Patents Issued in November 6, 2007
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Patent number: 7291115Abstract: The function of the multispirometer and procedure to measure the ventilatory function by spirometry is to know how a person exhales or expels air with the objective to study and monitor the functioning of his/her lungs and many pathologies. By means of this method, the ventilatory function by spirometry is measured, and is capable of obtaining respiratory restriction and obstruction values of a patient. To perform the above mentioned method, an electronic spirometer provided with flow detector means, microprocessor control means to carry out calculations on the basis of measured data, and means associated to said microprocessor to store the measured results, to visualize the results and to compare the stored results, is used.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2001Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Health Solutions, S.L.Inventor: Francisco Cardona Burrul
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Patent number: 7291116Abstract: A plexor having a handle and a head attached to a front section, and having tapping elements seated on both sides on a receiving body. One tapping element terminates in a line-shaped tapping section, and the other tapping element terminates in a point-like tapping section. An orientation of the line-shaped tapping section can be rotated into different angular positions around an axis extending in the longitudinal direction of the head and can be fixed in place in the desired rotated position.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Kimetec GmbH MedizintechnikInventor: Hansjörg Kirchner
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Patent number: 7291117Abstract: These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in a body fluid sampling system for use on a tissue site that includes a voice coil based penetrating member driver. A plurality of penetrating members are included. A transport mechanism is configured to engage the cartridges. Each of the cartridges is operatively engaged with the penetrating member driver when moved into position by the transport mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Pelikan Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dirk Boecker, Don Alden, Dominique M. Freeman
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Patent number: 7291118Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for calculating postural deviation values indicative of a skeletal condition risk in a patient including the steps of obtaining position data identifying a position in space of body landmarks of an upper body of a patient while standing relaxed and in normal posture; obtaining weight data of the patient; calculating vertical and horizontal plumb line using the position data; and calculating angle deviation values of body parts of the patient being indicative of a skeletal condition risk with respect to the plumb line position value using the position data.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Biotonix Inc.Inventors: David H. McFarland, Tracey A. McCulloch, Timothy K. Woo, Sylvain Guimond
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Patent number: 7291119Abstract: A harness for attachment about a knee femur and comprised of a rigid and non-flexible frame support two resiliently mounted clamping means and sensors is described for the non-invasive measurement of knee motion and its analysis in 3-D is described. The clamping means elements are urged under pressure outwardly for application against a skin outer surface at predetermined medial and lateral sites relative to a femur. A non-resilient adjustable stabilizing element is connected to the rigid frame and disposed at a predetermined location with respect to the medial clamping element in spaced relationship therewith and adjustable for clamping contact on a skin outer surface and in alignment with the center of a medial condyle of the femur whereby to stabilize the rigid frame about a knee. An attachment rod is secured to the harness and has straps for securing the rod above the knee.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2000Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignees: Socovar, Société En Commandite, Polyvalor, Société En Commandite, Val-Chum, Limted PartnershipInventors: Jacques A. de Guise, L'Hocine Yahia, Nicolas Duval, Benoît Godbout, Annick Koller, Marwan Sati, Nicola Hagemeister, Gérald Parent, Ismail El Maach
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Patent number: 7291120Abstract: A massage device to hold a golf ball has a surrounding portion to cover the golf ball and a handgrip extended from the surrounding portion. The handgrip has an insertion orifice on the bottom to receive a tee. The periphery of the handgrip that joins the surrounding portion has grasping ditches to be grasped by user's fingers. The outer surface of the massage device has a plurality of conical jutting elements. The device can hold a golf ball and a tee, and also can be held securely by user's hand to do massage on various portions of user's body.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2006Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventors: Ikeda Kyoji, Ching-Feng Chuang
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Patent number: 7291121Abstract: A cervical immobilizing device includes a pair of arms that can be folded to an upright position to engage and support a patient's head, an actuating device for folding the arms to the supporting position, and a locking device for locking the position of the arms in the folded supporting position. The actuating device is coupled to the outer ends of the arms for folding the arms to an upright position symmetrically and uniformly. In one embodiment, the actuator device is flexible member that passes around a guide to a position which can be gripped by the user. The locking device can be a cinching, ratcheting or clamping device, or a combination thereof, on the actuator device. In one embodiment, the folding arms include a coupling device for coupling the arms to a base in a sliding arrangement to enable the arms to slide along the base to a folded position. A blank is also disclosed that can be folded to form the cervical immobilizing device.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Ambu Inc.Inventors: Ronald M. Rudy, Jr., Freddy T. Lee, Thomas Murphy, Sanjay H. Parikh
