Patents Issued in November 16, 2010
  • Patent number: 7833247
    Abstract: A saddle clamp for mounting on a bone with curved surface in a bone-fixing or spinal fusion operation, for carrying a bone-fixing member. The saddle clamp has a rigid body with at least two holes for passing fixing elements to be tightened to the bone and at least one assembly element integral with the body for attaching the bone-fixing member. The rigid body has a contact surface configured to allow at least three points of contact with the curved surface of the bone when the saddle clamp is mounted thereon, at least two of the holes passing through the contact surface at least adjacent to two of the points of contact so as to provide, upon tightening of the fixing elements, at least three spaced apart, non-collinear areas of contact and thereby firm attachment of the saddle clamp to the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Facet-Med Ltd.
    Inventor: Hamid Sharim
  • Patent number: 7833248
    Abstract: A cross-connector assembly construct and a method of locking comprises a flexible clip contacting a longitudinal member; a housing component contacting the flexible clip, wherein the housing component comprises a conical ramp towards a bottom end of the housing component; a locking mechanism contacting the housing component and adapted to engage the flexible clip; and a connecting member contacting the housing component. The flexible clip comprises a flexible bias member adapted to retain the longitudinal member. The flexible clip comprises a non-symmetrical socket portion; and a clip portion attached to the non-symmetrical socket portion, the clip portion being adapted to retain the longitudinal member. The locking mechanism comprises a camming pin adapted to be housed within the housing component and engage the flexible clip causing the longitudinal member to become affixed to the flexible clip; and a blocker mechanism operatively connected to the housing component and the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Custom Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron D. Markworth, Mahmoud F. Abdelgany
  • Patent number: 7833249
    Abstract: An implantable inflatable orthopedic device is provided. The device comprises a flexible wall, defining an interior cavity, a reinforcing element exposed to the cavity, an inflation pathway in communication with the cavity, and a valve, for closing the pathway. A delivery catheter is also provided for removably carrying the orthopedic device to the treatment site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel M. Shaolian, George P. Teitelbaum, To V. Pham, Thanh Van Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7833250
    Abstract: A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and a closed retainer ring. The external capture structure surface and retainer ring internal bore surface are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the closed retainer ring out of the head. The retainer ring has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure or the closed retainer structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Roger P. Jackson
  • Patent number: 7833251
    Abstract: The present invention relates to medical devices and methods generally aimed at spinal surgery. In particular, the disclosed system and associated methods relate to performing spinal fixation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Ahlgren, Bret Ferree, Keith Valentine, Patrick Miles
  • Patent number: 7833252
    Abstract: A pivoting connector couples a vertebral member to a longitudinal member. An anchor is pivotally attached to a body by positioning a head of the anchor within a cavity in the body. A longitudinal rod is inserted into a channel also positioned within the body and axially aligned with the cavity. A retainer applies a force to maintain the longitudinal rod within the channel, however the force may be isolated from the anchor. One embodiment may include a compression member that is separate from or integral with the body. The compression member may transmit a rod securing force to the anchor to secure or limit the pivoting movement of the anchor member relative to the body. The compression member may deflect or detach under the influence of the securing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff R. Justis, Fred J. Molz, IV, James Michael Mirda, Rodney Ray Ballard
  • Patent number: 7833253
    Abstract: Strip fasteners and cranial plugs for use in reattaching a skull flap removed during brain surgery and methods of using the same. The strip fasteners are flexible and can be shaped to follow the perimeter contour of the skull flap. The cranial plugs can be used to reattach the skull flap or they can be installed after the skull flap is reattached using the strip fasteners. In some embodiments, the cranial plug(s) and strip fasteners can be installed at the same time. The strip fasteners and cranial plugs are designed to encourage bone growth and healing of the skull flap and they can be used to deliver medication and bone growth enhancement compositions to the surgical site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: BioDynamics LLC
    Inventors: James D. Ralph, Thomas N. Troxell
  • Patent number: 7833254
    Abstract: A device for use in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures, comprising a substantially spoon-shaped body having a blade-like proximal portion intended to complement the humerus head and provided with at least one seat in which to insert a wire, a threaded nail, or a similar element to stabilize the fracture, a plate-like and elongate distal portion, intended to complement the humerus neck and provided with at least one seat in which to insert a screw or a similar element to fix the body to the humerus, and a central bulge, or block, interposed between the proximal portion and the distal portion and wherein a seat is obtained in which to insert a screw intended to stabilize the humerus head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Orthofix International B.V.
