Patents Issued in July 28, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160213876
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a nasal cannula is shaped to fit within a user's nares, where the nasal cannula includes at least one prong allowing high flow delivery of humidified gases and creates positive airway pressure in the patient's airway. The prongs have angled ends such that, in use, gases flowing through the prongs are directed to the user's nasal passages. The nasal cannula body is partially swivelling and preferably has a ball joint connector. In another embodiment the nasal cannula may have at least one flared end prong that preferably seals within a patient's nare.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Alastair Edwin McAuley, Craig Robert Prentice, Oliver Gleeson
  • Publication number: 20160213877
    Abstract: Headgear for use with a respiratory mask is described. The headgear comprises a continuous and substantially curved elongate member extending in use below a user's nose and at least two headgear straps capable of attachment to the ends of the elongate member. A mask attachment on the elongate member is disposed to sit below or on one of said user's nose, mouth, upper lip and an inlet to the mask. The attachment is capable of receiving the mask.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Alastair Edwin McAuley, Oliver Gleeson, Evan Stuart Erstich, Simon Eric Freeman, Neil Glen Davies, Stephen John Schoenberg, Kamman Law, Craig Robert Prentice
  • Publication number: 20160213878
    Abstract: A support device for the hose of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. The support device includes an elongated strap that can be wrapped around the user's torso. A flexible tube is secured to the elongated strap, wherein the lower end of the tube is open and the upper end of the tube includes a facial mask thereon. The hose of a CPAP machine can be connected to the lower end of the flexible tube so that air flows through the flexible tube and into the facial mask. The facial mask further includes a head strap thereon that can be disposed around the user's head in order to secure the facial mask in the proper position. Thus, the support device allows a user to comfortably and securely utilize a CPAP machine that minimizes the risk of the hose becoming dislodged during sleep.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Browning, JR.
  • Publication number: 20160213879
    Abstract: A closed-circuit heliox delivery system and methods for alleviating symptoms of COPD and related disorders are provided. The system is self-monitoring and can be used outside of a hospital environment. The system contains a gas supply fluidly connected to a breathing circuit. The breathing circuit contains an upper airway device, such as a mask. The system contains a sensor(s) and controller. The sensors measure parameters in the system, the ambient environment, or related to the physiological state of the user. The controller can adjust the system to maintain parameters within the device, i.e. pressure, temperature, humidity, within predetermined ranges. The controller can adjust the system to maintain a target physiological state of the user, i.e. target blood oxygen levels or Work of Breathing (WOB).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Sairam Parthasarathy, Marvin J. Slepian
  • Publication number: 20160213880
    Abstract: A catheter assembly includes a catheter at least partially positioned within a sleeve. The catheter has a coating, which produces a low-friction surface on the catheter when treated with an activating fluid. A protective tip is connected to the sleeve and has proximal and distal internal seals, with the proximal seal at the proximal end of the tip or between proximal and distal ends of the protective tip. A cap of the assembly has a projection, which is removably received within the protective tip for sealing engagement with the proximal and distal seals to define a fluid reservoir within the protective tip. An activating fluid is contained within the fluid reservoir. The projection may be partially hollow to receive a portion of the catheter. The sleeve may be relatively narrow or at least have a narrowed portion for better distribution of activating fluid to the surface of the catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Padraig M. O'FLYNN, James J. FITZPATRICK, Shamsedin ROSTAMI
  • Publication number: 20160213881
    Abstract: A multi-lumen catheter, for insertion into and draining a body cavity, that mitigates the risk of obstruction of the drainage ports and drainage lumen of the catheter, reduces the detrimental effects caused by the suction forces of the drainage ports on the body cavity being drained, and reduces the risk of infection of the body cavity being drained by decreasing the residual volume of fluid retained in the body cavity being drained. These advantages are achieved by the novel approach of disposing a perforated filter membrane over a segmented retention element and also over the drainage ports of the drainage lumen of the catheter thereby creating internal interstitial drainage channels and internal interstitial drainage cavities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: John D. Adams, JR., Dean Brent Barron
  • Publication number: 20160213882
    Abstract: An expandable sheath may include an inelastic compliant membrane having a lumen therethrough, and a discontinuous outer member bonded to the membrane. The membrane may include one or more folds formed therein. At least a portion of the outer member may extend continuously around a circumference of the membrane in a first configuration. The outer member may be configured to separate to a second configuration when subjected to a radially outward force from within the membrane. The outer member may taper from a first diameter adjacent a proximal hub to a second smaller diameter at a distal end. A method of manufacturing an expandable sheath may include forming one or more folds in a compliant membrane, cutting a plurality of apertures through a wall of an outer covering; and laminating the outer covering onto the membrane, wherein the plurality of apertures is disposed over the one or more folds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Mimi Trinh Fitterer, Takashi H. Ino, Randy S. Gamarra, Floriza Q. Escalona
