Patents Issued in November 9, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170319327
    Abstract: Using the simplified placement system and method for a tissue graft anchor of the present invention, a surgeon may introduce one or more sutures into a hole in a boney tissue, apply a precise amount of tension to the sutures to advance a soft tissue graft to a desired location, and then advance the anchor into the bone, preferably while maintaining the requisite pre-determined suture tension and without introducing spin to the suture. Particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention relate to multi-anchor constructs. Multi-anchor constructs of the present invention may employ threaded implants exclusively, push-in implants exclusively, or a combination of threaded and push-in implants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: Tenjin LLC
    Inventors: Christopher P. DOUGHERTY, Gary R. HEISLER, Robert A. VAN WYK
  • Publication number: 20170319328
    Abstract: An expandable mammary implant including a shell having an anterior face and a posterior face. The anterior has an upper pole portion and a lower pole portion meeting at an apex, and an injection zone for receiving fluid therethrough to inflate the implant. A reinforcement material is coupled to the shell in a reinforcement zone. The reinforcement material is coupled to the shell so as to at least coincide with the upper pole portion and a peripheral rim portion that extends from the posterior face upwardly into said anterior face by a predetermined distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Luis Alberto Davila, Anita M. Falcon, Krasimira Hristov, Leo B. Kriksunov, Robert J. Tannhauser
  • Publication number: 20170319329
    Abstract: A system for forming corneal implants includes a first cutting apparatus configured to cut a donor cornea and form a portion of corneal tissue. The donor cornea includes an anterior surface and a posterior surface. The first cutting apparatus is configured to cut the donor cornea along an axis extending between the anterior surface and the posterior surface. The system also includes a second cutting apparatus configured to form a plurality of lenticules from the portion of corneal tissue by making, to the portion of corneal tissue, a series of cuts transverse to the axis. Corneal tissue between consecutive cuts by the second cutting apparatus provides a corresponding lenticule to be shaped for a corneal implant. A distance between the consecutive cuts defines a thickness for the corresponding lenticule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: David Muller, Michael Mrochen, Jennifer Stone
  • Publication number: 20170319330
    Abstract: Disclosed is an intrastromal insert, already preformed, of solid, transparent, impermeable, biocompatible, physiologically inert and chemically resistant material, with notches allowing the passage of metabolites, substances, cells or portions thereof, and drugs, configured to receive printing, which is adapted in the space of the corneal stroma to change the eye color and/or to solve the problem of insufficient pigmentation of the iris. The method and the related component to change, permanently and reversibly, the eye color for aesthetic purposes are described as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Francesco Maria GUERRESCHI
  • Publication number: 20170319331
    Abstract: An intraocular lens insertion apparatus includes a distal end member which is inserted through an incision in an eyeball of a patient, an opening member provided for the distal end member through which an intraocular lens is ejected, and an indicating means provided for the distal end member. The indicating means is used for indicating that an entire part of the opening member is inside a cornea of the eyeball or inside a sclerocornea of the eyeball with respect to an external flap of the incision.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: KOWA COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Kenichi Kobayashi, Shuji Abe, Genyo Midorikawa
  • Publication number: 20170319332
    Abstract: Intraocular lenses (IOLs) that improve lens stability by, for example, increasing anterior-posterior stiffness of the IOL, increasing anterior-posterior dimensions of the IOL and/or increasing contact area with the equator of the bag to resist movement of the IOL as the bag collapses over time. These IOLs may be non-modular (single component) or modular (multiple component). In modular embodiments, the IOL system may include intraocular base and optic components, which, when combined, form a modular IOL.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicants: ClarVista Medical, Inc., The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate
    Inventors: Malik Y. KAHOOK, Glenn SUSSMAN, Rudolph F. ZACHER, Paul J. McLEAN, Robert E. ATKINSON
  • Publication number: 20170319333
