Abstract: Apparatus for effecting or controlling instrumentation insertible into the human body, as for example into the uterus, comprising in combination a first suspension for adjustably suspending the instrumentation generally vertically; a second suspension operatively connected with the first suspension for adjustably suspending the instrumentation for generally horizontal movement; a third suspension for adjustably suspending the first and second suspensions for generally vertical movement to selected level of the instrumentation; and a swivel connection allowing swiveling of the instrumentation about a generally vertical axis.

Abstract: A system, device and method for serializing and authorizing a single use imaging device are provided. In one embodiment, the invention provides a single use imaging device comprising a memory having a stored code that includes a unique serial identifier. In another embodiment, the invention provides a system for authorizing a single use imaging device comprising a single use imaging device with an image of a verification object that includes a serial identifier uniquely associated with the device, a control unit capable of electronically receiving the verification object image, a decoder capable of extracting a serial identifier from the verification object image, a database of authorized serial identifiers, and means for determining if the single use imaging device is authorized.

Abstract: The difference frequency component between a first fundamental wave of frequency f and a second fundamental wave of frequency f2 is caused to interact with a second harmonic wave, thereby to attain the enhancement of a second harmonic signal, etc., whereby a reflected wave component to be imaged is extracted at a high S/N ratio. By way of example, in a case where the difference frequency component is to appear on the lower frequency side of the second harmonic wave of the first fundamental wave so as to be superposed on this second harmonic wave, the frequencies are set at f2=2.8f or so. Besides, in a case where the difference frequency component is to appear on the higher frequency side of the second harmonic wave of the first fundamental wave so as to be superposed on this second harmonic wave, the frequencies are set at f2=3.2f or so.

Abstract: Methods and systems for obtaining ultrasound and sensing other patient characteristics are provided from summary. One or more sensors are provided in a same transducer probe as an array of elements. For example, sensors are formed on a same semiconductor substrate, such as a silicon substrate, as microelectromechanical devices or a capacitive membrane ultrasonic transducer (CMUT). As another example, a sensor is provided separate from or attached to transducer materials. Possible sensors include temperature, pressure, microphone, chemical and/or other sensors.

Abstract: An excisional biopsy device includes a tubular member having a window near a distal tip thereof; a cutting tool, a distal end of the cutting tool being attached near the distal tip of the tubular member, at least a distal portion of the cutting tool being configured to selectively bow out of the window and to retract within the window; and a tissue collection device externally attached at least to the tubular member, the tissue collection device collecting tissue excised by the cutting tool as the biopsy device is rotated and the cutting tool is bowed.

Abstract: A method for collecting air-transportable evidence samples from objects and clothing: (a) utilizes a collection tube having open upstream and downstream ends, and at a point between these ends a constriction in the cross-sectional area of the tube, (b) utilizes an applicator stick having proximate and distal ends, the length of this stick being less than the length of the collection tube between its constriction and downstream end, and the distal end of this stick having an air permeable tip, (c) places the proximate end of the applicator stick in the upstream end of tube, (d) orients the stick so that its tip is proximate the tube constriction, and (e) imposes a suction force on the downstream end of the tube so that any air-transportable evidence sample proximate the upstream end of the collection tube is sucked into the tube and becomes lodged on the stick's tip.

Abstract: A hollow medical device includes a coil member having a distal end, a proximal end, a plurality of turns extending therebetween, and a lumen extending through the turns. The coil member further includes at least one weld extending from one turn to an adjacent turn.

Abstract: A firmness tester is disclosed which conducts its test through one or more rolling indenters impinging upon the surface of a subject. Most firmness sensors require the sample to be held stationary relative to the tester's reference plane. This invention allows the tester to differentiate between the firmness of the sample and movement of the sample relative to the sensing device. This is desirable in the application of an automatic massage chair where the roller/sensor presses upon the user's back and may cause the point of contact on the user's body to move away by means of the user flexing at the hips or arching through the back. The rolling feature is desirable in the field of automated chair massage where the massage indenters slide across the user's back with significant pressure through a membrane. This membrane would wear quickly if the indenters were not equipped with such a rolling mechanism.

Abstract: An article comprising two or more layers. One or more of the layers includes of a polymeric foam tape containing one or more curable resins. One aspect of the present invention is to use the article as an orthopedic casting splint.

