Abstract: A software system and apparatus for the collection of various measurements of the human body representing deviations from an ideal posture in several planes of motion relative to the body. A specially designed apparatus enables the correct measurements, while the software component performs an analysis of the measurements and recommends an exercise routine based on the severity of the deviations with respect to the planes of motion. The routine can be adjusted based on the flexibility and motivation of the patient as well as on the type of symptoms being experienced by the person. Additionally, physiologic factors are taken into account, such as the person's age and weight. The exercise routine is provided via a computer display, via email or via a web page available on the Internet, utilizing textual descriptions and visual and audio aids to describe the exercises.

Abstract: A monitoring system (800) is operative for receiving sensor signals and analyzing the sensor signals to identify events or conditions of interest, such as colic, with respect to a monitored animal. The sensors may be animal-borne sensors such as motion related sensors. The system (800) includes a processor (802) operative to identify the conditions of interest based on a stored pattern database (806), threshold tables (808) and heuristic engines (812). Upon identification of a condition of interest, a human expert may be consulted and alerts may be generated as required.

Abstract: Systems and methods deliver ultrasound energy to an ultrasound transducer having an impedance subject to variations. The systems and methods electrically couple an ultrasound generator to the ultrasound transducer to deliver ultrasound energy. The systems and methods deliver ultrasound energy to the ultrasound transducer at a set output frequency and at an output power level that remains essentially constant, despite variations in the impedance, based upon preprogrammed rules.

Abstract: A therapeutic micro-vibration massaging device that also generates both a dynamic induction magnetic force field and an electromagnetic photonic optical light beam field, accompanied by audible acoustic sound, that penetrates the human body, induces an increase in cellular energy and thereby promotes a curative healing effect that reduces or eliminates pain.

Abstract: The present invention is a unique compact cane adapted to provide pain relief for the user. It has the ability to apply heat and pressure to constricted muscles anywhere on the body. This device employs removable microwavable massage handles that heat to an elevated temperature to relax muscles without burning the skin. The combination of heat and pressure has been proven to relax knotted muscles. The cane is hingeably foldable.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for improving and developing the strength, coordination, balancing and proprioception of a user. Especially the present invention relates to an exercising device (10) comprising a balancing means (12) and a vibration means arranged to vibrate said balancing means (12).

Abstract: An impact table includes a table sufficiently large to support a person. The table has a drive plate engagement portion on a bottom portion of the table. A drive system comprises a drive plate having an engagement portion mechanically disposed on the drive plate. The drive plate has at least one inclined plane portion such that as the drive plate rotates, the drive plate engagement portion rises and falls upon the drive plate. An axle couples the drive plate to a drive motor such that the drive plate rotates as the drive motor rotates the axle.

Abstract: A device for exerting a compression force on a breast implant located within a user's breast. The device includes a support member adjustably connect to a compression member, the compression member comprising a positioning element on one side of the compression member such that the positioning element is aligned with medial side of the breast and a compression element on the second side of the compression member such that the compression element is positioned on lateral side of the breast, and means extending between the positioning element and the compressing element for retaining the positioning element and the compressing element on opposite sides of the breast, and means for providing pressure to the compressing element causing the compressing element to apply a compression force to the breast implant within the user's breast. Additionally a method for preventing capsular contracture after breast implant surgery is provided.

Abstract: A portable hydro massage device for submersion in a body of water containing a female user, i.e. a bathtub, provides a local massage to the labium region and a focused stimulant to the female user's clitoris thereby resulting in a superior sensation to the entire body promoting an overall euphoric state and calming effect. The apparatus employs a saddle shaped housing, where the buttocks are placed, and a saddle horn for controlling the stimulus. Disposed within the midsection of the saddle horn is a hydro jet with a driven flow from a circulating water pump that draws suction from the main body of water. The hydro jet is adjustable in pressure and a method is provided for aeration of the water discharged to allow for a rhythmic pulsation effect. The saddle horn may be held and the lower body positioned as needed to focus the discharged stream from the hydro jet to the desired point of the pelvic region.

