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 The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal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.

Abstract: A device for occluding a cervix has an elongated conduit sized and shaped to extend from a proximal end outside the vagina to a distal end near the cervix. A loop sized to fit around an exocervix is provided at the distal end. The loop is sufficiently flexible to be tightened and loosened around the exocervix. The device has a rod inside the conduit. The rod has a distal end and a proximal end, and the loop is joined to the distal end of the rod. Moving the rod longitudinally relative to the conduit tightens or loosens the loop.

Abstract: A microbicidal delivery system including: a microbicidal composition including a microbicidal compound including a dendrimer including one or more surface groups of formula (IV); a microbicidally active derivative thereof, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof; and a carrier, excipient or diluent therefor; and a prophylactic device; the microbicidal composition being carried on a surface of the prophylactic device and being compatible therewith.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention describe methods of determining the occlusion of body lumens and apparatuses for doing so. In one particular embodiment, the occlusion of the fallopian tubes by an intrafallopian contraceptive device may be confirmed by contrast enhanced ultrasonography (also known as stimulated acoustic emission hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography). In these embodiments a contrast agent containing microbubbles is used.

Abstract: Systems and methods of visibly marking a reproductive tract, e.g., at least one ostium of the Fallopian tubes accessed transvaginally and transcervically, to indicate delivery of an occlusion device into the corresponding at least one Fallopian tube to effect contraception are disclosed. Marking is effected by delivery of a dye that stains the ostium and/or extension of the marking member from the delivered occlusion device into view in the uterine cavity or ostium. A catheter (or catheters) preferably introduced through a hysteroscope that illuminates and provides visualization of the uterine cavity and the ostia of the Fallopian tubes is employed to insert each contracted, stent-like, occluding device into each Fallopian tube and to mechanically expand or release to self-expand the occluding device.

Abstract: Implants for placement in the fallopian tube are provided that comprise radiopaque material. Implants include an inner core of silicone, a radiopaque material, an outer porous portion surrounding the inner core, and, optionally, a sound-reflecting air pocket. The implant may be detected in a fluoroscopic image and/or via ultrasound after placement of the implant in the fallopian tube.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for the delivery of an implant into small bodily spaces. The delivery devices include an expandable portion configured for placement within such bodily spaces and subsequent expansion to facilitate the delivery of the implant.

Abstract: A medical device configured for assistance with the cervical cerclage procedure is provided. The medical device includes a barrier structure with a finger and a therebetween. A hub is fixed to a distal end of the catheter and defines an extension with a second void between an end surface of the hub and the extension. The barrier structure and the hub are releaseably attached with the extension disposed within the first void and the finger within the second void. A wire guide withdrawably extends through coaxial holes within the hub, extension, finger, and a portion of the barrier structure to fix the hub and barrier structure together.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter (100), having a proximal (20) and distal (30) end, for inserting and positioning an intra-uterine device (IUD) (120), which is attached to a withdrawal string (130), said inserter (100) comprising: a) a plunger (102), having a central longitudinal axis, configured for slidable mounting of a hollow protective tube (110), the distal (30) end of the plunger (102) being configured for dismountable connection with the IUD (120), which protective tube (110) is configured to slidably cover the IUD (120); b) a handle (104), which is attached to the proximal (20) end of the plunger (102); and c) a longitudinal member (150) that forms part of the handle (104), which extends in the distal (30) direction with respect to the plunger (102), which longitudinal member (150) contains a friction contact surface (152) against which the protective tube (110) can frictionally engage, wherein the frictional engagement of the friction contact surface (152) against the protective tube (11

Abstract: A protective shield. The protective shield is provided in a generally cupped structure sized to accommodate and shaped with sufficient volume to receive therein adult human female genitalia. The protective vaginal shield includes a soft, flexible outer lip that is generally configured in the shape of an arcuate section made through an ovoid shape substantially along the longitudinal axis thereof. Extending inwardly and downwardly from the outer lip are outer sloping sidewalls. A longitudinally extending nose portion is provided. Inner sloping sidewalls extend from the outer sloping sidewalls to the longitudinally running nose portion. In one embodiment, the inner sloping sidewalls comprise a pair of opposing concave shaped structures, to provide a secure handle grip. In an embodiment, the protective shield may be provided in a disposable material.