Abstract: An ambulation assistance device is provided with a leg support that releasably secures to an individual's leg and supports the leg in a positively flexed position. An elongated pylon extends downwardly from the leg support and may be hinged at the point of connection to simulate the mechanics of the individual's knee during ambulation. A resilient rearward brace may be used to bias the pylon toward a standing position. A forward brace may be provided to limit over extension of the pylon. A foot member may be pivotably coupled with the distal end of the pylon to simulate the mechanics of the individual's ankle during ambulation. A resilient brace may bias the foot member toward a standing position.

Abstract: A versatile orthopedic walker includes a high strength engineered plastic base with spaced upper and lower surfaces and upwardly extending slotted strut supports. The base may be laterally and vertically cored, and an outer sole is provided which extends upward over the core openings, with the upper edges of the outsole being ridged to fit into a peripheral groove in the base to provide a smooth exterior surface. Struts of different lengths are provided, and all of the struts have identical arrangements for interlocking with the base. All of the struts may be provided with a three pronged construction to triply lock the struts into the base. The struts may have areas of reduced cross-section providing pivot points or areas of flexibility to accommodate different size patients, and limiting stops may be provided to assure adequate orthopedic support. Fully integrally molded pivoting D-rings may hold walker straps in place.

Abstract: A multi-layer wrap, and method of use, for providing more comfortable gel treatment to skin and pressure therapy for underlying skin, the wrap allowing for migration of moisture away from the skin while providing compressive musculo-skeletal support to the treatment site.

Abstract: A graphical user interface (GUI) for medical instruments for a Renal Replacement Therapy that enables an operator to select and review a series of settings for an extracorporeal pump console and implement the settings in batch manner. The GUI automatically adjusts or recommends dependent settings, e.g. filtration rate, as the user adjusts primary settings, e.g. blood flow rate.

Abstract: The peritoneal function of a peritoneal dialysis patient is examined to evaluate the condition of the patient. An examining method comprises a step of alternately repeating introduction/drainage of a predetermined quantity of a peritoneal dialyzing fluid of an osmotic pressure and introduction/drainage of a predetermined quantity of another peritoneal dialyzing fluid of an osmotic pressure different from the former one, a step of examining the drain to determine the quantity of peritoneal dialyzing fluid staying in the abdominal cavity of the patient and the concentration of a solute of interest, a step of conducting a peritoneal equilibrium test, and a step of conducting a blood test to grasp the change of the state of the blood caused by the introduction and drainage. The blood test step is executed only once.

Abstract: A mixing/charging port for medical treatment capable of reliably absorbing air bubbles. The mixing/charging port for medical treatment includes a disc-like valve having an insertion hole at the center, a seating for supporting the lower part of the periphery of the valve with the center of the rear surface side of the valve not supported, and a cover for restraining the valve by covering at least the upper part of the periphery of the valve with the center on the front side surface of the valve left uncovered, wherein a fitting hole defined by an inner periphery of the cover works as an anchor for anchoring an insertion body to the mixing/charging port by fitting the insertion body to the fitting hole when the insertion body is inserted into the insertion hole; and the tip of the depressed part of the valve is brought into contact against the inner bottom surface of the seating when the valve is depressed by the insertion member.

Abstract: An infusion set is provided for use in delivering fluid through a cannula, which is housed on a cannula housing, to a selected subcutaneous infusion site on a patient. The fluid is generally a medication, for example, insulin. The cannula is in fluid communication with a fluid passageway surrounded by a projection on the cannula housing that includes one or more rail-like extensions acting as connection guides. A connector connects the cannula housing to a fluid delivery system, such as an infusion pump. The connector includes a connecting needle and one or more guide arms that slide over the rail-like extensions to guide the needle into the self-sealing septum. The connector includes one or more locking arms, with barbs at the end, to connect with one or more recesses that are provided in the cannula housing.

Abstract: A catheter head for medical and pharmaceutical applications, including a base body which may be positioned on organic tissue and a connecting body, serving as fluid connector for the base body, which has a fluid channel to form the fluid connection. The base body and the connecting body are detachably connected to each other and the base body includes: a) a housing b) a cannula, extending from the housing for introduction into the tissue, c) a seal element, retained by the housing, which has a connector face on which or by means of which the fluid channel of the connecting body may be hydraulically connected to the cannula, and d) a closing element, mounted on the housing which may be displaced relative to the sealing element and seals the sealing face of the sealing element in a closed position and opens the connecting body for the fluid channel in an open position.

