Abstract: Wound fluid blood detection systems and methods are described that are operable in conjunction with reduced pressure wound treatment (RPWT) systems, as well as ancillary therapy and monitoring systems applied concurrently with RPWT systems. The blood detection monitor operates by optically characterizing the content of wound fluids to the extent of identifying percentage blood content. This identification relies upon the transmission of select wavelengths of light across a volume of wound fluid to a photo detector (connected to signal processing instrumentation) capable of quantifying the absorption characteristics of the fluid. The detection components may be implemented in conjunction with either a fluid flow conduit (i.e. the reduced pressure tubing directing fluid away from the wound dressing) or more directly in association with the materials that comprise the wound dressing positioned within the wound bed itself.

Abstract: A stomal implant comprising a longitudinal portion configured to envelop at least a section of the bowel or ileal conduit, said longitudinal portion comprising: a proximal end for positioning at a stomal opening; a distal end for positioning within an abdomen; and a reversibly pressure-exerting device providing an ascending pressure gradient from the distal end to the proximal end, such that pressure exerted at the proximal end provides complete closure of the bowel or urethra.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance is described in the form of a controlled discharge device for controlling discharge from the stoma and/or an ostomy pouch for collecting discharged waste. The appliance may include one or more of: an elastomeric stoma seal for providing a seal around or directly against the stoma; a stoma occluder for occluding the stoma without passing internally into the stoma; a peristomal foam wall; a confinement seal for confining at least solid excreta to a confinement region adjacent to the stoma; a stowable collector bag; and interchangeable controlled discharge devices and ostomy pouches. The foam wall may provide a barrier to stool, but allow escape of flatus. The foam wall and/or the stoma occluder and/or the confinement seal may apply a force in a direction to increase the sealing force on the stoma seal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gastroplasty ring formed by a flexible band (2) which comprises a first end part (5) and a second end part (6) and which is intended to be closed around the stomach toward its two end parts by a closure system in order to reduce the diameter of the opening of the stoma by forming a loop, the band comprising an adjustable-volume annular compression chamber (3) connected, at the first end part, by an adjusting catheter (7) to a device for adjusting the internal pressure of said chamber, so as to adjust its diametral expansion, the ring comprising at least one grab tab (11, 12, 13) which projects toward the outside of the loop to make it easier for the two end parts to be brought together and parted. Gastric implant for treating obesity.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating urinary incontinence, comprising: (a) a support section adapted for providing urethral support; (b) an anchoring section adapted for resisting movement of the apparatus; (c) a normally open expansion mechanism adapted to urge the support radially outwards; and (d) a conversion mechanism adapted to sharply and selectively reduce an outward urging of said support.

Abstract: A method for treating incontinence in a subject is provided. The method is effected by forming or positioning a plug within an incontinent passageway associated with the incontinence in the subject.

Abstract: A perianal support device is provided that is configured to inhibit the formation and/or progression of tissue damage in the perianal region of the body. A method is provided to apply the perianal support device to patients during childbirth to inhibit the formation and/or progression of tissue damage in the perianal region of the body.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing continence to a gastrointestinal ostomy of a patient, wherein the apparatus includes a lumen sealing device, a chemical neuromuscular control agent, and a mechanism for controlled, localized delivery of the neuromuscular control agent. The lumen sealing device is positioned in contact with the mucosal wall of the intestine and the neuromuscular control agent is delivered to the intestine via the mechanism for controlled, localized delivery, such that the neuromuscular control agent provides an inhibitory effect on peristalsis or smooth muscle contraction and relaxation cycles in the intestine to thereby arrest the advancement of the contents of the intestine.

Abstract: The stoma protective cap for protection of the stoma, encompassing a plate (4) which has a curvature (3), which curvature (3) is formed such that it spans a cavity across the stoma and the plate encompasses at least one retaining region (1) which enables a fastening on clothing so that the plate can be securely held between the clothing and the body.

