Body Treatment (i.e., Surgical, But Not Cosmetic) Patents (Class 206/363)
  • Patent number: 7682347
    Abstract: An extra-labia urine voiding apparatus including a container sized and shaped to externally cover a vulval region of a female anatomy. The container has an open side and defines a reservoir that is adapted for receiving urine. The container also includes a surface disposed at a top of the container adapted to face and generally surround a periphery of the vulval region. The voiding apparatus also includes a conduit in fluid communication with the reservoir of the container and adapted for draining urine from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: FemMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Parks, James C. Block
  • Publication number: 20100065456
    Abstract: Cassette (10a) for a medical instrument (28) having at least one tray (14a) and a cover (12a) where the tray (14a) includes a rigid basic structure (23a, 23b, 23c) and fixed thereon a holding means (24a) for holding the medical instrument (28). The holding means (24a) has a cutout (26a) for retaining the medical instrument (28) and is attached to the rigid basic structure (23a) in a gap-free manner by molding, welding or gluing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: Straumann Holding AG
    Inventors: Thomas Junk, Astrid Thomaser, Fredrik Aidehag, Robin Bigio
  • Patent number: 7678097
    Abstract: A container is provided comprising a body defined, at least in part, by a film, the body including at least one side seal, at least two chambers separated, at least in part, by a peelable seal, and the film including a sealant layer having a bimodal thermal behavior such that the side seal is a permanent seal and the peelable seal can, at least in part, be separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Francesco Peluso, Tranaeus Anders, Dirk Faict, Patrick R. Balteau, Paul-Andre Gollier, Jean-Luc Dewez, Eric J. Henaut, Vincent Houwaert, Philippe Lambert
  • Patent number: 7677392
    Abstract: A packaging device for a trocar assembly includes a housing member having a compliant first sleeve adapted for selective frictional retention of a trocar assembly component relative to the housing member and a compliant second sleeve adapted for selective frictional retention of a trocar assembly component relative to the housing member. The first sleeve includes an inlet opening at a first end thereof and a closed second end defining a shield member positioned about a tip of a trocar assembly component positioned therein. The second sleeve includes an inlet opening at a first end thereof and a closed second end defining a shield member positioned about a tip of a trocar assembly component positioned therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul T. Franer, Thomas A. Gilker
  • Patent number: 7673754
    Abstract: A sterile, compact packaging is provided to present components in order of preferred or required use in a medical procedure. Pockets are arranged along one or more end sections of the packaging, and an absorbent material is at least partially adhered to the moisture proof sheet at a workspace thereon. Components are placed in the pockets in order of use, and the packaging is folded up. The folded packaging is sealed in a gas-permeable pouch, which maintains the components in a sterile condition until use. In use, the packaging is unfolded to expose the medical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Aplicare, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce H. Wilson, Jr., Philip Justin Hamrock, Joan Marie Lang, Steven D. Kimmell, Gregory Robert Art
  • Publication number: 20100044260
    Abstract: The invention relates to a plastic package for hydrophilic articles, in particular for hydrophilically coated medical instruments, which package is intended to ensure the hydrophilic nature of the enclosed instrument over a long period of time. The package comprises at least one receiving compartment with a medical instrument for insertion into body tissue and is characterized in that, after sterilization by radiation, it has a proportion of volatile constituents of ?0.1 ?g/cm2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Brigitte Niederberger, Volker Zimmer
  • Patent number: 7665606
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a Clamp-On Tray for Neurosurgical Patties comprises a rectangular tray having a well at each end, parallel individual channels for the patty strings running between the wells and c-clamps mounted on one side for attaching to a MAYO stand encased in sterilized covering material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Johnnie M. Gaillard
  • Patent number: 7665605
    Abstract: A sharps container for only one medical pen needle is configured with an elongated, hollow shield having an axially extending recess at a first end thereof. The recess is sized to receive the outer diameter of a pen needle hub. A cover member, sized for closing off the first end of the shield, is connected to the shield by means facilitating movement of the cover member between (i) a first position adjacent to a side of the shield and (ii) a second position abutting the first end of the shield. Locking means may be used for locking the cover member in the second position. The container has dual utilizations, first as a container for only one used medical pen needle and alternatively as a container for only one unused medical pen needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: UltiMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Erickson, James J. Erickson, Timothy A. Bachman
  • Patent number: 7628155