Abstract: A butterfly-needle set has an elongated two-part case forming a pair of transversely open slots. An elongated needle in the case has a pair of generally coplanar and oppositely projecting wings projecting out of the case through the slots. The slots are sufficiently long that the needle can move longitudinally between a front position with the needle projecting from a front end of the case and a rear position with the needle completely within the case. An elastically deflectable spring element projects at a small acute angle toward a rear end of the case into at least one of the slots so as to deflect elastically and allow the needle to move from the front position into the rear position and to block movement of the needle from the rear position into the front position.

Abstract: Safety insert for disposable syringes, comprising at least one attachment member whose point allows advance of the stem during injection of the syringe content and prevents its retraction once said injection is performed on attaching to the inner walls of the cylinder, and having at least one perforating member with a gaff at its end able to dig into the plunger and pass through its wall, thus breaking the tightness of the compartment of the cylinder intended to contain the substance to be injected when retraction of the stem is attempted following the injection.

Abstract: The present invention is a safety syringe for use with a plurality of interchangeable needles. The plurality of needles may be inserted by the user into the safety syringe for use. In operations, the user selects the desired needle, e.g., a needle having a particular gauge or size or of a particular type. The user inserts the needle (14) into a safety syringe (10) comprising a barrel (6), a needle assembly area (18) located within or attached to the barrel and a plunger (66). The needle couples to the syringe by a number of means. For instance, a locking mechanism (20, 22) may be used by which a needle hub located within the needle assembly has an area adapted to mate with a corresponding area on the needle. Or, the needle may be formed as part of a separate needle assembly, whereby the user will place the entire needle assembly onto the end of the syringe barrel.

Abstract: An intravenous catheter introducer assembly having a safety feature to prevent accidental needle sticks. The introducer assembly includes a needle assembly having a groove disposed on its outer surface. The introducer includes a protector made of a hollow member having an open distal end and an inwardly disposed resilient flange or a clip disposed thereon. The protector is coaxially slidably disposed around the needle with the flange abutting the outer surface of the needle and adapted to engage the groove when a catheter assembly is removed from the needle.

Abstract: A device for delivering fluid to a person including a reservoir for containing a fluid to be delivered to the person, a fluid transport device for dispensing fluid from said reservoir to the person, said fluid transport device including a proximal end in fluid communication with said reservoir and a distal end having a penetrating member for piercing the skin of the person to facilitate the delivery of fluid to the person through the fluid transport device, a housing containing said reservoir and said fluid transport device, said housing including an exit port for receiving said distal end of said fluid transport device upon injection of said distal end into said person and means for securing a first wall of said housing to the skin of the person, a injection activation device including a driving mechanism contacting said fluid transport device for driving said penetrating member from a first position within said housing, through said exit port to a second position, external to said housing and into the skin

Abstract: A disposable syringe includes a tubular needle seat inserted into a barrel for fixing a needle cannula. The needle seat has an axially extending cavity with a radially yieldable catch disposed therein. A plunger is movable in the barrel, and has an engaging head defining a rearwardly facing shoulder wall which is retained by the catch when the engaging head is extended into the cavity by a pushing force applied to the plunger. The barrel defines friction diminishing regions such that when the needle seat is moved past the friction diminishing regions to be placed to a disposal position, friction between the needle seat and the barrel is diminished, thereby facilitating a subsequent pulling action of the plunger for retracting the needle cannula into the barrel.

Abstract: A medical delivery or extraction system comprising a needle assembly having a needle and a hub coupled to the needle. The hub includes a verification region or component. A syringe body rotatably coupled to the needle assembly includes at least one indicia on the outer surface thereof. When the indicia corresponds to the verification region, the user is provided with an indication that the syringe body is properly connected to the needle assembly. The system also includes a lever arm coupled to the needle assembly. The lever arm is sized and positioned to provide a user with a mechanism of easily securing the needle assembly to the syringe without the use of external tools.

Abstract: A breakaway valve body for a peel-away introducer sheath. The valve body can be used in conjunction with a distally coupled peel-away introducer sheath and a proximally coupled flexible valve sleeve for restricting fluid flow from the introducer sheath when the valve body compresses the valve sleeve to a closed position. The valve can include a body scored or weakened to break along a predefined path in response to applied force. The valve preferably includes a first member and a second member movable relative to each other and having a pinch member therebetween for constricting a flexible valve sleeve placed between the first and second members. In one valve, the first and second members are pivotally disposed on hinges to allow the members to open and close about an inserted flexible valve sleeve and to pinch the sleeve with a pinch member.