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Patent number: 7291122Abstract: A hemofiltration system and method to treat an Inflammatory Mediator Related Disease in a mammal, including chronic and acute diseases, include a hemofilter and an adsorptive device. The hemofilter removes ultrafiltrate from a blood stream extracted from the mammal to create a filtered blood stream and an ultrafiltrate stream. The adsorptive device may include one or more adsorbent materials and may be used to adsorb inflammatory mediators from the ultrafiltrate stream received from the hemofilter to create a post adsorption ultrafiltrate stream. The post adsorption ultrafiltrate stream may be selectively combined with the filtered blood stream and together with the filtered blood stream may be returned to the mammal.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Immunocept, L.L.C.Inventor: James R. Matson
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Patent number: 7291123Abstract: The joint (36) comprises a tubular body (37) having two connecting zones (38, 39) each connected by an end to a tubular element (40) of a fluid transport line, giving continuity to passage of fluid. The tubular body is made of a mixture of an electrically-conductive material such as PVC, with carbon black to give it electrical conductivity. The joint has an internal surface (41) which is destined to come into contact with the transported fluid, and an external surface which is destined to have a grounded galvanic contact. The joint is inserted in the discharge fluid drainage line of a dialyzer filter, in an apparatus for intensive treatment of acute renal insufficiency, for eliminating ECG artefacts due to functioning of peristaltic pumps in the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Gambro LundiaInventors: Vincenzo Baraldi, Annalisa Delnevo, Gianfranco Marchesi, Andrea Ligabue, Massimo Zaccarelli
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Patent number: 7291124Abstract: A tubing set for use with a blood handling system is described that decreases the priming volume and surface area of the blood handling circuit, lowering the risk of hemodilution, platelet activation, and hemolysis. The tubing set also reduces the number of manual connections required, and uses quick-disconnect couplings to facilitate connections between the various lines, and between the lines and the arterial and venous cannulae.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Cardiovention, Inc.Inventors: Thomas A. Rawles, A. Kenneth Litzie, David M. Fallen, Steven K. Stringer
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Patent number: 7291125Abstract: This invention comprises a flexible ocular device for implantation into the eye formed of a biocompatible elastomeric material, foldable to a diameter of 1.5 mm or less, comprising a fluid drainage tube having at one end a foldable plate adapted to locate the device on the inner surface of the sclera in a suprachoroidal space formed by cyclodialysis, said drainage tube opening onto the disc at one end and opening to the anterior chamber when implanted into the eye at its other end, so as to provide aqueous pressure regulation. Also provided are methods for the treatment of glaucoma utilising the flexible ocular device, and an ocular pressure spike shunt.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Transcend Medical, Inc.Inventor: Minas Theodore Coroneo
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Patent number: 7291126Abstract: A drug delivery device includes a pressurized reservoir in communication with a flow path to an outlet. The flow path includes two normally-closed valves and a flow restriction. A pressure measurement arrangement measures a differential fluid pressure between two points along the flow path which span at least part of the flow restriction, one of the points being between the valves. A controller selectively opens the valves to deliver a defined quantity of the liquid medicament to the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Nilimedix Ltd.Inventor: Avraham Shekalim
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Patent number: 7291127Abstract: A catheter assembly comprises a catheter which comprises an inner shaft and an outer shaft, and at least one heat transmitting mechanism. At least one portion of at least one of the inner shaft and the outer shaft of the catheter has a predetermined longitudinal stiffness and a predetermined temperature. The predetermined longitudinal stiffness is changed when the predetermined temperature is changed. The at least one heat transmitting mechanism extends distally from the proximal end of the catheter, along the length of the catheter, to a position adjacent to the at least one portion. At least a portion of the at least one heat transmitting mechanism is constructed and arranged to conductively change the predetermined temperature of the at least one portion of the at least one of the inner shaft and the outer shaft.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: Tracee E. J. Eidenschink
