Female Reproductory Tract Shields, Supports, Or Birth Control Devices (e.g., Pessaries, Contraceptive Devices) Patents (Class 128/830)
  • Patent number: 11850303
    Abstract: A gel and suppository and method to provide the gel and the suppository, are disclosed herein. The gel comprising: between 50 and 150 millimolar of lactic acid concentrate; and between 0.5 and 10 millimolar of hydrogen peroxide concentrate. The suppository comprising: between 22.5 and 67.5 milligrams of lactic acid concentrate; and between 1 and 20 milligrams of hydrogen peroxide concentrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Uqora, Inc.
    Inventor: Spencer Gordon
  • Patent number: 11583286
    Abstract: There is provided an implant system comprising: a delivery wire assembly having a female detachment mechanism component; and an implant having a male detachment mechanism component, wherein the female detachment mechanism component comprises a coil configured to receive the male detachment mechanism component such that the male detachment mechanism component is attachable to the female detachment mechanism component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: Clearstream Technologies Limited
    Inventors: James Kehoe, Dónal McDonagh, John O'Shea
  • Patent number: 11576810
    Abstract: An enhanced sexual transmission prevention device is disclosed. The device is a condom cover for the groin area with adhesive edges and a central aperture through which a male member is inserted. The aperture is designed to help secure the rolled up portion of a condom to the base of male member, preventing the condom from slipping off. The device also goes over the condom and, with adhesive, attaches to the male body so that the groin area surrounding the male member is protected from skin-to-skin transmission of sexually transmitted infections. The enhanced sexual transmission prevention device is comprised of a resilient material, similar to a condom, so that the two devices may work together effectively. In one embodiment the enhanced sexual transmission prevention device incorporates the condom itself, for ease of use and wearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Inventor: Donato Monaco
  • Patent number: 11498244
    Abstract: Methods of manufacturing a garment apparatus are provided. The garment apparatus can be, for example, a device, a panty, a boyshort, a short, a lingerie item, a barrier, a garment, an undergarment, a membrane, a prophylactic, and/or a system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: BRAZEN GOODS INC.
    Inventor: Melanie Cristol
  • Patent number: 11331213
    Abstract: A device sized and shaped for alleviating organ prolapse when inserted into a vagina, comprising: (a) an adjustably flexible, substantially planar ring provided with at least one opposing snapping element; (b) a central rod extending at least partially through the ring transverse to the snapping elements, where the central rod is provided with counterpart slots configured for insertion of the snapping elements therein; and, (c) a connection block, co-axial with the central rod and slidable thereover to transition the device from an expanded state to a collapsed state, configured with slots which align with the counterpart slots of the central rod for passage of at least one snapping element therethrough when the device is in the collapsed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: ConTIPI Medical Ltd.
    Inventors: Elan Ziv, Zohar Tyroler, Elisheva Fabrikant, Tal Caspi
  • Patent number: 11229455
    Abstract: An instrument for fixedly transplanting a living body embryo into a uterus has an instrument, for transplanting the living body embryo into the uterus, which is to be inserted into a uterus and a magnetic embryo accommodation container holding instrument (transferred embryo fixing instrument) to be attached to the living body. The instrument for transplanting the living body embryo into the uterus has an embryo accommodation container having an embryo accommodation part having an embryo insertion portion communicating with outside and a magnetic material and a shaft-shaped container transfer tool for separably holding the embryo accommodation container at its distal end portion. The magnetic container holding instrument has an attaching part to be attached to an epidermis of the living body and a magnet capable of attracting the magnetic material of the embryo accommodation container thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignees: THE UNIVERSITY OF TOKYO, ST. MARIANNA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, KITAZATO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masashi Ikeuchi, Kazuhiro Kawamura, Futoshi Inoue
  • Patent number: 11090186
    Abstract: The present disclosure is related to methods of using an intrauterine system (insertion device) including an intrauterine device (IUD), an insertion device or applicator for inserting the IUD into the cervix of a female patient, methods related to the insertion procedure, and methods of manufacture for the insertion device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: MEDICINES360
    Inventors: Rob Deckman, Richard E. Repp, Curt Guyer, Justin Westendorf, Timothy Parmer
  • Patent number: 11065146
    Abstract: Methods and devices for treating and occluding a female patient's fallopian tubes to provide permanent or extended birth control or sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: Meditrina, Inc.
