Patents Issued in April 24, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080097362
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a urinary catheter gripping device for use with a urinary catheter located within a urinary catheter pouch. In one aspect, the urinary catheter pouch has a port defined in its exterior surface, whereby the port is in communication with the interior cavity of the urinary catheter pouch. In this aspect, the urinary catheter is substantially disposed therein the pouch and is configured to selectively pass therethrough the port. The gripping device can be positioned on the pouch at any convenient location that aids in the holding of the catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Theodore J. Mosler, Todd M. Korogi, Scott P. Jarnagin, John H. Golden
  • Publication number: 20080097363
    Abstract: A pant type absorbent article having a front region (2), a back region (3) and a crotch region (4) between the front region and back region, the front and back regions being joined to each other along two opposite side edges (2a, 3a) of the article so as to form side joint regions (10). The article further includes at least one fastener (12) joined to at least one of the front and back regions for allowing the article to be secured in a configuration that provides a convenient disposal after the article has been used and/or a reclosure of the article if opened during use. The fastener (12) is disposed in the side joint region (10) and is hidden between the joined side edges of the back and front regions during normal use of the article, and is exposed upon tearing open at least a part of the side joint region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: SCA HYGIENE PRODUCTS AB
    Inventors: Ingemar Fernfors, Birgitta Karlsson
  • Publication number: 20080097364
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a sanitary napkin or sanitary pad color-packaged, comprising the steps: (1) producing a number of finished sanitary articles; (2) packaging the finished articles with a warp material printed with non-uniformly distributed graphic design elements varying in color and shape to produce a number of inner package showing different graphic design elements; and (3) packaging a number (for example 10) of the inner packages having varying graphic design elements on the wrap with a transparent wrap material to product a larger package convenient for transportation and sale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Yinhai YANG
  • Publication number: 20080097365
    Abstract: A disposable diaper includes a water impervious envelope disposed adjacent to a diaper inner layer, an opening in the envelope positioned to substantially bisect a portion of the diaper wherein the opening is opposite the inner layer and provides a seal when the envelope is inverted. The envelope may be attached to the inner layer opposite the area of the bisected portion of the diaper. The seal may be an interlocking groove and ridge, adhesive or a tape strip. The diaper may include one or more outer layers. The envelope may provide a substantial moisture barrier for the diaper. The envelope opening may be frangibly accessible through an outer layer, for example a frangible zone in the outer layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Louis Guthrie
  • Publication number: 20080097366
    Abstract: A tampon (101) having an insertion end (105) and a withdrawal end (106), and a withdrawal string (104) extending from the withdrawal end (106), the tampon (101) having a fibrous absorbent tampon body having multi-limbed viscose fibers, said tampon body having an inner core (108) and an outer absorbent structure (109) surrounding the inner core (108), the inner core (108) being more dense than the outer absorbent structure (109). The inner core (108) is made of a fibrous blend having 0-25% by weight of multilimbed viscose fibers and the outer absorbent structure (109) is made of a fibrous blend having 30-100% by weight of multilimbed viscose fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Steve Mathews
  • Publication number: 20080097367
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an expandable diaper. The present invention provide a new type of diaper which minimizes the area to be in contact with skin of a wearer, maximizes the absorption of excrement, and preventing the excrement from sticking to the skin of the wearer, by forming a portion of the diaper to be expandable or forming a wrinkled portion on the diaper, thus preventing various skin diseases even though the wearer puts on the diaper for a long time, and protecting the skin of the wearer from various skin troubles due to the excrement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Jeong Wook Jeon
  • Publication number: 20080097368
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are fasteners for disposable absorbent articles and disposable absorbent articles that include the fasteners. The disclosed fasteners generally are free of release tape and adhesives requiring those tapes. At the same time, the disclosed fasteners can be maintained in a closed position prior to the fastener's (and the disposable absorbent article's) use and during the process by which the article is manufactured. While maintainable in this closed position, the fastener may be easily opened by the consumer such that the fastener can be then used for its intended purpose, such as, for example to form a side closure on a diaper around the waist and legs of an infant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: John Molander
