Patents Issued in March 14, 2013
  • Publication number: 20130066362
    Abstract: An occluder (7) for sealing body orifices (6, 6a) of the human or animal body is illustrated and described, in particular an occluder (7) for percutaneous transcatheter sealing of atrium septum defects of the human or animal heart (1). According to the invention it is provided that the occluder (7) or parts of the occluder (7) form an electric oscillating resonance circuit, whereby at least one conductive loop forming the inductivity of the oscillating resonance circuit is provided and the occluder (7) or parts of the occluder (7) are formed by the conductive loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: VUEKLAR CARDIOVASCULAR LTD.
    Inventor: VUEKLAR CARDIOVASCULAR LTD.
  • Publication number: 20130066363
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an intraocular lens inside a capsular bag after the natural lens has been removed employs a sealing device comprising a plug part adapted to seal a rhexis in a capsular bag, thus preventing displacement through the rhexis of a lens-forming liquid material injected through the rhexis and adapted to replace the natural lens and form an intraocular lens implant. The plug part has a slightly larger area than the capsulorhexis and is made of a deformable polymer. The sealing device comprises an adjusting means connected to the plug part, the adjusting means having the function of positioning the plug part to a desired location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: AMO Groningen B.V.
    Inventor: AMO Groningen B.V.
  • Publication number: 20130066364
    Abstract: A device for closing an aperture in a vessel wall comprising a covering member having a longitudinal axis and positionable inside the vessel against the internal opening of the aperture and having a dimension to prevent egress of fluid through the aperture and having a first opening. A first retainer is positionable external of the vessel. A flexible connecting member operatively connects the covering member and the first retainer, wherein the first opening of the covering member is configured to restrict movement of the connecting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Rex Medical
    Inventors: James F. McGuckin, JR., John D. Leedle, James S. Tarmin, Thanu Anidharan, Stephan A. Defonzo
  • Publication number: 20130066365
    Abstract: A surgical or wound closure device utilizes a slide fastener for rapidly closing a surgical incision or wound with precise apposition of the sides of the incision. The surgical closure devices are configured for linear incisions, shaped incisions, such as used for wedge biopsy or excisional biopsy, and long incisions, such as used for laparotomy or surgical removal of redundant skin. The surgical closure device may be adhered to the patient's skin prior to making an incision and is subsequently used for closing the incision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: ZipLine Medical, Inc
    Inventors: Amir Belson, Brian Beckey, James J. Leary
  • Publication number: 20130066366
    Abstract: A device for inserting a medical apparatus into a living body includes a handle and an elongated sheath extending from the handle to a distal end configured for insertion to a target location in the living body in combination with a clasp positioned within a distal portion of the elongated sheath and configured to temporarily attach to an endoscopic device and a spring retention mechanism movable from a first resting configuration maintaining a first closed position of the clasp to a second compressed configuration moving the clasp to an open position. A withdrawal mechanism is movable from a first resting configuration in which the distal end of the elongated sheath extends distally over a distal end of the endoscopic device to a second retracted configuration in which the distal end of the elongated sheath is moved proximally of the distal end of the endoscopic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey V. BEAN
  • Publication number: 20130066367
    Abstract: A bone anchor provides stable, durable anchorage of sutures used for repair of soft tissues torn, or cut, away from bones. The anchor includes a plurality of prongs angled in the direction of loading. The prongs-are inserted into holes drilled in the bone. The angled nature of the prongs causes them to dig into the bone under functional loading. A suture is attached to the anchor via an integral bead and led through the anchor eyelet. In use, the suture does not glide anywhere at its interface to the anchor, nor does if flex on itself at a knot. Instead, it only flexes around the pillar of the eyelet with a fully circular cross-section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Slobodan Tepic
  • Publication number: 20130066368
    Abstract: A method of forming a loop in a thread is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a loop forming system including, a base for securely retaining a thread to be formed and a welding assembly for forming a loop in the thread, contacting at least a portion of the thread with a super-critical fluid and securing the previously immersed portion of the thread to the base such that a first section of the previously immersed portion is maintained adjacent to a second section of the previously immersed portion. The method further includes the steps of approximating the welding assembly and the base towards each other, and approximating the welding assembly and base away from each other. Also provided is a medical device formed from the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Nadya Belcheva, Norman Aminuddin, Jessica Gould
  • Publication number: 20130066369