Abstract: A device for connecting or disconnecting cannula to or from a tube. The connection is uncomplicted, quick, safe and provides reproducible conditions in a surgical procedure for connecting to a blood pump that assists the heart or replaces the heart. A nipple (4) is formed on the tube (5) which is inserted into the cannula (7). A rotatable claw ring (1), which is arranged on a cannula end (71) for displacement to a stop (2, 62), can be rotatably joined with a locking ring (3) which is secured to a tube end (51) by axial movement and latching engagement with the locking ring (3). The connection is releasable by rotating the claw ring (1) and pulling the claw ring (1) and the cannula apart in an axial direction.

Abstract: A coolant system for a cryoablation or treatment probe such as a mapping or ablation catheter, or a treatment wand, includes a compressor and condenser having a low pressure inlet side and a high pressure outlet side, wherein the outlet side passes through a heat exchanger and is cooled by the inlet side and conditioned for injection to a catheter inlet. A vacuum return system connectable to the catheter outlet draws thermally expended coolant from the catheter and returns it to the low pressure inlet side. A motorized pressure regulator between the heat exchanger and the catheter inlet determines the pressure of coolant passing into the catheter and thus regulates the cooling rate for a selected mapping or ablation regimen. The low pressure compressor inlet supply preferentially conditions the pressurized coolant to ambient temperature or lower before injection into the catheter, allowing the coolant to travel through the body at ambient before expansion in the tip.

Abstract: A system, method and/or apparatus is provided for visualization or imaging of the transverse carpal ligament and surrounding structures/features of a hand of a patient, and treatment of the transverse carpal ligament, particularly, but not necessarily, for performing non-invasive carpal tunnel release. The subject invention utilizes ultrasound waves preferably, but not necessarily, in the high frequency range and cavitations to image the transverse carpal ligament (TCL), record its location in three-dimensional space, and perform precision treatment on the transverse carpal ligament. Treatment may range from stretching or lengthening the TCL to complete tissue ablation or dissection of a portion or portions of the TCL (as is performed in a standard carpal tunnel release procedure) in order to release pressure within the carpal tunnel. Particularly, high temperature conditions are generated at target tissue of the TCL resulting in elongation or necrosis/dissection.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for supplying electrical energy to an electro-pen with an electric drive unit for driving a tool. The device comprises a console with an energy supply unit having an accumulator for supplying the electrical drive unit with electrical energy. The console may be configure to be sterilized by steam having a housing and electrical components that are sealed liquid-tight. The accumulator may include a sterile covering for sterile introduction into the console. A coupling between the console and the electro-pen carries the supply of electrical energy from the console to the electro-pen. The coupling may be an electrical contact in the form of a sterilizable connector or an inductive coupling. The console may be configured to store energy and is thus mobile, or the console may include a connection for connecting to a mains or external power supply for charging the accumulator. The console may include a switch-mode power supply for charging the accumulator.

Abstract: A method for electrosurgically sealing a tissue includes steps of: (A) applying a first pulse of RF energy to the tissue; and (B) applying at least one subsequent RF energy pulse to the tissue and keeping constant or varying RF energy parameters of individual pulses in accordance with at least one characteristic of an electrical transient that occurs during the individual RF energy pulses. The method terminates the generation of subsequent RF pulses upon a determination that the electrical transient has passed a predetermined limit.

Abstract: Surgical methods and apparatus for positioning diagnostic an therapeutic elements on the epicardium or other organ surface. The apparatus includes a tissue cooling apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides A surgical dissector, comprising: a housing having a first end and a second end, and on the first end is formed a suction inlet; a circuit board disposed within the housing; a first switch connected to the circuit board for performing function of electrical coagulating, and disposed on the housing; a second switch connected to the circuit board for performing function of electrical cutting, and disposed on the housing; a tube disposed in the housing and extended out of the second end of the housing, the extended end of the tube having a means for performing suction and/or blunt dissectingion and/or scraping and/or push peeling at the situs of operation; an electrosurgical knife disposed in the housing and extended out of the second end of the housing, the electrosurgical knife being connected electrically to the circuit board, and having the functions of electrical coagulating and cutting; and a retractable means for relative retractable movement between the tube and the electro

Abstract: A system and method for positioning a medical instrument at a desired biological target tissue site is provided. The system includes an elongated sheath having a deflectable distal end configured to deflect or otherwise position at least a portion of a medical instrument during a surgical procedure allowing for the placement of the deflected portion adjacent or proximate to a predetermined target tissue surface. The positioning system may be incorporated into the medical instrument. The medical instrument may be an ablation system.