  • Publication number: 20080097369
    Abstract: An absorbent article (101) for disposable use such as a diaper or an incontinence guard exhibiting a belt (128) extending in the transverse direction of the article, in conjunction with which the belt is intended to be joined together around the waist of a wearer. In accordance with the invention, the belt (128) exhibits distinguishing features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Magnus Melander
  • Publication number: 20080097370
    Abstract: An improved medication dispensing device includes an apyrexia receptacle, a transport pipeline, a perfusion device, a filter, and a dispensing needle, which operates in an environment in compliance with Class 100 laminar air ventilation. The perfusion device erected at the middle of the transport pipeline which has two ends linking to the apyrexia receptacle and the filter, respectively. In operation, the perfusion device pumps the prepared medication solution from the apyrexia receptacle to get through the filter to remove particles and bacterium, and a thin tubular dispensing needle which punctures the rubber plug of an aseptic bottle. An axial groove rendered in middle section of the dispensing needle forms a pressurized seal part with the rubber plug resiliently wrapped around at the middle of the dispensing needle to discharge redundant air pressure accumulating in the aseptic bottle while keeps outside air from entering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Ming-Hsin Li, Wuu-Jyh Lin, Cheng-Hung Chien, Jun-Chieh Tsai, Wun-Shen Lan
  • Publication number: 20080097371
    Abstract: A syringe adapter element for use in a drug mixing system including a housing element having a syringe port adapted for fluid connection with a syringe and a fluid port adapted for fluid connection with a fluid flow adapter element, a needle and at least one septum disposed in the housing element, the needle having a sealed orientation wherein the at least one septum blocks fluid flow through the needle and a fluid flow orientation wherein the needle punctures the at least one septum so as to permit fluid to flow through the needle, and an anti-separation device adjacent the fluid port, such that when the syringe adapter element is connected to a fluid flow adapter element, the anti-separation device applies a force that acts against separating the syringe adapter element from the fluid flow adapter element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Eli Shemesh
  • Publication number: 20080097372
    Abstract: A container for addition (co-infusion) of medicine to an infusion bag and aims to keep a positive sealed condition while preventing a number of parts from being increased and while maintaining a positive releasing of the sealed condition when an infusion process is carried out. A breakable lug 20 is integrally formed at a end of a port body 10 to which a soft container 80 for storing therein with a co-infusion liquid under a sealed manner, which lug 20 is able to be broken in order to obtain a release function. A rubber plug 98 of an infusion bag 90 is pierced by a needle body 11, while the port body 10 is press fitted into a straight bore of the needle body 11, so that the lug 20 is contacted with an opposed bottom wall of the needle body 11, resulting in at least partial breakage of the lug 20, thereby forming an opening 89 at the portion where the breakage is taken place, so that the medicine in the soft container 80 is transported (co-infused) into the infusion bag 90.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: AJINOMOTO CO., INC
    Inventors: Kaoru Shimizu, Yasuhiro Muramatsu
  • Publication number: 20080097373
    Abstract: The present invention may include a medical device having a handle, a catheter coupled to the handle, and an expandable element coupled to the catheter. The medical device may also include first and second elongate bodies that traverse a length of the handle and catheter. A housing may be disposed within the handle, with the housing defines a first opening able to receive a portion of the first elongate body, a second opening able to receive a portion of the second elongate body, and a third opening opposite the first and second openings able to receive a portion of both the and second elongate bodies. A separation element may be disposed within the housing, with the separation element defining a path able to receive a portion of the second elongate body, and whereby a portion of the first elongate body forms a loop around the separation element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Yixin Hu, Vladimir Tzonev, Teresa Ann Mihalik, Benoit Thibault, Dan Wittenberger, Miriam Lane, Cristian Petre
  • Publication number: 20080097374
    Abstract: An inflatable device with at least two helically wrapped passes forming a tube and an inflation means connected to said tube is provided. The tube is configured and joined in at least one area forming a low profile continuous inflatable device with multiple cross-sectional segmented areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Joseph E. Korleski, Jeffrey Towler
  • Publication number: 20080097375
    Abstract: A delivery device includes a durable housing portion and a separable disposable portion that selectively engage and disengage from each other. The disposable housing portion secures to the patient-user and may be disposed of after it has been in use for a prescribed period. Components that normally come into contact with a patient-user or with an infusion medium, including a pump device, are supported by the disposable housing portion for disposal after the prescribed use, while the durable housing portion supports other components such as electronics for controlling delivery of the infusion medium from the reservoir and a drive device and drive linkage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Rafael Bikovsky