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method includes delivering to a native valve annulus (e.g., a native mitral valve annulus) of a heart a prosthetic heart valve having a body expandable from a collapsed, delivery configuration to an expanded, deployed configuration. The method can further include, after the delivering, causing the prosthetic heart valve to move from the delivery configuration to the deployed configuration. With the prosthetic heart valve in its deployed configuration, an anchor can be delivered and secured to at least one of a fibrous trigone of the heart or an anterior native leaflet of the native valve. With the prosthetic heart valve disposed in the native valve annulus and in its deployed configuration, an anchoring tether can extending from the anchor can be secured to a wall of the heart to urge the anterior native leaflet towards the body of the prosthetic heart valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: Tendyne Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary J. TEGELS, Michael J. URICK
  • Publication number: 20170319334
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for use with a mitral valve of a heart of a subject. The apparatus includes a P1-anchor, a P2-anchor, and a P3-anchor, that are anchored to tissue in a vicinity of, respectively, P1, P2 and P3 segments of a posterior leaflet of the mitral valve, a tether being fixedly coupled to the P2-anchor, and slidably coupled to the P1 and P3 anchors. A cardiac-site anchor anchors the tether to an anchoring location that is at a cardiac site that is anterior and inferior to the posterior leaflet. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Yosi Tuval, Ilia Hariton
  • Publication number: 20170319335
    Abstract: A replacement heart valve post and leaflet assembly may include at least a first post member including a body portion, a cantilevered leg portion, and a hinge portion configured to connect the body portion and the cantilevered leg portion and one or more leaflets. The cantilevered leg portion may comprise a longitudinally extending slot defined therein. At least a portion of a leaflet may extend through the slot. A backing element may be positioned over a portion of a leaflet such that the leaflet is secured between the cantilevered leg portion and the backing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew J.H. Backus, Anh Thu Pham
  • Publication number: 20170319336
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve. The apparatus includes a replacement valve and an expandable anchor configured for endovascular delivery to a vicinity of the patient's heart valve. In some embodiments, the replacement valve is adapted to wrap about the anchor, for example, by everting during endovascular deployment. In some embodiments, the replacement valve is not connected to expandable portions of the anchor. In some embodiments, the anchor is configured for active foreshortening during endovascular deployment. In some embodiments, the anchor includes expandable lip and skirt regions for engaging the patient's heart valve during deployment. In some embodiments, the anchor comprises a braid fabricated from a single strand of wire. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a lock configured to maintain anchor expansion. The invention also includes methods for endovascularly replacing a patient's heart valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Amr Salahieh, Ulrich R. Haug, Hans F. Valencia, Robert A. Geshlider, Tom Saul, Dwight P. Morejohn, Kenneth J. Michlitsch
  • Publication number: 20170319337
    Abstract: A prosthetic valve assembly for implantation in a patient's circulatory system includes a stent, a valve member coupled to the stent and defining a preferred landing zone relative to anatomical structures in the patient's circulatory system, and at least one marker positioned in a predetermined relationship relative to the landing zone of the valve member, the marker being visually distinguishable from the stent using an imaging technique. By observing the marker, the prosthetic valve assembly may be implanted in the patient so that certain ones of the anatomical structures lie within the landing zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter N. Braido, Gary W. Geiger, Thomas Mark Benson, Steven Frederick Anderl, Aditee Kurane
  • Publication number: 20170319338
    Abstract: A leaflet for a prosthetic valve formed of at least one layer that includes a composite material containing at least one expanded fluoropolymer membrane having serpentine fibrils and an elastomer is provided. The fluoropolymer may be polytetrafluoroethylene. In at least one embodiment, the elastic properties are present in an axial direction the leaflet. The leaflets may be single layered or multi-layered. The leaflets may be coupled to a support structure and movable between open and closed configurations relative to the support structure to form a heart valve. The elasticity within the leaflets permits, among other things, the leaflets to bend with a reduced occurrence of wrinkles as the valve opens and closes. The elastic properties of the leaflet also, among other things, improve bending properties and reduce closure stresses, thereby extending the life of the leaflet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: William C. Bruchman, Charles F. White
  • Publication number: 20170319339
    Abstract: A method of deploying a stent includes providing a delivery system with the stent loaded in a reduced diameter configuration between an inner catheter and an outer sheath, the stent including a covering positioned on a luminal wall surface thereof, the inner catheter including a radially outwardly extending protrusion that extends into the covering but does not intersect a plane along the stent luminal wall surface, advancing the delivery system to a stenting site, and withdrawing the outer sheath to deploy the stent at the stenting site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Jurgen Dorn
