Abstract: Noninvasive in vivo real time analyte measurement uses a multitude of sensors binding reversibly to the analyte whereby the response of the sensors to a noninvasive stimulus is altered by their bound versus unbound state. The stimulus and responses are electromagnetic, magnetic or any other suitable forms. The sensors are bound to a blood component providing transport through the body fluids and sensor elimination. A sensor is constructed from proteins or as a nanodevice. A noninvasive device generates the stimulus, senses the responses, determines the measurement, and controls a medication infusion pump. A non-contact device is used for population screening, and one form of such a device is a nuclear magnetic resonance imager. Measurement in fluids other than blood uses a blood component flowing out of blood and into the desired fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus, method, system, component kit and protective sheath for cannulation of blood vessels are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a sensor assembly to provide ultrasound images of at least one blood vessel in a portion of a patient's body in two perpendicular planes. The sensor assembly may have graphic markings on an exterior surface thereof to facilitate orientation of the sensor assembly on the patient and guidance of a needle towards a desired target vessel during the cannulation procedure. The sensor assembly may also include associated structure to cooperate with a reference location element to place, align and secure the sensor assembly to the patient's skin at a desired location.

Abstract: A method of vascular testing includes inflating a cuff at a vascular location, controllably deflating the cuff, producing a pressure waveform while deflating the cuff, and producing an output representing a pressure at which blood flow returns, while deflating the cuff, based upon analysis of the pressure waveform. Further, a testing system for measuring vascular pressures according to the present invention includes a pressure applicator, a pressure sensor, and a diagnostic test unit. The pressure applicator is positionable along exterior portions of a human body for dynamically applying pressure to a desired vascular location. The pressure sensor is capable of detecting oscillations in a pressure at the pressure applicator.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and a device for determining the blood pressure, in which a pressure sensor is applied to an individual's limb to detect the blood pressure prevailing in said limb. According to the present invention, the orientation of the limb is detected by means of an orientation sensing unit, and the detected blood pressure is corrected in an evaluating unit in response to the limb's detected orientation.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of medical equipment and is designed for the temperature diagnostics of bioobject pathologies. The method comprises dynamical measuring a body temperature in a series of points. Based on the difference temperature field on the surface of a body, zones are determined inside the bioobject that are identified with pathology loci. A temperature is each point is estimated with taking into account a type of skin of the bioobject, a type of a temperature sensor and the form of the sensor temperature change curve in process of measurement. The device comprises temperature measurement units, temperature sensors being connected to said temperature measurement units, a RAM unit, a program realization unit, a comparator unit, a programming unit, and a visualization unit. The invention allows to increase speed and reliability of exposing pathology loci.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for detecting diseased tissue based upon infrared imaging in two different bands of infrared wavelengths is described. The use of two series of infrared images taken in two different bands of infrared wavelengths increases sensitivity to the subtle temperature changes caused by diseased skin and tissue, especially in the case of cancerous tissue. By sensing skin temperature, the homogeneity thereof, the time variations thereof and the correlation between the two series of infrared images, the present invention decreases the rate of false positives and false negatives. The increased discrimination due to two series of infrared images allows for reliable detection of diseased or cancerous tissue even in the presence of skin tone variations such as birthmarks, tattoos and freckles. The present invention finds special application in the field of breast cancer detection where subtle skin temperature variations may readily be sensed using two series of infrared images.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for measurement of a woman's body. Embodiments include an apparatus having a body parameter input unit, a menstruation date input unit, and a physical condition phase estimation unit for estimating the phase of physical condition of the person under test for a measurement day based on formulas for estimation of phase of body condition. After determining a change in an input body parameter, a display unit displays advice for the person under test for the measurement day, based on the change in body parameter and the phase of physical condition of the person for the measurement day estimated by the physical condition phase estimation unit.

Abstract: An intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring system includes an adaptive threshold detection circuit adapted for use in monitoring with a plurality of electrodes placed in muscles which are enervated by a selected nerve and muscles not enervated by the nerve. Nerve monitoring controller algorithms permit the rapid and reliable discrimination between non-repetitive electromyographic (EMG) events repetitive EMG events, thus allowing the surgeon to evaluate whether nerve fatigue is rendering the monitoring results less reliable and whether anesthesia is wearing off. The intraoperative monitoring system is designed as a “surgeon's monitor,” and does not require a neurophysiologist or technician to be in attendance during surgery. The advanced features of the intraoperative monitoring system will greatly assist neurophysiological research toward the general advancement of the field intraoperative EMG monitoring through post-surgical analysis.