    Inventors: Csaba Truckai, John H. Shadduck
  • Patent number: 11026671
    Abstract: A self-expanding retractor is described for placement within the vaginal canal of a post-partum female to aid in performing a vaginal repair. The retractor provides improved exposure and enhanced visualization of an episiotomy or vaginal laceration repair site. The retractor is typically in the form of a foldable, trapezoidal frame defining a central aperture, and includes anterior stability posts at its corners and a panel spanning the central aperture. The panel is typically in the form of a surgical gauze pad for absorbing blood and fluids entering the surgical field. The retractor can be folded by a user for placement within the vaginal canal and then released, which allows it to expand to hold back swollen tissues from obstructing the repair site. The retractor is typically lightweight and compact and is configured to minimize slippage during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: MODERN SURGICAL SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Richard B. Beaven
  • Patent number: 11007683
    Abstract: A barrier garment apparatus and methods of its use are provided. In an embodiment, the barrier garment apparatus is shaped like an undergarment and worn during oral-vaginal and/or oral-anal sex to protect another person's mouth, lips, tongue, saliva, nose, and breath from contact with the wearer's vulva, perineum, anus, and surrounding areas, in order to prevent the transmission of bacteria, sexually transmitted infections, fluids, tastes, and scents. The barrier garment apparatus is thin, substantially non-porous, elastic, effectively skin-tight, and aesthetically attractive. The barrier garment apparatus can be, for example, a device, a panty, a boyshort, a short, a lingerie item, a barrier, a garment, an undergarment, a membrane, a prophylactic, and/or a system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Inventor: Melanie Cristol-Donovan
  • Patent number: 10923380
    Abstract: An edge ring for use in a plasma processing chamber with a chuck is provided. An edge ring body has a first surface to be placed over and facing the chuck, wherein the first surface forms a ring around an aperture. A first elastomer ring is integrated to the first surface and extending around the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Kimball, Keith Gaff, Feng Wang
  • Patent number: 10688284
    Abstract: A steerable endoscopic tool uses concentric sleeves of varying curvature to steer a tool tip toward or in the direction of a location of surgical interest. By rotating and/or axially displacing such sleeves relative to one another the tool tip may be maneuvered within a current field of view with several degrees of freedom without any physical movement of an endoscope, thus facilitating improved surgical access and control without complex mechanical systems in the endoscope or at the surgical site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignees: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Westin Michael Hill, Matthew Roy Johnson, Tara Lee Schmidt Boettcher, Patrick James Codd
  • Patent number: 10548762
    Abstract: Prophylactic devices that have a flexible sheath, and an annular retainer portion with an adhesive surface to adhere to the skin and keep the device in place. The sheath is closed at the distal end and has an opening at a proximal end. The retainer portion is connected to the sheath at the proximal end, and surrounds the opening of the sheath. The adhesive surface may be formed by an adhesive substance or other means and may seal all or part of the retainer portion against the skin. The retainer portion may conform to the skin and/or have molded features. One embodiment includes backing and cover layers which adhere to the device to form a protective pouch or package which contains the sheath and lubricants on the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Inventor: Thomas Jesse Fox
  • Patent number: 10206810
    Abstract: A garment assembly useful for sexual intercourse between a first user and a second user when the penetration of a body-extending member into a body orifice is either not possible or unwanted. The garment assembly includes a front and back panel covering and a crotch piece with the appearance of an ordinary garment normally found in a public environment such as one having the appearance of underwear. A fluid-impenetrable receiver attached to the front panel of the garment assembly will operate as a substitute for a body-orifice. The receiver includes an entryway adjoined to an interior cavity sized to accommodate a body-extending member. A preferred interior cavity includes sexually-interactive textured material for engagement with the body-extending member during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Carolyn Palmer
  • Patent number: 10039666
    Abstract: An intravaginal support apparatus. The intravaginal support apparatus comprises a pessary ring having a substantially annular configuration and a narrowed configuration, a locking mechanism which retains and switches between the annular configuration and the narrowed configuration, and one or more expandable elements having expanded and unexpanded configurations, attached to one or more of the locking mechanism and the pessary ring. The pessary ring laterally expands from the narrowed configuration to the annular configuration; the expandable element expands outwardly of the pessary ring, from the unexpanded configuration to the expanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: ConTIPI Medical Ltd.
