Abstract: A biopsy device comprises a biopsy instrument, suitable for collecting at least one tissue sample from a body lumen, such as a mammary duct, and a cutter introducer sized for receiving the biopsy instrument and introducing the biopsy instrument into a mammary duct to retrieve a tissue sample therefrom.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a cap for a medical device. The cap includes a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of an end effector assembly of the medical device, and a tissue removal portion attached to the body and configured to remove a tissue sample disposed within the end effector assembly when the cavity is not accommodating the end effector assembly. Embodiments of the invention also may include a medical kit including a medical device and a cap and a method of performing a medical procedure with the cap.

Abstract: Weight-shift activity is measured by small, flat, low-cost pressure sensors placed under the cushion in the seat of the wheelchair. A wireless communications device such as a Blackberry™ page processes data received from the pressure sensors and transfers the electronic records to a central database periodically or in near real-time. The information about activity and weight shift exercises is stored at the central database where it may be accessed and viewed by Internet users. Historical records of an individual's activity may be presented to the individual and authorized caregivers through secure web pages. This activity information will encourage the wheelchair user to perform regular weight shift exercises and will allow caregivers to intervene when high-risk periods of inactivity are detected.

Abstract: The device is a portable non-invasive device which uses purely mechanical components to measure the hardness of muscle or muscle compartment. It is comprised of two long members coupled rotationally in a scissor-like manner with the handles on one side of the hinge and the graspers on the other side. Built onto the device is a mechanism to modulate the extent of compression of the muscle via a calibrated block situated across the members so that a predetermined amount of compression of the muscle will occur as the distance between the handles is decreased manually by the operator. The force necessary to compress the muscle by the set predetermined amount is measured by the distention of the spring mechanism attached to the handle.

Abstract: Reflective apparatus and method by which energy is radiated in divergent fashion from an elongated source and is reflected by a first parabolic reflector as a paraxial beam, focused by a second parabolic reflector onto a hyperbolic reflector and reflectively concentrated by the hyperbolic reflector at a focus at a distance from the source. The system also shields the point from extraneous radiation that would not be concentrated at the point. In one exemplary application, electromagnetic energy radiated from a point or linear source is focused by the multiple reflector system to a very high concentration at a point, for example, within an organism such as a human or animal body.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for producing an intracorporeal pressure pulse comprising a pressure pulse source configured to generate a collimated pressure pulse and an acoustic lens including at least one ring-shaped focusing section configured to focus a pressure pulse generated by the pressure pulse source substantially to the vicinity of the central axis of the ring-shaped focusing section.

Abstract: A transducer seal designed to seal an open aperture of a transducer housing for a therapeutic ultrasound procedure. The seal has a membrane, a retainer and a mating device for locking in place with the transducer housing. The membrane is essentially transparent to ultrasound energy while being stretched taut about the retainer. The transducer seal may be made in a disposable or re-usable form.

Abstract: A method for determining a chest pressure profile for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) includes the steps of representing a hemodynamic circulation model based on a plurality of difference equations for a patient, applying an optimal control (OC) algorithm to the circulation model, and determining a chest pressure profile. The chest pressure profile defines a timing pattern of externally applied pressure to a chest of the patient to maximize blood flow through the patient. A CPR device includes a chest compressor, a controller communicably connected to the chest compressor, and a computer communicably connected to the controller. The computer determines the chest pressure profile by applying an OC algorithm to a hemodynamic circulation model based on the plurality of difference equations.

Abstract: A motor vehicle seat having massage units positioned therein and controllable by each user including neck, back and seat. Each massage unit is comprised of a housing having rotational and vibratory members therein that when energized extend beyond the housing in an operative position. When powered off the rotational and vibratory members retract into the housing.

