Having Indicator Means Patents (Class 604/100.01)
  • Patent number: 12156978
    Abstract: Intravascularly delivered blood pumps and associated devices, systems, and methods, are disclosed herein. A system for intravascularly implanting a blood pump in accordance with embodiments of the present technology can include, for example, an elongated delivery dilator having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a lumen extending between the first end portion and the second end portion. The elongated delivery dilator is configured to advance over a guidewire positioned within the patient's vasculature and to extend through the patient's vasculature between a first blood vessel and a second blood vessel. A pump assembly includes an expandable member and a driveline. The expandable member is configured to be positioned in a patient's descending aorta to provide circulatory support to the patient's heart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2024
    Assignee: NUPULSECV, INC.
    Inventors: Robert M. Smith, Guruprasad Anapathur Giridharan, Duane Pinto, Joshua Ryan Woolley, Brian Howard Novack, Douglas Altschuler
  • Patent number: 11871911
    Abstract: The invention relates to a monitoring system for endoscopic treatments, in particular for endourological interventions, comprising an evaluation unit (10) and a guide wire (20) which has at least one measurement device (40). According to the invention, the evaluation unit (10) can receive data of the at least one measurement device (40), and the evaluation unit (10) comprises a comparator that compares the data with a comparison value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: FERTON HOLDING S.A.
    Inventor: Olivier Traxer
  • Patent number: 11819245
    Abstract: Everting balloon systems and methods for using the same are disclosed herein. The systems can be configured to access and dilate body lumen and cavities. For example, the systems can be used to dilate the cervix and access the uterine cavity. The systems can also be used to occlude the cervix. The systems can also be used to occlude the urethra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: CrossBay Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven R. Bacich, Matthew Thomas Yurek, Piush Vidyarthi
  • Patent number: 11744971
    Abstract: An expandable endotracheal tube includes a shaft that has an airway. The expandable endotracheal tube also includes an expandable segment mounted to a distal end of the shaft. The expandable segment includes an expandable membrane and a constant force spring positioned within the expandable membrane. The constant force spring has a compressed configuration to allow for placement of the expandable endotracheal tube within a patient and an expanded configuration in which the expandable membrane forms a seal with a trachea of the patient to enable positive pressure ventilation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Northwestern University
    Inventor: Mahesh Vaidyanathan
  • Patent number: 11612738
    Abstract: Conductors within an implantable medical lead that carry stimulation signal signals are at least partially embedded within a lead body of the medical lead over at least a portion of the length of the conductors while being surrounded by a radio frequency (RF) shield. A space between the shield and the conductors is filled by the presence of the lead body material such that body fluids that infiltrate the lead over time cannot pool in the space between the shield and the conductors. The dielectric properties of the lead body are retained and the capacitive coupling between the shield and the conductors continues to be inhibited such that current induced on the shield is inhibited from being channeled onto the conductors. Heating at the electrodes of the medical lead is prevented from becoming excessive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Jamu K. Alford, Spencer Fodness Bondhus, Michael Kalm, James M. Olsen, Brian T. Stolz, Richard T. Stone, Bryan D. Stem, John D. Welter
  • Patent number: 11311403
    Abstract: A device and method for the present invention provide for an erectile dysfunction device comprising an insertion assembly in communication with a distal end cap assembly. The distal end cap assembly is positioned at a distal end of the erectile dysfunction device and external to the user's body and provides for mechanical and electronic features. The insertion assembly comprises a lumen, lumen cap and rigid section in removable communication. A proximal end of the insertion assembly is closed and provides for a lumen wall of reduced thickness. The lumen wall of reduced thickness provides for local expansion of the lumen wall to an elastic bulb when fluid is inserted in the lumen when the device is in operation by a user, the elastic bulb having an anchoring effect. A method of insertion, operation, and removal of the erectile dysfunction device is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Inventor: Brian Elder
  • Patent number: 11272946