  • Publication number: 20170319340
    Abstract: A valve prosthesis and methods for implanting the prosthesis are provided. The prosthesis generally includes a self-expanding frame and two or more engagement arms. A valve prosthesis is sutured to the self-expanding frame. Each engagement arm corresponds to a native mitral valve leaflet. At least one engagement arm immobilizes the native leaflets, and holds the native leaflets close to the main frame. The prosthetic mitral valve frame also includes two or more anchor attachment points. Each anchor attachment point is attached to one or more anchors that help attach the valve prosthesis to the heart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Niall Duffy, Gavin Kenny, Fabio Bartolozzi
  • Publication number: 20170319341
    Abstract: A delivery system and method for delivering a prosthetic heart valve to the aortic valve. The system includes a delivery catheter having a steering mechanism thereon for delivering a balloon-expandable prosthetic heart valve to the aortic valve through an introducer passing into the left ventricle through its apex. The introducer may have a more floppy distal section than a proximal section to reduce trauma to the heart wall while preserving good operating field stability. The delivery catheter includes a deflecting segment just proximal to a distal balloon to facilitate positioning of the prosthetic heart valve in the proper orientation. A trigger in a catheter handle may be coupled to a deflection wire that actuates the deflecting segment, while a slider in the handle controls retraction of a valve pusher. The prosthetic heart valve may be installed over the existing calcified leaflets, and a pre-dilation valvuloplasty procedure may also be utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Teodoro S. Jimenez, Walter Lee, Mark M. Dehdashtian, Kristopher J. Yee
  • Publication number: 20170319342
    Abstract: Valve delivery catheter assemblies including components that limit trauma to the expanded prosthetic valve and body channels as the distal tip of the catheter is withdrawn through the expanded valve and thereafter from the body. Catheter assemblies according to the present invention can include a handle assembly, an introducer sheath, and a distal tip assembly. The handle assembly can include a fixed main handle and two or more rotating handles that allow a user to control the distal tip assembly of the catheter. A safety button can be included on the handle assembly to allow for precise and consistent positioning of the prosthetic valve in the body. A valve retaining mechanism can be included to assist in retaining the prosthetic valve prior to deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Niall Duffy, John Gallagher, Kate Corish
  • Publication number: 20170319343
    Abstract: A radially compressible cardiac gripper for at least mechanical stimulation of a heart. The cardiac gripper has two gripper arms, wherein at least one of the gripper arms comprises a flexible section configured for movement of the arm having the flexible section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Rainer ZOTZ
  • Publication number: 20170319344
    Abstract: A hip prosthesis includes an acetabular cup and a femoral component comprising a head and a stem, wherein the stem comprises a truss structure, the truss structure comprising a space truss comprising a plurality of planar truss units having a plurality of struts joined at nodes, wherein the web structure is configured to interface with bone tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: 4WEB, Inc.
    Inventor: Jessee Hunt
  • Publication number: 20170319345
    Abstract: Disposable temporary spacer device for an articulation of the human body or for a bone cavity, wherein the spacer device includes at least one first component adapted to be constrained to a bone portion or end, wherein the spacer device is made from a biologically compatible material and comprises interconnected pores distributed in the entire volume occupied by the spacer device, in which the interconnected pores have a size and occupy a percentage of the volume of the spacer device such that it is able to absorb and consequently elute one or more pharmaceutical or medical substances in liquid or fluid form or in paste, cream, gel, wax, or viscous form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Giovanni FACCIOLI, Renzo SOFFIATTI
  • Publication number: 20170319346
    Abstract: A modular femoral prosthesis for use during performance of a hip revision procedure includes a proximal body component, a distal stem component, and a locking bolt. Surgical instruments and methods for use in implanting such a modular femoral prosthesis are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Jonathan E. Carr, Daniel E. Lashure, Larry G. McCleary, William Muhammad, Michael J. Fortin, Rodney E. Satterthwaite
  • Publication number: 20170319347