Abstract: A catheter system is disclosed including an elongated catheter, an elongated balloon carrier and a disposable balloon formed from an expandable and resilent biocompatible material. The balloon has a lumen disposed between a proximal end and a distal end thereof. The proximal end of the carrier and the distal end of the catheter are configured to permit the distal end of the catheter to matingly engage the proximal end of the carrier. The outer diameter of the balloon carrier and the outer diameter of the balloon are configured such that the diameter of the carrier and the diameter of the balloon permit the balloon first to be slideably mounted onto the balloon carrier and second to be slideably moved from the carrier onto the catheter when the proximal end of the carrier is matingly or otherwise suitably engaged with the distal end of the catheter.

Abstract: A system for collecting urine specimens from pet or animal comprising an elongated tray section having at one end a collection chamber for collecting a predetermined volume of urine in fluid communication with an open section of said tray to receive a stream of urine from the pet or animal, a discharge port at the opposite end of said tray and a specimen vial removably mounted to the discharge end of said tray whereby when an animal is urinating, the device is positioned under the stream with the collection chamber end downwardly inclined so that a sufficient quantity flows into the collection chamber to predetermined level and then tilting the device in a reverse direction so the collected sample flows into the specimen vial and is sealed.

Abstract: A lancet integrated test element (LIT) includes an incision forming member that has a cutting end configured to form an incision in tissue. A test element is attached to the incision forming member to test fluid from the incision. The test element has a sampling end with a sample opening through which the fluid is collected. The test element is bendable from a first state where the cutting end of the incision forming member is retracted from the sampling end of the test element to a second state where at least a portion of the cutting extends past the sampling end of the test element to form the incision in the tissue.

Abstract: A guide wire, and a method for the manufacture thereof, having a core and a plastic jacket enclosing the core. The plastic jacket comprises a proximal portion formed of a first plastic material and a distal jacket portion formed of a second plastic material. The distal end of the proximal jacket portion and the proximal end of the distal jacket portion substantially abut each other and are of substantially equal outer diameters so as to form a smooth transition between the proximal and the distal jacket portions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing concurrent applications of intermittent pneumatic compression therapy and vacuum assisted closure therapy generally comprises a wound dressing for introduction of a negative pressure into a wound on a patient's foot and a foot wrap for application of positive, compressive forces to substantially all of the patients foot. A suction pump, having an associated vacuum sensor and first feedback mechanism, supplies negative pressure to the wound dressing. A ventable source of pressurized gas, having an associated pressure transducer and second feedback mechanism, supplies positive force to the foot wrap. At least one control system is operably associated with the suction pump and ventable source of pressurized gas for controlling the negative and positive applications of pressure to the patient's foot. Controlled modes for operation include continuous or intermittent application of one or both therapies and simultaneous or cycled application of the therapies.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cardiopulmonary resuscitation apparatus comprising: a device having a piston for compressing the sternum; and a device for thoracic constriction having a chest band for fastening and constricting the chest when the piston compresses a patient's chest, characterized in that the length of the chest band can be adjusted according to the size of the patient's chest. The apparatus further includes a protection pad to be attached to the chest when the chest band is tightened, thereby easily adjusting the length of the chest band according to the size of the patient's chest and protecting the patient's chest when it is compressed.

Abstract: A multi-layer vibrating massager having a visual communication means for viewing an indicia disposed therein that does not interfere with the massaging function of the massager during operation is disclosed. The vibrating massager comprises a vibratory component encased by an transparent outer casing engaged to an end cap that permits the user to view the indicia through the outer casing. The indicia may be affixed to the vibratory component, disposed between the vibratory component and the outer casing, or affixed to the interior surface of the outer casing. In the preferred embodiment, the transparent outer casing is removable to enable the user to easily access and modify the indicia.

Abstract: A method of pressing on pressure points and/or muscles in a back or other part of a user using a round ball is improved by pressing on the pressure points and/or muscles using a gel ball having a diameter of between about 45 and 70 millimeters. The density of the gel ball ranges between about 0.75 and 1.2 gm/cm3, and the ball being made of a polyether polyol gel material.