    Abstract: A suture assembly and a method for making the same is provided. The suture assembly includes a plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements intertwined with one another and at least one barbed filamentary element having a longitudinal axis and having plurality of barbs extending outwardly therefrom in a first direction less than 90 degrees from the longitudinal axis. According to exemplary embodiments, the at least one barbed filamentary may be intertwined along its length with the plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements, and the plurality of barbs extending outwardly beyond the unbarbed filamentary elements, or the primary outer periphery of the at least one barbed filamentary element may be contained within the intertwined unbarbed filamentary elements with the plurality of barbs extending through and outwardly from the plurality of unbarbed filamentary elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Collier, David C. Lindh, SR., Jesse G. Nawrocki, Krasimira Hristov
  • Publication number: 20130066370
    Abstract: Provided in one embodiment is a suture, comprising: a porous interior component comprising a volume of pores or interstices, the volume comprising a binding surface; and a first number of biological cells dispersed in the volume; wherein the first number of biological cells in the volume is greater than a threshold number representing a second number of the biological cells at 100% confluence on the binding surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Richard H. Spedden, Lew C. Schon, Margaret E. Thorpe
  • Publication number: 20130066371
    Abstract: A surgical assembly includes a first guidewire and a second guidewire, in which each of the first guidewire and the second guidewire are configured to be received by a bone block, a first suture loop, a second suture loop, a first locking component, and a second locking component, in which the first locking component is coupled to the first suture loop and the second locking component is coupled to the second suture loop. The locking component has a hole formed therethrough, in which the hole of the locking component is configured to receive the suture, and may be tethered to a suture by knots engaging a counterbore at opposed ends of a bore defined by the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Jon-Paul Rogers, Timothy P. Callahan, Jeffrey Wyman, Graham Smith, Daniel B. Ellls
  • Publication number: 20130066372
    Abstract: A system for correcting spinal orientation through an analysis of bio-electrical signals of muscles is provided. The system includes: an electromyography (EMG) signal processing module measuring bio-electrical signals of muscles related to a spinal disease and analyzing the same; an HCl control module generating a control signal for controlling a spinal orientation correction module based on information received from the EMG signal processing module and delivering the generated control signal to the spinal orientation correction module; the spinal orientation correction module correcting a mal-aligned spine of a patient to its correct orientation according to the control signal; and an information display and feedback module receiving information from the EMG signal processing module in real time, displaying the received information, and delivering information received from a user to the HCl control module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: RAPA & LIFE Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jong Kyu Yoon
  • Publication number: 20130066373
    Abstract: A body hauling mechanism includes a weight seat, a weight control assembly and a body hauling auxiliary part. The weight control assembly of the body hauling mechanism has an enclosure with a stretching mechanism configured inside. Said stretching mechanism is made up of a separating board, a gear unit, a cord rolling wheel, a back-stop mechanism and a driving wheel. The user can pull the two-way pulling cord to drive the stretching mechanism to control the weight control assembly hanged on the weight seat, so that the hauling cord of the weight control assembly can be retracted or released mildly, and can apply or release the hauling force smoothly. When using the body hauling mechanism to improve the symptoms caused by irritation or compression of the body nerves, secondary injury of the affected part can be avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Chung-Fong LIAO
  • Publication number: 20130066374
    Abstract: A device for insertion between spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae is provided and may include a rod having a first threaded portion and a second threaded portion. The first threaded portion may be coupled to the second threaded portion at a joint. A plurality of members may be movable between a compressed condition and an extended condition when the rod is rotated relative to the plurality of members. The first threaded portion and the second threaded portion may be uncoupled at the joint after the plurality of members are moved from the extended condition to the compressed condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: EBI, LLC
    Inventor: EBI, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130066375
    Abstract: A modular system for stabilization the spinal column or other bones includes a first stabilization element, a second stabilization element to be connected to the first stabilization element, and an outer connection element to connect the first stabilization element to the second stabilization element. An end portion of the first stabilization element and an end portion of the second stabilization element each include a structure engaging with a corresponding structure provided in the outer connection element to establish a form-fit connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis, Martin Pabst, Berthold Dannecker