Abstract: In order to create a treatment device for clearing up fistulas with which fistulas can be treated as sparingly as possible, and where the functions of the adjacent anatomical structures are to remain as intact as possible, the invention proposes a fistula blocker for clearing up a fistula passage with a plug-like closure device, at least somewhat insertable into a fistula passage, which has a bearing surface which extends at least in part circumferentially transverse to the direction of insertion and which can be brought into contact with the wall of a fistula passage, and where the closure device is provided with flexible application string which can be inserted into the fistula passage, the latter being designed as a drainage pipe.

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.

Abstract: A method for treating urinary incontinence includes the steps of inserting into the woman's vagina a first disposable device, removing the first disposable device, and inserting a second disposable device substantially identical to the first disposable device. The disposable devices have a working portion with opposed faces to provide support to an associated urinary system and, optionally, an anchoring portion to maintain the disposable device in place during use. The working portion also has. The working portion also has an insertion equivalent diameter ranging from about 10 to about 25 mm and a use equivalent diameter ranging from about 25 to about 35 mm under an expansion pressure of about 20 to about 150 cm H2O.

Abstract: An incontinence management device comprises a head having a first state and a second state. In the first state, the head is sized for insertion within a predetermined body orifice or cavity. In the second state, the head is sized to substantially seal the predetermined body orifice or cavity. In an aspect of use in an anal cavity, the device is configured so that the head forms a seal above the dentate line within the anal cavity. Further, in some aspects, the head substantially comprises a resorbable material. Additionally, in other aspects, the device further comprises a base, which limits insertion of the device within the body orifice, and an activator mechanism in communication with the head and movable relative to the base between a first position and a second position. The movement of the activator mechanism between the first position and the second position correspondingly causes the head to change between the first state and the second state or vice versa.

Abstract: An ostomy plug is described comprising first and second chambers having adjacent ends coupled to, and in fluid communication with, each other. The first chamber may be for insertion into a stoma. The second chamber may contain fluid for inflating the first chamber when the second chamber is squeezed or otherwise compressed. The plug may have a figure-of-eight configuration. The plug may be configured to permit venting of flatus while obstructing escape of other body waste from the stoma. The plug may incorporate an insertion aid for aiding insertion into a stoma. The plug may also incorporate a device for regulating the inflation pressure of the fluid to avoid undesirably high inflation pressures in the stoma.

Abstract: An ostomy cartridge for use in host device in a mammal includes a body formed at elastomeric partially of polymeric material and a stem. The stem is secured to the body and is operable to permit insertion of the body into the host device and removal of the body from the host device. The stem and the body cooperate with one another and the host device to prevent flow of liquid and solid waste through the host device to the exterior of the mammal with which the host device is associated.

Abstract: A kit to facilitate self-placement of an incontinence prevention device within the urethra includes a deployment base member, a deployment tube, a deployment pusher along with the incontinence prevention device in a sterile pack. The base member includes a rigid shaft of a predetermined length having a finger grip member at one end and a hook member at its opposite end. The shaft of the base member is adapted to fit through the lumen of the deployment tube with the hook projecting out from a proximal end of the deployment tube and with the hook engaging a retention loop on the incontinence prevention device when in its sterile package. Upon removal of the kit components, the deployment tube is slid off the deployment base member and, in doing so, the incontinence prevention device becomes loaded into the deployment tube. The pusher is then used to urge the incontinence prevention device from the deployment tube into the urethra.

Abstract: A female urinary incontinence management device having a base member that adhesively attaches to the patient, and a bag member that is sealingly and releasably attached to the base member. The base member is generally triangular having a top portion that, when attached to the patient, extends across and above the symphysis pubis, side portions that extend down along the groin area, and a short bottom portion that extends across the perineal area. The base member includes an upraised ridge portion into which is integrated a “female” part of a means for sealing the bag member with the base member. The bag member includes a similar upraised ridge portion into which is integrated a “male” part of the means for sealing the bag member with the base member. The bag member may be releasably and sealingly coupled to the base member by interlockingly squeezing the “male” and “female” parts together.