  • Publication number: 20080097376
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of determining a strategic expression regime for a pump-dependent mother that optimizes the mother's milk production while minimizing the demands on the mother. The regime takes into account the impact of the interval between breast expressions on milk yield for individual breasts within the mother.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Peter Hartmann, Ching Lai, Leon Mitoulas
  • Publication number: 20080097377
    Abstract: A catheter system and method are provided for delivering a substance, such as medication, to body tissue. The catheter system includes a medication delivery tube and at least one heat transfer fluid passage that at least partially surrounds the medication delivery tube. The catheter system may be used to deliver temperature-sensitive substances, such as, for example thermo-sensitive polymers, to living tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: THE FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
    Inventors: Eric T. Crumpler, Mahwish Ahmed, Mayssaa El-Churafa, Haroldo S. Silva
  • Publication number: 20080097378
    Abstract: An optical device is provided which assists in accurate placement of a needle into a human or animal diarthrodial joint. The device includes a handpiece which mounts a needle assembly including an optical guide. The optical guide, which is incorporated into the lumen of the needle, transmits light from the needle tip into the joint area and receives the scattered light that is returned. The handpiece is manipulated by the user to guide the needle during placement. The returned light is processed to determine whether the needle is placed in the joint itself rather than in a location adjacent to the joint and corresponding output is produced to aid the user in effecting proper needle placement. Such placement assists in the injection of fluid into or the removal of fluid form the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen D. Zuckerman
  • Publication number: 20080097379
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for delivering a quantity of a substance into an eye. By applying compressed gas into an actuation chamber, a separating member connected to a lock mechanism and a plunger is displaced. The plunger displaces the quantity of the substance from a dispensing member and into an eye. The plunger is retained in an extended position so that the quantity of the substance is not retracted back into the dispensing member when the dispensing member is removed from the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Bruno Dacquay, James Foster, Mark Hopkins, Lamar Kirchhevel, Cesario Dos Santos, Salomon Valencia
  • Publication number: 20080097380
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating variable stiffness along a soft tissue region is disclosed herein generally having an implantable device of bio-absorbable or biodegradable material. The implantable device has a drug of variable concentration along the length of the device to promote formation of an abscess and/or induce tissue necrosis following placement of the device in soft tissue. The abscess and/or tissue necrosis forms scar tissue having a variable stiffness along the soft tissue which in turn reduces the vibration of the soft tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Kasey K. Li
  • Publication number: 20080097381
    Abstract: A delivery device includes a durable housing portion and a separable disposable portion that selectively engage and disengage from each other. The disposable housing portion secures to the patient-user and may be disposed of after it has been in use for a prescribed period. Components that normally come into contact with a patient-user or with infusion medium are supported by the disposable housing portion, while the durable housing portion supports other components such as electronics and a drive device. A reservoir is supported by the disposable housing portion and has a moveable plunger that operatively couples to the drive device, when the disposable and durable housing portions are engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Sheldon B. Moberg, Ian B. Hanson, Paul F. Bente, Ruth Marie Tieck, Julian D. Kavazov, R. Paul Mounce
  • Publication number: 20080097382
    Abstract: A method of inserting a dialysis catheter into a patient comprising the steps of inserting a guidewire into the jugular vein of the patient through the superior vena cava and into the inferior vena cava, providing a trocar having a lumen and a dissecting tip, inserting the trocar to enter an incision in the patient and to create a subcutaneous tissue tunnel, threading the guidewire through the lumen of the trocar so the guidewire extends through the incision, providing a dialysis catheter having first and second lumens, removing the trocar, and inserting the dialysis catheter over the guidewire through the incision and through the jugular vein and superior vena cava into the right atrium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: James McGuckin, Paul Tashjian, Michael Paris, Peter Hinchliffe
  • Publication number: 20080097383