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Patent number: 7291128Abstract: A sheath is provided with a stationary deflector disposed on the path of the slider so that contact between the slider and the deflector causes the slider to be inclined and consequently causes the needle to be inclined inside the sheath. A return mechanism is provided so as to push the inclined slider back in the opposite direction so that the point of the inclined need is prevented from moving. This disposition ensures that the needle cannot escape from the sheath after it has been used.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: VygonInventors: Daniel Rossi, Jean-Max Huet
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Patent number: 7291129Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for treating female urinary incontinence by injecting a bulking agent at the interface between the mucosal and submucosal layers of the urethral wall. The remodeling device comprises an elongated shaft preferably having means for forming a localized inward protrusion of the urethral wall, and a needle, movable between retracted and deployed positions, for delivering a bulking agent into the urethral wall in the vicinity of the localized inward protrusion to thereby reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with urinary incontinence.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Novasys Medical Inc.Inventors: Hong Li, Peter S Edelstein, John T To, Simon W. H. Thomas, Benjamin T Nordell
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Patent number: 7291130Abstract: A catheter and introducer needle assembly having a needle with a proximal and distal end attached to a needle hub and a bent area therebetween. The device further includes a tubular catheter having proximal and distal ends in which the introducer needle can be coaxially received within the catheter. The device has a hollow catheter hub having a distal end attached to the proximal end of the catheter and is in fluid communication therewith. The assembly includes a needle tip protector having a proximal end and a distal end disposed within the catheter hub. The distal end of the protector covers the needle tip when the needle is removed from the catheter. The protector has a proximal opening at its proximal end wherein the bent area is angled away from the proximal opening such that when the needle is removed from the catheter the protector remains attached to the needle.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.Inventor: Joseph P. McGurk
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Patent number: 7291131Abstract: A syringe configured for communication with a tubular member insertable into the body of a subject includes a pressure transducer integrally mounted in the plunger thereof, under a tip of the plunger, such that the force applied by the plunger to fluid within a barrel of the syringe is transmitted to the transducer. A resulting electronic signal is converted to a display value for aiding a physician.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Physicians Industries, Inc.Inventor: Evan W. Call
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Patent number: 7291132Abstract: A medication dispensing apparatus that provides a mechanical advantage. During dose preparing, a nut rotating element (410) and a screw element (368) are in a first axial arrangement such that a screwing motion of the nut rotating element and screw element relative to the apparatus housing that moves the elements a first axial distance from a home position screws a nut (364) along a drive member threaded shaft (362) a second axial distance different than the first axial distance. During dose dispensing, the nut rotating element and the screw element are in a second axial arrangement, whereby a screwing motion of the screw element relative to the housing back toward the home position advances a plunger (366) in the distal direction to axially advance the nut and thereby the drive member and a fluid container piston to dispense medicine.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Eli Lilly and CompanyInventors: Otto Daniel DeRuntz, Kenneth Allen Focht, Alexander Thomas Jacobs, Elizabeth Whitney Johansen, Jared Alden Judson
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Patent number: 7291133Abstract: A device for the metered administration of a fluid drug. The device has a container having a piston for administering the fluid drug through an outlet of the container, a catheter connected to the outlet of the container, the catheter having a front end facing away from the outlet and being connected to an injection needle, and a valve positioned between the outlet and the injection needle in a flow cross section of the fluid drug, the valve having an inlet end adjacent the outlet and an outlet end adjacent the injection needle, wherein the valve permits flow of the fluid drug through the valve from the outlet to the injection needle when a fluid pressure exerted on the inlet end of the valve exceeds a pressure on the inlet end caused by the dead weight of the fluid drug.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1998Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Disetronic Licensing AGInventors: Beat Kindler, Daniel Peter, Ueli Haueter, Reto Aeschlimann
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Patent number: 7291134Abstract: A needleless connector for adding medication to a parenteral fluid is provided. The needleless connector comprises a connector adapted to receive a syringe and having a check valve to seal the port in place of a puncture pad. The check valve comprises a resilient disc held in place and biased closed by the tensile stress of the check valve material. When a syringe or other apparatus having a male luer connector is engaged with the connector and fluid pressure is applied to the check valve the resilient disc is deformed which allows the medication to flow through the connector into the tubing and thus to the patient.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: P. Rowan Smith, Jr.Inventor: Lisa M. Fitzgerald