Abstract: An intrauterine device string is provided. The intrauterine device string has an elongated member with an upper portion, an intermediate portion, and a lower portion. The upper portion is configured to attach the elongated member to an intrauterine device. The intermediate portion is configured to extend through the endocervical canal of a female. The lower portion has a first curved portion configured to follow a contour of the external orifice of the cervix of a female. A second curved portion at an end of the lower portion has a memory-retaining material to prevent the second curved portion from passing through the external orifice of the cervix and to constrain the second curved portion to follow the contour of the outer portion of the cervix. The intermediate portion is configured to pass through a plane defined by three points on said second curved portion when in use.

Abstract: An improved female condom apparatus includes a pouch that has a wall, an open end, a closed end and a frame. The frame is positioned proximate the open end of the pouch and extends around a perimeter of the open end. An anchoring device is located within the pouch proximate the closed end to secure the condom in position during use. A harness includes a center strap and may include side straps. One end of each strap is secured to the open end of the pouch. Further, one or more of the straps may be detachable from the pouch. At least the center strap may be constructed of a resilient and/or pliable material. As such, during use the center strap extends between a user's legs and resiliently engages the user's back in a clamping or tensioning action. This clamping action assists in securing the condom in position during use.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus for treating patient body or an organ thereof, especially his/her head and neck, by controllably maneuvering said treated organ, comprising; cradle adapted for holding said treated organ stably and comfortably; and, a maneuverable platform upon which said cradle rests, comprising maneuvering means adapted for rotating the platform in the Sagittal, Coronal, Horizontal planes or in any combination of the planes thereof for a predetermined duration; wherein said maneuver of said organ is characterized by parameters selected from the Allowed Movements. It is especially in the scope of the invention wherein the treated organ is maneuvered in a lobular three dimensional manner. The invention also discloses methods for treating patient body or an organ thereof by this apparatus; methods for decreasing HIT, MIDAS, VAS/NRS, NDI and EPS, and a method for increasing (S)MFA.

Abstract: Medical devices and related methods are disclosed for delivering an implant into the body of a patient. The devices include a damping assembly having an internal chamber with a varying inner diameter, and a piston slideably disposed therein. The piston is operably connected with a catheter portion such that movement of the piston is associated with concurrent movement of the catheter for implant delivery. The varying inner diameter of the damping assembly results in a decrease in damping force during implant delivery, thus providing a substantially constant velocity of implant delivery.

Abstract: The various embodiments simplify the delivery of an occlusive implant to a hollow anatomical structure, such as a fallopian tube. For example, the delivery devices don't need to be retracted manually to deploy the implant. When the devices are activated, stored energy or a powered drive member induces movement of the various components. The operator need only position the distal ends of the devices at the treatment site and then commence deployment by, for example, flipping a switch or changing the position of an activation button. The present embodiments thus increase the efficacy of occlusion procedures by reducing the likelihood of operator error.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for applying a therapeutic amount of a non-systemic vasoconstrictor inside the uterus to control abnormal uterine bleeding. The abnormal bleeding can be due to excessive menstrual blood flow, bleeding from a surgical procedure, postpartum bleeding or any other acute or chronic condition. The vasoconstrictor includes topical agents such as an alpha-adrenergic agonist, for example oxymetazoline. The delivery system can include a catheter having means for retaining position of a distal portion within the uterus. A proximal portion can extend outside of the body for coupling to a vasoconstrictor source, or alternatively, the proximal portion can terminate within the vaginal canal and include a docking port for coupling to a source of vasoconstrictor that is inserted therein. In other embodiments, an applicator is disclosed that is positioned in fluid communication with the lumen of the cervix and allows application of a vasoconstrictor therein.

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.

Abstract: A practical, disposable full genital barrier/shield prophylactic undergarment that is gender specific with at least one inwardly or outwardly expandable and collapsible orifice covering for safe sex protection from body fluids, pathogens and parasites for a wearer and a partner which includes integral and multiple sensory, textural, visual and/or body enhancement components along with herbal, chemical and/or natural elements for increased stimulation while providing comfort, portability, style and size options in an undergarment device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for delivering a contraceptive device to an ovarian pathway. The contraceptive device is within an enclosure in a first position. In a second position, the contraceptive device is positioned at the ovarian pathway, by actuating a first actuator. The contraceptive device is then expanded and released from the delivery system by actuating a second actuator.