  • Publication number: 20160213883
    Abstract: A positioning device for a medical catheter to be positioned in a bodily orifice or cavity, the device containing an elongated tubular or sleeve-type catheter receiving member, one end of which receives the catheter to be positioned, elongated catheter release member which is held inside or outside the catheter receiving member and which can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the member and a motion mechanism comprising a motion conversion device, by means of which the catheter receiving member and the catheter release member can be displaced relative to one another in the longitudinal direction of the device, thus releasing the catheter from the catheter receiving member; the motion conversion device has an actuating member, by means of which motion that is carried out transversely to the longitudinal direction of the device or pivoting motion can be converted into longitudinal motion running in the longitudinal direction of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: Urotech GmbH
    Inventors: Werner SCHWARZ, David HAUSER, Christopher JANSSEN
  • Publication number: 20160213884
    Abstract: A method for manipulating a catheter within a lumen of a body may involve providing a manipulatable catheter system, including a catheter and a controller coupled with the catheter. The method may further involve: displaying an image of at least a distal portion of the catheter on a video display; receiving, via the controller, a user input directing the distal portion of the catheter to articulate; determining a relationship between an articulation plane of the distal portion of the catheter and a viewing plane of the image on the video display; automatically adjusting the catheter, using the controller, to move the articulation plane of the distal portion closer to parallel with the viewing plane of the image, based on the determined relationship; and articulating the distal portion of the catheter, using the controller, based on the user input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: June Park
  • Publication number: 20160213885
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein include apparatus for securing and protecting medical tubes, such as a PICC line, which are inserted at an end into a body of a human or other animal. According to one aspect, a medical tube protective sleeve apparatus is provided with a securing strap to secure the apparatus to the body. A first pad has an opening through which the medical tube can be placed. The first pad is connected to the securing strap so that the first pad may be secured to the body, positioned such that the medical tube may be threaded from an insertion point of the body through the opening of the first pad. A second pad is attached to the first pad and may be used to secure onto the first pad to protect the PICC line and exit site from containments. The second pad further includes a securing pocket to allow longer PICC lines to be tucked away/curled-up to avoid being snagged in clothing or other surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Jodi Carlson
  • Publication number: 20160213886
    Abstract: A drain tube stabilizing belt (1) that wraps around a patient's abdomen and has locking straps (13) located thereon for securing excess drain tubes (12) in place to prevent pulling on the patient's incisions. The drain tube stabilizing belt preferably has one or more loops (16) and/or pouches (21) located thereon for holding for holding drain bulbs, EKG monitors, pacemakers and/or other devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2015
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Paul L. DiGiorgi
  • Publication number: 20160213887
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a system of circumferentially (preferably helically) arranging indicia on the elongate body of a medical device such as a catheter. The disclosure also relates to an anchor drain for securing a surgical drain to a fluid collection device. The anchor drain resists disconnection of the surgical drain from the fluid collection device and also resists occlusion of the conduit connecting the surgical drain and the fluid collection device, even when a suture is tied about a portion of the anchor drain inserted within the surgical drain, and resists unintentional withdrawal of the surgical drain from the body or a body cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Stacey JACOVINI
  • Publication number: 20160213888
    Abstract: There are disclosed devices and methods for protecting a user from a sharp tip of a medical needle. In an embodiment, a device includes a central body portion, a medical needle having a sharp tip, a pair of wings in attachment to the central body portion, and a hook-and-loop fastening system disposed on at least one of the wings, and configured to selectively attach the wings together with the medical needle positioned between the wings so as to protect a user from the sharp tip of the medical needle. In another embodiment, a method includes withdrawing a sharp tip of a medical needle from a patient, closing a pair of wings with the medical needle positioned between the wings, and fastening the wings together with the medical needle positioned between the wings so as to protect a user from the sharp tip of the medical needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: PAUL LAMBERT
  • Publication number: 20160213889