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an elongate shaft, a dilation balloon, and a fitting member. The elongate shaft includes an inflation lumen, an irrigation lumen, and at least one irrigation opening. The at least one irrigation opening is in fluid communication with the irrigation lumen. The dilation balloon is at the distal portion of the shaft. The dilation balloon is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen. The fitting member is at the proximal end of the shaft. The fitting member includes an inflation fluid port, an irrigation fluid port, and a blocking structure. The inflation fluid port is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen. The irrigation fluid port is in fluid communication with the irrigation lumen. The blocking structure is adjacent to the irrigation fluid port and defines a gap around the irrigation fluid port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventors: Azhang Hamlekhan, John H. Thinnes, Jr., George L. Matlock
  • Patent number: 11173060
    Abstract: A method for performing a sleeve gastrectomy includes providing a first medical device including a tube for insertion into an interior of a stomach, the tube having a proximal end and a distal end, and a shaping portion positioned at the distal end of the tube, providing an inflation lumen, and providing a second medical device, the second medical device being a stapler or clamp positioned externally on the stomach laterally adjacent to the first medical device. The method also includes introducing positive pressure into the stomach via the inflation lumen, defining a resection line for the sleeve gastrectomy, and clamping the stomach using the second medical device. The resection line is defined at least partially by the position of the second medical device relative to the first medical device when a predetermined positive pressure range is provided via the inflation lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Standard Bariatrics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan R. Thompson, Mark Steven Ortiz, Saylan James Lukas, Liam Clayton Groom
  • Patent number: 10898201
    Abstract: A system for treating an aneurysm comprises an elongate flexible shaft and an expandable member. An expandable scaffold is disposed over the expandable member and may be expanded from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. A double-walled filling structure is disposed over the scaffold and has an outer wall and an inner wall. The filling structure is adapted to be filled with a hardenable fluid filing medium so that the outer wall conforms to an inside surface of the aneurysm and the inner wall forms a substantially tubular lumen to provide a path for blood flow. In the expanded configuration the scaffold engages the inner wall of the filling structure. A tether is releasably coupled with the filling structure and the flexible shaft thereby constraining axial movement of the structures relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: Nellix, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven L. Herbowy, Michael A. Evans, Anant Kumar, K. T. Venkateswara Rao, Matthew R. Hellewell, Gil Laroya
  • Patent number: 10765803
    Abstract: A fluid delivery device comprises a fluid reservoir for containing medicament. The fluid reservoir is sealed proximate one end with a sliding seal piston. A delivery path is configured to fluidly couple the fluid reservoir and a patient wearing the fluid delivery device. A basal engine mechanism is configured to directly or indirectly move the sliding seal piston in the fluid reservoir at a controlled basal rate. A bolus mechanism configured to move the basal engine relative to the fluid reservoir and directly or indirectly move the sliding seal piston in the fluid reservoir a discrete bolus amount at a time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: ZEALAND PHARMA A/S
    Inventor: Robert R. Gonnelli
  • Patent number: 10682289
    Abstract: There is provided a system for managing reflux during an enteral feeding, comprising: (i) a non-transitory memory having stored thereon a code for execution by at least one hardware processor of a computing device, the code comprising: code for receiving electrical signals outputted by at least one reflux event sensor disposed within a digestive system of a patient; code for determining a gastric reflux event based on an analysis of the electrical signals; code for outputting instructions to pause enteral feeding of the patient by a feeding controller that regulates enteral feeding of the patient using an enteral feeding tube positioned within the digestive system of the patient; and (ii) an evacuation controller that directs back-flow of digestive contents from the digestive system of the patient to an external evacuation reservoir through an evacuation tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: ART Healthcare Ltd.
    Inventors: Liron Elia, Gavriel J. Iddan
  • Patent number: 10556088
    Abstract: A urinary catheter may include a catheter shaft and a connector coupled with the proximal end of the catheter shaft. The connector may have a first arm ending in a fluid outlet configured to allow urine to flow out of the urinary catheter and a second arm with an aperture and ending in an inflation inlet used for introducing inflation fluid into the urinary catheter. The catheter may further include a primary lumen, an inflation lumen, a retention balloon mounted to the catheter shaft proximal to a fluid inlet and over a distal filling hole, and a pilot balloon mounted on the second arm of the connector over the aperture. The pilot balloon inflates at an inflation pressure that is higher than the inflation pressure of the retention balloon and lower than a predetermined pressure threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: SAFE MEDICAL DESIGN, INC.