Abstract: A bladder access device is disclosed that incorporates a load port and a valve connected to each other by way of a series of tubes. The valve is a four piece elliptical ring closed by a locking mechanism. The inner major axis portion of the elliptical ring has two inflatable cuffs. When fluid is injected into a self sealing and leakproof load port, the fluid flows through the series of tubes into the inflatable cuffs of the valve thus expanding them. This allows the elliptical ring to be placed around a patient's bladder and upon inflation of the inflatable cuffs, the valve closes onto the bladder allowing for continence. During this state of inflation, access can be made to the bladder by compressing the valve with two fingers. The valve closes automatically when released. The present device can be used as a closure control valve for other internal organs as well.

Abstract: A device to facilitate injection/extraction of fluids from cadaver's body cavities and to plug the incisions made to effect such injections/extractions. The trocar button of the present invention has both an external, manually operable drive surface and an internal drive surface engageable by a conventional insertion tool. Additionally, both the flange and the overall dimensions of the trocar button are increased to make it more user friendly.

Abstract: The bone anchor implantation device of the present invention comprises a shaft or body having a grip at a first end of the shaft, an anchor mount at a distal end of the shaft, and a bone anchor removably mounted in the anchor mount. The shaft is preferably bent so that the anchor mount generally faces the grip such that the bone anchor can be implanted at an anchoring site in a bone by pulling rearwardly on the device. The body is adapted to be separable from the anchor after the anchor has been implanted in bone. A suture thread is attached to the bone anchor such that the suture thread is accessible to a surgeon using the device after the bone anchor has been implanted in bone and after the body has been separated from the bone anchor. The shaft is at least partially hollow, and the suture thread is housed in the shaft. The anchor mount comprises a cannula at the distal end of the shaft. The cannula is sized to removably receive an end of the anchor.

Abstract: A disposable closure for a natural or artificial intestinal or urethral opening in the form of a body made from a material being soluble in visceral contents provides a disposable closure for a natural or artificial intestinal or urethral opening which closure is easy to apply, provides a proper sealing and is readily removed after having exercised its effect.

Abstract: A fistula device is provided for use with fish to gather materials, e.g., eggs, from inside an exterior body wall of the fish. The fistula device includes a body member having a flange at one end thereof. The flange, in use, engages an outside surface of the exterior body wall of the fish to hold the device in place. The device also includes a hollow cylindrical body portion having both internal and external threading. A retaining ring is adapted to be placed against an interior surface of the exterior wall of the fish, and includes internal threading permitting the ring to be screwed onto the external threading of the body member. A knitted plastic mesh is secured to the retaining ring and adapted to be sutured to the inside of the exterior body wall of the fish. A removable plug used to close off the device includes a threaded portion adapted to be screwed into the body member.

Abstract: The present invention discloses in an apparatus which suppresses the sound of the releasing of intestinal gasses (farts) and thus avoiding the embarrassment and ridicule that one suffers in the public company of others. The apparatus can be a very thin fibrous material such as cotton or polyester. When inserted it stays inside the anus sphincter. The sphincter stays in contracted position so no feces or excretion can escape without voluntarily loosening the anus sphincter. However, the intestinal gas can pass through the fibrous material without making any sound or noise. An apparatus for this use is disclosed comprising first, second, third, and fourth sides forming a pyramid, or a pyramid shaped device, wherein each side is comprised of a fibrous material. The pyramid may have a first end and a second end and the pyramid may be open at one end and closed at the other end. The first and second sides may be opposite one another and may be the same size.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the assessment of ischemic wound therapeutics by characterizing wound healing parameters such as epithelialization, granulation tissue formation and contraction. The present invention is also directed to an animal model for assessing ischemic wound therapeutics.