    Abstract: A guidewire for medical procedures can be maintained in a coiled configuration with a clamp. Multiple clamped and coiled guidewires may be stored in a fluid-filled, storage bowl concurrently. Different clamps may have different colors to differentiate the clamps and clamped guidewires. The clamps may be markable to provide additional differentiation. The clamps can further comprise a guidewire introduction funnel and/or a guidewire torquer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas A. Sos
  • Publication number: 20160213890
    Abstract: Described here are devices, systems, and methods for treating conditions or diseases of the nose, ear, or throat with an expandable device having a drug coating. The expandable devices may be delivered to a body cavity in a low-profile configuration and expanded to contact surrounding tissue. The expandable devices may deliver or release the drug coating to the tissue. Multiple expansions of a single device may be employed during treatment. Various coating excipients and manufacturing parameters for the expandable devices may also be adjusted to enhance or slow transfer of the drug coating and/or release of the drug to the target tissue site. The drug transferred to the tissue may act as an in situ depot that enables maintenance of a therapeutic level of locally delivered drug for a desired time period after removal of the expandable devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Richard E. KAUFMAN, John Joseph STANKUS, James SU
  • Publication number: 20160213891
    Abstract: Medical dilatation balloons comprising layered polymers are disclosed including processes for joining crosslinked balloons to thermoplastic catheter systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Alan M Zamore
  • Publication number: 20160213892
    Abstract: A dilation balloon is wrapped in one or more patterns with a wire or braided material having diamond abrasive or other abrasive material bonded thereto. The wire or braided material is vibrated in one or more ways to enhance the cutting action of the wire abrasive. The wire abrasive may be vibrated using high, low, or even ultrasonic waves transmitted to the wire abrasive via local or remote methods. Alternatively, the dilation balloon may be dilated with a contrast media that exhibits a high absorption to laser light. The contrast material is lased with a laser fiber or fibers inserted into the balloon interior, creating a substantial shockwave that vibrates the balloon and assists in the cracking or abrading of the surrounding plaque in contact with the dilation balloon. The cutting balloon may employ the abrasive coated wires described above or cutting blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Kenneth P. Grace
  • Publication number: 20160213893
    Abstract: A low profile occlusion catheter having a guiding atraumatic tip that prevents entry of the balloon into collateral vessels. The occlusion catheter system is particularly well suited for use in vascular occlusion and includes a pressure monitoring line to monitor the degree and state of occlusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: Pryor Medical Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Curtis J. FRANKLIN
  • Publication number: 20160213894
    Abstract: Assist device (10) for sclerosing treatment of varicose veins, aimed at being partially inserted into a blood vessel (20), including a tubular element (11), which has at least three ways (13, 14, 15), at least two of which (13, 14) are connected to at least one related inflatable balloon element (12, 12?, 16) by at least one through hole (30, 31), and at least one remaining way (15) of said three ways (13, 14, 15) has at least one hole (32) for the passage of a sclerosing substance (17), aimed at reaching a wall (18) of said blood vessel (20), in which at least one (16) of said at least two balloon elements (12, 12?, 16) has an elongated shape extending toward at least another balloon element (12, 12?) and a volume comprised in the range of 30% to 99% of the space inside said blood vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Mario SALERNO
  • Publication number: 20160213895
    Abstract: A process for making a folded composition-eluting balloon catheter includes coating one or both surfaces of a one or more foldable wings with a hydrophilic coating, applying a composition as a coating on the coated surface and providing the composition within a fold of the one or more foldable wings, and folding the one or more foldable wings to seal the composition by the one or more foldable wings to prevent/reduce its release until after inflation of the balloon. Another process for making a folded composition-eluting balloon catheter includes coating one or both surfaces of the one or more foldable wings with a hydrophilic coating-composition mixture and providing the composition by the one or more foldable wings, and folding the one or more foldable wings to seal the composition between the fold of the one or more foldable wings to prevent/reduce its release until after an inflation of the balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Ronald Adrianus Maria Horvers
  • Publication number: 20160213896
    Abstract: The invention provides a catheter and control box apparatus and related methods that are useful in delivering liquids, including liquids comprising nucleic acid molecules into cells. In particular, the invention provides a catheter that stabilizes fluid flow within a vein to deliver a volume, pressure charge of saline solution, exogenous compositions, and isolated vectors to kidney cells, using the renal vein as a guide and under hydrodynamic pressure. The catheter and control box apparatus and related methods described herein are useful to research, prognose, ameliorate symptoms of kidney injury, and treat kidney pathologies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: Indiana University Research & Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Bacallao
  • Publication number: 20160213897