    Abstract: A vaginal wall which has been damaged by one or more prolapsed organs may be repaired by a surgical procedure including the steps of: (a) mobilizing the vaginal epithelium off of the underlying fascia of at least a portion of the damaged vaginal wall; (b) positioning a reinforcing material over the exposed fascia; (c) re-fixing the vaginal epithelium over the reinforcing material; and, thereafter, (d) locating an intra-vaginal splint into the vagina such that the splint supports the vaginal wall and prevents substantial movement and displacement of the reinforcing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus Patrick Carey
  • Publication number: 20090294313
    Abstract: A single-use medical equipment package cover comprising a solid preformed shell to cover the functional part of a medical instrument or surgical device and a trailing soft plastic cover or plastic sheath for the rest of the surface of the medical instrument or surgical device. The medical equipment package cover is applied in a folded or stowed configuration and is then unfolded to a deployed configuration. The trailing plastic cover may be transparent and removably affixable to a lens surface or a monitor surface. Unfolding of the removably affixed sheath imparts an interpersonal barrier to block aerial or sputum transfer between patient and medical personnel operating medical equipment being deployed on and within the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Jack Pacey, Mitchell Visser, Reza Ahmadian Yazdi
  • Patent number: 7624864
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods that fixably, and/or permanently capture and cover the sharp end of “sharps” in order to allow for their safe disposal. The sharps can include but are not limited to sharp medical instruments such as but not limited to syringes, needles, scalpel blades, as well as other sharp devices such as but not limited to sharp-tipped ornamental pins, sewing needles, and the like. The devices can include containers having bendable flaps which can bind against needles being inserted into the container, resilient materials, reactive chemical materials, and the like, which can also bind and/or permanently capture the sharps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Medvision, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Schaffer
  • Patent number: 7624868
    Abstract: A holder for a micro-sized medical device, such as a pipette, includes a main body portion having an interior space sized for housing at least one pipette. A reducing insert comprising a sleeve has an open end and a substantially closed end. The sleeve is sized such that the open end is receivable in the main body portion through an open axial end of the main body, and the substantially closed end has an aperture extending therethrough having a diameter sufficient for passage of a pipette therethrough. An end cap is engageable with the open axial end of the main body portion, and is selectively movable between an open position wherein the interior space of the main body communicates via the aperture with an environment exterior of the holder, and a closed position wherein the seal covers the aperture. The components of the holder may be formed integrally or separately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Cook Vascular Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert Booker, Dustin John Arabia, Benjamin T. Ewing, Christopher Nick Magalich
  • Patent number: 7617932
    Abstract: A medical device package for receiving, and securely and removably retaining, a medical device includes main and minor cap members. The main cap member has a proximal end, a distal end and a cavity with a cavity opening at the proximal end. The cavity is configured to receive, and to securely and removably retain, the medical device at least partially therein. The minor cap member is configured to seal the cavity opening once the medical device has been received in the cavity. Kits further include a connector adapted for engaging the medical device member and breaching the minor cap member. A method for extracting a medical device from a medical device package includes first providing a medical device package as described above, with a medical device therein, and a connector. The method also includes breaching the minor cap member with the connector such that at least a portion of the connector enters the cavity of the medical device package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Diabetes Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan Windus-Smith, John Allen
  • Publication number: 20090272664
    Abstract: A universal blister package for the distribution of medical instruments includes a tray having a resilient film and a retainer having a resilient film. The tray and the retainer are shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement in a manner creating a storage space between the film of the tray and the film of the retainer for accommodating a medical instrument between the tray and the retainer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Paul T. Marshall, Mark S. Leuenberger, Robert A. Allison, Paul W. Boentges, Jeffrey A. Brewer, Joseph C. Hueil, Kevin R. O'Brien, Jerold J. Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20090266728
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for tracking a medical device, including tracking medical devices in a set or tray. Systems configured for such tracking may include the capability to either or both detect tampering with the medical device and to effectively expose one or more medical devices to sterilization substances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: WARSAW ORTHOPEDIC, INC.