Abstract: A physical therapy apparatus having a padded top surface upon which a patient comfortably reclines in the face up position with the spinal area being placed in contact respective a plurality of massaging members. The massaging members are recessed within the padded top and have a massaging members extending into contact with the patients back while jointly moved along the spine with the members being individually rapidly oscillated in a circular pattern at a selected magnitude of pressure and rate of travel.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing dry hydrotherapy to a reclined human subject in a home or commercial environment. The systems include an enclosed tub with an external support frame and an internal operational frame. The enclosed tub includes a multi-layer cover upon which the human subject may recline to receive the hydrotherapy. The cover includes an open netting layer attached to a perimeter edge of the tub for supporting the weight of the user and a pliable waterproof layer positioned over the netting for containing the liquid used in the hydrotherapy while still transferring the massaging force of the liquid to the user. The liquid is directed under pressure against the underside of the cover with a moveable liquid jet source positioned on a track within the tub. A liquid circulation system cycles the liquid through the tub enclosure in the process of providing the dry hydrotherapy. A sleep system includes a selectively inflated air mattress.

Abstract: A massage device. The massage device includes a pair of therapeutic elements and a bottom therapeutic member. The therapeutic elements are rotated by a driving shaft, driven by a driving mechanism, for supporting and massaging feet. The bottom therapeutic member is disposed between two therapeutic elements, supporting the instep of a foot. The therapeutic elements are formed along the instep.

Abstract: An immobilization apparatus incorporating a water permeable padding design that channels water away from the wearer and a method of preparing an immobilizing apparatus is described. In human or veterinary applications, the apparatus can be flushed with various solutions for cleansing of the limb beneath while avoiding the accumulation of excess moisture. The apparatus can be immersed in water then dried quickly in the open air. Subject invention allows for effective transfer of moisture away from the skin thereby avoiding skin maceration.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an orthopedic support having a flexible inner member and an exo-skeleton that is molded directly onto the flexible inner member. One aspect of the invention relates to a wrist support having a thumb spica. The wrist support includes a molded plastic exostructure supplying support for resisting motion of said wrist. An inner fabric support is attached to said molded exostructure for providing cushioning to the wrist area. A separate, attachable thumb spica member is provided for optionally configuring the wrist support to include a thumb spica.

Abstract: An osteoarthritis brace having relatively large semi-rigid cuffs for abutting the wearer's thigh and calf. In one embodiment, the semi-rigid cuffs are secured to rigid cuffs of the brace only on one side and in substantially a center of the rigid cuffs. The semi-rigid cuffs bear reaction forces created by a medial/lateral force applied to the wearer's knee by a hinge of the brace. The semi-rigid cuffs provide flesh containment, distribute loads over a large portion of the wearer's flesh, eliminate pinch points and provide enhanced fitting capabilities.

Abstract: A vaginal cleaning device includes an elongated applicator including an axial support post having a front end and a rear end, a head with a rear surface connected to the front end of the axial support post; a circular disk disposed around the rear end of the axial support post; and a flexible absorbent material disposed around the axial support post between the head and the circular disk. The device has an elongated handle with a front end connected to the rear end of the elongated applicator, a hollow tube with a front open end and a rear open end, disposed around the elongated applicator, and a removable lid on the front open end of the hollow tube. Also disclosed is a method of using the personal vaginal cleaning device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for ultrafiltration of blood operating by removing blood from a peripheral blood vessel at a rate of less than two percent of total cardiac output of a patient, extracting fluid at a rate of 0.1 liter to 1.0 liters per hour while retaining cells and proteins in the blood, and returning the concentrated blood to a secondary blood vessel is disclosed. Blood is removed and returned using small gage needles. As a pump circulates blood from the patient, a filter removes ultrafiltrate from the blood using duty cycle or pump control, and a transparent container collects the removed fluid.

Abstract: An implantable fluid management device, designed to drain excess fluid from a variety of locations in a living host into a second location within the host, such as the bladder of that host. The device may be used to treat ascites, chronic pericardial effusions, normopressure hydrocephalus, hydrocephalus, pulmonary edema, or any fluid collection within the body of a human, or a non-human mammal.