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Patent number: 7291135Abstract: A winged angled needle assembly has a hub to which a proximal end portion of an angled needle having a sharpened tip portion is joined and a pair of wings attached to both sides of the hub and further includes a fixing member attached so as to support the wings and an extensible, contractible needle guard disposed between the hub and the fixing member so as to connect these two members. The guard extends in the direction from the proximal end portion to the sharpened tip portion of the angled needle when extended, so that the tip portion can be encased in said guard simultaneously with pulling the angled needle out of an implanted port. The guard has an exposure prevention mechanism attached thereto and is externally stopped, so that the sharpened tip portion is kept from exposing once it is encased in the guard. The angled needle can have a length as required regardless of the length of the wings.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Kawasumi Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Seiichi Ono
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Patent number: 7291136Abstract: The invention relates to an absorbent article intended for use in a thong garment, and having a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction and comprising a liquid-permeable cover sheet (109), a liquid-tight cover sheet (110), and an absorption body (111) enclosed between the two cover sheets (109, 110), the liquid-permeable cover sheet (109) being intended to be directed towards the user's body during use and the liquid-tight cover sheet (110) being intended to be directed towards the thong garment during use, an adhesive fastening means (514, 614, 714, 814) being arranged on the liquid-tight cover sheet (110), and the article moreover having, in its longitudinal direction, a front portion (106), a rear portion (107), two side edges (102, 103), and a front edge (104) and a rear edge (105). The article has a portion which is arranged centrally between the longitudinal side edges (102, 103) and which is free of the adhesive fastening means (514, 614, 714, 814).Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2000Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products, A.B.Inventors: Solgun Drevik, Anita Skeppstedt
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Patent number: 7291137Abstract: A disposable absorbent article adapted to be worn about a lower torso of a human body and having a chassis, a non-removable absorbent core component disposed in a crotch region of the chassis, and one or more replaceable absorbent core component or components disposed in capillary liquid communication with the non-removable absorbent core component. The replaceable absorbent core component may be removed and a like component may be substituted in place of the removed component without the removal of the absorbent article from the wearer. The replaceable absorbent core component may be disposed inside an openable chassis pocket, with access for its removal and replacement provided by an aperture in a garment-facing layer, an openable end of an external pocket, or an openable end of an internal pocket formed at an area of a waist end edge where the garment-facing layer and a wearer-facing layer may be separated.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Gary Dean LaVon, Gerald Alfred Young, Theodora Beck
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Patent number: 7291138Abstract: A rear elastic area formed by a rear waist region with rear waist elastic members stretchable laterally across the rear waist region. A front elastic area formed by a front waist region with front waist elastic members stretchable laterally across the front waist region. The rear waist region and the front waist region are capable of stretching or contracting in unison. A greater number of rear waist elastic members than front waist elastic members are provided. The rear elastic area is broader than the front elastic area with respect to the longitudinal direction of the diaper body. The body-hugging capability of the diaper body at the rear waist side of the wearer is increased so that the diaper body is prevented from slipping down. This configuration reduces constructive feeling by ensuring that the diaper body is not excessively tight at the front waist side of the wearer.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Hakujuji Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Minoru Hoshino, Fumiko Aoki, Terumasa Kondo
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Patent number: 7291139Abstract: Cardioplegia is delivered to a heart vessel by conducting the cardioplegia through an infusion lumen of a cannula. The cardioplegia communicates with a balloon disposed on a distal end of the cannula to cause the cardioplegia to inflate the balloon into sealing contact with a wall of the coronary sinus. The flow of cardioplegia is halted while preventing drainage of cardioplegia from the balloon, to maintain the balloon in its inflated state until such time as the flow of cardioplegia is resumed. Drainage of cardioplegia from the balloon is prevented by causing a valve to be shifted to a closed position blocking communication between the infusion lumen and the balloon. The valve can be shifted manually, or automatically in response to the halting of the delivery of cardioplegia.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Terumo Cardiovascular SystemsInventor: Arthur D. Gershowitz