    Inventors: Elan Ziv, Amir Perle
  • Patent number: 10016225
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for joining members together using a self-drilling screw apparatus or stapling apparatus are disclosed. The screw apparatus includes a worm drive screw, a spur gear and superior and inferior screws which turn simultaneously in a bi-directional manner. A rotating mechanism drives the first and second screw members in opposite directions and causes the screw members to embed themselves in the members to be joined. The screw apparatus can be used to join members such as bones, portions of the spinal column, vertebral bodies, wood, building materials, metals, masonry, or plastics. A device employing two screws (two-in-one) can be combined with a capping horizontal mini-plate. A device employing three screws can be combined in enclosures (three-in-one). The stapling apparatus includes grip handles, transmission linkages, a drive rod a fulcrum and a cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Moskowitz Family LLC
    Inventors: Nathan C. Moskowitz, Mosheh T. Moskowitz, Daniel Glozman
  • Patent number: 9993302
    Abstract: Systems, devices and automated methods for minimally invasive surgery. A device is fabricated of bio-compatible semiconductor elements, and can be assembled, delivered, navigated and implanted by automated methods, using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Inventor: William Harrison Zurn
  • Patent number: 9968481
    Abstract: We have developed a female condom and applicator apparatus that makes female condom easier to apply and more comfortable to use throughout the entire process. Several embodiments take advantage of traditional female tampon applicator structure and existing female condom design. This is easier for female users to adopt due to their already familiarity with similar device and their usage. One design has the applicator on the inside of the female condom which makes the applicator reusable. Another design has the entire female condom tucked inside the applicator, with the condom inner ring inside the applicator outer tube and condom outer ring inside applicator's inner ring. Another design has strings attached to the condom outside ring to keep it from moving or make noise. The device provides a low cost, easy to use, no side-effects, and ready-for-mass adoption solution for the market.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Inventor: Wei Zhang
  • Patent number: 9764120
    Abstract: Methods and devices to affect types, proportion, quantity, distribution, or proliferation of microorganisms within a female reproductive system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Nine Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Kahn Cline, Ryan Kendall Pierce
  • Patent number: 9655769
    Abstract: Disclosed are devices for supporting a prolapsed organ. An exemplary device comprises a ring-like body optionally having a naturally occurring substantially flat and substantially planar compact configuration, the ring-like body configured with a size suitable for insertion into a vagina and to be expanded by a support element such that in the expanded configuration an outer periphery of the ring-like body contacts a portion of the vagina and stretches at least a portion of a prolapsed vaginal wall, thereby substantially alleviating prolapse of at least one pelvic organ. The device optionally includes a support element comprising two moveably connected arms configured to support the ring in the expanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: ConTIPI Medical Ltd.
    Inventors: Elan Ziv, Amir Perle, Elisheva Fabrikant
  • Patent number: 9629756
    Abstract: Particular embodiments of the inventive technology may provide an incontinence pad that includes projection, such as a raised ridge, or a short length projection, that extends from a pad base of and effects application of a force against the urethra of a user (the force, typically upward, that may result from sitting by the user and/or tight fitting shorts and/or pulling a cord attached to the projection); the projection may act to transfer a force from the projection to the urethra. This force may partially or entirely obstruct flow of urine through, or out of the urethra, that might occur otherwise (i.e., without the projection). Another example of the many independent aspects of the inventive technology relates to the provision, as part of an incontinence pad, of a cord that is attached to part of the pad, such as (in only certain embodiments) the aforementioned upward projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Zilm-RhoMax Products, LLC
    Inventor: William M. Zilm
  • Patent number: 9566194
    Abstract: A tampon for use in feminine hygiene. The tampon has an elongate body and a string. The elongate body has a first end, a second end, and an interior. The string has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion. The first end and the second end of the string are attached to the interior of the elongate body such that the first end and the second end are separated and the intermediate portion of the string forms a loop that extends from the second. end of the elongate body. The loop provides a grip to assist in removing the tampon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: Eat Don't Talk, Inc.