    Inventors: Robin L. TURNER, Sanjay BISHT, Thor M. HANNA, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090270982
    Abstract: Devices and methods for storing and injecting a corneal tissue graft are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a tissue container and an adaptor configured to be coupled to the tissue container. The tissue container defines an interior region configured to receive a precut corneal tissue graft therein. The tissue container is also configured to be coupled to an injector assembly that can be used to move the corneal tissue graft out of the interior region of the tissue container and into an anterior chamber of a recipient's eye. The adaptor can be configured to prevent the tissue graft from migrating out of the tissue container and/or can be configured to be coupled to the injector assembly. The tissue graft can remain within the tissue container during storage, transport and during the implantation procedure until it is injected into the patient's eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Aurora A. Torres, David J. Schanzlin, Thomas A. Trozera
  • Publication number: 20090259241
    Abstract: The invention provides a blade storage case which enables a blade to be attached to a holder body without touching the blade with the blade accommodated in the case, is safe and enables bacteria and the like to be prevented from adhering. The holder body is provided at its front end portion with an attaching finger to attach the blade, and in the blade is formed a fit hole adapted to an engagement portion such as a slit or the like formed in the attaching finger. The storage case that accommodates the blade is provided with an upper support face and a lower support face to sandwich upper and lower surfaces of the plate-shaped blade therebetween to store. As the upper and lower support faces, for example, the case is divided into two parts, and the upper support face is formed in the upper case while the lower support face is formed in the lower case. Alternately, an internal lid is provided to form the upper support face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Shoichi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7601001
    Abstract: Apparatus for storing a suctioner and the end of a suction line after disconnection from the suctioner, comprising support means, first storage structure on the support means for storing the suctioner; and second storage structure on the support means for storing the end of the suction line and for blocking suction flow of air into the line via the end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Neotech Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig R. McCrary, Arnold M. Heyman, Thomas R. Thornbury
  • Publication number: 20090236248
    Abstract: A case unit C1 includes a case 1 which includes a front surface 11 formed with a take-out opening 19 for taking out an article stored in the case, a cover 2 including a sealing portion 21 for closing the take-out opening 19, and guiding means 30, 31 for enabling the cover 2 to slide relative to the case 1 so that the sealing portion 21 moves reciprocally along the front surface 11. When the sealing portion 21 is positioned in front of the take-out opening 19, the guiding means 30, 31 displaces the sealing portion 21 toward the front surface 11 so that the sealing portion 21 is pressed against the periphery of the take-out opening 19. With this arrangement, the opening and closing of the take-out opening 19 is performed smoothly and easily, and the take-out opening 19 is properly closed even when the sealing portion 21 is worn out. Further, the case unit C1 is suitable for reduction in size and weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Uehata
  • Patent number: 7578391
    Abstract: To provide a medical kit capable of housing a medical instrument and a medicinal solution together, whose manufacturing is easy. In a medical kit (1) provided with a medical instrument housing portion (2) housing a medical instrument and sealed with a covering material (7), and a medicinal solution housing portion (4) housing a medicinal solution and sealed with a covering material (9), a medical kit (1) is of a constitution consisting of the medical instrument housing portion (2) and the medicinal solution housing portion (4) being detachably fitted, a mounting portion (3) preferably being formed in a flange portion (5) of the medical instrument housing portion (2) where the medicinal solution housing portion (4) can be detachably fitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Aglis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20090205987
    Abstract: A package for surgical suture material includes a base member and a cover member, wherein the cover member is configured to be placed adjacent to the base member to form the package for the surgical suture material. The base member includes an outer wall extending from an outer circumference thereof. The outer wall has a predetermined height such that it engages the cover member when the cover member is placed adjacent the base member. Partition structure extends from a bottom surface of the cover member and defines at least one suture retaining area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Jack Kennedy, David Kirsch, Michael Prescott
  • Publication number: 20090209031