    Inventor: Raymond Arthur Bonneau
  • Patent number: 10524946
    Abstract: In one aspect, a gastric balloon structure includes multiple isolated non-concentric inflatable chambers and a valve system for introducing fluid into each chamber, where the structure assumes, upon inflating, a curved shape conforming to a natural three-dimensional kidney shape of the gastric cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Fulfillium, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard D. Y. Chen, Craig A. Johanson, Christopher S. Jones, Reinhold H. Dauskardt, Marc B. Taub
  • Patent number: 10456019
    Abstract: A method of assessing Fallopian tubal patency includes introducing a distension medium into a patient's uterus, introducing a contrasting medium into the uterus, and observing the contrasting medium, for example, via a hysteroscope, to determine whether the contrasting medium flows into one or both Fallopian tubes. A device for assessing Fallopian tubal patency includes a chamber for receiving contrast media, a flow path through the chamber for delivering distension media to a patient's uterus, and a flow controller for regulating the flow of distension media to the patient's uterus. The flow path is configured to permit flow of contrast media from the chamber into the flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventor: John Parry
  • Patent number: 10390868
    Abstract: A fluid displacement and pressurizing device having a housing and a carrier member. A plunger extends through the carrier member, and plunger engaging structure is retained by the carrier member. The plunger engaging structure is selectively engageable with, and disengageable from, the plunger. The housing and carrier member are configured such that the carrier member is transversely installable in the housing. Preferably, both the carrier member and the plunger engaging structure form a sub-assembly, and the sub-assembly is transversely installable in the housing after having been assembled. By providing that the carrier member is transversely installable as a sub-assembly which includes the plunger engaging structure, the device is easy to assemble, and lends itself well to an automated assembly process. Integral handle and gripping features make control and operation of the devices easier, and allows for torsional operating loads to be resolved without reaching the device body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: ATRION MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian A. Roberts, Rowland W. Kanner
  • Patent number: 10201684
    Abstract: An inflation device includes a syringe body containing a bore. The bore holds a fluid that is used to inflate a separate device such as a dilation balloon. A plunger assembly slides within the syringe bore and contains a sealing member that forms a fluid tight seal with the syringe body. A shut-off valve is disposed within the distal end of the syringe body. The distal end of the syringe body has a fluid bypass channel fluidically coupled to the aperture of a connector. The shut-off valve has a spring-biased moveable piston with a bypass lumen contained therein, wherein the bypass lumen forms a fluid path between the bore and the fluid bypass channel when the pressure of the fluid is below a threshold value. The fluid path between the bore and the fluid bypass channel is interrupted when the pressure of the fluid is above the threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: ENTELLUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Paul R. Lesch, Jr., Paul A. Vajgrt, Timothy B. Petrick
  • Patent number: 10058693
    Abstract: An interlock coupling adapter for delivering medical fluids to a patient, for example, with enteral feed set devices is provided herein. The interlock coupling adapter increases patient comfort and ensures a secure connection between a button/button base and a food source or medical fluid source. The interlock coupling adapter has an interlock inset within an opening of a button base. The interlock has a recess in which locking protrusions of an adapter may fit within. In this way, the adapter may freely rotate about the interlock. The adapter may be connected or disconnected by depressing flexible arms hinged to the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: APPLIED MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Grant Wesley Phillips, Derek M. Williams
  • Patent number: 10004484
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a catheter, in particular to a balloon bearing three lumen catheter for dispensing diagnostic fluids into a body cavity and retrieving sample of the diagnostic fluid and a catheter apparatus employing same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Inventor: Paul Speiser
  • Patent number: 9931504
    Abstract: A catheter may include electrodes for transvascular nerve stimulation. The electrodes may be positioned within lumens of the catheter and aligned with apertures in the outer wall of the catheter. The electrodes may produce focused electrical fields for stimulation of one or more nerves. In one embodiment, the catheter may include a set of proximal electrodes and a set of distal electrodes, and the proximal electrodes may stimulate a patient's left phrenic nerve and the distal electrodes may stimulate a patient's right phrenic nerve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Lungpacer Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Viral Thakkar, Joaquin Andres Hoffer, Bao Dung Tran, Douglas G. Evans, John Nash
  • Patent number: 9872718
    Abstract: Cryotherapeutic systems with features that can facilitate pressure relief in the event of exhaust-passage blockage and associated devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein. A cryotherapeutic system configured in accordance with a particular embodiment can include an elongated shaft having a distal portion and a pressure-relief portion proximal to the distal portion. The cryotherapeutic system can further include a supply lumen, an exhaust passage, and a balloon configured to receive refrigerant from the supply lumen and to exhaust refrigerant to the exhaust passage. The pressure-relief portion can be configured to release refrigerant from the exhaust passage when a pressure of refrigerant in the exhaust passage exceeds a threshold pressure less than a pressure rating of the balloon. The pressure-relief portion, for example, can include a rupture element configured to rupture at about the threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Adrian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Stephen Nash, Grace Kelly
  • Patent number: 9415195
    Abstract: Methods for treatment of aneurysms using a sequential manifold console to deploy multiple filling structures are provided herein. In one aspect, aneurysms are treated by simultaneously filling two double-walled filling structure using a sequential manifold console to guide a user in the steps to be followed in the procedure and to reliably achieve a consistent and durable aneurysmal treatment using a curable medium. The structures may be delivered over balloon deployment mechanisms in order to shape and open tubular lumens therethrough. Pairs of filling structures delivered to the aneurysm from different access openings of a patient can be simultaneously prepared and pressurized from a single treatment console when treating abdominal aortic aneurysms using the described systems and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Engologix, Inc.