    Abstract: Inflation systems and methods for inflating a balloon member are provided. The inflation system includes an inflation tool. The inflation tool includes a first component having a first arm where the first arm extends longitudinally along an axis of movement of the first component. The first arm includes a first and a second positioning member, the first positioning member is longitudinally spaced apart from the second positioning member. The first component is adapted to advance distally for inflation of the balloon member. Each positioning member corresponds to an inflation increment for the balloon member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Stephanie Rivera
  • Publication number: 20160213898
    Abstract: A magnetic article with a corrosion resistant barrier formed from a poly(tetrafluoro-p-xylene) conformal coating or from a parylene conformal coating having a melting point of at least about 430° C. and a moisture vapor transmission less than about 0.5 g-mm/m2/day at 90% RH and 37° C., the conformal coating being covered with a polysulfone thermoplastic overlayer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Chun Man Alan Leung, William Jeffrey Bertrand, Drew Powell Amery, Lori C. Speckman, Thomas J. Sierocuk
  • Publication number: 20160213899
    Abstract: Treatment methods and devices are provided for percutaneously accessing a patient's thoracic region via a controlled opening in the aorta, so that cardiac procedures, such as a coronary bypass procedure, can be performed in a minimally invasive manner. Advantageously, it may be possible to perform the procedure without placing the patient on cardiopulmonary bypass. The method may include percutaneously delivering at least one catheter into an aorta of a heart, forming a controlled opening in the aorta and pericardium via the at least one catheter to access a thoracic region within the patient's chest, and performing at least one coronary bypass graft procedure through the controlled opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: L. Van Thomas Crisco
  • Publication number: 20160213900
    Abstract: A balloon can be rather easily pressed against an inner wall inside a lumen using a proper pressing force. A balloon has a dilating/deflating section that forms a hollow internal space, and that deflates by the internal space being decompressed, and a support section that is arranged in the internal space so as to deflate in response to the deflation of the dilating/deflating section, and that supports the dilating/deflating section so as to dilate outward in a state where the internal space is under atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kosuke NISHIO, Riyaheh S. HAZAMA
  • Publication number: 20160213901
    Abstract: The present invention provides minimally invasive devices and methods for accessing the sinuses and their surrounding structures for surgery and other treatments. The anterior ethmoid and maxillary sinuses are accessed and treated under minimal anesthesia with little or no postoperative limitation of activity or adverse symptoms. Direct visual verification of the sinuses and their natural ostia is utilized. Other paranasal sinuses may be treated by this method as well. The sinuses, in particular the maxillary and anterior ethmoid, are accessed via a direct anterior to posterior axis and the natural ostia of those sinuses is directly visualized for placement of a guide-free dilator, in the desired location within the natural ostia. That access to the maxillary ostium is accomplished by the anterior transuncinate “keyhole” approach in which a hole is punched in the uncinate process with the described devices according to the described methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Leonard V. Covello
  • Publication number: 20160213902
    Abstract: A system for manipulating a guide catheter within a patient's nasal passages or sinus cavities includes a guide catheter formed from an elongate flexible member having a lumen passing there through. A wire guide is slidably disposed within the lumen of the guide catheter. The system further includes a steering member fixedly secured to a proximal end of the wire guide and a proximal hub secured to a proximal end of the guide catheter. The system further includes a recessed handle having a first recess for fixedly receiving the proximal hub of the guide catheter and a second recess for receiving the steering member, the second recess being dimensioned to permit axial and rotational movement of the steering member while disposed in the second recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: ENTELLUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas V. Ressemann, Peter T. Keith, Theodore O. Truitt
  • Publication number: 20160213903
    Abstract: An apparatus for natural cure for middle ear infection has a single use sachet. The sachet has a pocket that holds a limited quantity of mustard essential oil. The sachet has a neck and a dropper and sachet can be squeezed to flow drops for pouring into an ear canal. The sachet is put in a microwave oven just before use for only substantially 30 seconds to heat the oil and up to five drops of heated oil is squeezed into an ear canal of a person with severe ear itching indicative of a middle ear infection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Tara Chand Singhal
  • Publication number: 20160213904
    Abstract: Implantable drug delivery devices are provided to have a deployment shape for implantation in the body and a retention shape for retention in the body. The device may have one or more elongated drug reservoirs containing a drug, and the drug reservoir may be formed from a deformable material. In one case, a first filament is attached to the first end of the drug reservoir and second filament is attached to the second end of the drug reservoir, wherein a fastener is positioned about the first and second filaments to permit shortening and prevent lengthening of the filaments with reference to the ends of the drug reservoir, as a means for transforming the device from the implantation shape to the retention shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Paul DiCesare, Jeffrey Radziunas, Andrew Barnes, Eric Britschock, David Sutton