    Abstract: A package for a medical device, the package capable of sustaining viable cells, wherein the package includes a first container, which is configured to receive a medical device and to sustain at least one viable cell, and a fluid port in communication with the first container for allowing sterile passage of an agent to the medical device and for maintaining cell viability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Joshua B. Stopek
  • Publication number: 20090206674
    Abstract: A medical instrument storage system includes a power feeder connected to a power source (4), a main body (3) which includes a power receiver (14) for receiving a contactless power supply from the power feeder, and a holding portion (2) for holding a medical instrument, a sanitation keeping unit (13, 35) connected to the power receiver and driven by the power supplied from the power feeder through the power receiver to keep the medical instrument held in the holding portion in a sanitary state, a moving unit (12) for making the main body movable, an electric storage unit (91) provided in the holding vessel for storing power supplied from the power feeder, and a light emitting unit (35) connected to the electric storage unit provided in the holding vessel for emitting a light ray with a predetermined wavelength toward the medical instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Noguchi, Eiri Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20090205986
    Abstract: A packaging tray for a medical device having a substantially flat configuration with at least one surface thereof comprising a coating of an agent disposed thereupon and an uncoated portion extending laterally therefrom. The packaging tray comprises a container unit having top and bottom portions that define a protective chamber therebetween configured to receive the coated portion of the medical device. The container unit is further configured to include an anchoring region disposed lateral to the protective chamber and between the top and bottom portions. When the medical device is disposed within the container unit, the uncoated portion is at least partially received and secured within the anchoring region, and the coated portion is maintained within the protective chamber, such that the coating of the agent is prevented from contacting the top and bottom portions of the container unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Cook Incorporated
    Inventors: Brett O. Baker, Brian K. Long
  • Patent number: 7565979
    Abstract: A medicine holding assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall and a peripheral wall attached to the bottom wall. A cover has a top wall and a peripheral lip that is attached to the top wall. The top wall has a same size and shape as the bottom wall. The peripheral lip is pivotally coupled to the peripheral wall and the top wall is selectively positionable in a closed position extending over the bottom wall. A closure is attached the housing and is configured to releasably secure the peripheral wall to the peripheral lip when the cover is in the closed position. A plurality of bottom loops is attached to an inner surface of the bottom wall. Pill bottles may be secured to the bottom wall with the bottom loops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Ralph D. Gibson
  • Patent number: 7562774
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit holding adapter (X1) for holding an analyzer (4) for analyzing a target analyte in a sample together with a sampling tool (5) used for taking a sample. The kit holding adapter (X1) includes a first holding portion (1) for holding the analyzer (4) and a second holding portion (2) for holding the sampling tool (5), for example. At least one of the first and second holding portions (1, 2) is preferably designed to expose a part of the analyzer (4) or the sampling tool (5) for performing the analysis of the sample with the analyzer (4) or for performing the sampling with the sampling tool (5) while the analyzer (4) or the sampling tool (5) are held by the adapter. The kit holding adapter (X1) may further include an article holding portion (3) for containing articles (45) used for at least one of the analyzer (4) and the sampling tool (5), or other articles used in conjunction with the analysis of the sample or the sampling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Arkray, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Uehata
  • Publication number: 20090179053
    Abstract: A medication carrier to be worn on the leg, ankle, arm or wrist of an individual is provided. In its preferred embodiment, the carrier comprises a continuous sleeve of stretchable, breathable and washable material with a vertical, column-like pocket constructed on the exterior portion thereof for carrying one or more auto-injectors. Preferably, the column includes a fastener which securely holds the medication, such as an EpiPen auto-injector, in the pocket. Preferably, the carrier includes an elastic portion with a sticky material, such as silicon, inlaying the inner lining of the upper band, at the top of the sleeve to further prevent slippage. Accordingly, when worn by the user, the invention provides a comfortable method of carrying medication, such as an auto-injector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Maureen Cooney, Kimberly W. Hartman
  • Publication number: 20090177219