Abstract: A device for inserting implantable objects beneath the skin of a patient includes a handle for grasping the device and a base connected to the handle. The base comprises a post, a cannula, and a flexible actuator positioned in an angled track. The cannula is positioned coaxially around and is longitudinally slidable over the post from an extended position, where an implantable object is retained in the cannula, to a retracted position, where the implantable object is released from the cannula. A flexible actuator positioned on an angled track in the base is slidably engaged with a boss on the cannula and is used to move the cannula from an extended position to a retracted position to release the implantable object from the cannula; the actuator flexes between a locked and an unlocked position. The angled track provides for control of the release of the implantable object.

Abstract: This invention relates to therapeutic infusion assemblies, more specifically a device for the subcutaneous delivery of a fluid from a remote source. Applicant provides a base assembly which has a fluid channel therein and a cannula extending vertically downward from a flat bottom. A fluid connector member which receives a fluid bearing line from the remote fluid source and the fluid connector member pivotably and removably connects to the base member. The manner of connection is “hinged” allowing the fluid connector to move from a non-use position by rotation downward to a used position. In the use position a fluid channel in the fluid connector will connect with a fluid channel in the base to provide fluid to the cannula and to the patient.

Abstract: The needle guard employs a spring clip that has a pair of apertured locks through which the needle passes. The aperture in the foremost lock is defined by cutouts that deflect inwardly upon withdrawal of the needle in order to block a return passage of the needle. The end of the needle is enlarged to abut against the rearmost lock and to further prevent a return passage through the foremost lock. The enlarged end of the needle is trapped between the two locks after being drawn into the needle guard.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for dispensing a unit dose of a pharmaceutical substance, in particular one for intranasal administration, is disclosed. The unit dose is contained in a cylinder which is moved relative to a piston to expel the contents thereof through a passage in the piston and out of a nozzle opening. The dispensing apparatus includes a case with a base part and a cover.

Abstract: A disposable cassette for mixing an intravenous drug in a vial to a patient includes a liquid inlet for connection to a liquid supply, a first vial spike, a second vial spike and a chamber. The chamber, the first and second vial spikes, and the liquid inlet are in fluid communication with each other. A valve mechanism may be actuated to control flow between the chamber, the vial receptacles and the liquid inlet.

Abstract: The invention relates to a protective device for an injection needle or infusion needle, comprising a needle holder at the proximal end of the needle, on whose shaft a protective element for the needle tip can be moved, said protective element being prevented, by an engagement device between the needle and the protective element, from being moved past the needle tip, and a grip part being provided between the protective element and the needle holder for the purpose of moving or securing the protective element.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a cap suitable for injection devices having an exchangeable needle assembly, which serves as a mounting/demounting tool of the said needle assembly.

Abstract: A device for displaying a dosage setting on an injection device includes a reading area in a casing of the injection device and a scale band arranged in the interior of the casing. The scale band is at least partially guided past the reading area by a guiding device, and can be set in accordance with a dosage setting of the injection device, and the dosage setting can be read from the reading area. A transport device, coupled to a dosage setting device of the injection device, is provided for transporting said scale band past the reading area.

Abstract: A sealing rubber closure is provided for use with a syringe/container specified by ISO (the International Organization of Standardization) and having a Luer nozzle to be inserted into a Luer-nozzle-receiving part of the sealing rubber closure. The Luer-nozzle-receiving part is configured, on a side of an inner end portion thereof, in an untapered cylindrical form to assure tight-fitted insertion of a free end portion of the Luer nozzle and, on a side of a Luer-nozzle-receiving opening thereof, in a tapered, substantially cylindrical form to assure tight-fitted insertion of a basal end portion of the Luer nozzle. A plastic film is laminated on the sealing rubber closure at least in an area of the Luer-nozzle-receiving part, where a free end of the Luer nozzle is to be maintained in contact with the sealing rubber closure.