    Abstract: A cardioplegia catheter system for delivery of a cardioplegia solution, comprising a cardioplegia catheter comprising an elongate tubular catheter body that defines a continuous central lumen and a flange that is connected to and extends therefrom an exterior surface of the catheter body, the flange defining a plurality of suture openings that extend therethrough the flange from a top surface to a bottom surface thereof. The cardioplegia system further comprising at least one stay suture and at least one suture capture stylet having a distal portion that is adapted to extend through one suture opening of the plurality of suture openings in the flange of the catheter body, wherein the distal portion of the rod has a shape that is adapted for slideably grasping a portion of the at least one stay suture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: EMORY UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Jakob Vinten-Johansen
  • Publication number: 20080097384
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for introducing nucleic acid (30) into cells of a region of the human or animal body, which method comprises substantially occluding an efferent vessel from said body region and introducing said nucleic into that body region under pressure via said efferent vessel and further apparatus for introducing nucleic acid into cells of a region of the body comprising: a reservoir for holding a liquid formulation which comprises said nucleic acid; a catheter tube in fluid communication with said reservoir for conveying said liquid formulation to said body region via an efferent vessel of said body region; pressure development means for pressurising the liquid conveyed by the catheter; and occlusion means (8) for substantially occluding said efferent vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew Pacey
  • Publication number: 20080097385
    Abstract: Provided herein is a method of postconditioning reperfusion of an organ or tissue injured by ischemia in combination with the administration of one or more tissue protective agents that enhance the effect of postconditioning. Also provided is a method of treating a myocardial infarction in a subject to prevent injury to the heart following reperfusion of the heart in combination with the administration of one or more tissue protective agents that enhance the effect of postconditioning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Jakob Vinten-Johansen, Zhi-Qing Zhao
  • Publication number: 20080097386
    Abstract: A vascular introducer includes a proximal hub portion with an interior bore, an elongated sheath extending distally from the hub portion, with a lumen in communication with the interior bore of the hub portion, and a hemostatic valve disposed within the bore of the hub portion. The hemostatic valve has a passage extending therethrough, and includes a sealing flap movable between an open position relative to the passage and a closed position relative to the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas Osypka
  • Publication number: 20080097387
    Abstract: A delivery system for dispensing sterile liquids into the oral cavity using a novel pre-angled needle hub assembly attached to a standard anesthetic syringe loaded with a novel cartridge ampule containing a certain liquid solution. This system substantially improves the efficiency of delivering small amounts of sterile fluid into the oral cavity by hypodermic means or by irrigation means using pre-angled needles or cannulas to reach otherwise impossible-to-reach locations within the oral cavity while also providing the ability to dispose of used needles without re-bending and thus complying with federal OSHA, state OSHA, and state regulatory disposal regulations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: David M. Spector
  • Publication number: 20080097388
    Abstract: A pharmaceutical delivery system that releases an active agent in a controlled manner for an extended period in the vaginal cavity to treat or cure ailments associated with the vaginal cavity or proximal areas. The delivery system includes an applicator which is composed of a high internal phase emulsion, allowing the delivery system to adhere to the mueosal surfaces of the body, primarily the lining of vaginal cavity. The delivery system can maintain the high internal phase emulsion at a temperature of 86° F. for at least one month, without decomposition or instability of the emulsion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicants: DRUGTECH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert C. Cuca, Thomas C. Riley, R. Saul Levinson
  • Publication number: 20080097389
    Abstract: A-type blood transfusion set having a blood limb, a saline limp and common limb and a one-way saline valve provided in the saline limb which only allows fluid within the saline limb to flow toward the Y connector. The blood limb and saline limb are color coded or marked with some type of identification so that, prior to coupling the blood limb to a source of blood or the saline limb to a source of saline, visual identification of the saline limb, having the one-way saline valve therein, can be readily achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Roland B. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20080097390