    Abstract: A tissue-penetrating instrument. In various exemplary embodiments, the instrument may comprise a substantially flexible elongate penetration member that has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end may have a substantially blunt tissue penetrating tip thereon. The instrument may further include an elongate hollow support tube that has a passage extending therethrough that is sized to movably support a portion of the substantially flexible elongate member therein and prevent buckling thereof as at least one motion is applied to the distal end of the substantially flexible elongate member. The elongate hollow support tube may be sized to extend through a working channel of an endoscope. Methods of using such instruments to perform surgical procedures by inserting the instrument through a natural body lumen are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Sean P. Conlon
  • Publication number: 20090165793
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a packaging system for airway devices that permits their rapid access. In particular, the packaging system is capable of maintaining the device in storage under sterile conditions, yet be capable of facilitating rapid unpackaging and use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Michael J. Peck
  • Publication number: 20090145788
    Abstract: Described herein are packaging systems for nasal devices, and methods of packaging and/or dispensing nasal devices. A packaging system may include one or a plurality of nasal devices removably secured to a support backing, and a dispenser. In some variations an applicator may also be included. Methods of using and methods of assembling packaging systems and dispensers are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventors: Rajiv Doshi, Bryan Loomas, Enrique F. Mendez, Arthur G. Sandoval, Jeffrey W. Servaites, Matthew Durack
  • Patent number: 7544336
    Abstract: The invention relates to product, method and system for materials handling apparatus and more particularly to an integrated design of a vessel for combining sterilization, storage, transport and presentment of dental or surgical instruments or implants using a uniquely designed sterilization tray. Fabrication of the tray and the number of parts required can be greatly cost reduced, due to the simplicity of the design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew Powell
  • Publication number: 20090120819
    Abstract: Methods and systems are described for packaging medical devices. Packages are described for constraining expansion of medical devices along at least one axis. Removal devices for removing the medical devices from the packages are described. Medical devices stored in and removed from packages can include shape memory materials (e.g., polymers, alloys) which can cause the medical device to expand due to activation of the shape memory material. Medical devices can also expand due to other reasons, such as elastic recoil and/or thermal expansion. The methods and systems described herein may be used to limit the expansion of a medical device along at least one axis while inside a package. The methods and systems described herein may be used to relieve some of the stored strain in the medical device upon the opening of the package. Methods and systems are also described for opening a package which is subject to expansive forces from the medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: Arthrocare Corporation
    Inventors: George Delli-Santi, William Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20090112062
    Abstract: An overtube for use with an endoscopic surgical instrument. In various embodiments, the overtube may comprise a hollow tubular member that has an implantable tip detachably affixed to a distal end thereof. The implantable tip may have at least one retention member formed thereon to retain the tip within an organ wall. The implantable tip may further have a lumen extending therethrough to form a passageway through the organ wall. A plug member may be provided to selectively seal off the lumen within the implantable tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Gregory J. Bakos
  • Publication number: 20090107866
    Abstract: A ruptural bubble package for containing an implement such as, for example, a drinking straw, a toothpick or medical instruments, The bubble package is characterized by its construction from a flexible, substantially impervious material capable of maintaining a positive pressure of air or other gaseous fluids within the package once it is sealed. There are weakened portions or locations on the package that will burst open when an exterior finger pressure is applied to the outside of the package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Dunn-Rankin
  • Publication number: 20090112063
    Abstract: An overtube for use with an endoscopic surgical instrument. In various embodiments, the overtube may comprise a substantially flexible helically wound continuous member forming a series of helical coils that define a hollow passage sized to receive a portion of the endoscopic surgical instrument therethrough. The coils may be configured to selectively interlock with each other to stiffen the overtube. An actuation system may be employed to steer the overtube and selectively stiffen it. Some embodiments include a second substantially flexible helically wound member that may be selectively wound between the first substantially flexible helically wound member or segments thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Gregory J. Bakos, Ragae Ghabrial, David Stefanchik, Omar J. Vakharia
  • Publication number: 20090103969