Abstract: A puncture device with a flexible catheter tube for connecting to a medical infusion line, wherein the device includes a catheter connecting piece or hub attachable at the puncture site on the skin surface of a patient, wherein the catheter hub has a connector for connecting the infusion line and an outlet for the flexible catheter tube; and a needle holder having a puncture needle (stylet), wherein the flexible catheter tube is arranged in the interior of the catheter hub and extends out of the outlet with an output end. The end of the flexible catheter tube opposing the output end is located in the interior of the catheter hub in the area of the connector and is separated from the surrounding area by a septum, wherein the needle holder securely fastens the puncture needle insertable into a passage channel of the catheter tube at the end opposing the pointed or sharp puncture tip.

Abstract: A drainage chamber for collecting body fluids, in particular liquor, includes a collecting area limited by an outer wall for collecting the body fluid, an inlet connection linked to the collecting area for linking to a drainage catheter (an intraventricular catheter), an outlet connection and a ventilation connection linked to the environment. The drainage chamber has a spring-loaded first closing element, biased in the direction of a first closing position, which in its closing position closes both the inlet connection and the ventilation connection and which is displaceable against the spring tension by means of an actuating mechanism into an open position, in which it releases the inlet connection and the ventilation connection.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance is provided with inner and outer pouches separably joined together by peelable seams. A vent passage and deodorizing filter are also provided, most advantageously located externally of the pouches, and a pre-filter is preferably positioned in advance of the deodorizing filter.

Abstract: A tampon for feminine hygiene that has an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a longitudinal axis, and an outer surface. The tampon is made of compressed fibrous material. The outer surface of the tampon includes a plurality of raised portions. Each of the raised portions includes a first width dimension x and a second width dimension y. The first width dimension x is greater than the second width dimension y.

Abstract: An intravaginal device having an overwrap containing an enclosed material, and a withdrawal string passing through a portion of the overwrap formed into a loop, the withdrawal string enabling a user to remove the intravaginal device after use.

Abstract: An intravascular device having an elongate shaft and a proximal hub assembly. The proximal hub assembly includes an interference fit member (IFM) which forms an interference fit with a carrier tube to reduce the tendency of the device to fall out of the carrier tube during handling and to provide for easy removal of the device when ready for use.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device for delivering a substance to a patient by way of infusion delivers the preparation at a rate of flow which varies in steps from a substantially constant higher rate, to a stepped-down substantially constant lower rate or rates. The delivery device includes one or more reservoirs, and one or more Belleville springs for applying generally constant pressures to the substance contained in the reservoirs. Each reservoir will have a different constant pressure applied in a mid-range of operation. The reservoirs can be interconnected to each other and to an infusion device in a number of arrangements, including various manifolds and flow restrictors, such that the rate of flow is controlled in steps in accordance with the pressures applied by the springs of the plurality of reservoirs.

Abstract: A laser depilating method for depilating treatment by irradiating a skin surface with a laser beam emitted from a semiconductor laser. A treatment region of the skin surface is treated with a semiconductor laser beam for an irradiation time of 100 msec or more per irradiation while controlling the laser beam so that the energy density when irradiating the skin surface may be in a range of 0.01–1 J/mm2. Irradiation of the skin surface with a semiconductor laser beam under such a condition provides a more secure and efficient treatment effect of laser depilation. A plurality of semiconductor laser beams are used as necessary to irradiate a wider area of skin surface at a time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating an atherosclerotic target region of a coronary vessel in a patient are disclosed. The method includes delivering to the patient, a photoatherolytic compound, to cause accumulation of the compound in the target region, accessing the target region intraluminally with a guidewire, and advancing over the guidewire, a catheter having (i) a proximal main-body sleeve, (ii) a flexible, non-inflatable, translucent distal-end sleeve joined to the main-body sleeve at a catheter juncture, and (iii) an inner lumen extending through the two sleeves, said advancing being effective to position the catheter's distal-end sleeve within the target region. The guidewire is then removed and replaced by a fiber-optic bundle having a light-diffusing tip, until said tip is positioned adjacent the catheter juncture.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes a generator (10) for generating radio frequency power, an electrosurgical instrument (12) including at least two electrodes, and an identification element (80) representative of at least the number of electrodes present on the instrument. The generator (10) comprises an RF output stage having three or more output connections (62A, 62B, 62C), and a power supply (66) coupled to the output stage for supplying power to the output stage. The generator (10) also includes a controller (72) capable of varying the RF signal supplied to at least one of the three or more output connections (62A, 62B, 62C), and a switching circuit (62) for varying the connections between the power supply (66) and the three or more output connections.