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.

Abstract: Contraceptive devices that provide substantially immediate and permanent sterilization are described herein. Systems and methods for transcervically delivering the contraceptive devices are also described herein. The contraceptive device may include an expandable implant. The implant includes hydrogel to provide substantially immediate sterilization, and tissue in-growth fibers to provide permanent sterilization. As an alternative or in combination to hydrogel, the implant may include copper or cupric ions to provide substantially immediate sterilization. The implant may also include hydrogel to improve trackability of the implant through an ovarian pathway.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods and kits which, when installed or used, occlude or partially occlude a cervical canal, the internal opening of a cervical canal (cervical os), or a uterine side wall rupture location, such as to inhibit or prevent bacterial access and retard leakage of amniotic fluid resulting from PROM. The present apparatus can include an expandable support member of a biocompatible and non-toxic material. In some examples, the support member can include a top portion having a first diameter and a bottom portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. In some examples, the support member can include an expandable stent of a suitable length and uniform diameter to be inserted in a non-dilated cervical canal or transabdominal access route. In various examples, the apparatus further includes a fluid-resistant fabric, polymer, substance or other material placed over at least the top portion of the support member.

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.

Abstract: It is intended to prevent a pelvic organ from slipping out of the body by pushing up the organ having slipped out or just before slipping out. A device for preventing and treating pelvic organ prolapse characterized by comprising a convex push-up member which is made of a flexible material showing a pressing force toward a pelvic organ prolapse site of a wearer and in which the surface to be in contact with the pelvic organ is coated with a coating sheet, or a concave member which is made of a flexible material receiving the pelvic organ prolapse site and in which the surface to be in contact with the pelvic organ is coated with a coating sheet, and a means of holding the convex push-up member or the concave member for tightly pressing the convex push-up member or the concave member to the pelvic organ prolapse site of the wearer as described above.

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.

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.

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 sterilizations effected by passing a current through there resilisent structure to the tubal walls.

Abstract: An anastomosis device and related methods of using said device for reversing a female sterilization procedure. The anastomosis device can include a tissue approximation structure allowing for grasping and approximation of proximal and distal tube stumps remaining from the sterilization procedure so as to restore a lumen defined by the fallopian tubes for subsequent passage of reproductive cells. The anastomosis device can comprise a catheter body that is advanced through the reproductive tract, past the uterus and into the proximal stump. A flexible guidewire can guide a tissue approximation structure to the proximal stump wherein a set of proximal approximating structures are extended to grasp the proximal stump. The tissue approximation structure is then advanced into the distal stump wherein a set of distal approximating structures grasp the distal stump and cause the proximal and distal stumps to be brought into contact so as to commence biological healing.

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 resilisent structure to the tubal walls.

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.

Abstract: A device for delivering a medicated product or the like to a bodily cavity is provided. The device includes a barrel member having a distal end. The barrel member is sized to contain the medicated product. The device includes a plunger sized to extend into the barrel member. A cap is adapted to move between a sealing position, in which the cap is positioned adjacent to the barrel member and seals the distal end of the barrel member, and a dispensing position, in which the cap is moved in a direction away from the barrel member. The cap includes at least one opening sized to allow the medicated product to flow through the cap when the cap is in the dispensing position. A retainer mechanism is provided for retaining the cap on the barrel when the cap is in the dispensing position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel intrauterine systems and to methods for manufacturing these systems. An intrauterine system according to the invention comprises a reservoir and a continuous, closed and flexible frame. The frame comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer made of a polycarbonate diol, 1,6-hexamethylenediisocyanate, and a chain extender.

Abstract: A device for occluding a cervix has an elongated conduit sized and shaped to extend from a proximal end outside the vagina to a distal end near the cervix. A loop sized to fit around an exocervix is provided at the distal end. The loop is sufficiently flexible to be tightened and loosened around the exocervix. The device can include a rod inside the conduit. The rod has a distal end and a proximal end, and the loop is joined to the distal end of the rod. Moving the rod longitudinally relative to the conduit tightens or loosens the loop. The ends of the loop can also extend out through the proximal end of the conduit. Pulling on the ends through the conduit tightens the loop.