    Abstract: A prosthetic head with a body having the shape of a cup shaped as a hemispherical cap provided with an external surface, an internal surface and a lower edge shaped as a circumference, fixing means to fix the prosthetic head to the cotyle, and a projection abutting from the internal surface of the prosthetic head in such manner to define an annular step, and a truncated-conical portion obtained in the internal surface of the body of the prosthetic head starting from the lower edge of the prosthetic head, the truncated-conical portion of the prosthetic head being suitable for being coupled in conical coupling mode with a truncated conical part of an insert intended to be inserted in the prosthetic head. he projection is shaped as a portion of a spherical cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Alessandro MELOZZI
  • Publication number: 20170319348
    Abstract: Arthroplasty components include an articular surface and a bone-facing surface. In some examples, the bone-facing surface bears at least one anchoring element adapted for an oblique implantation trajectory. The anchoring element includes a reinforcement plate, a dowel, and surface features. Each surface feature resists forces acting along a different direction. In other examples, the bone-facing surface bears anchoring elements that deform along the primary or longest axis of the anchoring element during insertion. In yet other examples, the bone-facing surface is enlarged relative to the articular surface so that at least a portion of the perimeter of the articular surface is circumscribed by the perimeter of the bone-facing surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Steven S. Goldberg
  • Publication number: 20170319349
    Abstract: An implant including a first segment at a first end, a second segment at a second end, and an intermediate segment coupled to the first segment on a first end and coupled to the second segment on a second end. The first segment may include an insertion tip at the first end of the implant and a body portion adjacent to the insertion tip, the insertion tip extending out from the body portion. The second segment may include an end member at the second end of the implant and a body portion adjacent to the end member, the end member extending out from the body portion. The second segment may include a plurality of tip portions spaced about a longitudinal axis of the second segment, and the tip portions each including at least one barb formed by a taper portion and an engagement portion extending radially into the tip portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: Additive Orthopaedics, LLC
    Inventor: Greg KOWALCZYK
  • Publication number: 20170319350
    Abstract: An expandable prosthetic implant for engagement between vertebrae includes a first member having a first end, a second end, a plurality of extensions and a hollow interior portion extending from the first end to the second end, wherein the plurality of extensions extend from the first end to the second end. A second member includes a first end, a second end, a hollow interior portion extending from the first end to the second end, and a plurality of extensions extending from the second end to the first end. The plurality extensions of the first member are configured to coaxially interdigitate with the second member, and the plurality of extensions of the second member are configured to coaxially interdigitate with the first member. The first member of the implant is moveable relative to the second member along a longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Colm McLaughlin, James Himmelberger
  • Publication number: 20170319351
    Abstract: An expandable interspinous process fixation system capable of restoring spinal stability and facilitating fusion. In one embodiment, the expandable interspinous process fixation system includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. Each endplate supporting fixed and/or adjustable spinous process engaging plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Matthew Bechtel, Hilliary Kopp
  • Publication number: 20170319352
    Abstract: A geared cam expandable spinal implant. Rotational motion of a rotating portion is translated into linear motion of a yoke, which moves geared cams at the distal end of the implant to mate with, and walk along, teeth of corresponding racks. The walking of the gear cam teeth along the rack teeth creates a regular rate of implant expansion, reduces initial excessive expansion force applied to the implant, and provides fine adjustment of the expansion rate and force. Spikes, pivotally mounted on the yoke, pivot outward as the implant expands, to a fully-deployed position into engagement with surfaces of adjacent vertebral bodies. The engagement between the deployed spikes and the vertebral bodies prevents inadvertent backout of the expanded implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Jonathan Dewey, William D. Armstrong, Anthony J. Melkent
  • Publication number: 20170319353
    Abstract: An expandable support device for tissue repair is disclosed. The device can be used to repair hard or soft tissue, such as bone or vertebral discs. A method of repairing tissue is also disclosed. The device and method can be used to treat compression fractures. The compression fractures can be in the spine. The device can be deployed by compressing the device longitudinally resulting in radial expansion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: Stout Medical Group, L.P.
