Abstract: A flow diverting appliance has a flexible valve body to which a number of flow lines are connected. The valve body is deformed to create different flow paths within it. The valve body may be deformed, for example, by pinching it to define press-seals in an enclosed volume inside the valve body. The press seals divide the enclosed volume to form exclusive flow channels which allow communication between some flow lines and permit flow communication between other lines. The invention provides a way of making flow diverters part of a replaceable blood circuit which is fully hermetic and with no dead-end spaces which would allow blood to cagulate.

Abstract: A multi-compartment syringe for storing two or more substances in separate compartments comprises a tubular body having an opening at each end and a plunger. The body has two or more compartments defined along its length, where each compartment has a successively larger diameter. The plunger has a plunger head at one end that partitions the first and second compartments and one or more bungs, slidable along the plunger's shaft, for partitioning each of the other compartments. The plunger head and the bungs can be unsealed to establish a flow communication between the compartments.

Abstract: Apparatus for hemostasis of an artery having a puncture after arterial catheterization, the apparatus includes a catheter introducer having a forward end and a hemostasis device including an elongate flexible hollow shaft having an inflatable anchor balloon at a forward end thereof and an inflatable peripheral balloon adjacent the forward end of the flexible hollow shaft, the hemostasis device being arranged to be insertable into an artery via the catheter introducer.

Abstract: Methods are provided for partial aortic obstruction for cerebral perfusion augmentation in patients suffering from global or focal cerebral ischemia. Alternatively, the methods can be used to partially obstruct aortic blood flow to condition the spinal cord to secrete neuroprotective agents prior to abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Partial obstruction of a vessel can be accomplished by a device comprising an elongate catheter and a distally mounted expandable member. The expandable member may comprise one or two balloons. Other medical devices, such as an angioplasty, stent, or atherectomy catheter, can be inserted distal the expandable member to provide therapeutic intervention.

Abstract: A method and system for treating body structures or tissue allows treatment by any of ablation, coating, expansion, plumping, shaping, and shrinking. Treatment sitesinclude any of a sphincter, sinus or orifice. During treatment, electrodes emerge from apertures in a balloon. The balloon with liquid from a circulating bath cools tissue in direct contact with electrodes and immediately adjacent, so that discrete regions are treated, with minimal damage to adjacent structures. Sensors, coupled to electrodes, measure treatment properties such as: temperature, impedance and nervous activity. Measurements are used for: diagnostic assessment, determining treatment parameters, providing nervous stimulation and/or blocking, and feedback for controlling energy delivery. The catheter includes an optical path that can be coupled to external viewing apparatus. Endoscopic methods, including fluoroscopic, fiber optic, or radioscopy allow examining tissue and determining position of electrodes.

Abstract: An urethral drain having deep external drainage channels, a low-profiled bladder retention segment, and a reversibly detachable collection segment, facilitates the draining of urine and fluids from the bladder. The low-profiled retention means minimizes bladder irritations and the deep external channels reduce the occurrence of infections. Incorporation of a reduced diameter smooth segment on the catheter, proximate the location of the external urethral sphincter allows the patient to void normally and at will. Modifying the size of this smooth segment aids the function of a defective sphincter in controlling urine leakage. The drain can be worn concealed within the urethra. Flushing action from normal voiding washes out particulate matters in the urethra and the concealed drain further minimizes contamination. Together, these features improve quality of life for patients needing catheterization.

Abstract: A disposable syringe includes a tubular barrier member retained in a rear passageway of a barrel. A tubular needle seat for fixing a needle cannula is retained on the barrier member, and abuts against an abutment wall in the front passageway of the barrel while the needle cannula is disposed outwardly of the barrel. A plunger is slidable in the rear passageway, and has a seal member to seal a cavity confined in a plunger body and containing a fluid at a reduced pressure. When a pushing force applied to the plunger body moves the barrier member against the first and second frictional forces, the needle seat is released, and the seal member is ruptured, so that the needle seat and the needle cannula are suctioned into the cavity due to the pressure difference between the ambient atmosphere and the reduced pressure.