Abstract: A condom may include pouch having a wall and a frame. The pouch may have an open end and a closed end and the frame may be positioned proximate the open end. An anchoring device may be secured to the pouch proximate the closed end. Further, a harness or accessory attachment may be provided to assist in securing the condom to a user. At least one condom accessory, for stimulating at least one of the five senses, may also be positioned on or in at least one of the pouch, frame, anchor or harness using a variety of attachment methods.

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.

Abstract: A device for occluding the fallopian tube having 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.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides improved packaged condoms that enable the use of a large quantity of a composition inside the condom. In addition, a sufficient quantity of certain spermicidal and/or microbicidal compositions is provided for efficient inactivation of sperm and pathogens. The present disclosure also provides condoms with reduced tendency to slip or break. Compositions associated with different surfaces of the condom can be effectively segregated to their intended condom surface according to the present disclosure.

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.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device adapted for occluding the ovarian pathway of a female body for sterilization purposes. The device delivers RF energy to wound tissue at a desired location within at least one fallopian tube and implants a porous foam plug adjacent to the wounded tissue at said location. Depending on the plug's pore sizes, vascularized tissue may grow into the plug to prevent or discourage the formation of scar tissue around the plug and/or a vascularized capsule may form around the plug, which limits the patient's foreign body response so that the capsule does not constrict around the plug.

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.

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.

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.

Abstract: An intravaginal device for use in combating pathogens includes a ring of flexible material shaped to be received and retained in the vaginal cavity and includes at least one strand of copper wire.

Abstract: The presently-disclosed subject matter provides compositions and methods for treating a cancer by providing a composition comprising a biocompatible polymeric matrix incorporating an effective amount of a phytochemical agent, a combination of phytochemical agents, or a phytochemical agent and a chemotherapeutic agent. Further, provided is a device for uterine cervical insertion for local delivery.

Abstract: A vaginal drug delivery system includes a device formed of porous material that holds a flowable therapeutic formulation. The device, preferably in a soft, prewetted state, is inserted into the vagina to reside typically at or near the cervix where it continuously releases the flowable therapeutic formulation through its outer surface which is in contact with the vaginal surfaces. In operation, the flowable therapeutic formulation migrates via capillary forces from a reservoir that is centrally located in the device and through a covering that envelopes the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating pelvic organ prolapse, comprising a main body adapted to provide pelvic organ support when inserted into a vagina; and, an applicator for inserting the main body into a vagina.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention describe methods of determining the occlusion of body lumens and apparatuses for doing so. In one particular embodiment, the occlusion of the fallopian tubes by an intrafallopian contraceptive device may be confirmed by contrast enhanced ultrasonography (also known as stimulated acoustic emission hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography). In these embodiments a contrast agent containing microbubbles is used.

Abstract: An intrauterine contraceptive device comprising a carrier body (1) and an active metallic alloy (4), characterized in that the active metallic alloy is of the formula ZnxCuyMnzAuk (I) or ZnxCuyMnzAgk (II), wherein x+y+z+k=100 weight %, x is in the range from approximately 18 to 30 weight %, z is in the range from approximately 0.5 to 3 weight %, and k is in the range from approximately 3 to 12 weight %, y being the balance.

Abstract: A device and method of using the device for contraception or sterilization and particularly for reversible contraception by occluding a reproductive lumen to prevent the passage of reproductive cells through the lumen for a desired period of time until the patient wishes to become fertile again and then be reopened. The occluding member preferably comprises a tubular framework formed from a shape memory material configured to be implanted in a reproductive lumen. The occluding member is implanted within a body lumen, secured to the wall of the reproductive lumen and then collapsed to collapse the wall and occlude the lumen. Alternatively, the occluding member may be collapsed upon a solid plug. The closure of the reproductive lumen may be reversed by introducing a balloon catheter and by a series of inflations of the balloon reexpanding the collapsed occluding member or by removing the plug.

Abstract: A female condom and an improved method for manufacturing a female condom is disclosed. The invention provides a device that is effective in both acting as a contraceptive and inhibiting the transmission of disease during coitus. The invention employs synthetic latex in an efficient and cost effect manufacturing method that results in an improved product.