    Inventor: Lisa Olivia Munn
  • Patent number: 9474885
    Abstract: Methods and devices to affect types, proportion, quantity, distribution, or proliferation of microorganisms within a female reproductive system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: Nine Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Kahn Cline, Ryan Kendall Pierce
  • Patent number: 9016280
    Abstract: An intrauterine device for occluding orifices of fallopian tubes includes a resilient body having an elongated member with a first end and a second end. The elongated member further includes a first leg ending with the first end of the elongated member, a second leg ending with the second end of the elongated member and a connection member positioned therebetween. A first orifice plug is secured at the first end of the elongated member and a second orifice plug is secured at the second end of the elongated member. The first and second orifice plugs are shaped and dimensioned to seat at the orifices of the fallopian tubes or within the fallopian tubes as the elongated member spreads outwardly with the first end and second end moving apart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignees: Yale University, Contramed LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Tal, Patrick N. Gutelius, Mark J. DeBisschop, Oleg Shikhman
  • Publication number: 20150068532
    Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying force to a wall of a uterus to promote contraception without blocking the fallopian tubes may include an elongate member formed of a resilient material and having a default expanded configuration and a spring portion disposed approximately at a midpoint between two ends of the elongate member. The IUD may also include two tissue contact members, one tissue contact member disposed at one of the two ends of the elongate member and the other tissue contact member disposed at the other end. The tissue contact members may generate a laterally directed force against the wall of the uterus when the intrauterine device assumes its default expanded configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: CONTRAMED LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Tal, Patrick N. Gutelius, Mark J. DeBisschop, Oleg Shikhman, Pasquale Patrizio, Bob H. Katz
  • Patent number: 8919345
    Abstract: This application relates to a method of covering a pessary device for relief of female incontinence with an overwrap. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods of overwrapping the pessary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Clark Avery, Jr., Evan Joseph Durling, Kevin Charles Strong, Gavin John Broad, Hinrich Knuth, Daniel Raymond Wiegele
  • Patent number: 8905032
    Abstract: According to one claim of the invention, a method for occluding a fallopian tube in a vertebrate subject is described, which comprises comprising transcervically delivering a solid blocking material into the fallopian tube. In various embodiments, a fluid sealing material is delivered along with the solid blocking material. Other claims of the invention pertain to articles of manufacture, delivery devices and kits for use in occluding the fallopian tubes of a vertebrate subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. H. Chu, Jianmin Li, Hamid Davoudi
  • Patent number: 8899236
    Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Betsy Swann, Christopher A. Stout, Ken Chan, Julian Cruzada, Kathryn A. Tunstall
  • Publication number: 20140326249
    Abstract: A delivery device includes a housing, an insertion member, a transfer member, and an actuator. The insertion member includes a distal end portion configured to be removably coupled to an implant. At least a portion of the insertion member is movably disposed within a passageway defined by the housing. The transfer member includes a coupling portion configured to be coupled to the insertion member to transfer a force from the actuator to the insertion member such that the insertion member is moved relative to the housing. The coupling portion of the transfer member is configured to move relative to the insertion member when the force exerted by the actuator exceeds a threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: BIOCEPTIVE, INC.
    Inventors: Benjamin Cappiello, Shuchi Priye Khurana, Alan Bachman
  • Patent number: 8875712
    Abstract: An occluding system is provided that can include a first occluding device (e.g., secondary occluder) and a second occluding device (e.g., primary occluder). Providing two devices can better promote effective occlusion within the body lumen and facilitate advantageous occlusion stages, such as initial and long-term occlusion stages. In various embodiments, the two occluding devices are in operative communication with one another, such that the second occluding device is adapted to couple with or slide along a tail portion of the first occluding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory L. Koeller
  • Patent number: 8851077
    Abstract: The invention describes methods and apparatus for creating permanent occlusion of body lumens such as the fallopian tubes. The methods and apparatus use non-surgical approaches to deliver permanent implants which create acute occlusion of desired body lumens which resolve to permanent occlusions of the lumens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Brenzel, Paul J. Hindrichs, Richard G. Cornelius
  • Patent number: 8814883
    Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Mimi Nguyen, Rosendo Aguilar, Betsy Swann, Elisa Janine Aldridge, Christopher A. Stout, Philip Albert Bailey
  • Publication number: 20140216464
    Abstract: The invention relates to ovary apparatus for regulating the temperature of the ovary; and shielding it from radiation. The main function of the device is to preserve fertility of women treated with chemotherapy by lowering the ovary temperature while the toxic medications circulate in the patients' blood. The current invention utilizes shielding of the ovary to protect it from radiation, and temperature decrease to further limit the toxic effect of radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: MOR RESEARCH APPLICATIONS LTD.