    Inventors: Stefan Schreck, Jason Fox
  • Patent number: 9383733
    Abstract: A computer system may determine a target position of the electronic component. The computer system may also determine a current position of the electronic component. The computer system may compare the current position to the target to position to determine whether the electronic component is in the target position. If the electronic component is not in the target position, the computer system may use an electroactive polymer to adjust the position of the electronic component to move the electronic component into the target position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Tyler Jandt, Phillip V. Mann, Mark D. Plucinski, Sandra J. Shirk/Heath
  • Patent number: 9241752
    Abstract: Cryotherapeutic systems with features that can facilitate pressure relief in the event of exhaust-passage blockage and associated devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein. A cryotherapeutic system configured in accordance with a particular embodiment can include an elongated shaft having a distal portion and a pressure-relief portion proximal to the distal portion. The cryotherapeutic system can further include a supply lumen, an exhaust passage, and a balloon configured to receive refrigerant from the supply lumen and to exhaust refrigerant to the exhaust passage. The pressure-relief portion can be configured to release refrigerant from the exhaust passage when a pressure of refrigerant in the exhaust passage exceeds a threshold pressure less than a pressure rating of the balloon. The pressure-relief portion, for example, can include a rupture element configured to rupture at about the threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Stephen Nash, Grace Kelly
  • Patent number: 9180247
    Abstract: A device for dispensing fluid to a patient and indicating a fluid flow condition. The device includes a reservoir configured to provide a source of fluid under pressure. A continuous flow path in fluid communication with the source of fluid provides a continuous and substantially constant flow rate of fluid from the source to a patient. The device further includes at least one pre-biased indicator in fluid communication with the continuous flow path. The pre-biased indicator is configured to provide a discrete visual signal that the pressure of the fluid in the continuous flow path is different from a predetermined level of pressure, thereby indicating a fluid flow condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: AVENT, INC.
    Inventor: Roger Dillard Massengale
  • Patent number: 9155684
    Abstract: An inflatable retention system for an enteral feeding tube having a base deployed outside the human body and an indwelling retainer which is deployed within a lumen or cavity of the body by insertion through a stoma from outside the body. The retention system includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an external tube diameter, and tube walls defining a feeding lumen and an inflation lumen. The retention system also includes an inflatable balloon located at a distal end of the tube in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, the balloon having thin, flexible walls, a predetermined spheroid shape, and a volume at which a fluid in the balloon is under no pressure such that upon inflation with a fluid to pressurize fluid in the balloon, the balloon assumes a stable spheroid shape and exhibits a substantially linear pressure versus volume curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: Avent, Inc.
    Inventors: Alison S. Bagwell, Thomas G. Estes, Donald J. McMichael, John A. Rotella, Scott M. Teixeira
  • Patent number: 9149415
    Abstract: An inflatable retention system for an enteral feeding tube having a base deployed outside the human body and an indwelling retainer which is deployed within a lumen or cavity of the body by insertion through a stoma from outside the body. The retention system includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an external tube diameter, and tube walls defining a feeding lumen and an inflation lumen. The retention system also includes an inflatable balloon located at a distal end of the tube in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, the balloon having thin, flexible walls, a predetermined spheroid shape, and a volume at which a fluid in the balloon is under no pressure such that upon inflation with a fluid to pressurize fluid in the balloon, the balloon assumes a stable spheroid shape and exhibits a substantially linear pressure versus volume curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Avent, Inc.
