthoracically by penetrating the chest wall and the pericardium. Some embodiments are provided with a mechanism for stabilizing the distal end of the catheter or cannula, which mechanism may employ an extensible elastic, generally tubular member located at the distal end of the catheter or cannula. The device may be provided with a mechanism for extending the tubular member longitudinally, causing its diameter to diminish substantially.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe comprises a shaft having an electrode array (12) at its distal end and a connector at its proximal end. The array (12) includes a plurality of isolated electrode terminals, and an electrosurgical power supply (28) 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 electric terminals. By applying very high frequency electrical energy to the electrode array, target tissue may be cut or ablated while heat dissipation through low impedance paths, such as blood and normal saline, will be minimized.

Abstract: A hemostat-type device for ablative treatment of tissue, particularly for treatment of atrial fibrillation, is constructed with features that provide easy and effective treatment. A swiveling head assembly can allow the jaws to be adjusted in pitch and roll. Malleable jaws can permit curved lesion shapes. A locking detent can secure the jaws in a closed position during the procedure. An illuminated indicator provides confirmation that the device is operating. A fluid delivery system simplifies irrigated ablation procedures.

Abstract: A medical device, and related method, use epicardial ablators and detectors for intraoperative epicardial approaches to ablation therapy of cardiac conduction pathways. An epicardial gripper is sized to grasp the cardiac circumference or smaller structures on the epicardial surface of the heart. Ablators are disposed on the arms of the gripper for epicardial ablation of cardiac conduction tissue. In another embodiment of the invention, an electrode system includes a flexible, adjustable probe forming a loop for epicardial ablation. Ablators are provided on one or multiple surfaces of the probe for epicardial ablation of cardiac conduction tissue. In yet another embodiment of the invention, an endocardial ablator detection system provides an indicator adjacent an ablator on an endocardial catheter, and a detector on an epicardial probe.

Abstract: A surgical biopsy apparatus for cutting tissue comprising a housing having a longitudinal axis, first and second members movable from a retracted position to an extended position with respect to the housing, a third member slidably positioned and extendable with respect to the first member, a fourth member slidably positioned and extendable with respect to the second member, and an electrocautery cutting wire slidable with respect to the third and fourth members to surround a region of tissue positioned between the third and fourth members to cut the tissue.

Abstract: A electrosurgical instrument includes a housing having a shaft attached thereto which connects a pair of first and second jaw members in an opposing manner relative to one another. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first open position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second closed position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The instrument also includes a handle assembly having a four-bar mechanical linkage which cooperates with a drive assembly to impart movement to the first and second jaw members from the first and second positions.

Abstract: A tool, system and method for separating connected orthopaedic components are disclosed. The system includes two orthopaedic components that are connected end to end. One of the orthopaedic components has a notch that receives a cam carried by the tool. The notch and cam are sized and shaped so that when the cam is turned, the cam forces the two components apart. The invention is particularly useful when Morse tapers are used to connect the components. The invention can be used with the modular orthopaedic implants as well as with modular trials used intraoperatively. The cam can be removably mounted on the tool.

Abstract: An intervertebral distraction tool has a clamshell head with upper and lower halves, each having a curvate outer surface and a flat inner surface. The distal side of the head is hinged so that the head opens and closes from the proximal side of the head. The hinge is a separating hinge that allows the halves to not only angulate with respect to one another about the hinge axis, but also to vertically separate from one another at the hinge. A distraction separator has decreasing taper at its distal end and a longitudinal bore that accommodates the elongate shaft of the trial so that the separator can be moved longitudinally relative to the shaft. Upon forward movement of the separator, the tapered upper and lower surfaces engage the flat inner surfaces of the head, causing the halves to angulate about the hinge axis of the head, thereby opening the head.

Abstract: In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a system for reducing pressure on high-pressure load areas on a body includes a plurality of bone anchors and a support structure. Each of the bone anchors includes an implantation end and a coupling element. The bone anchor implantation end secures the bone anchor to a load-bearing bone, while the bone anchor coupling element engages the support structure to transfer a body weight from the load-bearing bones to the support structure. The support structure may include one or more support coupling elements to engage the bone anchor coupling elements. In accordance with other embodiments of the present invention, a method for reducing pressure on high-pressure load areas on a body includes implanting the plurality of bone anchors into at least one load-bearing bone in the body, and removably attaching the coupling elements of the bone anchors to the support structure to transfer a body weight from the load-bearing bone to the support structure.