Abstract: A therapeutic hand device comprising a first thumb-sleeve for receiving therein the thumb of a hand, a second index-finger sleeve for receiving therein the index finger of the hand, and a third middle-finger sleeve for receiving therein the middle finger of the hand. The first thumb-sleeve is connected to said second sleeve and is also connected to the third sleeve by adjustable straps. An open space is defined interiorly of, and delimited by, the first, second and third sleeves, whereby when the device is worn on a hand, an object may be inserted into the open space between the first, second and third sleeves, with the adjustable straps being used to firmly hold the thumb and fingers in a pincer hold against the object, whereby the object may be held and manipulated with support and assistance by the device.

Abstract: An ankle-foot orthosis for aiding or enhancing a user's foot and ankle movement, wherein the orthosis comprises at least one strut member, a calf shell, a foot shell, and a plurality of segments. Gaps formed between adjacent segments, an uppermost segment and the calf shell, and a lowermost segment and the foot shell have gap widths, wherein gaps at a higher location have larger gap widths than those at a lower location. Therefore, in dorsiflexion, the gaps close in series from bottom to top, gradually increasing the orthosis stiffness, creating a progressive dorsiflexion stop, and decreasing the magnitude of loads transferred into the user. In plantar flexion, the gaps similarly decrease in series from bottom to top, gradually increasing the orthosis stiffness, creating a progressive plantar flexion stop, and decreasing the magnitude of loads transferred into the user.

Abstract: A device is provided which gives protection from frictional injury to the web space between toes due to the wearing of thong-type sandals or other similar footwear. The device is comprised of a flat, flexible, medically inert, and preferably transparent plastic material which is configured in a shape which has a plantar base portion which fits under the toes and on the bottom of the foot, stabilizing the device from moving, a web spacer portion which fits between the toes and provides protection from frictional injury, and a dorsal flap portion which anchors the device to the top side of the foot.

Abstract: A transvesicular drainage device, designed to drain excess fluid from a variety of locations in the human body into the bladder. The device may be used to treat ascites or any fluid collection within the body of a human, or a non human mammal.

Abstract: Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Ultrasound catheter devices generally include an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and a distal head coupled with the transmission member and positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body for disrupting occlusions. Improved features of ultrasound catheters include catheter bodies and ultrasound transmission members with increasing distal flexibility, guidewire tubes allowing contact between a guidewire and an ultrasound transmission member, distal heads with improved guidewire lumens, and torquable proximal housings for enhancing disruption of blood vessel occlusions.

Abstract: A method of topically treating the respiratory tract of a mammal with nitric oxide exposure includes the steps of providing a source of nitric oxide containing gas and delivering the nitric oxide containing gas nasally to the upper respiratory tract of the mammal. Also provided are several designs for a nasal delivery device for the controlled nasal deliver the nitric oxide containing gas.

Abstract: A valved connector apparatus is described having an integral opening and closing system operated by axial movement of the valve. The body of the valved connector apparatus is in a Y-shaped configuration with a main channel and a lateral channel branching off of the main channel. A normally dosed, passive hemostasis valve is housed in a valve body that is slidably connected to the proximal end of the main channel. The hemostasis valve is opened by sliding the valve body distally with respect to the Y-shaped connector body so that a cylindrical extension extending from the proximal end of the Y-shaped connector body penetrates a central opening in the hemostasis valve, creating an open passage for insertion of guidewires, catheters or other instruments. The valved connector apparatus allows safe introduction of extremely flexible or fragile guidewires, catheters or other instruments.

Abstract: A nursing aid system which includes at least one breast cup and at least one nipple extender which may be integrally formed with the breast cup or which may comprise a separate piece. The breast cup has a concave breast receiving portion and a hollow generally cylindrical nipple receiving portion located on and projecting away from the breast receiving portion, the nipple receiving portion having a remote end which includes a milk delivery aperture. The nipple extender, if separately formed, may be slidably received in the nipple receiving portion of the breast cup and has an axial length less than the length of the nipple receiving portion. The nipple extender provides at least one flow channel for conducting milk from the mother's nipple to the milk delivery aperture and is preferably sized and configured to occupy most of the space in the nipple receiving portion of the breast cup which is not occupied by a mother's nipple.