Abstract: A food intake restriction device for forming a stoma opening in the stomach or esophagus of a patient, comprises an elongated restriction member to be formed into at least a substantially closed loop defining a restriction opening, and a controllable adjustment device for adjusting the restriction member in the loop to change the size of the restriction opening. The device further comprises a wireless remote control for controlling the adjustment device from outside the patient's body in a non-invasive manner to assist in treating the patient for morbid obesity.

Abstract: A urinary incontinence device includes an occluding member, such as a tampon or plug that is retained by magnetic forces acting between a support and magnetic inserts located adjacent the urethra. The insets may be implanted or injected and hold the occluding member in place.

Abstract: A concealed colostomy apparatus comprising a sleeve insertible into the bowel via a discharge opening thereof for retention therein, the sleeve then having a discharge end; a cap removably interfitting the discharge end of the sleeve; and a flexible pouch received in collapsed position into the sleeve to in turn receive feces from the bowel, the cap being removable to allow distending of the pouch outside the sleeve and continued filling of fecal matter into the pouch.

Abstract: Provided is a device to control fecal incontinence and methods for its use. The device comprises a longitudinal tubular member having attached thereto bilaterally-extending wings for securing the device while in use. The device also comprises an expandable portion for prevention of unwanted defecation during use of the device.

Abstract: An implant, in particular for the closure of trocar puncture points, has a flexible, flat base part (1) and a stopper part (2) that starts from one side (3) of the base part (1) and extends in an essentially perpendicular manner relative to the base part (1). The stopper part (2) can be provided with a waist (5) in the vicinity of the base part (1).

Abstract: A tampon or closure device for insertion into an external opening of an artificial or natural body canal of an animal or human being includes a resilient compressed plug-like body of a molded material, the body having a longitudinal direction and being expandable to a cross-sectional dimension ensuring closure of the body canal when inserted in the opening with the longitudinal direction extending longitudinally in the canal. The body is provided with a withdrawal handle element protruding from the body and connected with an anchor part encapsulated in the body and having a relatively large bearing face against the surrounding molded material of the body. The handle element and anchor part are made from a material with a knitted structure to provide a 3-dimensional bond to the molded material of the body where the anchor part is designed as a soft flexible element oriented in the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of use for reducing bleeding from the situs of a percutaneous arterial puncture in a living being, with the opening in the arterial wall having been closed by a closure including at least one portion of a suture extending out of the puncture. The apparatus basically comprising a mass of material which inhibits the flow of blood therethrough, e.g., collagen, a carrier for carrying the suture portion through the mass of material, and means for holding the mass of material with respect to the suture portion so that it closely engages tissue contiguous with the puncture tract. The means for holding may comprise a knot in the suture portion, or can be a releasably securable member for location on the suture portion. In one embodiment the carrier comprises a piercing member, e.g., a needle, arranged for location within the interior of the artery for passage thereout through the wall of the artery and through the mass of material to carry the suture portion therethrough.

Abstract: The invention relates to a closure device (10) for closing an anatomical anomaly in the form of a vascular opening (80), such as patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, foramen ovale or ventricular septal defect, including a closure body (14) that extends at least within the vascular opening and wirelike, elastic locking members (30, 32, 34). In order to improve a fixation of the closure device and to preclude injuries, it is proposed that the locking members (30, 32, 34), on their free ends, be embodied spherically or in lentiform fashion or be provided with spherical or lentiform elements (40).

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of use for reducing bleeding from the situs of a percutaneous arterial puncture in a living being, with the opening in the arterial wall having been closed by a closure including at least one portion of a suture extending out of the puncture. The apparatus basically comprising a mass of material which inhibits the flow of blood therethrough, e.g., collagen, a carrier for carrying the suture portion through the mass of material, and means for holding the mass of material with respect to the suture portion so that it closely engages tissue contiguous with the puncture tract. The means for holding may comprise a knot in the suture portion, or can be a releasably securable member for location on the suture portion. In one embodiment the carrier comprises a piercing member, e.g., a needle, arranged for location within the interior of the artery for passage thereout through the wall of the artery and through the mass of material to carry the suture portion therethrough.