    Inventors: Luigi Celli, Andrea Celli, Daniele Venturini, Luigi Rossi, Rudj Bardini
  • Patent number: 7833255
    Abstract: A bone fastener for stabilizing bone fragments includes a single or multiple components coupleable with one another and displaceable to a locked position of the bone fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Osteotech, Inc.
    Inventors: David Chow, Perry Geremakis, Erik O. Martz, Stephen Howard Hochschuler, Daniel E. Rosenthal, Steven Annunziato, Larry C. Johnston
  • Patent number: 7833256
    Abstract: A stabilization device for bones or vertebrae includes a substantially cylindrical elastic element. The elastic element has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. An elastic section extends between the first end and the second end. The elastic section includes at least first and second helical coils. The first and second helical coils are arranged coaxially so that the first helical coil extends at least in a portion between the second helical coil. The elastic element may form, for example, a portion of a rod, bone anchoring element, or plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Biedermann Motech GmbH
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Jürgen Harms, Wilfried Matthis
  • Patent number: 7833257
    Abstract: A cochlear implant placed in a cochlea of a living subject for stimulating the auditory system of the living subject, where the auditory system comprises auditory neurons. In one embodiment, the cochlear implant includes a plurality of light sources, {Li}, placeable distal to the cochlea, each light source, L1, being operable independently and adapted for generating an optical energy, Ei, wherein i=1, . . . , N, and N is the number of the light sources, and delivering means placeable in the cochlea and optically coupled to the plurality of light sources, {Li}, such that in operation, the optical energies {Ei} generated by the plurality of light sources {Li} are delivered to target sites, {Gi}, of auditory neurons, respectively, wherein the target sites G1 and GN of auditory neurons are substantially proximate to the apical end and the basal end of the cochlea, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignees: Northwestern University, Vanderbilt University
    Inventors: Joseph I. Walsh, Jr., E. Duco Jansen, Agnella Izzo, Claus-Peter Richter
  • Patent number: 7833258
    Abstract: The thermal therapy device comprises an inverter circuit connected to the primary side of a transformer, a series resonance circuit connected to the secondary side of the transformer and including a magnetic field generation coil and a resonance controller, and a controller for determining the resonance frequency based on the secondary current. The controller has a measurement mode and an operation mode which are alternately repeated. During the measurement mode the resonance frequency of the series resonance circuit is measured, while during the operation mode a drive signal of said measured resonance frequency is supplied from the controller to the inverter circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignees: Kanazawa University Technology Licensing Organization Ltd., Komatu Power Tron Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Isamu Nagano, Kouichi Igarashi
  • Patent number: 7833259
    Abstract: An intraluminal prosthesis is provided for strengthening a main lumen and a branch lumen in direct fluid communication with the main lumen. The prosthesis may comprise a tubular graft and a flexible stent. The tubular graft may include a flexible body having a wall with a fenestration. The flexible stent may include a body with at least one open space to encourage tissue prolapse. The flexible stent may be configured for intraluminal coupling to the fenestration of the tubular graft, so that the entire prosthesis may be assembled and anchored into a main lumen and a branch lumen with a minimally invasive procedure. The open space may encourage tissue prolapse, which may act to anchor the flexible stent to the branch lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Cook Incorporated
    Inventor: Scott E. Boatman
  • Patent number: 7833260
    Abstract: In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: OrbusNeich Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Cottone, Shusheng Ye, John Pazienza
  • Patent number: 7833261
    Abstract: A stent with at least one severable supporting device and methods of coating using the same are disclosed. The severable supporting device can be an end tube or a tab attached to some portion of the stent by at least one “gate” or attachment. The end tube or tab may be part of the design of the stent when it is originally manufactured, or it may be attached to the stent in a secondary process by a biocompatible glue or solder. The end tube or tab can be used to support a stent during a coating process eliminating the need for a mandrel which would otherwise contact the stent during the coating process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Yung-Ming Chen, Eric Aldenbrook
  • Patent number: 7833262
    Abstract: A vascular device comprising a plurality of vessel engaging members and a valve. The device is movable from a collapsed insertion position having a first diameter to a second expanded position having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The plurality of vessel engaging members extend outwardly from the device for securely engaging the internal wall of a vessel upon expansion of the device to the second expanded position, wherein the vessel engaging members pull the internal wall of the vessel radially inwardly upon movement of the device from the second expanded position toward a first expanded position having a third diameter greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter. In the first expanded position the valve is movable between an open position to allow blood flow therethrough to a closed position to prevent blood flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Rex Medical, L.P.