Abstract: A balloon catheter. The balloon is of a composite material having the flexibility and elastic characteristics of an elastomeric material, yet exhibiting the growth limits of inelastic materials. The balloon may be provided in various shapes. The balloon may be treated to maintain a substantially constant length during inflation and deflation. The balloon may be provided with regions of porosity for the delivery of therapeutic agents, and may be treated to exhibit regions of distinct compliance. Also disclosed is an apparatus, which may be used to impart the regions of distinct compliance into the balloon.

Abstract: A dilatation balloon formed of a first material and further including at least one first plasma polymerized layer which forms the top most surface of the balloon, and a method of making the same.

Abstract: A delivery device for patient-controlled infusion of a medicament, the delivery device comprising a reservoir for the medicament and a pump having a predetermined delivery dose which is capable of displacing the medicament from the reservoir and delivering it to a patient, wherein the pump comprises a pumping means, a first conduit, capable of restricting flow rate, chosen in conjunction with the delivery dose of the pumping means to define a predetermined maximum dosage rate, said conduit connecting the reservoir to a pumping means, a one-way valve in fluid communication with the first conduit and the pumping means which permits medicament flow into the pumping means but prevents reverse flow, a controlling means, and a second conduit extending from the pumping means and having a distal end through which the medicament may be released, wherein the controlling means: (a) is in fluid communication with the pumping means and the second conduit; (b) opens when pressured within the dose chamber exceeds a predeter

Abstract: The present invention provides a safety needle/catheter system and method of use for dialysis procedures. The invention includes a safety feature that prevents inadvertent needle sticks by administrators. The invention further includes a catheter portion composed of shape memory materials. The catheter portion has a deformed shape and size that facilitates insertion of the catheter portion and closure of the catheter incision and a recovered shape and size that can reduce the severity of infection and/or clotting, as well as provide improved maintenance and control over proper fluid volume flow during dialysis.

Abstract: A device for collecting spinal fluid during a lumbar puncture or other medical procedure includes: a) an upper, generally cup-shaped portion including an open top, an upper cup side wall, an upper cup base plate at a lower end of the upper cup side wall, and a drain hole in the upper cup base plate; b) a lower, generally cup-shaped portion including an open top, a lower cup side wall, and a lower cup base plate at a lower end of the lower cup side wall, the lower cup base plate including a plurality of generally circular openings; wherein the upper, generally cup-shaped portion is removably insertable in and rotatable in the lower, generally cup-shaped portion, and the upper, generally cup-shaped portion includes a rotation mechanism for rotating the upper, generally cup-shaped portion in the lower cup-shaped portion.

Abstract: This invention is an automatic or semi-automatic bladder relief system which increases sanitation and comfort for users requiring a means to dispose of urine in the absence of sanitary facilities, such as aircraft pilots and incontinent individuals. This invention incorporates an inflatable urine collection means that may be deflated after use. The power unit incorporates a battery that is integrated into a disposable urine storage bag or into a disposable female pad or male cup. This invention utilizes a disposable urine storage bag with an isolated cleaning fluid chamber with a directional valve and pump system automatically rinsing and sanitizing the pump, hoses, collection means and the user with a cleaning fluid stored in the cleaning fluid chamber of the disposable urine storage bag. The disposable urine storage bag contains absorbent polymer crystals absorbing the urine as it is deposited in the bag during use.

Abstract: A method of providing a series of types of pant-like garments and corresponding information to consumers. The series includes two or more pant-like garments, each of the garments corresponding to a stage of toilet training. Each of the garments in the series may differ from one another in terms of absorbent capacity, size, and/or features. The information provided to the consumer helps the consumer discern which garment from the series is most appropriate for a child in a specific stage of the toilet training process.