Abstract: A surgical plug and method are disclosed for minimizing leakage of insufflation fluid from an inflated body cavity through a puncture opening during an endoscopic surgical procedure. The surgical plug and method can be used to maintain insufflation during an endoscopic surgical procedure. The surgical plug includes a cap to plug the puncture opening and seal it, and a shaft extending from the cap into the body cavity. The shaft has helical thread, and the shaft is screwed into and through the opening until the cap is adjacent the body wall through which the opening is made. The surgical plug is stable and can maintain its sealing effect throughout an entire endoscopic surgical procedure. It also does not obstruct or interfere with the field of vision at the surgical site within the body cavity during the procedure. The method of using the surgical plug is simple and straightforward.

Abstract: A unisex stoma protection device comprises a plate having a screened aperture which is aligned to fit over a stoma to protect the stoma from airborne pollutants. The device is held in place on the neck due to the curvature of the plate and a chain which is attached to the plate and extends around the patient's neck. The plate traps moisture adjacent the stoma.

Abstract: An access assembly to provide access for surgical instruments during endoscopic surgical procedures and simultaneously seal the access opening when the instrument is withdrawn is disclosed. The assembly has a base, and an elastomeric sealing element and a tubular conduit. The base has a flange and a neck. The elastomeric sealing element has an inner elongated central channel which provides a passageway for surgical instruments into a body cavity. The sealing element also has an outer inflatable sleeve. When the space between the inner channel and outer sleeve is inflated, a distal balloon portion of the sleeve is inflated and the inner channel is compressed to constrict the inner channel passageway and therefore provide a seal.

Abstract: The present invention entails a body opening dilator for dilating opening of the body such a stoma or a rectal opening. The dilator includes an expandable screw actuated insert that is adapted to be inserted into the body opening. Disposed within the expandable insert is a flexible expander that is engaged by the screw. By turning the screw, the expander is moved outwardly against the surrounding wall of the expandable insert causing the same to expand. A fluid channel is provided within the screw for pertaining fluid to be directed into and through the expandable insert. Formed about the inner end of the expandable insert is a dispersing opening that directs the fluid from the expandable insert into the patient.

Abstract: A device for the percutaneous transluminal repair of septal defects is disclosed. The device comprises first and second expandable occluders fastened to each other, each occluder including a framework having a central hub with elongated struts radiating therefrom. The struts are constructed such that they have a resistance to fatigue that exceeds the maximum fatigue stresses to which the struts will be subjected over a prolonged period in vivo. As such, the device exhibits a significantly decreased likelihood of metal fatigue failures after prolonged exposure in vivo.

Abstract: An endoscopic inspection closure is described which has a guide device preventing the puncture incision created by a trocar obturator and cannula from closing and a closure device which fits within the guide device. The closure device is removable after the initial endoscopic operation, for observation of healing and introduction of endoscopic surgical instruments.

Abstract: A device for stabilizing the base of the nipple valves in a continent ileal reservoir with inlet and outlet nipple valves, includes a substantially annular member made of a biocompatible material, the annular member being pre-formed and permanently shaped to substantially define a ring. The ring has a radial slot formed therein to allow insertion of the annular ring member over the base of a respective nipple valve, with the annular ring member having an inner radius adapted to fit around said base. The annular ring member has first and second surfaces, with one of the surfaces facing the ileal reservoir outer wall, and through holes extending through said first and second surfaces for promoting a good adherence of the device to the surrounding soft tissue.