    Abstract: A disposable drug delivery device has a dispensing needle, a plunger, a spring, a shaft, and a lock mechanism. The plunger is engaged with the inner surface of the dispensing needle, is capable of sliding in the cavity of the dispensing needle, and is fluidly sealed to the inner surface of the dispensing needle. The spring is connected to the plunger via a shaft. The lock mechanism holds the shaft in a first position such that the spring is in a compressed state. When the lock mechanism releases the shaft, the spring extends providing a force that moves the shaft and connected plunger in a direction toward the tapered end of the dispensing needle thereby expelling the drug from the dispensing needle into an eye. The spring also provides a retaining force so that the plunger is retained in an extended position against the tapered end of the dispensing needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Bruno Dacquay, James Foster, Casey Lind, Cesario Dos Santos
  • Publication number: 20080097391
    Abstract: A laparoscopic medical fluid delivery device includes a catheter having an articulating tip formed with shape memory properties and thus having a pre-shaped curvature. A tubular member is reciprocatingly slidable axially on the catheter to selectively cover and uncover portions of the articulating tip to thereby selectively vary the degree of curvature of the articulating tip. An actuator operatively linked to the tubular member selectively moves the tubular member reciprocatingly on the catheter. The pre-shaped articulating tip of the catheter is constrained by the tubular member from articulating to the pre-shaped curvature when the tubular member covers the articulating tip, and bends to a selected degree of curvature when the articulating tip is at least partially uncovered by the tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Marc Feinberg, Jessica Liberatore, Richard Kocharian, Bruce E. Zaborowski
  • Publication number: 20080097392
    Abstract: A catheter assembly including a foldable internal bolster. According to one embodiment, the catheter assembly includes a catheter, a first flexible filament and a second flexible filament. The catheter includes a tubular body and a pair of flexible legs. The tubular body is a generally cylindrical member shaped to include a proximal end, a distal end, a longitudinal lumen, a pair of external notches, a first bore extending from the proximal end to one of the notches, and a second bore extending from the proximal end to the other of the notches. Each of the flexible legs has a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being integrally formed on the distal end of the tubular body. One end of the first filament is fixed to one of the flexible legs, and the opposite end of the first filament is slidably inserted up through the first bore. One end of the second filament is fixed to the other of the flexible legs, and the opposite end of the second filament is slidably inserted up through the second bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Rebecca DeLegge
  • Publication number: 20080097393
    Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using the same. An example medical device includes a slotted tubular member and a coating disposed over the tubular member. The coating may define one or more coating gaps therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Hancun Chen
  • Publication number: 20080097394
    Abstract: A drainage catheter, including a catheter tube body that can have a pig-tail loop in a distal end, a rigid member configured to be placed inside of the catheter, a pig-tail straightening sleeve configured to move axially along the tube body, the sleeve having a lip formed on an end of the sleeve, the lip being configured to be positioned towards the distal end of the tube body, thereby straightening the catheter tube body and facilitating entry of the rigid member into the catheter tube body when the pig-tail straightening sleeve is positioned to straighten the catheter tube body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Fred P. Lampropoulos, Nicholas Gerald Accisano, Louise Marini
  • Publication number: 20080097395
    Abstract: A catheter shaft including a metallic tubular member including a plurality of apertures formed in the tubular wall of the metallic tubular member to provide a desired degree of flexibility to the metallic tubular member. The metallic tubular member includes a tapered region intermediate a region and a second, reduced diameter region relative to the first region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Mark L. Adams, Todd Beaupre, Christopher Nardone, Mark Girard, Raymond Lareau
  • Publication number: 20080097396
    Abstract: Medical devices including a proximal tubular member, a distal tubular member, and an intermediate tubular member connecting the proximal tubular member to the distal tubular member, and related methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Steven M. Spencer, Robert Warner, Michael S. Arney, John Blix
  • Publication number: 20080097397
    Abstract: An introducer sheath that can include an elongate tubular member, such as a metallic tubular member, including a tubular wall defining a lumen and including a proximal portion and a distal portion. In some embodiments, a portion of the tubular member, such as the distal portion, can include a plurality of apertures defined in the tubular wall, and another portion, such as the proximal portion, can be free of apertures defined in the tubular wall. The portion including the apertures defined therein can be more flexible than the portion free of the apertures. A second tubular member can be disposed on or within the elongate tubular member, and can define a fluid tight pathway through the lumen. Additionally, a hub can be attached to the proximal portion of the elongate tubular member and in fluid communication with the fluid tight pathway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony C. Vrba