Abstract: A rapid infusion system for the intravenous delivery of fluids at standard and rapid flow rates. The system includes a pump assembly, a drive assembly to power the pump, and a fluid containment system that keeps the infused fluid out of direct contact with the pump assembly and that is preferably disposable and removable. In one embodiment the drive assembly includes a differential drive that interacts with more than one motor. In one embodiment, the pump assembly includes a roller pump and the pump chamber is a collapsible, preformed tube that is preferably attached to a pump cartridge frame. Optionally, the system includes a self-leveling drip chamber and the fluid containment system is disposable and includes a pump cartridge containing the drip chamber and the pump chamber, I.V. tubing, outlet infusion tubing, and a heater cartridge.

Abstract: A dual-chamber type prefilled syringe comprises a cylindrical body within which a front plug member, a middle plug member and an end plug member are hermetically fitted to form a first chamber and a second chamber. The cylindrical body has an inner surface formed with a bypass. When the middle plug member moves to a position where the bypass is formed, the first chamber is communicated with the second chamber for the first time via the bypass. In this beginning state of liquid transfer (S), an inner volume (VS) of the cylindrical body between a leading end of the cylindrical body and a rear end of the front plug member is set to be at least 60% of a volume (VC) of a second component. When liquid component within the second chamber flows into the first chamber, it is possible to prevent part of the liquid component from passing through the first chamber to reach a portion for attaching an injection needle at a leading end of the cylindrical body.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An infusion set comprises a base member (60), an introducer cap (64), and an infusion cap (54). The base member (60) preferably comprises a soft cannula (52) extending from a lower side (118) of the base member (60), and a port (62) on an upper side (92) thereof. The port (62) is configured to be in fluid communication with the cannula (52). The port (62) also comprises a septum (130) adapted to seal the port (62) against unwanted fluid flow. The introducer cap (64) is adapted to be mounted to the base member (60) and has a needle (66) adapted to extend through the septum (130) and said soft cannula (52) in an assembled position. The infusion cap (54) comprises a lumen (160) adapted to receive an elongate flexible tube (162). The infusion cap (54) also comprises a hard cannula (170) adapted to be inserted through the septum (130) and to place said soft cannula (52) in fluid communication with said lumen (160).

Abstract: A splash shield system for use in combination with various irrigation sources, particularly wide mouth irrigation squeeze bottles.

Abstract: The absorbent article provides a signal viewable from the top surface of the absorbent article which gives a perception of depth within the absorbent article. This creation of depth perception is accomplished by the use of at least two tones within a color and/or by the use of multiple tones and multiple colors operating together to create a perception of depth within the absorbent article.

Abstract: A central venous catheter comprises a catheter body having a plurality of lumens extending longitudinally therein. At least one of the lumens extends longitudinally through the catheter body from its proximal end to an exit port at its distal end, and at least one other lumen extends longitudinally through the catheter body to a closed distal portion of the catheter body. The catheter body further includes a sideport positioned to establish communication between the closed-end lumen and an area exterior to the catheter body. The catheter body further includes a flexible member, such as a coiled spring, in the closed-end lumen in a space between the sideport and the closed end.

Abstract: A catheter assembly allowing for non-contaminated insertion of the catheter into the urinary canal. The catheter assembly includes a urinary catheter, a catheter package and a sealing member. The urinary catheter defines a conduit and has a proximal end adapted for insertion into the urinary canal and an opposite distal end. The catheter package has a hose with a cavity for accommodation of the catheter, and a catheter outlet adapted to dismantle the proximal end of the catheter from the catheter package. The sealing member is adapted to provide a substantially liquid-tight seal between the catheter package and the urinary catheter while the catheter is being dismantled.

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 include a length dimension and a width dimension. The width dimension varies as measured along the length dimension.

Abstract: A system that can be used to perform an ophthalmic procedure. The system may include a patient support that supports a patient and a light source which can direct a beam of light onto the patient's cornea. The system may also include an airflow module that directs a flow of air above the cornea. The flow of air reduces the amount of contaminants that may become attached to the cornea during the procedure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for non-invasively treating patent foramen ovale using an ultrasound imaging system and a high intensity focused ultrasound system to selectively target high intensity ultrasound energy on either or both of a patient's septum primum or septum secundum.