    Inventor: Nicola Nasser
  • Patent number: 8770200
    Abstract: A fornix manipulator includes a collar and stabilizer. The collar has a first end and a second end, the second end having an opening and diameter greater than the first end and the first end having an opening to receive a cervix into the collar. The stabilizer has a base portion defining a guide hole and a plurality of prongs extending from the base portion to contact the first end of the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Minimally Invasive Surgical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Prabhat K. Ahluwalia
  • Patent number: 8733361
    Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by a lumen-traversing region of the resilient structure which has helical outer surface, together with a portion of the resilient structure which is biased to form a bent secondary shape, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. Optionally, permanent sterilization is effected by passing a current through the resilient structure to the tubal walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Julian N. Nikolchev, Dai T. Ton, Ashish Khera, Donnell W. Gurskis, Steven Bacich
  • Patent number: 8733360
    Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by a lumen-traversing region of the resilient structure which has helical outer surface, together with a portion of the resilient structure which is biased to form a bent secondary shape, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. Optionally, permanent sterilization s effected by passing a current through there resilient structure to the tubal walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Julian N. Nikolchev, Dai T. Ton, Ashish Khera, Donnell W. Gurskis, Steven Bacich
  • Patent number: 8726905
    Abstract: Methods and devices of sterilization by which the ovarian pathway is occluded by a plug, wherein placement of the plug may be visually confirmed. Other methods and devices are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventor: Betsy Swann
  • Patent number: 8707958
    Abstract: The invention described is directed to an intracorporeal occluding device having elements with non-traumatic ends and devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Betsy Swann, Dai Ton, Ashish Khera
  • Publication number: 20140109915
    Abstract: A female condom having a highly elastic resilient pouch portion is able to stretch from an original contracted configuration into an elongated configuration and then return to the original contracted configuration. The pouch may be fashioned with regular convolutions that act in a spring-like manner for biasing the condom into the contracted configuration. Elastic biasing members may be incorporated into the construction of the condom for providing or augmenting the spring-like action of the condom. The condom of the invention may include a contoured V-shaped outer frame which also may have a spring bias incorporated. The outer frame may flex so as to better retain contact with the anatomy of the female when the condom is inserted in the vagina. A retention sponge is located in the closed end of the pouch and can serve as a resilient elastic member in addition to or in place of the pouch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventors: Alla V.K. REDDY, Madhusudhan Reddy ALLA, Raghunatha Reddy ALLA, Ravikumar Reddy ALLA
  • Patent number: 8695604
    Abstract: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Christian Lowe, Don Gurskis, Ashish Khera, Monica Barnhart, Steven Bacich, Betsy Swann, Roberto Silva-Torres
  • Patent number: 8695605
    Abstract: A device for occluding the fallopian tube including a wire composed of a shape memory material and an outer material encapsulating at least a portion of the wire. The device has a first elongated configuration for delivery and a second configuration for placement. In the second configuration, the wire moves toward its shape memory position and has a U-shape defined by a curved portion and first and second leg portions extending from the curved portion, the first and second leg portions extending downwardly from the curved portion and laterally outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Rex Medical, L.P.