    Inventors: E. Skott GREENHALGH, John-Paul ROMANO, Michael P. IGOE
  • Publication number: 20170319354
    Abstract: Various embodiments of intervertebral arthrodesis devices for insertion in an intervertebral space separating opposite faces of two adjacent vertebrae are disclosed. In one embodiment, the device has a ring shaped intervertebral cage having a bar that extends perpendicular to the axis of the spine, the bar has a height less than the rest of the cage, and a surface of the cage contacting the vertebrae has an undulating shape for limiting sliding of the cage in a plane parallel to the vertebrae faces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Christian Louis, Jean Huppert, Patrick Tropiano, Thierry Dufour
  • Publication number: 20170319355
    Abstract: An expandable interbody device for implantation within an intervertebral space is provided, together with methods and tools for use therewith. The interbody devices include a leading first and trailing second bearing member configured to expand laterally via connecting portions disposed at the trailing end of the first being member and at least the leading end of the second bearing member. In some forms, the connecting portions have an arcuate configuration. The insertion tool is configured expand the interbody device by holding the first bearing member while shifting the second bearing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Scott J. Perrow
  • Publication number: 20170319356
    Abstract: An inserter instrument for inserting an intervertebral fusion cage having curved sidewalls, comprising: a) a threaded securement rod that mates with the cage via screw threads; b) a cannulated cage holder to receive the rod and hold the cage in position as the sheath is retracted; and c) a bulleted cannulated sheath, wherein the sheath is curved and comprises a superelastic shape memory material having a curved configuration and a straight configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Voellmicke, Michael J. O'Neil, Derek Shaw, Alexander Grinberg
  • Publication number: 20170319357
    Abstract: The invention provides a plasticized tissue or organ that does not require special conditions of storage, for example refrigeration or freezing, exhibits materials properties that approximate those properties present in natural tissue, is not brittle, does not necessitate rehydration prior to clinical implantation and is not a potential source for disease transmission. Replacement of the chemical plasticizers by water prior to implantation is not required and thus, the plasticized bone or soft tissue product can be placed directly into an implant site without significant preparation in the operating room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Lloyd Wolfinbarger, JR., Katrina Crouch Ruth, Billy G. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20170319358
    Abstract: A method for producing a three-dimensional, multi-cell object, in which polymerized structures are produced in layers by the irradiation of light radiation. To this end, use is made of photopolymerizable liquids which at least partly comprise biological cells. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out such a method and to the use of this device for producing an artificial organ.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET BERLIN
    Inventor: Lutz KLOKE
  • Publication number: 20170319359
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of apparatuses and methods of providing an endovascular?dock within a blood vessel are provided. An apparatus for vascular surgery can be provided, having an external tubular graft capable of expansion and configured to be placed within a sheath in an unexpended state, a first tubular structure provided internally within the external tubular graft and configured for placement of a graft therein, and a second tubular structure provided internally within the external tubular graft and configured for placement of a graft therein. Stent grafts can be provided along each tubular structure to a corresponding blood vessel such that blood flow is provided to the blood vessel from the apparatus within the stent grafts to each blood vessel, blocking the blood flow directly from the aneurysm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Manish MEHTA
  • Publication number: 20170319360
    Abstract: Provided is a ureteral stent (=50) including a bladder portion (=52) positioned in a bladder of a patient, a kidney portion (=54) positioned in a kidney and ureteral passageway of the patient, and one or more tethers (=56) coupling the bladder portion to the kidney portion. The ureteral stent allows urine to pass around a blockage, and allows a ureter orifice connecting the ureteral passageway to the bladder to move between a compressed state and an uncompressed state to prevent or minimize urinary reflux, flank pain, blood in the urine, etc., while allowing the bladder portion to move freely in the bladder to prevent the bladder portion from irritating the trigone muscle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Lee E. Ponsky, Dean Secrest
  • Publication number: 20170319361
    Abstract: An endoluminal device can be configured for precise positioning during deployment within a vessel. The endoluminal device can be a tack, stent, vascular implant or other type of implant. The endoluminal device can have circumferential member with an undulating configuration having multiple inward and outward apexes and struts extending therebetween. Two of the struts can be used to establish a foot for the precise positioning of the device during deployment. A method of placing the endoluminal device can include withdrawing an outer sheath such that a portion of the endoluminal device is expanded prior to the rest of the endoluminal device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Robert Giasolli, Peter Schneider