    Inventors: James F. McGuckin, Jr., Peter W. J. Hinchliffe
  • Patent number: 7833263
    Abstract: An implantable vascular graft includes an outer tube structure formed of a textile material, and an inner tube structure formed of a non-textile material. The inner tube structure is within the outer tube structure in coaxial relation therewith. One or both of the outer and inner tube structures have deformable reinforced portions incorporated therein. The deformable reinforced portions provide for conformance of the associated one or both of the outer and inner tube structures to a vessel of a patient. An implantable laminate prosthesis includes a first layer structure formed of textile material, and a second layer structure formed of non-textile material. The first and second layer structures are secured together in laminating relation. The first or second layer structure has a reinforced portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Thistle
  • Patent number: 7833264
    Abstract: A stent, with expanded and unexpanded configurations, comprises a substantially tubular body having a proximal end region, a distal end region, and defining a first lumen therethrough. The tubular body comprises a plurality of adjacent deployable elements positioned between the proximal end region and distal end region. In the expanded configuration the deployable elements define a second lumen. The first lumen has a first longitudinal axis and the second lumen has a second longitudinal axis which is at an oblique angle relative to the first longitudinal axis. The first lumen is in fluid communication with the second lumen. The tubular body comprises a track region which further comprises at least two struts. The struts are substantially parallel to each other and the first longitudinal axis in the unexpanded configuration. The track region is comprised of at least one of the deployable elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jens Hegg, Michael P. Meyer
  • Patent number: 7833265
    Abstract: As described herein vascular anchoring systems are used to position an implant in a vascular area such as a bifurcated vasculature with relatively high fluid flow, for instance, in an area of a pulmonary artery with associated left and right pulmonary arteries. Implementations include an anchoring trunk member having a first anchoring trunk section and a second anchoring trunk section. Further implementations include a first anchoring branch member extending from the anchoring trunk member. Still further implementations include a second anchoring branch member extending from the anchoring trunk member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Johnson, George W. Keilman
  • Patent number: 7833266
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a stent that delivers multiple therapeutic regimens from different regions of the stent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Gregorich, Michael P. Meyer, David L. Friesen
  • Patent number: 7833267
    Abstract: Described are methods and systems for modifying vascular valves in order to reduce retrograde blood flow through the valves. Preferred methods include connecting vascular valve leaflets with at least one remodelable material, such that the valve leaflets become fused by the ingrowth of the patient's native tissue. Preferred remodelable materials include collagenous extracellular matrix material, such as small intestine submucosa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Cook Incorporated
    Inventors: Jacob A. Flagle, Brian C. Case
  • Patent number: 7833268
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for percutaneously implanting an aortic valve prosthesis includes a pump for pumping oxygenated blood from the left atrium into the descending aorta, during a period of time in which an aortic valve prosthesis is being implanted within a diseased aortic valve. First and second catheters are associated with the pump, and a third catheter has an end which is adapted for insertion into the ascending aorta, and the third catheter has an aortic valve prosthesis associated with another end of the third catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Reynolds M. Delgado, III, Biswajit Kar
  • Patent number: 7833269
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes a surgical kit for preparing a damaged area of a human knee to receive at least one graft. The kit includes a moldable material positioned over the damaged area to form a template. Desirably, a tape is placed over the template and cut to correspond to a template area so that the tape is used to determine the number and/or a dimension of the openings and the number and/or dimension of a corresponding graft to be inserted into each opening. The graft is adhered to a surface of the tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffrey H. Nycz, Daniel Shimko, Jeetendra Bharadwaj
  • Patent number: 7833270