Abstract: A spacer and method of using the spacer for positioning between and spacing vertebral members. The spacer is positionable between a first position having a reduced size to be minimally invasive when inserted into the patient between the vertebral members. The spacer is expandable up to a second position to contact the vertebral members. In one embodiment, a delivery device is attached to position the spacer within the patient. The delivery device may remain connected to the spacer, or may be removable with the spacer remaining within the patient as the delivery device is removed. In one embodiment, the spacer comprises a first member and a second member each positioned about a middle member. Middle member moves relative to the first and second members with angled surfaces contacting to deploy the spacer between the closed and open orientations.

Abstract: A spinal facet fixation device includes a pair of jaws hinged on a common base. A threaded actuator bears against a cam surface on the jaws to draw the points of the jaws together. A surgeon applies the opposed points to respective facets of vertebral elements, and then tightens the actuator to draw the facets together. A spinal facet staple, and method of use, are also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for spinal fixation, in particular, for joining a bone anchor with spinal stabilizers such as a spinal rod or spinal plate in a polyaxial fashion. The invention is also directed to polyaxial connectors which incorporate arcuate washers. The polyaxial features of this invention are achieved preferably with snap-in washers which minimize the numbers of parts that a surgeon may have to handle during surgery.

Abstract: A method of repositioning or fixing a first vertebrae or portion of a first vertebrae comprising fixing a bone screw in the first vertebrae and a bone screw in a second vertebrae, where each bone screw has a portal, and inflating an inflatable balloon between the portals, thereby creating a rigid structure between the bone screws.

Abstract: A vertebral plate system and associated method minimizes the number of required multiple configurations and sizes of hardware on hand during surgery for repair, stabilization or fusion of bone segments. A novel aspect of the invention is a resilient split ring that cooperates with angled contact surfaces in a plate for allowing convenient and fast dynamic locking between the plate and a bone screw. In another aspect of the present invention, a screw or similarly elongated fastener having a generally spherical or part-spherical head with a section of helical threads is configured in a generally horizontal band and positioned around a maximum-diameter section of the head. The screw is loosely retained to a first structure by a snap-ring formed from a ring of elastic material having a slot cut so that the ring is a “C” ring. The ring is seated on an annular shoulder formed in a through-hole in the first structure.

Abstract: This invention relates to devices for spinal fixation especially to those used for joining a bone anchor with spinal stabilizers such as a spinal rod or spinal plate in a polyaxial fashion. More specifically, the invention is directed to polyaxial washer assemblies which incorporate arcuate washers and which may be used to retrofit spinal stabilizers that may not have been designed for polyaxial application since the washer assemblies of this invention may be used across a number of differing aperture sizes.

Abstract: A two piece graft fixation arrangement includes a graft block engageable with a graft and a transverse member engageable with the graft block to fix the graft block in a bone tunnel. Instruments and methods are presented for installing a graft in a bone tunnel and anchoring the graft with a transverse member placed through a transverse bore intersecting the bone tunnel.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for clamping and reclamping an orthopedic surgical cable used in conjunction with an orthopedic implant device, a bone, and/or bone implant or structure. At least one apparatus and system in accordance with various embodiments of the invention include a clamping body adapted to positioning within a patient's body; and a clamping mechanism adapted to securing an orthopedic cable to the clamping body, creating a first tension in the orthopedic cable, releasing the tension in the orthopedic cable, and re-securing the orthopedic cable relative to the clamping body to secure another tension in the orthopedic cable. A sequence for a method in accordance with various embodiments the invention includes providing a surgical cable clamp and an orthopedic surgical cable. Next, mounting a portion of the surgical cable to the surgical cable clamp.

Abstract: A device for the reduction and stabilisation of broken bone parts, such as those deriving from a fracture, that is particularly suitable for veterinary use. The device comprises a tubular band (1) as the main element, to be applied around the bone at the point of fracture or discontinuity, that is made of a metallic material and provided with a longitudinal aperture, equipped with multiple substantially pointed protrusions (2), distributed along its inner surface, for gripping the said broken bone parts. The tubular band (1) is sufficiently malleable to be wrapped tightly around the broken bone parts with the use of flexible cerclage elements, which are secured transversally around said tubular band and housed in external transverse grooves (3).