Abstract: A disposable diaper having a backsheet that defines a garment facing surface and an outer surface provided with an adhesive tape for holding the diaper in a rolled-up state. The adhesive tape includes fastening and reinforcing tapes. The fastening tape is folded back in an inner tape section and an outer tape section. The inner tape section is fixed near its end to the backsheet and spaced from the backsheet near a folded portion that is contiguous to the outer tape section. The outer tape section is coated with an adhesive and temporarily fixed to the inner tape section. The reinforcing tape is folded back in two sections in a direction opposite to that in which the fastening tape is folded back. The reinforcing tape is fixed to the inner tape section near the folded portion and is also to the backsheet.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for treating congestive heart by actively or passively enhancing perfusion to the renal arteries. A first embodiment comprises a specially configured balloon catheter and extracorporeal pump, wherein the pump operates in a “once-through” fashion or alternating volume displacement mode. In another embodiment the catheter includes a pair of balloons to isolate a region of the aorta, and a third balloon that directs flow into the renal arteries. In still further embodiments, a stent or cuff having a constricted region is deployed in or around the aorta, respectively, to create a backpressure upstream of the stent or cuff. Methods of enhancing renal perfusion also are provided.

Abstract: Improvements in a mini-osmotic pump and coating compositions are described. The dispensing pump includes an inner fluid-filled bag encased by an osmotic layer and outer, semi-permeable membrane. The inner bag is formed with an arcuate edge at the open end of the bag to inhibit formation of fissures in the outer membrane in this edge region. The coating compositions include cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate propionate, and polymethylmethacrylate polymers, optionally mixed with ethyl cellulose in acetone based solvent systems.

Abstract: There is disclosed a sanitary tampon including an absorber including: an absorbent layer made of an absorbent fibrous material; and a hydrophobic liquid-permeable layer covering the absorbent layer. The absorber is formed firstly into a flat shape and then into a column shape. The absorbent layer forming the flat absorber is formed with a plurality of small recesses which open in the surface of the absorbent layer and extend into the absorbent layer.

Abstract: An installation for delivering calories to all or part of human or animal cell tissue via a liquid comprises: a heating unit heating the liquid; an injection unit injecting the liquid into the heating unit; a dispenser for dispensing the heated liquid; and a transporter for transporting the liquid from the heating unit to the dispenser. The installation allows the heated liquid to be dispensed from the dispensing means in a pulsed operation.

Abstract: A device for creating the lesions in body tissue includes a support element having an electromagnetic energy emitting region. When caused to emit electromagnetic energy, the region creates a single continuous lesion that is long and thin, having a length that is substantially greater than its width.

Abstract: A one-piece, single-use disposable device for transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) of prostate tissue to alleviate BPH is disclosed. The device may include a flexible catheter tip including a rigid core and a flexible tip. The device may also include a single use lockout to help ensure that the device is used to perform only one ablation procedure on a single patient. The device may further include a simplified needle deployment mechanism and/or an automatic needle retraction mechanism.

Abstract: Method, system and apparatus for carrying out accurate electrosurgical cutting. A thin resilient electrode is utilized at the forward end region of an instrument which is deployable from a longitudinally disposed slot positioned rearwardly of the tip of the instrument. Lateral sides of the slot extend between a forward location adjacent the tip and a rearward location. The electrode is deployed by urging it forwardly in compression to form an arch profile supported by the abutting slot sides adjacent the forward and rearward locations. Electrosurgically excitable with a cutting output, the electrode may carry out a cutting action both during its deployment and retraction into the noted slot. This permits a pivoting maneuver effective for circumscribing a volume of targeted tissue.