Abstract: A method and expandable device for thermally affecting tissue in which there is a fluid conduit. An expandable element includes a wall defining an inner volume. The wall has a tissue contact region which is non-coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the fluid conduit. The tissue contact region is operable to have a first contact surface area and a second contact surface area in which the second contact surface area is larger than the first contact surface area. A port is formed through the wall and is in fluid communication with the fluid conduit.

Abstract: A cassette for delivering fluids, especially dialysis fluids, with connecting elements for connecting solution bags and lines leading to the patient for to the dialysis machine, with at least one delivery chamber with an inlet and outlet, with lines for carrying the fluids supplied and delivered, with the walls of the lines being designed at least in some sections so that the lines can be closed by applying a compressive force acting on the walls. Heating and delivery of fluids, in particular dialysis fluids, can be performed effectively and simply by providing at least one area in the cassette where the lines are arranged in such a way that the medium in the lines can be heated to a predetermined set point by means of a heating device arranged outside the cassette.

Abstract: Apparatuses for sharing information on syringe configuration between syringes and injector systems comprise a storage system to store encoded information on syringe configuration. The encoded information is readable by a detection circuit in an injector. In one embodiment, the storage system is an electronic storage system in which information relevant to the syringe configuration is encoded. A method comprises the step of conveying syringe configuration information to a detector in an injector for use with the syringe.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device for automatically injecting injection liquids, comprising an axially divided housing, whereof the parts can be removably assembled. In a first part of the housing (13) is guided an axially mobile pressure pin (14) which can be driven in against a force accumulator (15), which can be locked once it has been driven in and can come out when the force accumulator (15) is released. In a second part of the housing (1) are arranged, axially mobile, an injection needle (4) maintained in a needle guide (5) and an ampoule (3). Said injection needle (4) maintained in the needle guide (5) can be axially mobile, relative to the ampoule (3), and has, on its side facing the ampoule (3), a perforation part (23) designed to perforate the ampoule (3). The second part of the housing (1) can be closed with a top (11) at its open end facing the first part of the housing (13).

Abstract: An implantable drug infusion device includes a pump tube for holding a liquid to be pumped. A race is configured to support the pump tube. A roller assembly is configured to compress the tube against the race at one or more points along the path, and the roller assembly includes at least one roller and a hub. A drive assembly drives the roller assembly relative to the tube along the path so as to move the liquid through the tube. A retracting roller is operably connected to the hub and/or one or more adjacent rollers to permit retraction of the roller during installation of the pump tube between the roller and the race.

Abstract: An adapter includes a syringe carrier adapted to seat at least a portion of the syringe. The syringe carrier includes at least one rearward facing abutment member to abut at least one forward facing surface on a syringe. The syringe carrier includes an opening therein to allow a drive member of an injector to communicate forward force to the plunger through abutment without connective engagement between the drive member and the plunger. The adapter further includes a releasable mounting mechanism positioned to the rear of the syringe carrier to mount the adapter in a desired position relative to the front wall of the injector.