Abstract: A high-frequency treatment tool for an endoscope is provided with a transparent hood to be detachably coupled to a distal end of an endoscope provided with at least one electrode, at least one high-frequency electrode provided at a tip end of the transparent hood, at least one contact which is to electrically contact the at least one electrode of the endoscope, and at least one conductive member that electrically connects the at least one high-frequency electrode and the at lease one contact. The at least one conductive member is arranged to be located at an inner position with respect to an outer surface of the transparent hood.

Abstract: This invention is a pedicle screw (1), comprising a threaded rod (2) having a longitudinal axis (XX) and a head (4) in which there is a channel (5) adapted to receive a spinal support rod, and a means for blocking the rod; the channel is formed such that its longitudinal axial plane (P) is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis (XX) of the threaded rod. The head (4) of the screw being made up of two flanks (6, 7), a threaded hole (11) is formed in one of them; the inclination of the channel (5) relative to the axis of the treaded rod (2) makes it possible to place a tool for blocking the rod in the channel without this tool coming into contact with the muscle tissues delimiting the incision. Moreover, the threaded seat (11) permits the positioning of instruments without obstructing the channel for passage of the rod.

Abstract: A orthopedic fixation system comprising a plate with an outwardly-extending member. A saddle may be mounted on the member and includes spaced-apart arms that form a channel to receive a rod. An engagement member may be mounted within the saddle to prevent escape of the rod. In one embodiment, the engagement member is attached to the saddle to apply a downward force on the rod and an upward force on the saddle to lift the saddle relative to the plate. A method of attaching an orthopedic rod is also included. In one embodiment, a rod is positioned within a channel in the saddle and a downward force is applied against the anchor which results in an upward force on the saddle to lift the saddle relative to the anchor.

Abstract: A bone plate system is provided which maintains intervertebral spacing and stability of a spine. In an embodiment, a bone plate system may include a base plate with an opening through which the fastener may be positioned to allow the fastener to be inserted into a human bone at a desired angle relative to the plate. Some embodiments of a bone plate system may include a base plate and an extender plate. An extender plate may be coupled to a base plate while the base plate is coupled to the bone.

Abstract: A cutting guide for use in spinal surgery includes a sidewall defining an internal cavity. A chisel guide, for use with the cutting guide, includes a first block member to be inserted into the internal cavity of the cutting guide to position the first block member adjacent the vertebral body. The chisel guide also includes a second block member connected to the first block member. An apparatus for creating a cavity in a vertebral body endplate and in an intervertebral disc may be a compressor or a distractor having at least one cutting implement thereon. A tensioner determines a proper elongation distance in a prosthesis implanted in a vertebral body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a decompression-compensating instrument for use in intraocular surgery, wherein a perfusate is supplied to an affected part of an eye via a supply channel at a predetermined pressure, and the perfusate is aspirated via an aspiration channel together with the affected tissues that are to be removed, the decompression-compensating instrument supplying the perfusate into the affected part when the internal pressure of the affected part is excessively lowered, and being constructed so as to be connectable to a point midway along the supply channel and comprising a storage-member that forms a chamber that is closable except for an opening from which the perfusate to be supplied to the supply channel flows, the capacity of the storage member being 7 cm3 to 22 cm3.

Abstract: A circumcision device is provided which comprises: a ring having a tapered interior surface, an open anterior end, an anterior opening defined by the interior surface at the anterior end, an open posterior end, a posterior opening defined by the interior surface at the posterior end which is larger than the anterior opening, a longitudinal axis extending between and through the anterior and posterior openings, an exterior surface, and a groove circumferentially defined around the exterior surface adjacent to the anterior end; a bridge extending over the anterior opening and fixedly connected to the anterior end at circumferentially spaced points thereof; and a handle fixedly but frangibly connected to the bridge at a junction between the handle and bridge, the handle extending longitudinally and outwardly from the junction and being structurally weaker at and adjacent to the junction than any other portion of the handle to thereby make the handle readily breakable and detachable from the bridge at the junctio

Abstract: A suture clamp and/or suture retainer and organizer device for use during a surgical procedure, including an elongated body formed of resilient material and has a plurality of spaced lateral slits through one surface. The slits are individually identified and are sized to receive and grip a surgical suture. A tapered pocket is located adjacent to and opens into each slit for receiving and retaining the nose of a hemostat attached to a suture. The device may be attached by adhesive backing or by clamps to a surgical drape or other support surface.