Abstract: A method for skin treatment comprises the steps of delivering at least one pulse of radio frequency power to at least one electrode in order to create an electric field; passing gas through the electric field in order to form plasma from the gas; and applying the plasma to the surface of skin. The amount of radio frequency power may be relatively low such that the application of plasma causes denaturation of collagen within the collagen-containing tissue beneath the skin surface, which may promote the generation of new collagen within the collagen-containing tissue.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis device having an elastically deformable connection system including a deformable connection member wherein a in a sagittal plane, determined stiffness for exerting in a return force on flexion-extension movements between the fixing portions, and in a frontal plane perpendicular to the sagittal plane, determined stiffness for exerting return force on lateral inflexion movements between the fixing portions.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fixation system is composed of a collection of anchoring assemblies attached, via a variety of connectors, to spine-stabilizing rods. The anchoring assemblies include a linking member attached in a ball-and-socket fashion to a bone-engaging member that is adapted to engage a spinal bone of a patient. The linking member joins one of the included connectors to an associated bone-engaging member. The connectors are selectively attached to one of the stabilizing rods. The anchoring assemblies each include a support collar and a split retention ring that cooperate to allow adjustment of the bone-engaging member and corresponding connector during surgery. When surgery is complete, a linear engaging fastener cooperates with the support collar and split retention ring to maintain the relative position of the entire fixation system, preventing unwanted movement between the system components.

Abstract: An implant is described having a shaft and a holding element connected therewith for connecting with a rod. A recess is provided in the holding element that includes a U-shaped cross section for accommodation of the rod and two free legs at one end which include an inner thread. A closure element fixes the rod inserted into the U-shaped recess. The closure element has an outer thread cooperating with the inner thread of the legs. An abutment at or in the holding element limits tilting of the closure element about the rod at the time of final tightening of the closure element in the holding element.

Abstract: A system and method for immobilizing adjacent spinous processes in accordance with the present invention can supplement primary fusion devices and methods by immobilizing spinous processes while bone from adjacent vertebral bodies grows together. The system requires less extensive surgical procedures than other common supplemental devices, and preferably does not require bone or ligament removal. One such system comprises three spacers positioned between spinous processes and adjustably connected with a plate positioned on either side of the spinous processes. Each plate includes grips, with each grip positioned adjacent to the spinous process, forming a clamp with a grip connected with the opposing plate.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis plate designed for osteosynthesis of displaced fracture of the upper end of the arm bone includes a T-shaped main body (2) whereof the longitudinal branch (3) and the transverse branch (4) are respectively perforated with holes (5, 6, 8) for passing through screws for anchoring and fixing the plate against the outer profile of a bone, and fixing lugs (9) which extend from each side of the transverse branch (4) of the main body (2), the lugs being less thick than the main body and perforated with holes (10) which co-operate with other anchoring screws for completely fixing bone fragments when urged in contact with the bone external profile.

Abstract: Implants (7) for forming a positive connection with human or animal parts include a material, such as thermoplastics and thixotropic materials, that can be liquefied by means of mechanical energy. The implants (7) are brought into contact with the tissue part, are subjected to the action of ultrasonic energy while being pressed against the tissue part. The liquefiable material liquefies and is pressed into openings or surface asperities of the tissue part so that, once solidified, the implant is positively joined thereto. The implantation involves the use of an implantation device that includes a generator (2), an oscillating element, and a resonator (6). The generator (2) causes the oscillating element to mechanically oscillate, and the element transmits the oscillations to the resonator (6). The resonator (6) is used to press the implant (7) against the tissue part to transmit oscillations to the implant (7).

Abstract: An adjustable resection guide is provided for guiding cutting of the tibia and/or femur during knee replacement surgery.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for implanting a prosthetic through a less invasive procedure. Generally, an instrument is provided to allow for a torque transfer along a non-linear line. Therefore, an incline can be provided without obstructing the view of a user using the instrument.

Abstract: The tightening instrument is made up of two parts (2,4) joined to each other by means which are designed to automatically uncouple the said two parts (2,4) by shearing rupture of a pin (8) when a predetermined tightening torque is reached, a first (2) of the two parts being provided with a means (3) permitting driving, characterized in that the second (4) of the two parts is a rod whose end (5) opposite its tightening end (6) is adapted to be introduced into a complementary recess (7) formed in the first part (2), and in that the said end (5) includes an axial reservoir (15) for receiving the broken end section (18) of the pin (8).

Abstract: A plunger needle (3) for an intraocular lens injector has a plunger tip (4) with a contact area for making contact with a lens (L), the contact area being arranged in a front face (40) of the plunger tip (4), which is curved cylindrically. The plunger needle (3) according to the invention, with its specially configured plunger tip (3), permits reliable guiding of the lens (L) upon injection into an eye and prevents the lens (L) becoming stuck in the injector. It is also easy to produce.