    Inventor: James F. McGuckin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8689792
    Abstract: A system and method of occluding a reproductive body lumen (34) to prevent the passage of reproductive cells through body lumen is disclosed. The system can include a catheter delivery system (10) having a handle device (18), a catheter (10) operatively coupled with the handle device (20), and an occluding device adapted for deployment within the body lumen. The handle device can include a damper device adapted to reduce the vibration on the handle device from deployment of the occluding device from the catheter. Further, the handle device can include an indexing member operatively coupled with the catheter to provide indexing of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Jose' W. Jimenez, James R. Mujwid, William S. Tremulis, John R. Frigstad, Karl A. Jagger, Kevin R. Arnal, Jeffrey P. Callister
  • Patent number: 8690752
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating and collecting one or more oocytes from a fluid mixture includes a chamber inserted into a hollow elongate tube. An inlet channel receives an injected fluid mixture of oocytes and extraneous fluids and passes the fluid mixture to the hollow elongate tube. A separation unit positioned within the chamber includes a porous filter that selectively filters the fluid mixture to retain the oocytes in the hollow elongate tube, and a propeller for agitating the extraneous fluids for allowing unobstructed passage of the extraneous fluids into an outlet channel and for compactly collecting fibrin elements from the extraneous fluids. A flow of the extraneous fluids rotates the propeller on application of a vacuum suction force. Furthermore, the chamber includes an outlet channel for allowing passage of the extraneous fluids separated from the fluid mixture out of the chamber, and retaining the oocytes in the hollow elongate tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Alison Jane Jose
  • Patent number: 8690893
    Abstract: A vaginal manipulator includes a head with a tissue index, a door, and a head extender that are attached to the head. The head has an anterior side opposite a posterior side. The tissue index has a first arm that is slidingly engaged with a first groove formed in a first lateral edge of the head, a second arm that is slidingly engaged with a second groove formed in a second lateral edge of the head, and a rib connected between the first and second arms and disposed laterally across the anterior side of the head. The door is coupled to and movable relative to the posterior side of the head. The head extender is removably attached to a distal end of the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Sarah J. Deitch, Ty Erickson, Allen Gaynor, Jeffrey Brian Taylor, Michael M. Witzmann
  • Patent number: 8685042
    Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Essure Inc.
    Inventors: Mimi Nguyen, Rosendo Aguilar, Betsy Swann, Elisa Janine Aldridge, Christopher A. Stout, Philip Albert Bailey
  • Patent number: 8662081
    Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying pressure to the walls of the uterine cavity includes a resilient body having an elongated member which includes a first end and a second end which are resiliently biased away from each other. The first end of the elongated member includes a first leg having a first end and a second end. The second end of the elongated member includes a second leg having a first end and a second end. A connection member is positioned between the first end of the first leg and the first end of the second leg. A first plug member is secured at the second end of the first leg and a second plug member is secured at the first end of the second leg. The first and second plug members are shaped and dimensioned for bearing against the walls of the uterine cavity as the elongated member spreads outwardly with the first end and the second end moving apart. A method for preventing conception within the uterine cavity is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignees: Yale University, Contramed LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Tal, Patrick N. Gutelius, Mark J. DeBisschop, Oleg Shikhman, Pasquale Patrizio
  • Patent number: 8656916
    Abstract: A convenient and highly accurate intravaginal device with wireless sensors for monitoring fertility and sexual health of humans and animals is proposed. Sensors in the intravaginal device measure fertility and sexual health and via wireless transmitter send this information to a terminal on which the information is processed and displayed in convenient form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Igor Igorevich Stukanov
  • Patent number: 8613282
    Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by a lumen-traversing region of the resilient structure which has helical outer surface, together with a portion of the resilient structure which is biased to form a bent secondary shape, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. Optionally, permanent sterilization is effected by passing a current through there resilisent structure to the tubal walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Conceptus, Inc.
    Inventors: Julian N. Nikolchev, Dai T. Ton, Ashish Khera, Donnell W. Gurskis, Steven Bacich
  • Publication number: 20130319424
    Abstract: An inserter for placing a T-shaped intrauterine device inside a patient's uterus and a T-shaped intrauterine device are disclosed. The inserter includes a sleeve part and a plunger part, the sleeve part includes a tube and a first engaging member and the plunger part includes a rod, a handle attached to the rod and a second engaging member. The first and the second engaging members are configured for reversibly engaging the sleeve part and the plunger part to temporarily lock the relative position between the tube and the rod. The T-shaped intrauterine device includes a pair of wings having a relaxed extended configuration and a contracted folded configuration and an elongated contraceptive body suspended from a junction between the wings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Jonathan AGMON, David WEINTRAUB, Eran SOROKER
  • Patent number: 8584679
    Abstract: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Conceptus, Inc.
    Inventors: Christian Lowe, Don Gurskis, Ashish Khera, Monica Barnhart, Steven Bacich, Betsy Swann, Roberto Silva-Torres