Abstract: An endoscopic needle assembly has an inner tube formed from a close-wound coil of wire surrounded by a sheath, an outer tube surrounding the inner tube such that the inner tube can move longitudinally relative to the outer tube, a needle joined to a distal end of the inner tube, and a two piece handle having a first handle piece attaching to the inner tube and a second handle piece attaching to the outer tube. A safety shield, formed from a plurality of hinged petals, is built onto the distal end of the outer tube to protect an endoscope from inadvertent penetration by the needle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in the percutaneous insertion of medical devices is disclosed. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes an access tube defining a central lumen and a retention portion disposed at a distal end of the access tube. The retention portion is reconfigurable between a first configuration of reduced lateral extent and a second configuration of increased lateral extent. A trocar is moveably disposed within the central lumen of the access tube. The access tube is movably disposed within a central lumen of an overtube. In an embodiment of a method of the present invention, the method includes the steps of inserting the trocar and access tube through a body wall of a patient, where the trocar is disposed within the access tube and where a retention portion disposed at a distal end of the access tube is configured in a first configuration of reduced lateral extent. The retention portion is then configured in a second configuration of increased lateral extent.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for treating a blood vessel. The blood vessel treatment system includes a hollow guidewire having a central lumen, an occlusion balloon attached proximate to a distal end of the hollow guidewire, and an inflation catheter slidable over the hollow guidewire. An annular inflation lumen formed between the inflation catheter and the hollow guidewire fluidly communicates with the central lumen of the hollow guidewire, allowing inflation fluid to flow through the annular inflation lumen and into a distal portion of the central lumen to inflate the occlusion balloon.

Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide a simple, safe, convenient and economical means of securing catheters to or at the outside of a human or other animal body by suturing, tying or taping to a tubular depression-shaped anchor member that is integrally formed during manufacture with the forming of the catheter resulting in a one-piece multipurpose combination construction unit.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a medical device and procedure for accurately positioning a catheter across a desired region within a patient's vasculature. In particular, the present invention provides a hub assembly unit that allows a physician to precisely position a stent within a vessel utilizing a stent delivery catheter. The hub assembly unit includes a fine adjustment mechanism. The fine adjustment mechanism extends or contracts the length of the hub assembly unit in controlled incremental units. These controlled fine displacements are then translated directly to the stent delivery or balloon dilation catheter.

Abstract: Microneedle devices and methods of use thereof are provided for the enhanced transport of molecules, including drugs and biological molecules, across tissue by improving the interaction of microneedles and a deformable, elastic biological barrier, such as human skin. The devices and methods act to (1) limit the elasticity, (2) adapt to the elasticity, (3) utilize alternate ways of creating the holes for the microneedles to penetrate the biological barrier, other than the simply direct pressure of the microneedle substrate to the barrier surface, or (4) any combination of these methods. In preferred embodiments for limiting the elasticity of skin, the microneedle device includes features suitable for stretching, pulling, or pinching the skin to present a more rigid, less deformable, surface in the area to which the microneedles are applied (i.e. penetrate).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tampon having an absorbent structure and a multilayered cover substantially enclosing the absorbent structure. The cover has an outer layer capable of retaining liquid and an inner layer disposed between the outer layer and the absorbent structure. The inner layer creates a controlled interruption of fluid flow between the outer layer and the absorbent structure. This interruption allows the outer layer retains sufficient liquid to minimize vaginal wall drying prior to saturation of the absorbent structure.

Abstract: A disposable diaper includes tape fasteners extending outward from transversely opposite side edges of the diaper and provided on their inner surfaces with hook members. The hook members have their inner surfaces partially coated with adhesive layers by which the hook members are peelably bonded to release zones defined in the proximity of the transversely opposite side edges of the diaper.

Abstract: The withdrawal spike comprises a piercing thorn (10) and a housing (12) having filter chambers for air and fluid. In a connecting piece (23) for connection of an external device a self-closing valve (31) is arranged. Said valve (31) is adapted to prevent fluid from unintentionally flowing out of the withdrawal spike.

Abstract: Application of electrical pulses and mechanical vibrations to the skin is provided in a controlled manner, in order to increase the absorption of substances applied previously on the skin. A dermabrasion treatment is first performed on a region of the skin to be later given a skin absorption enhancement treatment. After the dermabrasion treatment, electrical pulses are provided to the skin by way of an array of electrodes disposed on a vibrating head, and the mechanical vibrations are provided to the skin by way of the vibrating head being made to vibrate. Preferably, the electrical and mechanical vibrations are at the same frequency and phase with respect to each other, in order to increase the absorption effect. Also, a suction may be applied to the skin, in order to provide for a substantially uniform absorption of the substance that was applied previously on the skin.