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the design and composition of a depot implant for optimal delivery of growth factors to treat osteoporotic bone, in that such depot implant is constructed to be in a cylinder (rod) or sphere shape and have a natural or synthetic polymer scaffold with or without impregnated calcium phosphate particles. The density of the depot is higher than a typical BMP sponge carrier to facilitate it's implantation and slower release of the growth factor. The scaffold is such that it has adequate porosity and pore size to facilitate growth factor seeding and diffusion throughout the whole of the bone structure resulting in increased bone mineral density in the osteoporotic bone. In addition, the shape of the depot implant allows for delivery through a cannula or large bore needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: William F. McKay
  • Patent number: 7833271
    Abstract: A spinal implant is provided which maintains intervertebral spacing and stability within the spine. The spinal implant may include a body and an insert. The body of the spinal implant may be formed of a ceramic material. In some embodiments, the body may be formed of beta tricalcium phosphate. The body may include an opening that is complementary to the insert. The insert may fit within the opening. The insert may include a number of passageways. Some of the passageways may intersect to form a scaffold for bone growth. Bone growth promoting material may be introduced into the insert before the insert is positioned in a body and inserted in a patient between two vertebrae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Zimmer Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Margaret E. Mitchell, Jim Freid
  • Patent number: 7833272
    Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Impliant Ltd.
    Inventors: Uri Arnin, Michael Tauber, Yuri Sudin, Yoram Anekstein
  • Patent number: 7833273
    Abstract: Disclosed is an intervertebral disc prosthesis for the total replacement of a natural intervertebral disc within the lumbar and cervical spine, comprising of articulating sliding partners. The upper sliding partner has means for a firm assembly to an upper vertebral body and the lower sliding partner has means for a firm assembly to a lower vertebral body. At least one sliding surface is between two sliding partners. Two- and three-part functional designs are planned and both having in common, that, as a result of the shape of the articulating surface(s), the laterolateral and dorsoventral motion amplitudes differ. The resulting angles including the rotation around a fictitious vertical axis can be defined to a desired extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Karin Buettner-Janz, Eiko Büttner
  • Patent number: 7833274
    Abstract: A femoral prosthesis may be formed as a femoral component incorporating a base material and an articulating material. In one exemplary embodiment, the base material is a metal and the articulating material is a polymer. Specifically, the base material provides strength and rigidity to the femoral component, while the articulating material contacts a tibial prosthesis or natural tibia during joint articulation. In one exemplary embodiment, the articulating material forms the articulating surface of one or more condyle portions of the femoral component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Oludele O. Popoola, Joel G. Scrafton
  • Patent number: 7833275
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing a minimally invasive total hip arthroplasty. An approximately 3.75-5 centimeter (1.5-2 inch) anterior incision is made in line with the femoral neck. The femoral neck is severed from the femoral shaft and removed through the anterior incision. The acetabulum is prepared for receiving an acetabular cup through the anterior incision, and the acetabular cup is placed into the acetabulum through the anterior incision. A posterior incision of approximately 2-3 centimeters (0.8-1.2 inches) is generally aligned with the axis of the femoral shaft and provides access to the femoral shaft. Preparation of the femoral shaft including the reaming and rasping thereof is performed through the posterior incision, and the femoral stem is inserted through the posterior incision for implantation in the femur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Zimmer Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana Mears, Kevin Greig, Paul A Zwirkoski
  • Patent number: 7833276
    Abstract: An acetabular prosthesis having an outer member for engaging the acetabulum. The outer member has a part-spherical bearing surface terminating in a distal rim. The rim has a contour such that the portion thereof to be located between the ischium and the pubis extends distally further from an equator of the bearing surface than the contour to be implanted between the pubis and the illium and between the ischium and the illium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Benoist Girard SAS
    Inventors: Arnaud Auxepaules, Nicolas Delogé, Patrick Raugel
  • Patent number: 7833277