  • Publication number: 20170319362
    Abstract: A drug-eluting stent whose main body is made of a metal or a polymeric material, the surface of which is coated with a mixture including cilostazol and a bioabsorbable polymer, wherein the molecular weight of the bioabsorbable polymer is 40,000 to 600,000.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Applicant: JIMRO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Matsuya MANABE
  • Publication number: 20170319363
    Abstract: Bioresorbable polymer vascular scaffolds made of combinations of polylactide and polycaprolactone having a high molecular weight polymer, thin struts in a selected range and sufficient radial strength to support a vessel upon deployment. The scaffolds have degradation behavior of molecular weight, radial strength, and mass that are conducive to healing of a vessel including providing patency to a vessel, reduction of radial strength, breaking up, and resorbing to allow return of the vessel to a natural state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Xiao Ma, Mary Beth Kossuth, James P. Oberhauser, Stephen D. Pacetti, Manish Gada
  • Publication number: 20170319364
    Abstract: A stent for use in hollow tubular organs, comprising a continuous tubular or cylindrical inner cavity which is delimited by a wall. The wall is formed in a tubular or cylindrical manner about an axis which runs in a longitudinal direction and has a structure which surrounds the wall. The structure is made of elements, and the elements are made of loops which are arranged about the longitudinal axis in the radial direction. The elements are rigidly connected via connection points such that a tubular or cylindrical single-piece wall structure is produced, and the stent has acute angles in the region of the connection points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Johannes JUNG, Aryan FALLAHI
  • Publication number: 20170319365
    Abstract: An angioplasty apparatus for facilitating accurate placement of a lumen stent for dilating a stenosis, the apparatus includes arcuate low pressure balloon segment(s) connected at a distal end of a guiding catheter with gap(s) to facilitate blood flow during a stenting procedure. Optimal positioning of a stent at a lumen bifurcation is facilitated to obviate any tendency of a stent to miss a proximal end of a stenosis branch lumen while concomitantly preventing the stent from protruding into an original lumen, such as a patient's aorta.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2016
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Nadar A. Dakak
  • Publication number: 20170319366
    Abstract: A crimping method that crimps a stent over multiple catheters. The method includes differentially crimping a stent on certain portions of a balloon catheter so that a second catheter can be threaded through the uncrimped portion of the stent and exit through the links of a conventional stent design or through a specific hole in the stent designed for a branched vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Henry Bourang, Mehran Khorsandi
  • Publication number: 20170319367
    Abstract: Medical device for combating overweight or obesity in humans by achieving a more rapid feeling of satiety, comprising a bite raiser which can be connected to the human maxilla and/or mandible (10, 11) and which covers at least some of the occlusal surface of the masticatory teeth (13), wherein a splint (12) adapted to tooth crowns is provided for the bite raiser, which splint (12) equips at least some of the masticatory teeth (13) with an occlusal elevation (14) for reducing the size of the masticatory surface (15), which occlusal elevation (14) overlies the cusp tips (17) of a masticatory tooth (13) in order to link the bite elevation (20) to a spanning of the masticatory relief of the covered masticatory tooth (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Peter von Seck
  • Publication number: 20170319368
    Abstract: A semi-rigid foot orthotic can have 3-axis accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, and strain gauges embedded in one or more flexible regions along with a microprocessor and wireless transmitter. Data from the sensors can be used to track the gait cycle. Data on the flexing, bending, or rotating of portions of the orthotic are processed and compared to ideal or data from other runs to rate the effectiveness of the orthotic. The orthotic and the sole of the shoe have relative freedom of motion between them. By doing a 3D comparing of the location, motion and orientation of the shoe from the same information for at least one orthotic region; determining shoe-to-orthotic relative motion. Modifications or adjustments can be made to improve the user-experience. The computation can involve either or both of a cloud based server and an external hand-held device in wireless communication with the orthotic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Allen Joseph Selner
  • Publication number: 20170319369
    Abstract: A powered device augments a joint function of a human during a gait cycle using a powered actuator that supplies an augmentation torque, an impedance, or both to a joint, and a controller that modulates the augmentation torque, the impedance, and a joint equilibrium according to a phase of the gait cycle to provide at least a biomimetic response. Accordingly, the device is capable of normalizing or augmenting human biomechanical function, responsive to a wearer's activity, regardless of speed and terrain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Zhixiu Han, Christopher Williams, Jeff Anthony Weber, Christopher Eric Barnhart, Hugh M. Herr, Richard James Casler, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170319370