Abstract: A syringe assembly comprises a syringe barrel having an elongated body defining a chamber for retaining fluid, an open proximal end, a distal end and a frusto-conically shaped tip extending from the distal end and having a passageway therethrough in fluid communication with the chamber. The chamber has an inside diameter of at least 13.5 mm. A stopper is in fluid-tight engagement inside the barrel. An elongated plunger rod extends proximally from the stopper through the open proximal end of the barrel. A flange is positioned at the proximal end of the plunger rod. The flange is shaped and positioned to limit the distal motion of the plunger rod in the barrel by contacting the proximal end of the barrel. A tip cap is releasably connected to the tip for sealing the passageway and the chamber contains injectable liquid.

Abstract: Catheter apparatus for performing diagnostic and therapeutic modalities in the biliary tree includes a catheter with multiple lumens. A first lumen is adapted to receive a guidewire and can serve as a transport lumen for contrast agent. A second lumen carries a cutting wire for performing a sphincterotomy. A third lumen can be used as an inflation lumen for a distally located balloon. Expansion of the balloon occludes a portion of the biliary tree and allows the catheter to sweep any gallstones through the sphincter of Oddi into the duodenum.

Abstract: A method of performing dialysis with a catheter system which includes (i) a working catheter having a distal working orifice, and (ii) a guide catheter having a guide lumen and a distal guide orifice is disclosed. The method includes the step of locking the working catheter in an operative position in which (i) the working catheter extends through the guide lumen of the guide catheter and out of the distal guide orifice of the guide catheter, and (ii) the distal working orifice of the working catheter is positioned outside of the guide catheter. The method further includes the step of performing a dialysis procedure including advancing and withdrawing blood through the working catheter while the working catheter is locked in the operative position.

Abstract: A delivery apparatus for self-expanding stents may be utilized to safely deliver stents to a target site. The apparatus has an outer sheath forming an elongated tubular member having distal and proximal ends and an inside and outside diameter. The apparatus also includes an inner shaft located coaxially within the outer sheath. The inner shaft has a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. At least a portion of the inner shaft is made from a flexible coiled member. The shaft preferably includes a stop attached thereto, the stop being proximal to the distal end of the sheath. Lastly, the apparatus includes a self-expanding stent located within the outer sheath, wherein the stent makes frictional contact with the outer sheath and the shaft is disposed coaxially within a lumen of the stent. During deployment of the stent, the stent makes contact with the stop.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use by a surgeon for grasping a tissue of a surgical patient without causing a crush injury of the tissue is disclosed. The instrument includes an elongate shaft having two ends with a handle at a first end of the shaft, and a grasping tip at a second end of the shaft. The grasping tip includes a body housing at least one suction element, wherein the at least one suction element mechanically produces suction locally (distally) within the grasping tip.

Abstract: A system for and method of performing laser assisted surgery is disclosed. Laser radiation is preferably delivered to a target area of tissue using a Er:YAG laser source. The laser radiation is delivered to the target area in bursts of laser radiation comprising sets of laser pulses. The bursts of laser radiation are preferably delivered to the target area at a repetition rate in a range of 10 to 40 Hz and with sufficient pulse fluences to cut and/or dissect. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, interchangeable and flexible endo-probes are configured with shield features. The shield features control the emission of laser radiation from the optical fiber while bending the flexible probes allow surgeons to access a range of approach angles for the laser treatment of biological tissue enclosed or within a cavity of a body. The probes can also be configured with mechanical cutters or other structures which allow for the mechanical manipulation of tissue during laser treatment.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of treating mammalian, for example, human, skin afflicted with a sebaceous follicle disorder, for example, acne. The method involves cooling an exposed surface of a region afflicted with the disorder and applying energy, for example, energy from a coherent or incoherent light source, to the region. The applied energy reduces the size and/or density of lesions associated with the disorder in the treated region, and can reduce or otherwise alleviate lesion-associated skin inflammation in the treated region. Cooling preserves the surface, for example, epidermis, of the skin. The method, therefore, is effective at treating the disorder while at the same time avoiding or minimizing thermal damage to the exposed surface of the skin.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing medical electrodes, in particular, neutral electrodes. According to the inventive method, a web-shaped laminate, consisting of a non-conductive intermediate support (C) and a conductive layer (A) is coated on the side of said conductive layer with an electrically conductive, adhesive gel (E). The laminate-gel combination is formed to a specific contour, preferably punched out, before being fixed to a carrier (H) by the side opposite to the gel (E). The conductive layer is applied to the web-shaped intermediate support (C) during the production of the laminate, preferably having been previously punched out, as panels which do not cover the entire web-shaped intermediate support (C).