Abstract: A one piece anastomosis device is disclosed which is formed of a superelastic or pseudoelastic material which self deforms or self deploys from an insertion configuration to a tissue holding configuration. The device in a deployed state preferably includes an inner tissue penetrating flange which penetrate and retains an everted graft vessel and an outer flange. The self deploying anastomosis device does not rely on a temperature transformation to achieve deployment.

Abstract: An anastomosis tool may include a connector holder connected to an anvil. The connector holder may be bifurcated and configured to straddle the graft vessel. The connector holder may be generally U-shaped. The connector holder may be shaped to extend around more than half of the circumference of the graft vessel.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for occluding blood flow within a blood vessel. In a first series of embodiments, the present invention comprises a plurality of embolic devices deployable through the lumen of a conventional catheter such that when deployed, said embolic devices remain resident and occlude blood flow at a specific site within the lumen of the blood vessel. Such embolic devices comprise either mechanical embolic devices that become embedded within or compress against the lumen of the vessel or chemical vaso-occlusive agents that seal off blood flow at a given site. A second embodiment of the present invention comprises utilization of a vacuum/cauterizing device capable of sucking in the lumen of the vessel about the device to maintain the vessel in a closed condition where there is then applied a sufficient amount of energy to cause the tissue collapsed about the device to denature into a closure.

Abstract: A balloon catheter assembly comprises an elongate catheter shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and an inflatable balloon secured to the shaft distal portion. A plurality of cutters are arranged along an outer surface of the balloon. The cutters are shielded by folds of the balloon when the balloon is uninflated, and are arranged and configured to facilitate breakdown of a vascular restriction when said balloon is inflated. Preferably, the cutters are arranged in at least three generally parallel longitudinal rows along the balloon outer surface, and there are at least three longitudinally-aligned cutters in each row. Preferably, the cutters are formed of the same or a similar base composition as the balloon, and are bonded to the balloon outer surface.

Abstract: A lancet device for obtaining a blood sample from a finger or at an alternate site of a patient. The lancet device includes a body and a lancet, the lancet being movable between a retracted position in which the lancet tip is disposed within the body and an extended position in which the lancet tip extends beyond the body. The device is cocked by compressing a U-shaped spring steel accessible on opposite sides of the body, the U-shaped spring steel being coupled to the lancet. Once cocked, a pawl retains the U-shaped spring steel in a compressed state. The device is fired by contacting the patient where sampling is to occur with one end of an actuator, the opposite end of the actuator serving to release the pawl from the U-shaped spring steel.

Abstract: A system for treating a vascular condition, including a hollow guidewire having a central lumen and an inflation hole formed in a sidewall of the hollow guidewire, an occlusion balloon attached proximate to a distal end of the hollow guidewire, and a frictional valve. The frictional valve includes a portion of a core wire positioned within a proximal end of the hollow guidewire, a valve plug attached to the core wire, and at least one frictional plug attached to the core wire proximal to the valve plug. Flow of fluid through the central lumen of the hollow guidewire is controlled by axial translation of the core wire to position the valve plug with respect to the inflation hole, while the frictional plug provides a tailored valve compliance characteristic.

Abstract: Embolism protection devices can be formed with a biocompatible expandable polymer that can expand upon release within a patient's vessel. Upon release, the structure can be configured to filter flow through the vessel. The material of the embolism protection devices can release one or more biologically active agents, such as a thrombolitic agent, including, for example, tPA. Alternatively or additionally, the embolism protection device can be connected to a tether that elutes one or more biologically active agents.

Abstract: The vein stabilizer is a small device that: 1) isolates the vein, so it cannot roll from side to side when penetrated; and 2) causes the vein to bulge toward the surface of the skin making it more apparent. The vein stabilizer includes a sterile, two-piece disposable plastic device that isolates the vein in between two plastic tabs which are similar in shape and size. One tab is fixed on the skin on one side close to the vein. The other piece is mobile and slides on an elastic band. The tabs are adjusted to the preference of the IV initiator or the situation on the other side of the vein (big vein, small vein, tortuous vein, collapsed vein, sclerous (hardened) vein, obese patient, etc.).

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for augmenting the surgical repair of soft tissue injuries, in which a first end of a bridge member attaches to a first portion of healthy tissue, and a second end of the bridge member attaches to a second portion of healthy tissue. The bridge member (or bridge members) used to augment the soft tissue repair may be interconnected or function independently. Flexibility and elasticity of the bridge member are determined by the situation and may be altered to improve healing. The device may be used in arthroscopic procedures, and may be manufactured in a variety of lengths, or may be manufactured one length and be cut to the desired length, or otherwise altered to provide an optimal length of the bridge member.