    Abstract: A proximal femoral ball assembly having a variable offset that is selectively adjustable to conform to various anatomical conditions encountered during a femoral surgical procedure. The femoral ball assembly generally includes a head, a neck, and an adjustment mechanism. The head has a smooth spherical outer surface that is adapted to engage an acetabular component or native acetabulum. The neck extends outward from the head and removeably connects to the head using a threaded attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Saladino, Mark E. Nadzadi, Brian Burkinshaw
  • Patent number: 7833278
    Abstract: An implant for deployment in select locations or select tissue for regeneration of tissue is disclosed. The implant includes collagen and or other bio-resorbable materials, where the implant may also be used for therapy delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Kensey Nash BVF Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas G Evans, Scott M. Goldman, Russell T. Kronengold
  • Patent number: 7833279
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a patient's health condition by diverting pancreatic exocrine secretions include a flow diverter of material compatible with chronic residence within a small intestine of the patient. The flow diverter has a cover end and a discharge end. The flow diverter is sized to be placed within the small intestine with the discharge end placed distally from said cover end and with said flow diverter further sized so permit passage of chyme through the small intestine and past the flow diverter. The cover end is sized to cover a discharge papilla of the pancreatic duct. The diverter is adapted to divert at least a portion of pancreatic exocrine secretion from the papilla to the distal discharge end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: EnteroMedics Inc.
    Inventors: Mark B. Knudson, Timothy R. Conrad
  • Patent number: 7833280
    Abstract: A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis self-expandable from a collapsed position in which the prosthesis has a first diameter to an expanded position in which the prosthesis has a second, larger, diameter. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed in the collapsed position and inserted into a stomach of a patient. The prosthesis is allowed to self-expand from the collapsed position to the expanded position and into contact with the walls of the stomach, where it induces feelings of satiety and/or inhibits modulation of satiety-controlling factors such as Ghrelin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Barosense, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Stack, Richard A. Glenn, Trevor J. Moody, Fred E. Silverstein, Nathan Every, William S. Eubanks, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7833281
    Abstract: A system and method for delivering one or more implantable members, such as metal coils, via an introducer member, such as an endoscopic needle, into a space created within the submucosal layers of the LES to augment and bulk the sphincter to improve compliance in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The implantable member comprises a first substantially straightened configuration when carried by the introducer member, whereby it assumes a more curvilinear or coiled configuration following deployment such that it expands against adjacent submucosal tissue, creating a bulge at the implantation site. In another embodiment, the implantable member can serve as an anchoring port for sutures or other elements introduced for gastroplication of the LES to create tissue folds that increase sphincter compliance. The implantable members may be configured to include an external portion that interconnects with an adjacent implantable member, thereby creating tension that also increases compliance of the LES.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Glen A. Lehman, Brian K. Rucker
  • Patent number: 7833282
    Abstract: Devices are provided for insertion into a Eustachian tube of an animal, e.g., a human being. The devices may include an insertable member, an immobilizing means and a fluid-communication providing means. The member has opposing surfaces and is formed at least in part from a biocompatible material that is degradable. The fluid-communication providing means is effective to provide sufficient fluid communication between the opposing surfaces of the insertable member to effect pressure equilibration therebetween. The immobilizing means is effective to immobilize the device within the Eustachian tube for a predetermined period. Also provided are kits that include the device and methods for inserting the device into a Eustachian tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Aditi H. Mandpe
  • Patent number: 7833283
    Abstract: A composition for promoting tissue growth which includes a material for placing in contact with animal tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Thomas Jay Webster, Karen Marie Haberstroh
  • Patent number: 7833284
    Abstract: A membrane for implantation into a patient includes a first layer and a second layer. The first layer has oppositely disposed outer and inner first layer surfaces. The second layer has oppositely disposed outer and inner second layer surfaces. The second layer is at least partially attached to the first layer with the inner first and second layer surfaces adjacent one another. The inner first and second layer surfaces are resistant to biological tissue ingrowth and the outer first and second layer surfaces are conducive to biological tissue ingrowth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventor: Isador H. Lieberman