Abstract: A catheter based delivery system may be used for both therapeutic and diagnostic applications. The catheter based delivery system includes a catheter having a distal end. The distal end of the catheter includes several electrodes that can emit a radio frequency waveform, and may receive a signal representative of an impedance of material in the exposed to the radio frequency waveform. The radio frequency waveform may also be applied to ablate specifically targeted material exposed to the radio frequency waveform. The several electrodes may be configured as an antenna.

Abstract: Devices and methods for cooling microwave antennas are disclosed herein. The cooling systems can be used with various types of microwave antennas. One variation generally comprises a handle portion with an elongate outer jacket extending from the handle portion. A microwave antenna is positioned within the handle and outer jacket such that cooling fluid pumped into the handle comes into contact directly along a portion of the length, or a majority of the length, or the entire length of the antenna to allow for direct convective cooling. Other variations include cooling sheaths which form defined cooling channels around a portion of the antenna. Yet another variation includes passively-cooled systems which utilize expandable balloons to urge tissue away from the surface of the microwave antenna as well as cooling sheaths which are cooled through endothermic chemical reactions. Furthermore, the microwave antennas themselves can have cooling lumens integrated directly therethrough.

Abstract: A spring-tip, flexible electrode, and a method for using that electrode for tissue ablation, are disclosed. The spring-tip, flexible electrode comprises an enshrouded flexible electrode (e.g., an enshrouded plurality of flexible brush filaments or bristles) for applying ablative energy (e.g., RF energy) to target tissue during the formation of spot or continuous linear lesions. The spring of the spring tip may comprise compressible coils, compressible mesh, or compressible bellows, among other things. The spring provides axial suspension and is capable of axial compression and extension, and is flexible enough for deflection and bending. The axial suspension of the spring tip facilitates the desired contact between the electrode and the tissue surface. A shielded, spring-tip, flexible electrode is also disclosed, and includes a flexible nipple or shield. The spring-tip, flexible electrode facilitates enhanced tissue contact in difficult environments (e.g.

Abstract: A catheter apparatus is provided for use in the treatment of heart arrhythmia having a catheter shaft, a mapping and ablation catheter disposed within the shaft, and a control mechanism coupled to both the shaft and catheter. The catheter shaft includes a main body and a coaxial tip section joined to the main body. The tip section can be rotated about a central axis and curved away from the central axis in a controlled manner. The mapping and ablation catheter can be extended outward from the catheter shaft where it is able to take the form of a pre-stressed curve. The control mechanism controls axial rotation of the tip section, the degree of deflection of the tip section and longitudinal movement of the mapping and ablation catheter with respect to the catheter shaft. Preferably, the mapping and ablation catheter forms a pre-stressed loop when it is fully extended from the catheter shaft.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a seal in an electrosurgical device includes placing components of the electrosurgical device within an elongated housing section, the housing section including an actuator opening, introducing the housing section within a mold filled with a liquid thermoplastic elastomer and allowing the elastomer to flow within the housing, forming an elastomeric inwardly-extending lip portion circumferentially surrounding an opening at a distal end of the electrosurgical device for introducing an electrode therein, and allowing the molded elastomer to cure and become integral with the housing to seal the components within the molded elastomer contained within the housing section. The method may also include the step of forming an elastomeric actuator seal around the actuator opening.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting device for an electrosurgical instrument, which comprises at least one gas supply line and one power supply line. Said connecting device comprises a housing into which passes the gas supply line including the power supply line disposed therein. The connecting device is also provided with a branching device that is located in the housing, and by way of which the power supply line is diverted out of the gas supply line in order to form a gas-connection end piece and a power-connection end piece, and with a plug fixed to the housing in order to make connection to a socket in an appliance or to connecting leads running to the appliance. The gas-connection end piece and the power-connection end piece are coupled to the plug and a filter is disposed within the housing in the gas-connection end piece.