  • Publication number: 20080097398
    Abstract: A component for use as or incorporation within a medical instrument navigable through body vessels of a human subject is provided. The component includes a tubular portion with an interrupted spiral defined by alternating cut and uncut sections. The interrupted spiral has a rigidity between that of a continuous cut spiral and an uncut tube. The rigidity of the interrupted spiral along its length may be varied by changing its pitch or the number of bridge members or the length of each bridge member. According to a method of manufacturing such a component, a tubular member and a cutting member are provided. At least one of the tubular member and the cutting member is moved though an angle defining a helical path with respect to the other, while the cutting member is alternated between cutting and not cutting the tubular member to form an interrupted spiral.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Vladimir Mitelberg, John H. Thinnes, Keith Balgobin, William W. Sowers
  • Publication number: 20080097399
    Abstract: A catheter has a section of the catheter shaft adjacent its proximal end in which an outer catheter wall and an inner catheter wall define a space therebetween. An electrode is disposed within the space defined between the inner and outer catheter walls. A magnetorheological fluid fills the space between the inner and outer catheter walls. When an electric current is passed through the electrode, the magnetorheological fluid stiffens, causing the section of the catheter shaft adjacent the proximal end to stiffen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Ravish Sachar, Glenn Walker
  • Publication number: 20080097400
    Abstract: Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventors: John Chang, Joshua Makower, Julia Vrany, Theodore Lamson, Amrish Walke
  • Publication number: 20080097401
    Abstract: Novel cerebral vasculature devices are disclosed, including thrombectomy removal devices that include a continuous braided structure, a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a first expandable portion located between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The braided structure includes a plurality of wires. The proximal portion and the distal portion include polymer imbedded at least partially into the braided structure. The device is useful for removing thrombus from a patient's vasculature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Benjamin M. Trapp, Nathan L. Friedman, Michael J. Vonesh
  • Publication number: 20080097402
    Abstract: A device for accessing a vessel, duct or lumen, comprising a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end, and at least one projection that extends from said guidewire at or near the distal end of the guidewire. When the guidewire is placed into the vessel, duct or lumen containing a flowing fluid, the drag on the guidewire is greater when the fluid is flowing from the proximal to distal end of the guidewire than it is when it is flowing distally-to-proximally, thereby helping to direct the guidewire. The device is particularly useful in crossing a narrowing in the vessel, duct or lumen, such as may occur in blood vessels containing a stenosis, such as due to atherosclerosis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: David M. Hoganson, Ravi K. Veeraswamy
  • Publication number: 20080097403
    Abstract: Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for catheter positioning. Certain embodiments provide a catheter for use in at least intravenous and intracardiac spaces. The catheter includes a catheter body having a length and a tip portion at a distal end of the catheter body. The catheter also includes a plurality of wires for moving the catheter body in a plurality of directions. The catheter further includes a first control for manipulating the plurality of wires in two primary planes of movement for the catheter body. The catheter includes a second control for manipulating the plurality of wires in two secondary planes of movement for the catheter body. The second control is distinct in appearance and operation from the first control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Brenda L. Donaldson, Douglas G. Wildes, Paul Martin Barker, Marc Donald Knutson
  • Publication number: 20080097404
    Abstract: Various improved catheter marking arrangements are described. In a first aspect of the invention, a first longitudinally extending radiopaque marker is positioned on the catheter. A second longitudinally extending radiopaque marker is positioned opposite the first marker at a rotational orientation that is approximately 180 degrees offset from the first marker. The second marker has a length that is sufficiently different from the first marker such that a surgeon utilizing the catheter in a surgical procedure would be able to readily differentiate the first and second markers in a fluoroscopic image based on their respective lengths in order to determine the rotational orientation of the catheter. In some embodiments, the catheter includes a lumen that has a side port that opens to a side of the catheter. The first marker is composed of a pair of axially aligned marker segments located on opposite ends of the side port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Travis R. Yribarren, Randolf von Oepen, Lorcan Coffey, Thomas Rieth, Arik Zucker
  • Publication number: 20080097405