  • Patent number: 7833285
    Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic knee joint with four pivot pins for connecting four joint members, said joint members each being supported at each of their ends in a pivot pin, wherein two opposite, transversely extending joint members are connectable at one end to a prosthetic stem and at the other end to a prosthetic foot, wherein the other two joint members as longitudinal joint members, in both the standing position and the bending position, are adapted to pivot essentially out of an angled position approximate to the parallel position into a relatively more greatly inclined position with respect to each other. At least one of the pivot pins of the joint member connected to the prosthetic foot is in the form of a rotatable, lockable eccentric, wherein, upon rotation of said eccentric, the distance between the two pivot pins on said joint member changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Bauerfeind AG
    Inventor: Holger Reinhardt
  • Patent number: 7833286
    Abstract: A cosmesis including a thigh component and a shin component that fit over a prosthetic knee joint. The thigh component and shin component are pivotally joined along an axis of rotation coinciding with that of the prosthetic knee joint. The thigh component and shin component can include internal contours molded into their inside walls to seat the prosthetic knee joint securely therein. The knee ball region of the thigh component can be made relatively thicker to provide a protective cushion and allow the patient to kneel. Additionally, a floating knee cap can be fit over the knee ball area. The upper end of the thigh component can be made of sufficiently thin material to permit rolling onto itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Prosthetic Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Tracy C. Slemker
  • Patent number: 7833287
    Abstract: A multi-axis prosthetic ankle having an adjustable range of articulation and a method of adjusting the range of articulation of such an ankle. A lower leg connection component extends from the receiving cavity of a prosthetic foot connection component. The remainder of the receiving cavity is substantially filled with an elastomeric material. An interchangeable external bearing resides atop a portion of the elastomeric material and includes an aperture through which a portion of the lower leg connection component passes. By exchanging an installed external bearing for an external bearing having an aperture of different size, the limits of movement of the lower leg connection component can be altered and the overall range of articulation of the ankle adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: The Ohio Willow Wood Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Doddroe, Lonnie L. Nolt
  • Patent number: 7833288
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for applying to skin, an aqueous composition comprising one or more acid direct dyes and an organic solvent, wherein the composition has a pH of 2-6 and wherein the composition is free of anionic surfactants. The method also comprises applying the aqueous composition to the skin by spraying and further comprises rinsing the composition from skin with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Kao Brands Company
    Inventors: Suzanne Dawis, Jordan M. Cordeiro, Elisabeth M. Cox, Kevin Phifer, Maggie Cantwell
  • Patent number: 7833289
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hair care component and method of manufacture for use in a hair coloring system. In one embodiment of the invention, a hair care component for use in a hair coloring system includes a mixture resulting from blending an aqueous solution, an emulsion, and a cationic water-in-oil liquid dispersion of an alkylene, olefinically unsaturated (alkyl)amide. The emulsion includes a polysiloxane (A)-polyoxyalkylene (B) block copolymer of an (A-B)n-type. The copolymer includes an aminofunctional silicone. The liquid dispersion inverts from the water-in-oil phase to an oil-in-water phase when mixed with the aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Alterna Holdings Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Johnson, John Garruto
  • Patent number: 7833290
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to methods for dyeing keratinous fibers by treatment of said fibers with i) at least one entity chosen from hematoxylin, hematein, brazilin, brazilein, and their derivatives, ii) at least one metal salt, iii) hydrogen peroxide or at least one system which generates hydrogen peroxide and iv) at least one (bi)carbonate. The disclosure also relates to multicompartment devices and compositions comprising the ingredients i), ii), iii) and iv).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: L'Oreal S. A.