  • Publication number: 20130066376
    Abstract: A polyaxial bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shaft and a head; a receiving part having a channel for receiving a rod therein, a coaxial bore and a seat portion for receiving the head; a pressure element having a head contacting surface portion; wherein the head is pivotable with respect to the receiving part and can be fixed at an angle by exerting pressure via the pressure element onto the head, and wherein the head has an oversize with respect to the head contacting surface portion such that an interference fit is achieved that clamps the head by the friction between the head and the head contacting surface portion. The curved outer surface portion has a largest diameter and the head contacting surface contacts the head at least in a region including the largest diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis, Michael Kegel
  • Publication number: 20130066377
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems, devices and methods for the correction of spinal deformities with the use one or more implantable rods configured to apply a corrective force to the spine. Methods of minimally invasive implantation of a corrective system are provided, such as where the corrective system is attached only to the spinous process of one or more vertebral bodies. Various corrective systems as well as components thereof are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew Thompson, Hiram Chee, Richard Ginn, David White
  • Publication number: 20130066378
    Abstract: A substantially rigid plate is secured to a medial portion of a clavicle relative to a fracture in the clavicle. The plate is positioned so that it extends at least partially over a distal portion of the clavicle relative to the fracture. The plate has surfaces that define a first opening through which a suture can pass. A hole is formed in the clavicle. A washer may be positioned at a side of the plate opposite the clavicle. Alternatively, the plate may include suture holes or edge features for securing a suture. A suture is secured to the washer, to at least one suture hole or to at least one edge feature, and extends through the first opening, through the hole in the clavicle and is secured to the coracoid process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey GELFAND
  • Publication number: 20130066379
    Abstract: A spinal implant has a bone plate with a bone contacting surface and an opposite upwardly facing surface and at least one opening with a groove formed around an inner circumference of the opening. The groove has an axially spaced upper and lower surface. A bone-anchor or bone screw is capable of being accommodated in the opening between the groove and the bone contacting surface. A split-ring is mounted in the groove. The split-ring is sized to expand upon insertion of the anchor element into the opening and to come into direct contact with a head of the bone anchor to hold the bone anchor in the opening. The split-ring has an upper surface and a lower surface for respectively engaging the upper and lower surface of said groove, wherein the split-ring has a variable width so as to optimize its flexibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: STRYKER SPINE
    Inventor: Stryker Spine
  • Publication number: 20130066380
    Abstract: A two step locking screw assembly includes a receiving member for receiving a fixation member and an anchor having an enlarged portion and a shank. The enlarged portion of the anchor may be seated in the receiving member. An insert may also extend inside the receiving member. An outer fastener may be positioned in the receiving member. The outer fastener may include a central opening and a pair of ramped flanges. An inner fastener may be disposed inside the central opening of the outer fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Aesculap Implant Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Tyler Haskins, Mohit Prajapati
  • Publication number: 20130066381
    Abstract: A bone anchoring device is provided that includes an anchoring element with a shank to be anchored in a bone or a vertebra, a connection element for connecting at least two anchoring elements, the connection element being made of an elastic material, a receiving part being connected to the shank for receiving the connection element and connecting the connection element to the shank, a seat for the connection element the seat being provided in the receiving part, and a locking element being engageable with the receiving part for fixation of the connection element in the seat. At least the portion of the connection element which is received in the recess has a substantially smooth-surface. The locking element has an engagement structure which contacts the surface of the connection element in such a way that a form-fit connection is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Wilfried Matthis, Lutz Biedermann, Stefan Freudiger
  • Publication number: 20130066382
    Abstract: A bone screw having a threaded proximal portion, a threaded median portion, and a threaded distal portion. The threaded proximal portion has a proximal thread with a constant diameter and a proximal pitch. The threaded median portion has a median thread with a constant diameter smaller than the diameter of the proximal thread and a median pitch that becomes increasingly smaller from a distal end of the threaded median portion towards a proximal end of the threaded median portion The threaded distal portion has a distal thread having a constant diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the median thread and a distal pitch that is larger than the median pitch at the distal end of the threaded median portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Small Bone Innovations International