Abstract: A medical device (5) is provided which comprises a catheter tube having a distal end and a lumen, and configured to assist in applying tamponage to a bleeding source in a gastrointestinal tract when flexed. A catheter tip having a catheter tip outer surface is assembled with the tube adjacent the distal end of the tube. The catheter tip comprises a probe body comprising an electrically insulative material, at least one electrode pair located on the probe body which comprises a first electrode spaced from a second electrode, and a fluid distribution manifold to direct a fluid from inside the probe body towards the tip outer surface. The manifold comprises a central passage within the probe body and a plurality of lateral passages which extend from the central passage towards the tip outer surface. An extendable injection needle is housed within the central passage to provide treatment to tissue.

Abstract: An electrosurgical medical device and method for creating thermal welds in engaged tissue. In one embodiment, at least one jaw of the instrument defines a tissue engagement plane carrying a variable resistive body of a positive temperature coefficient material that has a selected decreased electrical conductance at each selected increased temperature thereof over a targeted treatment range. The variable resistive body can be engineered to bracket a targeted thermal treatment range, for example about 60° C. to 80° C., at which tissue welding can be accomplished. In one mode of operation, the engagement plane will automatically modulate and spatially localize ohmic heating within the engaged tissue from Rf energy application across micron-scale portions of the engagement surface. In another mode of operation, a variable resistive body will focus conductive heating in a selected portion of the engagement surface.

Abstract: An aiming device for a locking nail has a first portion detachably connectable with the exposed end of the nail. An aiming arm is connected to the first portion, which, in turn, is connected to an accommodation arm portion which runs approximately parallel to the nail. The accommodation portion has at least one transverse bore for receiving a guiding sleeve. The accommodation portion being provided with a locking portion which is movable in relation to the accommodation portion against a spring force, with the transverse bore being approximately aligned towards an opening in the locking portion. The transverse bore and the opening being disposed such that when the locking portion is relaxed an accommodated guiding sleeve is held slightly clamped and the sleeve is freely movable in a position locking upon a movement of the portion against the spring force.

Abstract: A distractor frame comprises an upper pin, a lower pin positioned substantially parallel to the upper pin, a pair of adjustment mechanisms, wherein each adjustment mechanism couples to the upper pin and the lower pin such that each adjustment mechanism is positioned generally perpendicular to the upper and lower pins, wherein each adjustment mechanism comprises a shaft, a first pin connector for coupling the upper pin to the shaft, a threaded rod coupled to an end of the shaft, a cylindrical sleeve adapted for threadedly engaging the threaded rod, such that a portion of the shaft and a portion of the threaded rod may be positioned within the cylindrical sleeve, and a second pin connector coupled to the cylindrical sleeve for coupling the lower pin.

Abstract: A bone fixation assembly includes a fixation device, a cup shaped bushing, and a fastening screw. The fixation device has a through passage with an annular recess. The a fastening screw has a threaded shaft for insertion through the through passage and for threadable insertion into bone. The screw has a head with substantially frustospherical shaped side surfaces and mates with the cup shaped bushing. The annular recess in the through passage of the fixation device is configured and dimensioned to downwardly, directly, and annularly receive an upper end of the bushing under compression with a snap fit to prevent the screw from backing out of the bone fixation assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting two tissue surfaces. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the two tissue surfaces to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the tissue surfaces so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.

Abstract: A marking catheter made out of a flexible material and having a closed distal end and an open proximal end is provided. The marking catheter is sized and shaped to fit over the probe of a frameless stereotaxy system. One or more marking catheters may be positioned using the frameless stereotaxy system to define accurately an area identified in pre-operative imaging. For example, a plurality of marking catheters may be used to define physically the margins of a brain lesion. The brain lesion may then be removed to expose the positioned catheters, thereby assuring complete and effective lesion removal. The flexible catheters will move with any brain-shift occurring during lesion removal, thereby to maintain an accurate indication of the lesion margin.

Abstract: The invention relates to a suturing set for medical use, comprising a handle piece, a needle, at least partly embodied as a hollow needle and which may be fixed to the handle and a transport device, arranged within the handle, which may be displaced between two end positions for the supply of suturing material to the needle, whereby the transport device comprises a gripping device, by means of which the supplied suturing material may be grasped in one end position of the transport device and then released in the other end position of the transport device. According to the invention, the transport of the suturing material to the needle may be achieved in a simple, secure and material-protective manner, whereby the introduced suturing material, on reaching an end position of the transport device, is gripped in a clamping manner by means of displacing the transport device and is only released again on reaching the other end position of the transport device.