Abstract: A connector comprising at least one pair of apertures for receiving a fastener, such as a screw, a load bearing filament extending continuously along a predefined circuitous path which extends between and around each of the apertures of said pair of apertures. The load bearing filament extends around each aperture to define multiple aperture forming strands of said load bearing filaments. The multiple aperture forming strands of the load bearing filament are bound together around each aperture by binding filaments in order to constrain relative lateral movement between the aperture forming multiple strands and to define the shape of each aperture.

Abstract: A spinal fixation apparatus is configured with a pair of endpieces and an intermediate compressible portion. The compressible portion may comprise a pair of mating sliders comprising toothed arms attached to the endpieces. A gear engages the toothed arms. When the gear is rotated, the sliders bring the endpieces together, compressing the apparatus.

Abstract: A closure member, such as a set screw, and complementary receiving member are included in a medical implant device. The receiving member has a plurality of noncontiguous, threaded walls substantially defining a bore for receiving the threaded closure member. When the closure member is inserted into the receiving member, their respective threads interlock to join the noncontiguous walls of the receiving member. The closure member has an outer thread configured to interlock with the inner walls of the receiving member in a manner that aids in preventing the noncontiguous walls of the receiving member from moving away from the closure member. In certain embodiments, the closure member's outer thread includes a trailing edge having a point that is rearward of the trailing edge's root, and the outer thread includes a leading edge having a point that is forward of the leading edge's root.

Abstract: Provided herein is a port apparatus and method for inserting a tube device, in particular peritoneal dialysis catheters, into an organism. Access to the peritoneal cavity for dialysis is established by creating a controlled cutaneoperitoneal fistula with a catheter device that bridges the abdominal wall. The apparatus is designed to minimize the occurrence of mechanical complications associated with traditional catheter implantation techniques, such as catheter obstruction from the omentum, catheter displacement to a position of poor drainage function, leaks and hernias. The device is capable of performing its functions in a simple, safe, accurate, reproducible, and expeditious fashion.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to embodiments of devices for capturing obstructions within passageways. The devices disclosed herein may include a flexible tubular body forming multiple flexible members arranged in a helical pattern. These flexible members may be expandable to form one or more cages when the tubular body is expanded to an increased diameter state. The cages may be generally centered around the longitudinal axis of the tubular body between the two ends of the body. Also disclosed herein are methods for capturing obstructions within passageways, methods for obtaining tissue samples from body passages, and methods for making devices for capturing obstructions within passageways.

Abstract: A remote control flexible instrument system, employing a shaft which supports a tool, is described in which the has proximal and distal ends with at least a portion thereof extending through a lumen of the human body so as to locate the shaft at an internal target site. A master station including an input device provides control of the instrument situated at a slave station. The master station can control at least one degree-of-freedom of the flexible instrument. A controller intercouples the master and slave stations and is operated in accordance with a computer algorithm that receives a command from the input device for controlling at least one degree-of-freedom of the catheter so as to respond in accordance with action at the input device. The flexible instrument further comprises a controlled flexible segment along the shaft, for controlled bending at the flexible segment to guide the shaft and to dispose the tool at an operative site.

Abstract: A supporting structure for a ligating band dispensing device adapted to be coupled to a distal end of an endoscope comprises a rigid substantially cylindrical, transparent outer support surface adapted to receive a plurality of ligating bands thereon, wherein the support surface includes a distal portion extending from a distal end thereof proximally to a distal-most ligating band receiving area. A channel extends axially through the support surface from the distal end to a proximal end thereof, wherein an abutting surface is formed along at least a portion of a circumference of the channel to define a distal-most point of penetration of an endoscope received therein. A gripping surface extending around at least a portion of a circumference of the proximal end of the channel is sized so that, when an endoscope extends into the proximal end of the channel, the gripping surface frictionally couples the support surface to the endoscope.

Abstract: A graft fixation device combination. The device is useful for affixing a tissue graft to a bone or other body surface. The fixation device has two implantation members connected by a graft retention member. The retention member optionally has at least one lateral wing member extending therefrom. The implantation members have longitudinal passageways therethrough. The graft fixation device also has an insertion member extending from the distal end of each implantation member, the insertion member having a longitudinal passage having a distal blind wall. The passages of the implantation members and the insertion members are in communication with each other, and may be mounted onto insertion members.