    Abstract: A brush system including a brush body, bristles attached to the brush body, and a sponge attached to another part of the brush body. The brush system is arranged to dispense at least two of a topical numbing agent, an antiseptic, and a washing solution. The topical numbing agent is adhered to a surface of the sponge to facilitate applying the topical numbing agent if the surface of the sponge is rubbed onto another surface. The brush body may be arranged to dispense the washing solution in proximity to the bristles if a scrubbing force is applied to the bristles. A bladder may be positioned below the bristles and may be arranged to contain the washing solution. The bristles may contain a channel generally deposed within the bristles. The channels may act as a via between the solution contained within the bladder and an outside surface of the bristles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Joshua Bradley Feldman, Harriet Feldman, Howard Sutkin
  • Patent number: 7520248
    Abstract: A method of removing a dart, having a base and a tip and wherein the base is wider than the tip, from animal soft tissue. The method makes use of a dart removal facilitating assembly, including a sharps container defining an opening sized to accept the base of the dart and also defining a slot contiguous with set opening, the slot being narrower than the base of the dart. The base of the dart is moved through the opening and the sharps container is moved so that the tip of the dart extends through the slot. Finally, the sharps container is to pull the dart out of the animal soft tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Global Pathogen Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Carson R. Linker
  • Patent number: 7516845
    Abstract: A medical device package includes a body with at least one chamber therein, a proximal end and a distal end. The medical device package also includes at least one deformable projection within the chamber(s). Furthermore, the deformable projection is configured to deform resiliently upon contact with a medical device during insertion of the medical device into the chamber and, thereby, removably retain the medical device within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Inverness Medical Limited
    Inventors: David K. Lang, Gordon G Sansom, Jerry Pugh, Bryan Windus-Smith, Emma Vanessa Jayne Day, Gregory Jean Paul Eldin
  • Publication number: 20090062809
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a depth gauge instrument for simultaneously taking a number of height measurements around the surface of the area surrounding a bore from the base of the bore. The instrument has an individual cylindrical base member which has a diameter the same as the bore allowing the same to be inserted in the bore and a plurality of marker members slideably mounted in dovetail shaped grooves cut longitudinally along the outer surface of the cylindrical base member. The base member is provided with measurement indicia on its outer surface which correspond to the foot of each marker members to show the specific distance that the marker member is from the base of the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Anton J. Steiner
  • Publication number: 20090057188
    Abstract: A carry case is provided for a portable analyte measuring device, the carry case having opposing sides delimiting an interior space that is closed at one end and provided with an opening at the other end. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the carry case is provided with an interior flap that is fastened at a distance from the closed end at one of the opposing sides and that can be swung from a first position in which a first side of the flap faces one of the opposing sides to a second position, in which the flap divides the interior space of the carry case and faces with the first flap side the closed end of the interior space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Steffen Kroll, Kirsten Hoppert
  • Patent number: 7497330
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multipurpose device for the safe handling of sharp surgical implements and comprises a molded thermoplastic body that includes a container portion and a scalpel holder section. Magnetic material in the container holds scalpel blades and/or needles after use and magnetic material on the holder section presents a needle for pick-up by a needle holder. The scalpel holder section supports a scalpel or scalpels in cantilever fashion for convenient gripping and withdrawal by a surgeon. The body has a shape and surface characteristics that assures a secure hand grip even in wet conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Neutral Field, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Anthony, Daniel P Guyton, Douglas M. Evans, John R. Hickman
  • Patent number: 7494010
    Abstract: Disclosed is a race guide wire containment and dispensing system comprising an outer housing and an inner housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: JS Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Opie, Stephen J. Joyce, Thomas Izdebski
  • Patent number: 7491176
    Abstract: A kit for obtaining an endoarterial biopsy sample from a patient including packaging material enclosing one or more kit components; the kit components include instruments use to perform a surgical procedure; and the kit includes separate phase specific packaging parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Vascular BioSciences
    Inventor: David Marshall Mann