  • Publication number: 20160213905
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods configured to provide heat and cold to the skin along with a skin treatment to control rate of skin treatment flow to the skin are described. The disclosed apparatuses and methods include beneficially delaying the transition of skin treatments once skin penetration is achieved to improve the effectiveness of topical treatments to the skin. Accordingly, the disclosed apparatuses and methods are configured to enhance the benefits of topical treatments to the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: GeeLux Holdings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Marcio Marc Abreu
  • Publication number: 20160213906
    Abstract: A syringe and a syringe set are provided. The syringe can be readily distinguished from other syringes only by viewing a tip of the syringe. The syringe includes a tip provided at an end of a barrel body to be filled with a medicine and having an outer diameter of 4.315 mm to 6 mm, a peripheral wall provided around the tip concentrically with the tip, and a helical rib formed on an inner the of the peripheral wall or an outer face of the tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Taiji HORITA, Ippei MATSUMOTO, Tomoyuki SONOYAMA, Fukumitsu NISHIOKA, Shoujirou TANIOKA, Masahiro NOHARA, Kiyoshi TAKANO
  • Publication number: 20160213907
    Abstract: A single-piece, injection molded, hand-held liquid dispensing applicator. The single-piece applicator comprising a source of fluid and a frangible applicator tip attached to the fluid source. When the frangible applicator tip is broken, the fluid flows from the source to an absorbent member attached to the applicator tip to spread the liquid on a surface. The frangible tip may comprise a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element, and a frangible region therebetween. The tongue element may comprise ribs for reinforcement. The frangible tip may comprise a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid. The dispensing applicator may be used in various medical applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: BIOMED PACKAGING SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Jack W. KAUFMAN, James BROWN
  • Publication number: 20160213908
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present application provide microneedle patches and systems, and methods for use of such patches and systems. In one aspect, a microneedle patch is provided including a tab portion for handling the microneedle patch. In another aspect, a system is provided including a microneedle patch and a tray for housing the microneedle patch. In still another aspect, various indicators providing for providing feedback prior to, during, and after administration of the microneedle patch are provided. Advantageously, the described microneedle patches and systems provide improved handling and ease of application of the microneedle patches to skin for the delivery of therapeutic agents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Devin McAllister, Mark Prausnitz, Sabastien Henry, James J. Norman
  • Publication number: 20160213909
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a deformable, implantable subcutaneous port for anchoring a transcutaneous treatment component. A port body portion having a normal area port footprint is adapted by means of a port orifice for receiving and anchoring the transcutaneous treatment component beneath the point of entry into the physiology of a patient and for routing the transcutaneous treatment component. The port body portion is produced from a deformable material and has structure and/or composition that provides deformability characteristics of the port such that collapsing, folding, stretching, elongating and/or twisting the port body portion into a modified port shape having a reduced-size port profile enables removal of the port body portion from the physiology of a patient through a relatively small transcutaneous opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: Marvao Medical Devices Ltd
    Inventor: Christopher Davey
  • Publication number: 20160213910
    Abstract: A luer connector including a housing with first end including a male luer tip and a second end. The connector further includes a rigid valve member having a first opened end and a second closed end and a retaining member configured to couple the valve member and the housing. The housing further includes a rigid conduit positioned within the housing and in fluid communication with the second end of the housing, the rigid conduit adapted to engage the first opened end of the valve member. The housing defines a first internal volume when the valve member is in a first position and a second, smaller volume when the valve member is in a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas F. Fangrow, JR.
  • Publication number: 20160213911
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an antimicrobial insert for a stopcock medical connector are provided. More specifically, the present invention relates to an antimicrobial insert that is seated within at least a portion of the annular bore of the connector's tap, wherein fluid within the annular bore contacts the antimicrobial insert, thereby preventing microbial proliferation within the stopcock medical connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Huibin Liu, Bryan Fred Bihlmaier, Janice Lin
  • Publication number: 20160213912
    Abstract: A device for disinfecting catheter connectors comprising a container (2) having a closed lower base end (2b) and an opposite open upper end (2a) and a sponge-like element (3) inserted inside the container (2), impregnated with a liquid medical substance (4). The sponge-like element (3) has an axial through cavity (5) within it and a semi-rigid insert (6) housed in the cavity (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Applicant: NEX Medical S.R.L.