Abstract: A first part of the inventive instrument comprises an insertion and removal device in the form of an endoscope which may be inserted through the mouth, pharynx, esophagus and stomach into the small intestine. The inside lumen of the endoscope contains two extendable tools. One extendable tool has a balloon on its end, which may be inflated and deflated. The other extendable tool contains optical fibers for photopolymerizing adhesives and sealants. The second part of the inventive instrument comprises a tubular lining for implantation in and lining of the small intestine, to prevent food from being absorbed into the villi. The lining is anchored in position by means of medical-grade adhesives that are contained on or applied to a mesh sleeve on one end of the lining. The adhesive-coated sleeve is then expanded and glued to the intestine. In operation the lining expands outwardly as digesting food chemicals enter the lining.

Abstract: A transmission system of eyebrow-beautifying device is disclosed. A lever member has two contacts at bottoms of both sides. The contacts rest on a periphery of a wear-resistant member. A pivot point of a transmission unit and the lever member is disposed above the contacts. A torque of the lever member is substantially the same as that of the transmission unit. A rate of wear between the lever member and the wear-resistant member is substantially the same as that between the transmission unit and the lever member. That is, no amplification of error or wear may exist therebetween. Hence, the prior drawback of deterioration of vibration of the motor shaft caused by serious wear of the action block is completely eliminated.

Abstract: A multiple stapling device for stapling a graft to a vessel. The device includes a body having a plurality of staple channels housing straight wire segments extending therethrough. A plurality of staple drivers, one in each of the staple channels is adapted to push the straight wire segments to form ring-shaped staples piercing the graft and the vessel. The multiple stapling device may also include one or more bolsters filling the annular space created by they ring-shaped staples. One such bolster may be formed, or otherwise connected to, the prosthesis.

Abstract: Embodiments of a medical device and methods for percutaneously treating a heart valve. In one embodiment, the medical device has a first cardiac tissue fastener having a first lock, a second cardiac tissue fastener having a second lock, and a chord coupled to the first and second fasteners. Pulling the chord engages the first lock with the second lock.

Abstract: Improvements to external stents to render incompetent venous valves competent are disclosed. The device is an inelastic bio-compatible cuff (1) that encircles the venous valve cusps (15) decreasing the internal diameter of the vein wall (11) to allow apposition of the cusps (15) and create competence. The device may be calibrated to known diameters to create competence for different phenotypes. The different diameters are indicated by holes (2, 3, 4) in the body (1). The buckle attachment (6) allows the body of the device to become conical or inverted to become pyramidal as appropriate. The wide buckle (5) allows the device to become elliptical at smaller diameters. The angle of the notches (10) in the device is approximately 15°, which allows better overriding at the sapheno-femoral junction resulting in better competence of the valve.

Abstract: A device and method for achieving hemostasis and leakage control in vascular structures and other body ducts or vessels in an emergency room or trauma situation. The device has at least one shunt that contains an obturator on an end of the shunt. The shunt is inserted into a damaged vessel or lumen for sealing the leak or hemorrhage. Two shunts that both contain obturators on one of their ends can be inserted into two different vessels or lumens when the vessel or lumen has been severed. The obturators allow for the improved ease of insertion into the vessel or lumen. The two shunts are then releasably attached to restore fluid communication through the vessel or lumen. The shunt is placed temporarily within the patient and then removed when definitive repair can be achieved by a qualified physician.

Abstract: An piercing member is axially fixed to and positioned within a cutter, both of which are components of a stand-alone tool for creating an opening in the wall of a tubular tissue structure. The stand-alone tool includes an impulse source connected to the piercing member and to the cutter. An actuator is operationally connected to the impulse source, where the actuator causes the impulse source to release energy to and provide an impulse to the piercing member and the cutter. The tool may be configured to make multiple openings in the tissue of the same patient. Where the tool is configured to make multiple openings in the tissue of the same patient, the tool allows the piercing member and cutter to be moved back to an initial pre-deployment position after each use.