    Abstract: A fitting for connecting a catheter to a fluid conduit, comprises a housing defining a lumen extending therethrough from a distal end adapted for attachment to a catheter and a proximal end releasably connectable to a second fitting in combination with a wing extending from the housing away from an axis of the lumen, a portion of the housing opposite the wing being substantially rounded and free of projections away from the axis, a radially outermost lateral edge of a first surface of the wing being rounded wherein, when in a desired position, the first surface faces the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen C. Miller
  • Publication number: 20080097406
    Abstract: Color-coded medical apparatus, system and method for the administration of fluids. The tubing has a distal end and a body and contains a visible marking for identification of the fluid being administered from an intravenous bag through the tubing. The tubing and intravenous bag may be color-coded a predetermined color. The color is used to differentiate one fluid from another. Likewise, a colored collar can be used to engage pre-existing tubing in order to differentiate one fluid from another. The system for the administration of fluids incorporates at least one color-coded tube and intravenous bag of a first color and a second color-coded tube and intravenous bag of a second color, allowing one to differentiate between a first fluid and a second fluid by correlating the first color with the second color.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Eleanor A. Freed
  • Publication number: 20080097407
    Abstract: A luer activated device includes an inlet adapted to receive a male luer, an outlet associable with a fluid flow system, and a flow path defined therebetween. The inlet receives a resealable valve element having a aperture adapted to receive the male luer. The valve element is compressible, such that a male luer inserted into the aperture will cause the valve element to primarily compress, rather than stretching and deforming. One end of the aperture may include a pressure activated flow passage, which is adapted to open upon fluid flow through a male luer received by the aperture. Methods of using such luer activated devices are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Plishka
  • Publication number: 20080097408
    Abstract: An optical catheter system comprising an intraluminal catheter that provides optical signals to a patient and carries optical signals from the patient, an outer housing, and an inner carriage that moves longitudinally relative to the outer housing and rotates relative to the outer housing during operation when the catheter system is being driven by a pullback and rotation system. The optical catheter system has an interlock system that prevents rotation and longitudinal movement of the inner carriage in the outer housing until attached to the pullback and rotation system. The pullback and rotation system comprises a frame and a catheter system interface, attached to the frame, to which the catheter system is coupled. A carriage drive system is further provided that moves longitudinally and rotates relative to the frame to provide rotation and longitudinal drive to the catheter system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: INFRAREDX, INC.
    Inventors: John Murphy, Peter Strickler
  • Publication number: 20080097409
    Abstract: A catheter tunneling adapter (10) including a generally elongated body (12) having a proximal end (14), a distal end (16) and a through passageway (18) extending therethrough between the proximal and distal end. The proximal end (14) of the adapter (10) is connectable both to a proximal hub of a stylet (70) and subsequently to the distal end (84,94) of a tunneler (80,90). The distal end (16) of the adapter (10) comprises a connector for connecting a plurality of proximal catheter tubes (52,54) thereto, wherein the proximal end of one tube (52) is affixed within the passageway at the adapter's distal end (16) and the proximal end of the second tube (54) is plugged by a plug (40) extending distally from a free end of an elongate flexible arm (30) that also extends distally of the adapter's distal end (16), such that the plug is offset laterally therefrom. The flexible arm (30) and the affixed second tube end (58) are deflectable toward the first tube (52) to reduce the profile of the assembly during tunneling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: Medical Components, Inc.
    Inventor: John Stephens
  • Publication number: 20080097410
    Abstract: A medical fluid aspirator, which includes a barrel attached with a suction tip, a tapered isolation sleeve detachably fastened to an inside connection tube inside the barrel and sealed with a gasket ring, an inner filter tube suspending in the isolation sleeve and tightly fastened to the rear side of the isolation sleeve for removing waste solid matters from waste fluid passing from the suction tip through the inner filter tube during the surgery, and an adapter that connect a suction tube to the rear side of the inner filter tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Applicant: PACIFIC HOSPITAL SUPPLY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yuan-Yung Lee
  • Publication number: 20080097411
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for a catheterization process, particularly useful for self-performed catheterizations. A catheter is enclosed in a sheath made with a specific thickness. This sheath is thick enough to avoid rips and tears from normal use, yet thin enough to allow those with even limited manual dexterity to use the catheter with ease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventor: Jamie Glen House