    Inventor: Jean-Jacques Martin
  • Publication number: 20130066383
    Abstract: An arthrodesis anchor as a monolithic piece has prongs supporting barbs extending radially therefrom. A neck between the ends may be angled to accommodate final alignment of resected surfaces of joints to be bonded. The neck may receive a tool for buttressing a first inserted end against further penetration into a joint while the second inserted end is inserted into the other adjacent joint. The proximal and intermediate phalangeal joints may be trimmed and pilot drilled, and may be broached with or without a k-wire guide. A first end may be inserted by a tool, typically into the proximal joint, but the order may be reversed. The second end may then be inserted into a pilot in the base of the intermediate joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory S. Anderson, Brock Johnson, Louis Monaco
  • Publication number: 20130066384
    Abstract: Implants 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 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, an oscillating element, and a resonator. The generator causes the oscillating element to mechanically oscillate, and the element transmits the oscillations to the resonator. The resonator is used to press the implant against the tissue part to transmit oscillations to the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Woodwelding AG
    Inventor: Woodwelding AG
  • Publication number: 20130066385
    Abstract: A reduction instrument is releasably engageable with a bone anchor and structured to reduce a connecting element into a receiving member of the bone anchor. The reduction instrument includes a first member, a second member pivotably coupled to the first member, an offset anchor engaging portion, and a reduction member axially displaceable relative to the first and second members. A passage may be positioned between the first and second members which includes a laterally enlarged portion positioned proximal to the anchor engaging portion. The reduction member may include a guide member movable along a first interior surface of the first member and facing the second member as the reduction member is axially displaced relative to the first and second members. Methods of use are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: William Brent Benoist
  • Publication number: 20130066386
    Abstract: A tool is provided for use with a bone anchor, wherein the bone anchor has an anchoring section and a receiving portion for receiving a rod to be connected to the anchoring section and a locking element, the tool comprising a tip portion for engaging the locking element; a mechanism to apply torque to the tip portion comprising a drive shaft and a driven shaft coupled by a gear unit, where the drive shaft has a different axis than the driven shaft, and where the driven shaft comprises an engagement portion configured to connect the driven shaft to the gear unit; and a counter-holding portion for engaging the receiving part, wherein the counter-holding portion is rotatable with respect to the tip portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis, Michael Kegel
  • Publication number: 20130066387
    Abstract: An orthopaedic fixation system includes an anchoring element, which can be anchored to a bone and can be connected to a further anchoring element by means of a stabilisation element. The anchoring element may include a stabilisation element seating, into which the stabilisation element can be guided. The orthopaedic fixation system may also include an extension device for the anchoring element having a longitudinal extent with a proximal section and a distal section. The distal section can be detachably fixed to the anchoring element. The fixation system may further include a holding device with a probe seating for an extracorporeal ultrasound probe and a coupling device for coupling the holding device to the proximal section of the extension device. A targeting device for a fixation system and an orthopaedic fixation method are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Aesculap AG
    Inventor: Aescular AG
  • Publication number: 20130066388
    Abstract: An electro stimulation system for providing signals to a subject including: at least one electrical power supply; a first switching device for intermittently connecting the output of an electrical power supply to one or more connection probes electrically connected to the subject; a second switching device for intermittently connecting one or more connection probes electrically connected to the subject to form an electrical current return path for current supplied by the electrical power supply; and switching control devices connected to the first and second switching devices; wherein the intermittent connection of the output of an electrical power supply or the intermittent formation of electrical current return paths vary during a treatment and wherein the switching of the first and second devices occurs independently of each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: SKOP GMBH LTD
    Inventors: Axel L. Bernhard, Alan Cook
  • Publication number: 20130066389