Abstract: An implantable surgical device having a deployed shape and an undeployed shape. The device includes an elongated flexible inflatable balloon portion and an elongated flexible and substantially inextensible band portion. The band portion has a distal end, a proximal end and a longitudinal axis therebetween. The band portion is attached to the balloon portion along an inner face thereof. When the device is in its undeployed shape at least a portion of the band portion has a concave cross section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A device for generating an artificial constriction in the gastrointestinal tract comprises a band, which can be placed annularly about a particular portion of the gastrointestinal tract, and, by means of a piston-cylinder unit, the size of the passageway opening of the portion of the gastrointestinal tract encompassed by the band is variable, and the band, in the proximity of its first end, is connected with the cylinder of the piston-cylinder unit. The band is connected in the proximity of its second end with the piston of this piston-cylinder unit.

Abstract: Lancet device including a first housing. A first guide wall is disposed within the first housing. The first guide wall includes an opening. A cap removably mounted to the first housing. A needle holding member for holding a lancet. At least a portion of the needle holding member being able to move within the opening. A first spring for biasing the needle holding member toward an extended position. The first spring surrounding a portion of the needle holding member and being disposed between the first guide wall and a shoulder of the needle holding member. A movable trigger having a first position and a second position. A movable second housing including a proximal end, a distal end and a second guide wall arranged at the proximal end. The second guide wall including an opening. A portion of the needle holding member being able to move within the opening of the second guide wall.

Abstract: An active cannula which does more than merely maintain a passage is usable to create and/or enlarge a passage, to position a scope or instrument, to move or locate tissue, etc. The cannula can vary in size or shape as needed, intraoperatively. Because a cannula of the present invention is expandable, the surgeon can make a relatively small incision, stretch the tissue with the expandable cannula, contract the cannula and remove it, allowing the skin to come back to its unstretched condition. Thus, a smaller incision can be made to fit the same size instrument. The cannulas can assume such a non-circular shape, to fit into a natural skin opening and cause less trauma. The devices can be used to seal off a space, expand an existing space or a potential space for working or visualization, move tissue (for example, to stretch an incision), or protect tissue.

Abstract: In a closure device for an opening in a layer of tissue comprising a plurality of wings which provide and/or hold bearing areas on tissue surrounding the opening, the wings are held by means of respective joints for swivelling movement on a base part.

Abstract: A pacifier assembly having a pivotally mounted cover on a shield assembly is disclosed. The assembly allows convenient protection for the nipple by being selectably moved between an open and closed position. In one embodiment, two nipples are provided on opposite sides of the shield assembly. The cover can be positioned to protect one nipple while exposing the other. Once the assembly is dropped to the floor and the sanitary condition of the exposed nipple is compromised, the cover can be moved to cover the dirtied nipple and expose the unused nipple. In another embodiment, the dual nipple pacifier includes two covers. Thus, the covers can protect both nipples simultaneously for transporting the assembly in a sanitary manner. One nipple can be exposed by pivoting one of the covers. Preferably, the covers nest within one another over the protected nipple.

Abstract: A treatment device which uses a light radiation of multiple wavelengths and pulse-shaped electromagnetic fields for the photodynamic stimulation of cells, especially cells of human tissue, and also for the activation and stimulation of light sensitive substances (PTD). The device produces energy radiation by the use of semiconductor and/or laser diodes, which emit light in several separate wavelengths due to a special operation mode and the use of tuneable diodes. The equipment consists of a stand, with which machine applicators are connected via a jointed arm. The stand is freely moveable on wheels and includes a control mechanism whereby the various parameters for therapy can be adjusted and switched on and off. The stand is also connected to a hand applicator for treatment of small tissue-areas, e.g., acupuncture points. Photodynamic substances are introduced into the tissue with a special hand applicator.