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Patent number: 7291140Abstract: The invention comprises a system and method for providing for pulses or relatively low energy light to an area of skin being treated. Typically, these low energy pulses will include shorter wavelength light, and will provided for multiple pulses of light for the area being treated. The pulse width is determined by the characteristics of a storage capacitor and the flashlamp. The overall system design can be relatively simple, and the operation of such a system can allow for operation by relatively inexperienced users. Due to the low energy pulse, it can be necessary to apply a greater overall amount of energy per treatment area relative to other previous systems, but due to the relatively long period of time between pulses the operation is such that risk of injury is significantly reduced relative to prior systems.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Cutera, Inc.Inventors: Dean A. MacFarland, Greg J. Spooner, Kevin P. Connors, David A. Gollnick
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Patent number: 7291141Abstract: A method for removing hair from a skin surface includes removing protruding hair fibers from a skin surface in a plurality of temporally spaced treatment sessions by a process other than application of light energy. In each of the treatment sessions, one or more light pulses are applied to the skin surface to enhance the removal of hair by the process. The pulses are characterized by pulse parameters including radiation wavelength such that light of the pulses is absorbed by the hair fibers below the skin surface. The pulses are applied to the skin surface in the absence of an exogenous chromophore on the skin surface and the hair fibers along the skin surface. A hand held device includes a pulsed-light applicator and a cutting edge.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Harvey H. Jay
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Patent number: 7291142Abstract: Low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods. The apparatus includes a base member and an inflatable element carried by the base member.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Greg Eberl, David K. Swanson
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Patent number: 7291143Abstract: Clamp based low temperature lesion formation apparatus, systems and methods.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2006Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: David K. Swanson
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Patent number: 7291144Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Innercool Therapies, Inc.Inventors: John D. Dobak, III, Hans W. Kramer, Steven A. Yon
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Patent number: 7291145Abstract: A surgical safety apparatus for use in connection with an energizable surgical device minimizes inadvertent activation of a surgical tool when the oxygen level is too high. An activation circuit is connected with an energy source and with a hand piece of the tool. A sensor measures the oxygen near the tool and can operate in a first state to disconnect the energy source from the handpiece. In a second state the source of energy is connected to the handpiece. The sensing element is connected to the activation circuit. The sensing element signals the activation circuit to convert the activation circuit from the first state to the second state provided the oxygen level is safe.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Arnold Steven Seid
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Patent number: 7291146Abstract: A catheter and catheter system for eccentric remodeling and/or removal of atherosclerotic material of a blood vessel of a patient include an elongate flexible catheter body with a radially expandable structure. A plurality of electrodes or other electrosurgical energy delivery surfaces can radially engage atherosclerotic material when the structure expands. An atherosclerotic material detector near the distal end of the catheter body may measure circumferential atherosclerotic material distribution, and a power source selectively energizes the electrodes to eccentrically remodel the measured atherosclerotic material.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Minnow Medical, Inc.Inventors: Tom A. Steinke, Corbett W. Stone, Stephen O. Ross, Brian S. Kelleher, Raphael M. Michel, Donald H. Koenig
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Patent number: 7291147Abstract: An electrosurgical electrode for performing an EFBL procedure comprises an elongated thin, forceps-shaped structure shaped to substantially match the curvature of the skull extending from the brow upward to a position at or above the hairline. The electrode terminates at a distal end in electrically-conductive spaced tips that are bare. The electrode is bipolar and is connected to electrosurgical apparatus capable of generating RF electrosurgical currents, preferably at a frequency of about 4 MHz. Bipolar forceps can also be provided at the end of a flexible tip handpiece, the forceps being manipulated by extending and retracting the forceps from the handpiece end.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventors: Alan A. Ellman, Ion C. Garito
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Patent number: 7291148Abstract: Bone fragments resulting from a Colles' fracture of the distal radius bone are set in position by an external fixator that includes mounting structures attachable to the radius at a site proximal to the fracture and to a metacarpal, joined by a connector whose length is capable of both gross adjustment and precision adjustment, each mounting structure providing degrees of freedom independently of the connector length, the mounting structure at the radius end providing independent degrees of freedom for rotation around a proximal-distal axis and for rotation about an axis transverse to an axis parallel to the proximal-distal axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: John M. Agee Trustee of the John M. Agee TrustInventors: John M. Agee, Francis C. King