Abstract: Methods and devices for maintaining a space-occupying device in a fixed relationship relative to a patient's stomach by manipulation of the stomach. In one variation, two or more regions of the stomach wall are brought into approximation with one another and secured together in a manner that secures a space-occupying device within the stomach of the patient. In another variation, two or more regions of the stomach wall are wrapped around a space-occupying device to maintain the position of the space-occupying device relative to the stomach wall. In another variation, a system having a space-occupying member and a locking member capable holding the space-occupying member against the inner wall of the stomach are provided. In a further variation, a pouch is created within the stomach that receives and retains a space-occupying device.

Abstract: Devices and methods for delivering conduits into the wall of a patient's heart to communicate a coronary vessel with a heart chamber. The devices are passed through the coronary vessel and the heart wall to place the conduit and establish a blood flow path between the vessel and the heart chamber. Additional devices and methods are provided for removing tissue from a coronary vessel or the heart wall to establish a flow path between the coronary vessel in communication with the heart chamber.

Abstract: A method of performing skin lesion excision using balloon dissectors. The method's principle benefits are: (1) a reduction in the amount of time it takes the surgeon to create a surgical field with properly undermined and hemostatically controlled skin flaps, (2) a reduction in the amount of tension on the skin closure, and (3) an increase in the likelihood of optimal scar formation.

Abstract: Laparoscopic apparatus and method for insertion into a space or potential space in a body comprising an introducer device having a tubular member with a bore extending therethrough. A tunneling shaft assembly is provided and is slidably mounted in the bore of the introducer device. The tunneling shaft assembly includes a tunneling shaft having proximal and distal extremities. A tunneling member is mounted on the distal extremity of the tunneling shaft. A balloon assembly is provided which is removably secured to the tunneling shaft. The balloon assembly includes a balloon wrapped about said tunneling shaft. A sheath is provided which encloses the balloon on the tunneling shaft. The sheath has a slit extending longitudinally thereof permitting the sheath to be removed whereby the balloon can be released and inflated. A tubular member is provided which has a balloon inflation lumen thereon and is coupled to the balloon for inflating said balloon.

Abstract: A medical device, such as a vascular filter, composed of: a reinforced membrane unit composed of: a thin filter membrane; and fibers of reinforcement material embedded in the membrane to strengthen the filter and securely attach the fibers to the membrane. A method of fabricating the filter by the steps of: providing a mold that can be melted, dissolved, or deformed without damaging membrane material; covering the mold with an intermediate material that is easily separated from the membrane material; covering the intermediate material with the membrane material; placing the fibers in contact with the membrane material that covers the intermediate material; covering the fibers with additional membrane material to form the membrane with embedded fibers; removing the mold by melting, dissolving, or deforming the mold; and removing the intermediate material from the membrane.

Abstract: An anti-swallow pacifier includes: a base member having nipple member protruding forwardly from the base member, a bivalve shell having a pair of half-shell pieces hingedly secured to the base member having a restoring spring retained on the base member for resiliently automatically closing the two half-shell pieces for covering the nipple portion, an anti-swallow shield circumferentially formed on a rear portion of the base member for preventing from swallow of the pacifier by a baby as the shield may be obstructed beyond the baby's mouth without being swallowed, and a handle secured to the anti-swallow shield.

Abstract: A stent or other intraluminal medical device may be constructed utilizing a series of split-bridges interposed between a series of fixed bridges to reduce the likelihood of deformation during stent loading and stent deployment without sacrificing overall stent flexibility. The stent comprises a plurality of hoops interconnected by a plurality of fixed bridges. The stent also comprises a plurality of split-bridges, which only make contact when the stent is subjected to compressive axial loading. The stent may also comprise markers formed from housings integral with the stent and marker inserts having a higher radiopacity than the stent. This design provides for more precise placement and post-procedural visualization in a vessel, by increasing the radiopacity of the stent under X-ray fluoroscopy. The housings are formed integral to the stent and the marker inserts are made from a material close in the galvanic series to the stent material and sized to substantially minimize the effect of galvanic corrosion.