    Abstract: consists of (1) a thoracic top belt (2) a waist bottom belt, each belt having provision of independent tightening (3) an elastic band connecting both belts, thus making a single vest and (b) a plurality of one to two turn-buckles used in two different embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2016
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Ekramul Haque
  • Publication number: 20170319371
    Abstract: An orthosis device includes thread-guiding structures, two board portions spacingly arranged and at least one rope body. The thread-guiding structure includes: a base having a recess, the inner wall of the recess having a first restriction structure; a guiding member, including a guiding groove arcuately extending and a second restriction structure, received in the recess and positionably restricted with blocking of the first and second restriction structures, the guiding groove and the inner wall defining a thread-penetrating passage therebetween. Each of the two board portions has at least one base. Each of the at least one rope body is disposed through the thread-penetrating passage and arranged in two of the guiding grooves, wherein an axial movement of the at least one rope body operates to drive the two board portions close to or away from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: YU-CHIEN WANG
  • Publication number: 20170319372
    Abstract: An enhanced comfort device for male incontinence has an open end and a distal tip portion. A securing portion is disposed along the open end and provides a securing force to removably and comfortable secure the device on a user's penis. The distal tip portion covers the glans of the user's penis and an absorbent is placed on an inner surface of the tip portion and absorbs any discharges such as urine to provide comfort without embarrassment to the user. The absorbent may be replaceable or the entire device may be discarded in a disposable embodiment. The securing portion may be made of an elastic material or the securing portion may a folded over portion of the sleeve material. A color indicator may be placed on the tip portion to indicate a medical condition. The color indicator may test for one condition or more medical conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Eric LEE
  • Publication number: 20170319373
    Abstract: An improved urine collection bag assembly is presented. The improved urine collection bag assembly of the present invention features a one-way flow control valve to prevent the backflow of urine into a urinary catheter and subsequently, into a patient's bladder. The improved urine collection bag also features at a lower end a urine sampling valve. In the exemplary embodiment, the one-way flow control valve is a flap style valve and the sampling valve is a slider style valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2017
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Cheryl Mitts
  • Publication number: 20170319374
    Abstract: An automatic drainage device comprises a drainage container separated by a partition plate into a fluid storage cavity provided with a connecting pipe and a fluid discharge channel provided with a fluid discharge outlet. The partition plate is provided with a fluid drainage outlet that connects the fluid storage cavity to the fluid discharge channel. The device further comprises a movable gasket disposed below the partition plate for closing the fluid drainage outlet, and a control device comprising a remote control receiving module or a control device configured to monitor a liquid level in the fluid storage cavity, to move the movable gasket to open or close the fluid drainage outlet. The automatic drainage device remotely activates the control device by a remote control receiving module or by monitoring the status of the liquid level, to control the opening and closing of the fluid drainage outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventor: Shaoqin Hu
  • Publication number: 20170319375
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods of improving hygiene in human subjects by discouraging contact between the hands and face. The method uses a hand covering article such as a glove which is typically coated in an irritant such as chili, whereby when the face is touched an unpleasant sensation occurs. The hand covering article is typically worn for prolonged periods to train the subject to avoid subconsciously touching the face. Kits containing the hand covering articles as well as compositions containing irritants for forming the articles are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Baard Johannessen, Inga Kaasen
  • Publication number: 20170319376
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bed set for inhibition of obstructive sleep apnea, which includes: a sound receiving module, is used to receive a respiratory sound signal obtained from a user during a time period; a sound analyzing processor, which is connected with the sound receiving module, is used to obtain a snoring sound characteristic from the spectrum of respiratory sound signal; a database, which has a plurality of snoring image characteristics corresponding to a plurality of basic snoring sound characteristics for different respiratory actions; a control processor, which is connected with the sound analyzing processor and the database, is used to compare the snoring sound characteristic with the basic snoring sound characteristics to select one of the snoring image characteristics in the same waveform, and provides the first angle control order and the second angle control order corresponding to the selecting snoring image characteristic; a first pillow, which is connected to the control processor,
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: November 9, 2017
    Inventors: Men-Tzung LO, Leh-Kiong HUON, Van-Truong PHAM, Yunn-Jy CHEN, Ting-Fang SHIH, Thi-Thao TRAN, Chen LIN, Pa-Chun WANG