Abstract: Tools for use in the creation of cavities in bones. The tools include a probe, a cannula that provides percutaneous passageway to the interior of the treated bone, a bone tamp, and a system for delivering bone filler material into the cavity. The bone tamp has a shaft that is inserted into the bone through the cannula. The end of the shaft that is inserted into the bone may have a flapper tip that extends out of axial alignment with the shaft upon deployment by the physician. Once the tip is deployed, the bone tamp can be rotated to form the cavity. The cavity may then be treated with a medicament, filled with bone filler material, or both. Other tools and materials described herein may be used to lift or restore the treated bone closer to its natural anatomy.

Abstract: A bone preparation device, comprises a guide body, a bone removal device having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal portion and a distal portion, a pair of guide members movably engaged between said guide body and said bone removal device, and an alignment device movably engaged between said guide members. The bone removal device may be movably guided by the guide members and the alignment device with respect to said guide body through a predetermined pattern.

Abstract: A surgical tool driver has a driven end connectable to a rotary drive source and a driving end connectable to a surgical tool. A shaft assembly there between includes a hollow outer shaft and a flexible drive shaft for transmitting rotary power from the driven end to the driving end. The shaft assemble is curved for bypassing anatomical features in a patient.

Abstract: Device for withdrawing flakes or shavings from a donor bone by scraping, comprising an internally hollow handle (M) composed of a hollow body (1) with a cavity (11) and of slidable means for closing and respectively rendering accessible the cavity (11), and scraper means (20) positioned at the front end of said slidable means and comprising a gap for passage of the bone flakes or shavings into the cavity (11); said slidable means comprise an upper plate (6) positioned on the upper side of the hollow body (1) to close the cavity (11) and slidable on this latter, its front portion (7) being not joined to the hollow body (1) and being elastically deformable to move away from the front edge of this latter when under load. Said scraper means comprise a blade (20) positioned at the front end of said slidable plate (6), and having an active surface (21) perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the front portion of the handle (M).

Abstract: An apparatus has been developed to enable a surgeon to perform multiple orthopedic surgical operations, such as orthopedic surgical resectioning, total joint replacement and fixation of fractures, based on a single reference point. The apparatus is adjustable to conform to the needs and dimensions of individual patients and the surgical procedure(s) to be performed. The apparatus includes a support adapted for insertion into and alignment within the medullary cavity of a patient's bone. The support is capable of expanding into the bone so that the support is fixed within the bone and alignable to the bone. The support may be implanted to align a fractured bone, or extend a distance beyond its fixed position within the medullary cavity to provide a known surgical reference point. The apparatus includes one or more cutting guides mountable on the support and used in performing the desired surgical procedure(s).

Abstract: A patellar milling clamp is provided with a depth control for limiting and controlling the milling depth of a grater rotated against a bone secured in the milling clamp. A stop ring is provided on a shaft of the milling tool. The shaft is slidable in a guide bushing of the milling clamp, and a rotatable cap on the guide bushing is selectively engaged in notches in the guide bushing to provide an abutment surface at selectively different elevations. Further advancement of the tool is prevented when the stop ring abuts the abutment surface of the cap. The depth of milling is precisely controlled regardless of the original thickness of the patellar bone being milled.

Abstract: A gravity dependent pedicle screw tap hole guide comprises a guide shaft maintainable parallel to a drill bit during the drilling of a pedicle screw tap hole; a level indicator associated with a reference direction and responsive to gravity to provide feedback regarding an angular difference between an acting direction of gravity and the reference direction; and a mounting attaching the indicator to the shaft and establishing a positional relationship between the reference direction and the longitudinal axis. Using the guide involves angulating the shaft about its distal end adjacent the base of the superior articular process and the base and middle of the transverse process until the guide indicates that the angular orientation of the longitudinal axis matches the previously determined pedicle axis orientation with respect to the acting direction of gravity, and then drilling the tap hole along a trajectory established by the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

Abstract: A cartridge having increased lubricity and a method used to increase the lubricity of medical devices such as a lens cartridge. The inner surface of a lens cartridge formed from polypropylene and at least one other constituent is exposed to a treatment gas, which may be a mixture of steam and carbon dioxide gas, humidified carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide or a combination thereof, to increase the lubricity of an inner surface of the lens cartridge or medical device. Various processing conditions may be controlled to control the amount of increased lubricity.