    Abstract: The connector between the patient electrode pads and the base unit of an automatic external defibrillator (AED) system can be formed by capturing a printed circuit board (PCB) within a connector housing. The PCB can have conductive metal traces that serve as the contact points between the wires from the patient electrodes and the electronics within the AED base unit. The PCB in combination with the conductive metal traces can be shaped similar to a conventional two-prong or two-blade connector. Employing such a PCB-based connector may result in AED pads which are less complex and less costly to manufacture. The PCB can also support a configuration circuit that is positioned between the conductive metal traces and that allows the AED to read and store information about the attached pads. For example, the AED can use this data storage feature to check the expiration date of the pads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Gintaras A. Vaisnys, Giovanni C. Meier, Glenn W. Laub, Benny Chi
  • Publication number: 20130066390
    Abstract: A notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer having an automated external defibrillator (AED) capability, and methods of utilizing the notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer defibrillator to treat victims of sudden cardiac arrest. Kits and methods for converting, adapting or retrofitting a common notebook, laptop computer and tablet computer to enable each to be used as an AED to treat victims of sudden cardiac arrest. A kit including an adjustable case for receiving, encompassing, adapting and converting a common notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer to enable each to be used as an AED. A kit including a slave automated external defibrillator (AED) that is joined to a common notebook, laptop computer or tablet computer to adapt, convert and enable each to be used as an AED.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Barry H. Schwibner, Brad Schwartz, Eric Judge
  • Publication number: 20130066391
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed generally to techniques for selecting signal delivery sites and other signal delivery parameters for treating depression and other neurological disorders. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes obtaining first imaging information corresponding to a first region of a patient's brain, the first imaging information being based at least in part on functional characteristics of the first region. The method includes obtaining second imaging information corresponding to a second region of the patient's brain, the second region being a subset of the first region, the second imaging information being based at least in part on functional or structural characteristics of the second region. A target neural population is selected based in part on the second imaging information. The method still further includes applying an electromagnetic signal to the target neural population to improve a patient function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Justin Hulvershorn, Bradford E. Gliner, Brian Kopell
  • Publication number: 20130066392
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating or preventing dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. The methods comprise transmitting impulses of energy non-invasively to selected nerve fibers, particularly those in a vagus nerve, that modulate the activity of a patient's locus ceruleus. The transmitted energy impulses, comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy, stimulate the selected nerve fibers to cause the locus ceruleus to release norepinephrine into regions of the brain that contain beta-amyloids. The norepinephrine counteracts neuroinflammation that would damage neurons in those regions and the locus ceruleus, thereby arresting or slowing the progression of the disease in the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: ElectroCore, LLC.
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Publication number: 20130066393
    Abstract: A method is provided, including identifying a subject as suffering from pain in a first limb of the subject. In response to the identifying, treatment of the pain in the first limb is facilitated by implanting electrodes in a limb of the subject that is contralateral to the first limb. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: RAINBOW MEDICAL LTD.
    Inventors: Yossi GROSS, Noam KINROT, Gur ORON, Shlomo RONEN, Danny NEEMAN, Ali STERN-COHEN
  • Publication number: 20130066394
    Abstract: A system including a processor configured to be coupled to an electrical lead that is configured to sense electrical activity in a patient, a memory coupled to the processor, the memory containing computer readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to detect a pain signature in the sensed electrical activity, determine a treatment protocol in response to the detected pain signature, and cause the treatment protocol to be delivered to the patient via the electrical lead.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: RHODE ISLAND HOSPITAL
    Inventor: Carl Y. Saab
  • Publication number: 20130066395
    Abstract: Transcutaneous electrical and magnetic nerve stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of averting imminent medical attacks using energy that is delivered noninvasively by the devices. The attacks comprise asthma attack, epileptic seizure, attacks of migraine headache, transient ischemic attack or stroke, onset of atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, onset of ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia, panic attack, and attacks of acute depression. The imminence of an attack is forecasted using grey-box or black-box models as used in control theory. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, a vagus nerve in the neck of a patient is stimulated noninvasively to avert the attack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: ElectroCore, LLC.