    Inventor: Silvio DANELUZZI
  • Publication number: 20160213913
    Abstract: A cochlear implant electrode includes an implantable electrode array made of resilient material with a center longitudinal axis and an outer surface. Electrode contacts are distributed on the outer surface of the electrode array along the longitudinal axis for applying electrical stimulation signals to adjacent neural tissue. At least one biocompatible hydrogel layer is fixed to the electrode array solely by mechanical connection and adapted to swell from contact with perilymph fluid within a cochlea without separating away from the outer surface of the electrode array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Anandhan Dhanasingh, Claude Jolly
  • Publication number: 20160213914
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are current output architectures for implantable stimulator devices. Current source and sink circuitry is divided into a plurality of stages, each of which is capable via an associated switch bank of sourcing or sinking an amount of current to or from any one of the electrodes of the device. The current source circuitry is distinct from the current sink circuitry, and the two share no common circuit nodes prior to connection to the electrodes. In other words, the current source circuitry and the current sink circuitry do not share a common node other than the electrodes. Each stage is preferably formed of a current mirror for receiving a reference current and outputting a scaled version of current to that stage's switch bank. The scalar at each stage can be set by wiring a desired number of output transistors in parallel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Yuping He, David K.L. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20160213915
    Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable lead having a paddle, an electrode array positioned and arranged on a surface of the paddle, and a tether connected to the paddle. The paddle is sized to be positioned in the epidural space of the spinal canal and has dorsal and ventral surfaces, distal and proximal ends, and a length less than or equal to one vertebral level of the spinal canal. The electrode array includes at least one electrode contact configured to communicate with a corresponding electrode and a conductor. At least one end of the tether extends from the paddle and is configured to position and secure the implantable lead. The implantable lead may be included in a kit that has instructions for implanting the implantable lead. Methods of making and implanting the implantable lead also are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Jacob Amrani
  • Publication number: 20160213916
    Abstract: Self-expanding lead including a lead body having a distal body end, a proximal body end, and a central axis extending therebetween. The lead body includes first and second outer arms and an inner arm disposed between the first and second outer arms. The first and second outer arms and the inner arm extend lengthwise between the proximal body end and the distal body end. The lead also includes an array of electrodes that are configured to apply a neurostimulation therapy within an epidural space of a patient. At least some of the electrodes are positioned along the first and second outer arms. Each of the first and second outer arms includes a resilient member that is biased to flex the corresponding first and second outer arms from a collapsed condition to an expanded condition in a lateral direction away from the inner arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: Alan De La Rama
  • Publication number: 20160213917
    Abstract: Described in this disclosure is a support structure for an electrode array configured for implanting against the spinal cord for treatment of pain. The restoring force of the support structure works in concert with frictional coupling between the array and the spinal cord to overcome the inertial force associated with ateral motion of the array. The electrode array is supported with struts that run longitudinally across or near the array backing. For example, two struts can be affixed on either out-board longitudinal edge of the array. The electrode array can be further stabilized by securing to a vertebra in the patient using a strap equipped with a collar that encircles the bundle of electrical leads emerging from the array through the dura. Positional stability of the array is better than 0.5 nm per movement cycle, thereby inhibiting the array from lifting off of the spinal cord during movement of the spinal cord within the dura.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Brian Dalm, Steve Viljoen, Matthew A. Howard, Rob Shurig
  • Publication number: 20160213918
    Abstract: This invention provides a device for implantation directly into the spinal cord for the purpose of treating back pain. Electrodes on a backing that conforms directly to the spinal cord are installed as a source of electrical stimulation and pain relief The electrode array is maintained on the spinal cord by way of a spring or support structure that is anchored to an anatomical structure outside the spinal cord but near the site of implantation. Suitable anchoring structures include the vertebrae and the dura. Secured in this fashion, the support structure maintains a gentle pressure of the electrode array against the spinal cord so as to stay in electrical contact but minimize injury or inflammation. The device may accommodate and buffer movement of the spinal cord both laterally and in a caudal-rostral fashion so that the electrode array remains in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Matthew A. Howard, Hiroyuki Oya, Steve Viljoen, Chandan G. Reddy