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products measure electrical activity of the cardiac tissue proximate the lesion site during an ablation treatment, and then compare the measurements to determine whether the lesion is clinically efficacious so as to be able to block myocardial propagation. The methods can include obtaining the measurements and performing the ablation therapy while the subject is experiencing atrial fibrillation and may measure the standard deviation of the electrogram signal.

Abstract: A device for enlarging a urethral passage includes an elongate member having a distal portion configured for intraurethral placement in the urethral passage, and an electrode at the distal portion. The electrode is configured to be energized with high frequency energy to necrose tissue of the urethral wall and surrounding prostate tissue to form a cavity in the urethral passage. The electrode has an adjustable working length. The electrode has a diameter greater than about 16 French to substantially occlude the urethra. The device includes multiple electrodes spaced apart a distance of about 1 to 5 mm to provide flexibility in the distal portion of the elongate member. A method of treating a urethral passage includes measuring a length of a patient's prostate, and selecting a length of an electrode based on the measured length of the prostate.

Abstract: This is a combination method and system for intravascularly accessing and visualizing a body structure. A system is disclosed comprising a sheath, a balloon catheter, and a catheter deflection mechanism. A micro-deflection mechanism, which may be placed into the lumen of devices such as cardiac leads or electrophysiology catheters, is also provided for accurate guidance and placement of such devices to their target location. In one embodiment, a procedure for a lead or catheter placement is described in which a combination deflection mechanism, balloon catheter, and sheath assembly access the coronary sinus ostium via a superior approach. A distal balloon on the catheter is inflated and an occlusive venogram is obtained under fluoroscopic guidance to visualize the coronary veins. The sheath is advanced into the coronary sinus ostium and the balloon is deflated. The catheter and deflection mechanism are then removed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods that enhance the accuracy of lesion excision, through severing, capturing and removal of a lesion within soft tissue. Furthermore, the present invention relates to devices and methods for the excision of breast tissue based on the internal anatomy of the breast gland. A tissue severing device generally comprises a guide having at least one lumen and a cutting tool contained within the lumen. The cutting tool is capable of extending from the lumen and forming an adjustable cutting loop. The cutting loop may be widened or narrowed and the angle between the loop extension axis and the guide axis may be varied. Optional tissue marker and tissue collector may additionally be provided. A method for excising a mass of tissue from a patient is also provided. The device and method are particularly useful for excising a lesion from a human breast, e.g.

Abstract: A bipolar electrosurgical instrument has opposable seal surfaces on its jaws for grasping and sealing vessels and vascular tissue. Inner and outer instrument members allow arcuate motion of the seal surfaces. An open lockbox provides a pivot with lateral support to maintain alignment of the lateral surfaces. Ratchets on the instrument members hold a constant closure force on the tissue during the seal process. A shank portion on each member is tuned to provide an appropriate spring force to hold the seal surfaces together. During surgery, the instrument can be used to grasp and clamp vascular tissue and apply bipolar electrosurgical current through the clamped tissue. In one embodiment, the seal surfaces are partially insulated to prevent a short circuit when the instrument jaws are closed together. In another embodiment, the seal surfaces are removably mounted on the jaws.