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
  • Publication number: 20130066396
    Abstract: In a method for treating at least one eye of a patient in need of such treatment with a pulsed electrical stimulation signal, first an individual parameter of the patient is determined, thereafter at least one stimulation parameter of the pulsed electrical stimulation signal is set depending on the at least one individual parameter, and then the pulsed electrical stimulation signal is applied to the at least one eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Okuvision GmbH
    Inventors: Florian Gekeler, Walter G. Wrobel, Andre Messias
  • Publication number: 20130066397
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is described for electrically stimulating a patient's retina with an electrode array (32) implanted in the patient's eye, wherein one or more images are captured; at least one line and/or edge in the images is determined (21), a line of electrodes in the electrode array corresponding to a detected line and/or edge is identified (24); and electrical current is applied simultaneously to electrodes of the identified line of electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: The Bionics Institute of Australia
    Inventors: Mohit Naresh Shivdasani, Christopher Edward Williams, Peter John Blamey
  • Publication number: 20130066398
    Abstract: An external processor device is described for a hearing implant system. An external processor housing has a generally planar skin contacting surface and a central axis perpendicular to the skin contacting surface. A signal processor is located within the processor housing for developing an implant data signal. The processor housing also contains a transmitter coil for coupling the implant data signal across the skin to the implantable prosthetic system. A battery container forms an annular compartment around the central axis and contains a battery arrangement to provide electrical power to the signal processor and the transmitter coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: MED-EL ELEKTROMEDIZINISCHE GERAETE GMBH
    Inventor: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbH
  • Publication number: 20130066399
    Abstract: An intra-pericardial medical device is provided that comprises a lead body having a proximal portion, a distal end portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the proximal portion and the distal end portions. An intra-pericardial medical device further includes the control logic housed with the lead body and an energy source housed within the lead body. A stimulus conductor is included and extends along the lead body. An electrode is joined to the stimulus conduct near the distal end portion, where the electrode configured to deliver stimulus pulses. A telemetry conductor is provided within the lead and extends from the proximal portion and along the intermediate portion of the lead body. The telemetry conductor is wound into a series of coil groups to form inductive loops for at least one of receiving and transmitting radio frequency (RF) energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventor: Xiaoyi Min
  • Publication number: 20130066400
    Abstract: A system includes a controller module, which includes a storage device, a controller, a modulator, and one or more antennas. The storage device is stored with parameters defining a stimulation waveform. The controller is configured to generate, based on the stored parameters, an output signal that includes the stimulation waveform, wherein the output signal additionally includes polarity assignments for electrodes in an implantable, passive stimulation device. The modulator modulates a stimulus carrier signal with the output signal to generate a transmission signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: STIMWAVE TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Laura Tyler Perryman, Patrick Larson, Chad Andresen
  • Publication number: 20130066401
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, a system capable of resolving interactions between programmable parameters for operation of a medical device. Programming these devices is a difficult task when many parameters are involved. The disclosed systems and methods attempt to reduce and minimize constraint violations between interdependent parameters using an initial set of parameter values supplied by user (typically a physician) input or calculated automatically, and constraint violations describing invalid parameter values. If possible, a set of parameter values with less egregious constraint violations is generated and may be displayed to the user. A user is prompted to accept the set of parameter values and program the medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Jeff West, Jay A. Tzucker, Mahesh Maddali
  • Publication number: 20130066402
    Abstract: The invention provides engineered red-shifted channelrhodopsin variants. In some embodiments, the channelrhodopsin variants are characterized by improved membrane trafficking, expression, and/or unique spectral and kinetic properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: John Yu-luen Lin, Roger Y. Tsien
  • Publication number: 20130066403
    Abstract: A dermatological treatment device using a light beam, includes: a laser source (1) suitable for directing a laser beam onto at least one zone (2) of the area of skin to be treated, a contactless measurement unit sensitive to radiation according to temperature, of the temperature of a skin area corresponding to the area of skin being treated, and a unit for controlling (13) the laser source via the measurement unit, the device being characterised by the fact that the contactless measurement unit includes an infrared sensor (4) and an objective lens (20) suitable for focusing the field of view (5) of the infrared sensor such that the area of skin contained within the field of view (5) is fully included in the area of skin (2) being treated by the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: EKKYO
    Inventors: Sylvain Giraud, Alban Gosse, Alain Cornil, Patrick Peronne
  • Publication number: 20130066404