    Inventors: Frédéric Guerin, Luc Gourlaouen
  • Patent number: 7833291
    Abstract: The present invention provides dyes of the general formula (I) where D is the residue of a diazo component; R1 to R7 and L are each as defined in claim 1, processes for their preparation and their use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: DyStar Textilfarben GmbH & Co. Deutschland KG
    Inventors: Hartwig Jordan, Stefan Neubauer, Anthony Lawrence, Nigel Hall
  • Patent number: 7833292
    Abstract: An improved method for forming a capacitor. The method includes providing a carrier with a channel therein, providing a metal foil with a valve metal with a first dielectric on a first face of the metal foil, securing the metal foil into the channel with the first dielectric away from a channel floor, inserting an insulative material between the metal foil and each side wall of the channel, forming a cathode layer on the first dielectric between the insulative material, forming a conductive layer on the cathode layer and in electrical contact with the carrier, lap cutting the carrier parallel to the metal foil such that the valve metal is exposed, and dice cutting to form singulated capacitors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: KEMET Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Keith R. Brenneman, Chris Wayne, Chris Stolarski, John T Kinard, Alethia Melody, Gregory J. Dunn, Remy J. Chelini, Robert T. Croswell
  • Patent number: 7833293
    Abstract: A Zener diode-capacitor combination wherein a Zener diode is mounted in the capacitor body and connected in parallel with the capacitor after the capacitor has been voltage tested. A welded strap or jumper wire completing the diode circuit or a connection of separate terminations during soldering may be used to complete the circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: KEMET Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: John D. Prymak, Eric Jayson Young
  • Patent number: 7833294
    Abstract: The present lipid-based wax compositions commonly include a polyol fatty acid ester component (made up of partial and/or completely esterified polyols). Generally, at least a portion of the polyol fatty acid ester has been subjected to a transesterification reaction. Lipid-based wax compositions having a melting point of about 48° C. to about 75° C. can be particularly advantageous for use in forming candles. The wax may contain other components such as mineral wax, plant wax, insect wax, and/or other components. The polyol fatty acid ester component can include triacylglycerols such as those derived from plant oils (soybean oil, palm oil, etc.). The polyol ester component may be characterized based on one or more of its physical characteristics, such as SFI-40, SFI-10, typical crystal structure, IV, melting curve, and/or other properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Elevance Renewable Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Murphy, Michael D. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 7833295
    Abstract: Unleaded blend compositions, as well as formulated gasolines containing them have a Motor Octane Number (MON) of at least 80 comprising either: (i) component (a) at least 5% (by volume of the total composition) of at least one hydrocarbon having the following formula I R—CH2—CH(CH3)—C(CH3)2—CH3??I wherein R is hydrogen or methyl, especially triptane, or (ii) at least 2% of component (a?), which is at least one branched chain alkane of MON value of at least 90 and of boiling point 15-160° C. or a substantially aliphatic hydrocarbon refinery stream, of MON value of at least 85, at least 70% in total of said stream being branched chain alkanes, said stream being obtainable or obtained by distillation from a refinery material as a cut having Initial Boiling Point of at least 15° C. and Final Boiling Point of at most 160° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: BP Oil International Limited
    Inventor: Alisdair Quentin Clark
  • Patent number: 7833296
    Abstract: A system and process for maximizing the generation of electrical power from a variety of hydrocarbon feedstocks. The hydrocarbon feedstocks are first gasified and then oxidized in a two-chamber system and process using oxygen gas rather than ambient air. Intermediate gases generated in the system and process are recirculated and recycled to the gasification and oxidation chambers in order to maximize energy production. The energy produced through the system and process is used to generate steam and produce power through conventional steam turbine technology. In addition to the release of heat energy, the hydrocarbon feedstocks are oxidized to the pure product compounds of water and carbon dioxide, which are subsequently purified and marketed. The system and process minimizes environmental emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Steve L. Clark