Abstract: An apparatus system (38) and method for introducing and retrieving a medical device deployment system (50) into the vasculature of a human body at a preselected position within a vessel. The apparatus (38) includes an introducer (10) having a detachable and re-attachable sheath (12) disposed about a deployment catheter (42).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for caged stent delivery is provided herein. The device can be used to position and deliver any type of stent to a preselected treatment site within an intraluminal cavity. The device comprises a tubular portion, a plurality of arms attached to the distal end of the tubular portion, and a mechanism to open the arms. In operation, the caged device carries a stent in a constricted form to the treatment site for deployment. The arms of the cage are then opened, the stent released and deployed, and the device withdrawn. Several methods are provided to open the arms, including various pullwires, a piston, an electrolytic joint, and an activator. The arms may be constructed of a shape memory alloy and opened when shape memory behavior is effected. The device may be used with conventional catheters or used with a stent-loaded guidewire.

Abstract: A modular guidewire reel allows the proximal end of a vascular guidewire to be captured, easily reeled up into a saline containing housing and keeps it readily available for subsequent use during a medical procedure.

Abstract: A device for withdrawing a tubular body part such as a varicose vein is provided. A needle is inserted through a skin. The needle contains therein an engaging element in an undeployed state. After the needle is inserted, the engaging element is pushed out of the needle and is typically deployed inside the vein. The vein is now ready to be withdrawn by the deployed engaging element. Using a puncture device that also contains a deployable engaging element allows the puncture site to be small and causes less trauma to the surrounding tissue.

Abstract: An introducer sheath or catheter can be formed in two or more layers with an inner layer made of a higher durometer material and an outer layer made of a lower durometer material. The inner layer can have one or a combination of the following: one or more longitudinal slits, overlapping portions, monolithic hinges, or other formations to allow for radial expansion.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for applying fasteners during endoscopic surgery. The apparatus generally comprises a handle portion, a triggering mechanism and a fastener applicator. One embodiment of the invention forms the fastener around a single focal point on an anvil. Another embodiment vertically stacks the fasteners in a fastener applicator which is readily detachable from the handle portion by virtue of a rotational locking system and which may be replaced with a new fastener applicator having a fresh load of vertically stacked fasteners. A third embodiment of the invention has a fastener applicator having only one actuated part in its. Application mechanism, and makes use of biased springs controlled by position of the actuated part for the remaining part of the mechanism.

Abstract: Implant delivery systems are disclosed. In general overview, an exemplary system includes any number of the following: a delivery device, a sling assembly, guide members, and connectors that interconnect the above. Embodiments of all the above components and their combinations are disclosed. Methods of using the above system in suprapubic, prepubic, transvaginal, trans-obturator and other approaches are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing a solid object from a body canal or vessel includes a coil of wire configured to slidably receive a guide wire and a sack having a mouth and a closed bottom opposite the sack. A resilient frame is connected between the coil of wire and the sack for biasing the mouth of the sack open around the coil of wire. The resilient frame is positionable between a collapsed state where the mouth of the sack is closed against the bias of the resilient frame and a deployed state where the mouth of the sack is biased open by the resilient frame.

Abstract: A hand held skin abrading apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises a handle configured for gripping by a human operator; a reciprocating motion generator, in the form of a magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducer, associated with the handle; an applicator attached to the handle and having an applicator blade for applying abrading motion to a surface and a coupler for coupling the applicator to the magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducer. The applicator is releasably securable to the handle of a skin abrading apparatus and includes a connector portion extending from the applicator blade, the connector portion having a central axis, wherein the applicator blade is offset from the central axis to enable the apparatus to be operated with the handle above the plane of the surface being abraded. The apparatus may include provision for irrigation of the surface being abraded.

Abstract: A hair removal device including one or more spring-like mechanisms attached at either end to grip handles connected at a pivot point or that includes handles at the ends. In one variation, the user squeezes the handles open, expanding the spring-like mechanisms, such that hair slips into the mechanism's openings. The user then returns the handles to their resting state, causing the mechanisms to grasp the hair. The device is then pulled away from the skin, plucking the entrapped hairs. Another variation is a floppy cord of spring-like mechanisms with grip handles at both ends that a user pulls in opposing directions, allowing hairs to enter the resulting openings. Entrapped hairs are plucked when the tension is released from the device, and the device is pulled from the skin. The second variation thus allows for more precise hair removal in smaller or difficult to access areas than the first variation.

Abstract: A device and method to carry out the welding of suture strands joining tissue of a patient. The device has an elongated housing with a distal opening and a proximal opening for the suture strands to pass through the device generally along the elongated axis of the device. A pair of welding plates surround the suture strands passing through the device and can be activated to provide heat to weld the strands together. One of the welding plates is movable by means of an externally accessible button for the physician to move that welding plate between an open position where the strands can easily be threaded between the welding plates and a closed position where the suture strands are held tightly together between the welding plates and the weld can be effected.