    Abstract: Phototherapy systems comprising a therapeutic lamp platform for radiant lamps such as LEDs disposed in an assembly comprising a first wall to which the lamps are affixed thereto and a second wall, closer to the patient, spaced from the first wall wherein the lamps are recessed relative thereto. The second wall comprises a reflective surface facing towards a patient and a plurality of light apertures substantially aligned with the LEDs on the first wall for communicating lamp radiation from the lamps to a user. The lamps and associated circuitry are disposed between the first and second wall so that the reflective surface is relatively smooth and seamless towards the patient. The walls have a malleable rigidity for flexible adjustability relative to the user. The device is mounted to the user with a frame comprising an eyeglass frame or goggles including lenses for shielding the user's eyes from lamp radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Jay Tapper, Lawrence A. Blaustein, David Shuter, Eric Freitag, Charles Peter Althoff, Alistair Bramley, Allen Zadeh, Daniel Joseph Shuter, Zbigniew Paul Lorenc
  • Publication number: 20130066405
    Abstract: This present invention provides methods of and apparatus for, treating skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and dermatitis. The methods employ a combination of two anti-phased electromagnetic radiation wavebands having a first peak wavelength of between 1050 to 1085 nm and a second peak wavelength of between 405 to 425 nm, the two specified wavelengths act synergistically to provide improved treatments for chronic and acute skin conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Gordon Rex Paterson Dougal
  • Publication number: 20130066406
    Abstract: A system and method for treating subcutaneous histological features without affecting adjacent tissues adversely employs microwave energy of selected power, frequency and duration to penetrate subcutaneous tissue and heat target areas with optimum doses to permanently affect the undesirable features. The frequency chosen preferentially interacts with the target as opposed to adjacent tissue, and the microwave energy is delivered as a short pulse causing minimal discomfort and side effects. By distributing microwave energy at the skin over an area and adjusting power and frequency, different conditions, such as hirsuitism and telangiectasia, can be effectively treated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Bruce Spertell
  • Publication number: 20130066407
    Abstract: Disclosed is a thermotherapy in which a thermal gas such as hot vapor which is warm vapor is inhaled through a mouth or a nose, and the inhaled thermal gas spreads to every alveolus of lungs. Due to such a thermotherapy, the whole respiratory organ is warmed and, at the same time, heat energy is applied to blood through the alveoli of the lungs so that human body tissues are easily warmed within a short time by transferring the heat energy to whole parts of a human body by making use of the circulation of blood. Accordingly, not only a healthy person but also a patient can easily enjoy advantageous effects of a thermotherapy which is equal to or higher than advantageous effects of a sauna or hot spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: Junichi Iiyama, Kazumi Kawahira
  • Publication number: 20130066408
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of relieving hot flashes or body overheating or insomnia by applying to the body of a person in need of relief therefrom a cooled elongate flexible pillow filled with pellets having sufficient weight and flow properties to provide a comforting wrapping effect on the back of the neck. A preferred filler is wheat berries. In a particular embodiment, the pillow is draped over the stellate-ganglion area of the neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Nancy Kathleen Peardon
  • Publication number: 20130066409
    Abstract: Protective clothing and apparel for pets and animals, and method of using same, structured as a shirt and/or hat made of an ultraviolet protective rash guard material with at least on portion having cooling crystals integrated therein. In a first embodiment the clothing is directed to a pet shirt constructed having a top portion, bottom portion, and side portions arranged to form a generally tubular member having an opened torso end, two leg members, and a collar member. In a second embodiment the clothing is directed to a pet hat constructed having a top portion, side portions and a front portion having a visor member attached thereto, the side portions having a lower rim. Two ear members and securement means are integrated within the lower rim of the side portions. At least a portion of the shirt/hat comprises ultraviolet properties. Additionally, at least a portion of the shirt/hat comprises a cooling zone formed of a plurality of cooling crystals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Teresa Hilton
  • Publication number: 20130066410
    Abstract: A burr hole plug comprises a plug base configured for being mounted around a burr hole. The plug base includes an aperture through which an elongated medical device exiting the burr hole may pass. The plug base is configured to accommodate a variety of cranium forms without requiring deformation of the plug base. A plug base holding tool is used to secure the plug base to the cranium, wherein the tool aligns fasteners with the plug base for insertion through the plug base and into the cranium. The burr hole plug further comprises a retainer configured for being mounted within the aperture of the plug base to secure the medical device. The retainer includes a clamping mechanism that secures the elongated medical device in the burr hole plug, wherein the movement of the clamping mechanism is controlled to prevent skewing of the clamping mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffery V. Funderburk
  • Publication number: 20130066411
    Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region from an epidural, cervical location to address at least one of high back pain, mid-back pain, low back pain, and leg pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: James R. Thacker, Konstantinos Alataris, Bradford Evan Gliner