  • Publication number: 20160213919
    Abstract: A medical implant, a catheter, and a system including a medical implant and a catheter, where the catheter is used to position the medical implant and to reposition or explant the medical implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Wantjinarjo Suwito, Hannes Kraetschmer, Dirk Muessig, R. Hollis Whittington, Eric Austin, J. Christopher Moulder, Jeffrey A. von Arx, Nima Badie, Brian M. Taff, Warren Dabney
  • Publication number: 20160213920
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides systems and methods for providing both neurostimulation and defibrillation therapy. The system includes an implantable pulse generator (IPG), at least one neurostimulation electrode electrically coupled to the IPG and configured to apply neurostimulation pulses to a subject, and at least one defibrillation electrode electrically coupled to the IPG and configured to apply defibrillation pulses to the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Stuart Rosenberg, Wenbo Hou, Timothy A. Fayram
  • Publication number: 20160213921
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for injecting a fluid into body tissue, the apparatus comprising: a hollow needle; and fluid delivery means, wherein the apparatus is adapted to actuate the fluid delivery means in use so as to automatically inject fluid into body tissue during insertion of the needle into the said body tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Iacob MATHIESEN, Torunn E. TJELLE, Knut Arvid Sorensen REKDAHL, Bjorn DAVID-ANDERSEN
  • Publication number: 20160213922
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling a tissue of a subject using applied pulsed electric fields. The system for controlling a therapy provided to a tissue of a subject using applied pulsed electric fields. The system includes an electrode assembly configured to engage a skin tissue of a subject to deliver a series of electric field pulses to the skin tissue and a user input configured to receive an operational instruction for the series of electric field pulses. The operational instruction defines at least one of a pulse duration, a pulse frequency, a pulse number, and a pulse amplitude. The system also includes at least one processor configured to access the operational instruction received by the user input and, using the operational instruction, create an electric field profile to be generated by the electrode assembly about the skin tissue of the subject to control a fibroblast characteristic while preserving a vascular perfusion in at least a portion of the skin tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Alexander Goldberg, Martin L. Yarmush, Robert L. Sheridan, William Gerald Austen, JR., G. Felix Broelsch, Boris Rubinsky, Michael Belkin
  • Publication number: 20160213923
    Abstract: An electrical venous stimulation apparatus comprising an electrical signal generator, the signal generator configured to generate a specified electrical output signal. The apparatus also includes a plurality of electrodes in electrical communication with the signal generator and configured to be placed in electrical communication with a subject. The electrical output signal sent to the subject includes an output voltage, electrical current, and waveform that changes with time in a preprogrammed repeating cycle. The output voltage, electrical current, and waveform are configured to elicit a physiological response that stimulates a plurality of peripheral nerves in the subject, activates a venous muscle pump mechanism in one or more limbs of the subject, and non-invasively alter the physiology of target vein(s), wherein the target vein(s) is caused to distend from under the surface of the subject's skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: David Bruce PHILLIPS
  • Publication number: 20160213924
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a system and method for delivering stimulation therapy or relief to a patient. The system includes a stimulation electrode pair coupled to a good that can couple to a patient to deliver stimulation controlled through a wired or wireless link. The system includes a controller that can generate and apply a stimulation pulse to the stimulation electrode pair based on the stimulation program and the signal or data. The system includes a sensor coupled to the controller and the good, and a user interface enabling a user to remotely view or exchange information through the link, and to monitor and set or reconfigure the stimulation pulse. In some embodiments, the good includes a brace assembly that can be a brace, a stay, a sleeve, a sling, a garment, a wrap, or a strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: Struan Coleman, Calvin Domenico, Edison Gieswein, Jessica Paparella, Joshua Butters, Marlina Kessler, David Saar, Lee Knox
  • Publication number: 20160213925
    Abstract: An exemplary system may include a sound processor that is communicatively coupled to a cochlear implant implanted within a patient. The cochlear implant may include a current generation circuit (402) in series with a capacitor (418) and a voltage measurement circuit (422). The sound processor may 1) direct the cochlear implant to enable the current generation circuit for a time interval, causing a current to flow to the capacitor, 2) direct the cochlear implant to use the voltage measurement circuit to measure a voltage change across the capacitor that occurs during the time interval, and 3) determine a current level of the current that flows from the current generation circuit to the capacitor. A corresponding method is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventor: R. Tissa Karunasiri