Abstract: In a bipolar grasping instrument with two clamping jaws movable relative to each other, electrically isolated from one another and each connectable to a pole of an electric high-frequency voltage source, each of the clamping jaws comprising two clamping elements arranged in spaced relation to one another, forming between them a longitudinal slot and each having a clamping surface, and with a cutting device comprising a cutting element displaceable in the longitudinal slots of the clamping jaws and having a cutting edge, in order to improve the design of the drive mechanism and the operability, it is proposed that the cutting element be arranged in the longitudinal slot of the one clamping jaw such that its cutting edge is contained in the longitudinal slot between the clamping elements of this clamping jaw and does not extend beyond its clamping surfaces in the direction towards the other clamping jaw, and that the clamping elements of this clamping jaw be elastically movable relative to the cutting element o

Abstract: Temporary spinal fixation apparatuses and methods are disclosed for temporarily fixing the relative position of spinal implant assemblies until a permanent fixation position is determined. The disclosed apparatuses and methods enhance the ease of placement of spinal implant assemblies and facilitates the accuracy of positioning of the spinal vertebrae. The invention can reduce the number of steps needed to perform spinal surgery and can decrease the likelihood of post-operative complications.

Abstract: A device for attaching a tissue replacement scaffold to a bone has a platform positionable in substantially parallel relationship to the bone for retaining the tissue scaffold proximate to the bone. A post extends from the platform and is insertable into a hole formed in the bone. One or more ribs extend from a side surface of the post along a portion of its length. The ribs have an increasing cross-sectional area to establish an increasing interference fit relative to the hole in the bone tissue. The ribs have a sharp edge that grips the sides of the hole in the bone such that the ribs restrict rotation or withdrawal of the device.

Abstract: A medical screw includes a shaft having a threaded portion and a distal guiding tip for introducing the screw into a pre-drilled implantation site. The threaded portion of the medical screw has a first series of helical threads having a first diameter and a second series of helical threads interleaved with the first series of helical thread and having a second diameter, where the first diameter is different than the second diameter. In addition, the medical screw may have a counter-rotation channel configured to receive bone growth.

Abstract: Methods and instrumentation particularly adapted for disc space preparation for insertion of implants from an anterior approach to the spine are provided. The instruments include a guide sleeve defining a channel having overlapping cylindrical working channel portions and lateral non-distracting extensions extending from reduced thickness wall portions. The guide sleeve has an overall reduced width configuration. A pair of distractors are provided. A first distractor includes a shaft and distal tip, and the second distractor includes a shaft and distal tip. The first and second distractors can be used with the guide sleeve. Methods using the disclosed instruments are also provided.

Abstract: A modular implantation instrument for reliably positioning an acetabular prosthetic socket in the acetabulum of a pelvic bone during a total hip joint replacement surgery. The modular instrument has an interchangeable hemispherical ball member to properly engage into an acetabular prosthetic socket. A drive mechanism includes an alignment shaft member, operatively connected through an orientation pillar member to a levelling apparatus and to a laser pen apparatus. The modular instrument includes the hemipherical ball member is threadingly connected into the proximal end of said alignment shaft, the distal end of alignment shaft includes a handle and a knob. The lower end of said orientation pillar member is permanently attached to the shank of the alignment shaft member at angle of 135 degrees to the horizontal axis of said alignment shaft.

Abstract: An embolic coil deployment system for placing a coil at a preselected site within a vessel of the human body. The deployment system includes a heating element at the distal end of a delivery member and a heat responsive coupling for holding the coil during positioning of the coil and activation means for releasing the coil at a desired position within the vessel.