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Patent number: 7291149Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of inserting a variety of interbody spinal fusion implants across a disc space between adjacent vertebral bodies. The variety of implants have at least a partially frusto-conical configuration or opposed arcuate portions in an angular relationship to one another along the length of the implant. One of the methods of the present invention contemplates distracting the adjacent vertebral bodies, forming a bore from the anterior or posterior aspect of the spinal column across a distracted disc space between the adjacent vertebral bodies and into the adjacent vertebral bodies, and inserting into the bore the spinal implant having opposed arcuate portions in an angular relationship to one another along the length of the implant and oriented toward the adjacent vertebral bodies.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 1999Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.Inventor: Gary Karlin Michelson
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Patent number: 7291150Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising an implant (18) designed to be inserted at least partially between the vertebral bodies (4, 4?) of two neighbouring vertebrae, said implant (18) being adapted to provide to said neighbouring vertebral bodies (4, 4?) at least one degree of mutual freedom, said device further comprising at least an extra-discal member (20), arranged behind the intervertebral space (12), adapted to damp a movement between said vertebrae (2, 2?), at least in the intervertebral flexion direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2000Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: SDGI Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Henry Graf
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Patent number: 7291151Abstract: The invention relates to a vertebral fixation device for the treatment of spinal conditions and more specifically spondylolisthesis. The inventive device comprises a screw (1) which is intended to be fixed to a bone and a tulip element (2) comprising vertical notches (3) in which a bar (4) moves vertically, the bar forming the connection between screws (1) belonging to other devices. The position of the aforementioned bar (4) is adjusted in relation to the bone using a support nut (15). Moreover, the bar (4) rests on the upper face of the support nut (15), such that the rotation of the nut (15) determines the vertical displacement of the bar (4) in relation to the bone, the bar remaining fixed in position by the closing screw (5). The invention further comprises a rosette element (8) having an inner housing which is used to house the head of the screw (1) in such a way that the head, and consequently the screw (1), remain connected to the tulip (2).Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Traiber, S.A.Inventor: Luis Marquez Alvarez
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Patent number: 7291152Abstract: Disclosed is a bone fixation device for retaining vertebra of a spinal column in a desired spatial relationship. In one embodiment, the device comprises a first member connectable to a first vertebra and a second member connectable to a second vertebra and interconnected with the first member. The first and second members are movable relative to one another across a range of motion. An adjustor member transitions between a first state and a second state, wherein the range of motion between the first member and second member spans a first distance when the adjustor member is in the first state, and wherein the range of motion between the first member and second member spans a second distance when the adjustor member is in the second state.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: M. Samy Abdou
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Patent number: 7291153Abstract: A polyaxial pedicle screw assembly incorporates a concave portion on a receiver which mates with a convex surface on a head of the screw to form a ball joint. The radius of at least a portion of the concave surface is less than a radius of the mating convex portion whereby to create an interference fit.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Debuy Acromed, Inc.Inventor: Craig Glascott
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Patent number: 7291154Abstract: An actuator system is provided for acting upon a material in a vessel. The system includes an optical fiber and a shape memory polymer material operatively connected to the optical fiber. The shape memory polymer material is adapted to move from a first shape for moving through said vessel to a second shape where it can act upon said material.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Duncan J. Maitland, Abraham P. Lee, Daniel L. Schumann, Dennis L. Matthews, Derek E. Decker, Charles A. Jungreis
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Patent number: 7291155Abstract: In a system with a surgical needle and a handle, the surgical needle has in its proximal end-section, lying opposite the needle tip, a holding section (14), which is set up for insertion into the handle. The handle has a channel (32), set up for holding the holding section (14) of the surgical needle, and a locking device (50, 70) with a locking element (50) which is displaceable in longitudinal direction of the channel (32) from a locking position, in which the holding section (14) is fixed to the handle, into a release position, in which the holding section (14) can be pulled out from the channel (32).Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Ethicon, GmbHInventors: Boris Batke, Raimo Sump
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Patent number: 7291156Abstract: The invention consists of a new obstetrical vacuum extractor which includes a bell-shaped fetal contact cup made of flexible material, with a hollow and substantially rigid stem, a pull-sensing handle grip attached to the end of the stem, and a tube connected with one end to the cup stem and with the other to a vacuum source. The pull-sensing grip contains electronic hardware whose purpose is to reduce the risk of fetal trauma caused by frequent cup detachment (“pop-off”) and excessive traction force, during a vacuum-assisted delivery.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Nicola Perone