  • Patent number: 7481314
    Abstract: A package assembly for surgical mesh including a carrier assembly including a first substantially flat, flexible protective element having a periphery and positioned in a first plane, and a second substantially flat, flexible protective element having a periphery and positioned in second plane parallel and substantially adjacent to the first plane; and a substantially flat, flexible surgical mesh having first and second sides and positioned between the first and second protective elements. The first and second protective elements are further dimensioned to substantially cover the first and second sides of the surgical mesh respectively. The first and second protective elements are joined together along at least a portion of their respective peripheries, but along no more of the periphery than that which will allow the first and second protective elements to be separated from one another to allow removal of the mesh by a user without separating the joined portion of their peripheries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Komarnycky
  • Patent number: 7475776
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device comprising: a packaging box for the flexible material part, dimensioned to hold said part flat; folding means for folding said part without direct handling; and a reception tube for receiving said folded flexible material part. The invention is characterized in that the reception tube is not longitudinally slit, and the folding means comprise; a traction suture connected to the flexible material part, which passes through the tube, and, walls forming a funnel whereof the base emerges proximate to the opening of the tube through which the flexible material part is designed to be inserted into said tube, said funnel being designed, when a traction is exerted on the traction suture, to gradually fold down the zones of the part located laterally relative to the tube towards the zone of the part located opposite the opening of said tube, to enable the part to be inserted into the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Sofradim Production
    Inventors: Bernard Detruit, Michel Therin, Pierre Bailly
  • Publication number: 20080314780
    Abstract: Taught herein is a package for holding and securing various types of portable items. An inner slide card with integral tray (12) is loaded with items, and inserted into an outer sleeve (200). Receiving apertures (38) and securing tabs (40) hold and secure the items in the tray. An engaging element (42), integral to the slide card or tray cooperatively engages locking elements and stopping elements (240, 216) integral to the outer sleeve. The cooperative engagement of the elements provides an optional child-resistant feature and an optional spill-resistant feature. A release button (224) integral to the outer sleeve disengages the child-resistant feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Weston
  • Publication number: 20080308111
    Abstract: A finger fitting plastic disposable sleeve, giving the user's finger and nail protection while inserting a tampon, fitted in a small container holding multiple sleeves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Jean-Paul Aronson
  • Publication number: 20080300612
    Abstract: A scalpel blade storage device, including a cover having a first lever arm and a second lever arm defined therein and further including a base. The base has a face defining a blade pocket therein having a distal portion adapted to receive a blade portion of a surgical scalpel blade and a proximal portion adapted to receive a shank portion of a surgical scalpel blade. The base is disposed adjacent to the cover, with the face in which the blade pocket is defined facing said cover. A plurality of arms is fixed to one of the base and the cover. The arms envelop at least a portion of the other of the base and the cover to retain the base and the cover in a sliding relationship. The cover is movable between a first closed position in which the blade pocket is completely covered by the cover, and a second open position in which the blade pocket is at least partially uncovered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Erol D. Riza, Cosme Ribe Gaya, James L. Krumm
  • Publication number: 20080287798
    Abstract: An imaging catheter assembly is presented. The imaging catheter assembly includes an imaging catheter which includes an imaging catheter tip. Further, the imaging catheter assembly includes a fluid reservoir connected to the imaging catheter and configured to deliver fluid through a proximal end of the imaging catheter tip. The imaging catheter assembly also includes a release mechanism configured to cause delivery of the fluid to the imaging catheter tip when activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Warren LEE, Douglas Glenn WILDES, Weston Blaine GRIFFIN
  • Publication number: 20080281149
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating urinary incontinence, comprising: a support section adapted for providing urethral support; an anchoring section for resisting movement of the apparatus; an insert, a portion of which is adapted to be positioned where the support section attaches to the node; and, wherein the insert urges the support section radially outwards from a central axis of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: ConTIPI Ltd
    Inventors: Nir Sinai, Elan Ziv, Idan Buder, Jacob Gilan, Meital Vaknin, Eliahu Eliachar, Yohanan Maggeni