Abstract: An endoscopic stone extraction device includes a handle that supports a sheath, and a filament such as a wire slidably disposed in the sheath. One end of the wire is mounted to the handle for rotation with respect to the handle and the other end of the handle supports a stone extraction basket. A manipulator is provided on the wire to allow a user to rotate the filament and therefore the basket with respect to the handle. The basket can have a side-facing opening or a rear-facing opening. In either case, a stone retention region is provided with relatively small openings sized to retain stones smaller than two millimeters in diameter. A collapsible rake is disclosed which facilitates the collection and extraction of stone fragments.

Abstract: A hair removal device providing the application of novel type of depilation hair-plucking assembly, comprising two helicoids with arranged helicoidal spaces as to define hair trap gaps conformed as continuous tweezers, the helicoids mounted in interleaved fashion and opposition so as to be parallel to one another and perpendicular to a central rototable shaft. One of said helicoids only rotates and the second one rotates together and reciprocates in opposition to the first helicoid. A converter device transforms rotation in a straight reciprocating motion applied to one of the helicoids that simultaneously opens a helicoidal gap and in cooperation with the second adjacent closes the other helicoidal gap and combined rotation extirpates superfluous hair.

Abstract: An improved device for performing medical procedures, preferably minimally invasive medical procedures, includes a shaft with a proximal and distal end and a bendable tip extending from the distal end of the shaft. In some preferred embodiments, a fastener applicator extends from the bendable tip. In other preferred embodiments, a malleable section is located between the bendable tip and the shaft. The bendable tip can include a plurality of articulating segments. The improved directional device can be used to repair native valves in a patient, especially heart valves.

Abstract: A flexible clip applier includes a flat wire wound tubular coil, a pair of jaws at the end of the coil, end effector wires extending through the coil and coupled to the jaws, and a clip-advancing wire extending through the coil. A clip chamber is defined in the distal end of the coil. The clip-advancing wire includes a clip pusher which advances a clip into the jaws when the clip-advancing wire is moved distally. The jaws include channels in which a distalmost clip rides when the jaws are closed and the pusher is advanced, thereby causing the distalmost clip to be pushed over the tissue, and a distal anvil which operate to bend a portion of the clip to facilitate its retention on the clamped tissue. Rotation of the clip-advancing wire effects rotation of the jaws are rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the device.

Abstract: A laparoscopic fascial closure device for fashioning a secure closure about a laparoscopic puncture site. The device comprises an elongate cannula having proximal and distal ends. A needle suture complex is selectively deployed from the distal end of the device that is operative to deploy a suture across the puncture site from within the body and draw the free ends of the suture outwardly from the body via the laparoscopic port site. The device is configured to be utilized through a ten millimeter or larger laparoscopic port, and is operative to position the suture at the puncture site such that the suture extends in a diametrically-opposed configuration at least 1.0 cm or greater across opposed sides of the puncture site.

Abstract: A dual-use suturing device for suturing a wound induced from a celioscope surgery is formed by a needle positioning seat, an auxiliary positioning device, and an upper cover buckled to the needle positioning seat. The positioning pieces at the top of the auxiliary positioning device are buckled to the embedding groove at a lower end of the needle positioning seat. The guide holes of the needle positioning seat have a tapered inner surface. Hollowed portions of the guide trenches provide clamping spaces at two sides of the auxiliary positioning device. Then two clean auxiliary positioning devices are used to clamp the wire needle and hooked needle so that the hand of the doctor can pinch the needles. The non-hollowed portions at the upper side of the guide trenches of the auxiliary positioning device are exactly formed as resisting portions for resisting against the needles.

Abstract: A support device for endoscopic suturless anastomosis between tubular organs include at least a first tubular member provided with a longitudinal slit which permits introduction of the organs to be anastomosed in the device and additional second tubular members in physical continuity with the first tubular member through an opening on the first tubular member. The size of the opening is substantially equal to the luminal area of the second member. The inner and outer diameters of any radial cross section of the second members are constant along its length. The device allows apposition of the two tubular organs to be anastomosed in a variety of spatial patterns and their fixation to each other without sutures or clips, either manually or via remote control, and the creation of luminal continuity between them.