Abstract: A system, a closure, and method of use for determining the position of a blood vessel via a percutaneous puncture and for sealing the percutaneous puncture in the blood vessel. The system includes an introducer sheath and associated positioning device, a hemostatic puncture closure, and a deployment instrument. The positioning device enables the introducer sheath to be positioned at a desired position within the vessel. The deployment instrument includes a tubular carrier storing the closure. The carrier has a distally located free end to be extended via an introducer through the puncture and its associated tract. The closure comprises a radiopaque rigid anchor, a compressed collagen plug, and a thin filament connecting the two in a pulley-like arrangement. The carrier ejects the anchor through the introducer and puncture and then draws it against the free end of the introducer.

Abstract: A sealing device for controlling ileo-colostomies comprises an external cover, a hollow stopper insertable into a hole or preternatural anus practiced, a base plate to be applied on an external face of an abdominal area and surrounding the hole or preternatural anus, and elements for releasably connecting the cover with the stopper and with the base plate.

Abstract: A disposable closure for an artificial or an incontinent natural intestinal opening has a porous, elastic, air-filled body which in a state not influenced by external compressive forces is a substantially cylindrical, conical or bell-shaped structure having a cross-sectional area, measured halfway between its ends, of at least the double of the cross-sectional area of the intestinal duct for which it is intended. When supplied by the manufacturer, this elastic body is compressed to a substantially cylindrical shape having a cross-sectional area as or slightly below that of the intestinal duct in question. The elastic body is maintained in that compressed state by a moisture- and/or heat sensitive material, the shape-maintaining effect of which is rapidly eliminated upon contact with the moisture content of the intestine and/or the heat of the human body. The elastic body may for instance be made of a foam plastic and the shape-maintaining material may for instance be a cover of polyvinyl alcohol.

Abstract: A closure device for use in the closure of stomas and the like is described and comprises a bellows like reservoir which is integral with and in fluid communication with a bell-shaped inflatable bung. The inflatable bung can be positioned with a body channel of the stoma and inflated to a predetermined degree defined by the volume of the reservoir. A filter channel is provided in an annular ring of the device and is positioned so as to permit escape of flatus without becoming blocked by liquid or solid materials from the body channel.

Abstract: An ostomy pouch having a plug for the stoma and a pouch to collect natural discharges. The plug stops the natural discharges from collecting in the pouch. The pouch is employed to catch any discharges that might leak through the plug and to form a reservoir when the plug is dislodged. Such a reservoir is especially required when one is in training for the use of the stoma plug. The pouch has an openable top through which the user can reach to remove the stoma plug so that the contents of the colon can be drained into the pouch. The bottom of the pouch is also openable, allowing the user, when sitting on a water closet, to drain the pouch into the toilet without undressing any more than would a person without a colostomy. After discharge of the pouch, the bottom drain can be resealed, the plug placed back into the stoma, and the top of the pouch closed.The pouch is detachably mounted on a person's body. As confidence and control in the use of the ostomy plug is developed, the pouch can be used less and less.

Abstract: An improved gastrostomy valve by which to deliver liquid nourishment through the abdominal wall of a baby that, due to a congenital, functional, or other disability, is unable to eat normally. The gastrostomy valve is provided with an expansible membrane or balloon and a fluid circuit interconnected therewith. Fluid is provided via the fluid circuit to inflate the balloon which, in turn, causes the membrane to roll towards the abdominal wall of a baby. The inflated membrane assumes a torroidal configuration which forms an efficient seal against the abdominal wall, whereby to minimize leakage and prevent an inadvertent removal of the gastrostomy valve from the abdominal cavity. The improved gastrostomy valve also includes an internally disposed feeding lumen or stem, an externally disposed fluid infusion port, and an anti-reflux check valve located therebetween.

Abstract: An improved tissue expansion device for implantation beneath the skin, the improvement being the incorporation of a tensioning ring within the shell of the device. The tension ring exerts an outward force along the periphery of the shell to hold the device flat and prevent undesirable wrinkling during implantation.