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Patent number: 7291157Abstract: A surgical tool for performing anastomosis may include a staple holder; a clip detachably connected to the staple holder; a length of suture, wherein a portion of the length of suture is held securely between the clip and the staple holder; and a needle connected to the suture. An incision may be made at one end of the graft vessel to form a flap. The needle may penetrate the wall of the graft vessel proximal to the incision, and the graft vessel may then be parachuted down the suture toward engagement with the clip. In this way, graft loading onto the clip is facilitated.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2006Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Cardica, Inc.Inventors: Bernard A. Hausen, Luke W. Clauson, David L. Bombard
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Patent number: 7291158Abstract: A cutting balloon catheter and method of making and using the same. The cutting balloon catheter may include a catheter shaft having a balloon coupled thereto. One or more cutting members or blades may be coupled to the balloon. The cutting members may include two or more sections that are connected via a fracturable or yielding bridge section that increases flexibility when passing through or being utilized in tortuous anatomy.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Loren M. Crow, Steven W. Bence
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Patent number: 7291159Abstract: System for withdrawing body fluid from a body part in particular the finger pad, comprising a compression unit that is deformed when the body part is pressed against it and increases the internal pressure in a region of the body part, and a withdrawal device. Deformation of the compression unit partially converts the primary pressing movement into a secondary movement which leads to an increase in the internal pressure in a region of the body part. The invention also comprises a system for stimulating the outflow of body fluid using a deformable compression unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Guenther Schmelzeisen-Redeker, Thomas Weiss, Frank Deck, Klaus Peter Ebert
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Patent number: 7291160Abstract: An intragastric catheter provides satiety due to its presence in the stomach cavity. Efficacy is improved by the tactile sensation provided by a plurality of fingers that extend from the device. Normal peristaltic action upon the device moves the fingers relative to the stomach. The structure of the intragastric catheter reduces the level of precision required in placement of the device, and blockage of conduits to and from the stomach by the device is unlikely.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Rebecca DeLegge
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Patent number: 7291161Abstract: A grasper is provided having a handle with an elongated shaft secured thereto. First and second jaw members with opposed clamping surfaces are secured to the shaft, with one jaw member being slidably secured with respect to the other jaw member. The jaw members are relatively movable by an actuator between an open position and a closed position. A resilient member is associated with at least one of the first or second jaw members or the actuator limits the force exerted on tissue held between the clamping surfaces of the jaws when the jaws are in the closed position. The jaws are preferably, but not necessarily, pivotal relative to the elongated shaft by remote actuation.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: AtriCure, Inc.Inventor: Michael D. Hooven
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Patent number: 7291162Abstract: A method of restoring energy in the human body to its natural pathway using body jumpers. The body jumpers are either a set of two or three electrical conducting pads which are interconnected. The method involves proper placement of the body jumpers on a human body and holding the body jumpers in place for a certain amount of time. The method and set of body jumpers employed depends on the results of a muscle test.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Michael A. Kusenko
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Patent number: 7291163Abstract: An apparatus for providing conditioned air to a patient while maintaining a low profile over the patient. The therapy blanket has an inflatable portion that includes air channels with a constriction in the area where the blanket covers the torso of the patient; thereby reducing, if not eliminating, bunching of the blanket. The blanket covers the torso and at least one extended arm of a patient.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Adroit Development, Inc.Inventor: Clifford Eugene Gammons
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Patent number: 7291164Abstract: An improved cold/compress therapy for the treatment of muscle, tissue, tendon, or cartilage injury or damage. The ICE Power Pack consists of a plurality of hollow vessels filled with water or aqueous solutions or colloids that can be solidified in a conventional domestic or commercial freezer. The encapsulated water or aqueous solutions or colloids rely on the high latent heat of fusion as they undergo a phase change providing an extended therapeutic period in a medically safe temperature zone. The vessels are sandwiched between flexible insulating and non-insulating layers that serve as compresses.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2002Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventors: Keith Eugene Peterman, Joshua Kurtz Peterman