    Inventors: Alison S. Bagwell, Thomas G. Estes, Donald J. McMichael, John A. Rotella, Scott M. Teixeira
  • Publication number: 20140180252
    Abstract: A feeding tube with an inflatable balloon component, a kit containing the feeding tubing, and a method for intubating a patient to deliver the feeding tube to a desired location for delivering nutrients and/or medication to the patient are described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: Sabry Gabriel
  • Publication number: 20130296782
    Abstract: An inflatable retention system for an enteral feeding tube having a base deployed outside the human body and an indwelling retainer which is deployed within a lumen or cavity of the body by insertion through a stoma from outside the body. The retention system includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an external tube diameter, and tube walls defining a feeding lumen and an inflation lumen. The retention system also includes an inflatable balloon located at a distal end of the tube in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, the balloon having thin, flexible walls, a predetermined spheroid shape, and a volume at which a fluid in the balloon is under no pressure such that upon inflation with a fluid to pressurize fluid in the balloon, the balloon assumes a stable spheroid shape and exhibits a substantially linear pressure versus volume curve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: Alison S. Bagwell, Thomas G. Estes, Donald J. McMichael, John A. Rotella, Scott M. Teixeira
  • Patent number: 8568354
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to devices and methods for local delivery of therapeutic agents to the wall of a bodily lumen with minimal shearing damage to the therapeutic agents, more specifically to the wall of a blood vessel following atherectomy. A preferred delivery mechanism comprises a balloon, or double balloon, though any distal catheter design may be used to reduce shear stress and to conserve and/or isolate the therapeutic substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Leo Schoenle, Ryan D. Welty, Kristina Tibesar Jensen, Cassandra Ann Piippo Svendsen, Jeffrey A. McBroom
  • Publication number: 20130274712
    Abstract: Embodiments of this invention include hand-held handles and systems for balloon-tipped catheter interventions that enable a user to appreciate a combination of palpable sensations as though his or her hand is actual anatomic tissue in situ in real time. The system may include a haptic handle coupled to the proximal end of the catheter where the haptic handle includes a balloon-shaped haptic interface that exhibits geometric characteristics reflecting an anatomy of the interventional balloon and provides tangible sensations representative of tissues surrounding the interventional balloon. Multiple sensors and actuators may be used to create a non-virtual, transparent experience communicated to a user with a three dimensional, volumetric haptic display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Stuart O. Schecter
  • Patent number: 8475406
    Abstract: An inflatable retention system for an enteral feeding tube having a base deployed outside the human body and an indwelling retainer which is deployed within a lumen or cavity of the body by insertion through a stoma from outside the body. The retention system includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an external tube diameter, and tube walls defining a feeding lumen and an inflation lumen. The retention system also includes an inflatable balloon located at a distal end of the tube in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, the balloon having thin, flexible walls, a predetermined spheroid shape, and a volume at which a fluid in the balloon is under no pressure such that upon inflation with a fluid to pressurize fluid in the balloon, the balloon assumes a stable spheroid shape and exhibits a substantially linear pressure versus volume curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Alison S. Bagwell, Thomas G. Estes, Donald J. McMichael, John A. Rotella, Scott M. Teixeira
  • Publication number: 20130123694
    Abstract: A method for measuring a balloon expansion profile in vivo is provided. The method comprises providing a balloon with at least one sensing element as a diagnostic device, where the at least one sensing element is characterized by at least one attribute that is representative of balloon dimension; measuring the at least one attribute to obtain an observed attribute value; and estimating the balloon dimension and the balloon expansion profile based on the observed attribute value. A diagnostic kit for measuring a balloon expansion profile in vivo is also provided. The diagnostic kit comprises the diagnostic device; a measurement module for measuring an observed attribute value for the attribute; and a processor module for processing the observed attribute value to estimate the balloon expansion profile as one or more outputs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: ANGIOMETRIX CORPORATION
    Inventor: Angiometrix Corporation
  • Patent number: 8409158
    Abstract: An ostomy device that comprises an adhesive wafer for attaching to the skin around the stoma. The wafer comprises an adhesive layer having a proximal adhesive side and a distal side, where the distal side is covered with a backing layer. The wafer comprises a central portion and a peripheral portion, and it comprises a proximal section located on the proximal side of the central portion and a distal section visually arranged on the distal side of peripheral portion, wherein the distal section changes colour when the proximal section is exposed to fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Henrik Edvardsen, Michael Hansen, Danuta Ciok, Lene Feldskov Nielsen, Kent Hoeier Nielsen
  • Patent number: 8371303
    Abstract: Described herein is an apparatus that includes an endotracheal tube or airway device having a proximal end and a distal end and an occlusion cuff. The occlusion cuff includes a sensor for helping determine proper endotracheal or airway device placement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Anesthetech Inc.
    Inventors: David Schaner, Harshvardhan N. Chaobal
  • Patent number: 8177742
    Abstract: An inflatable retention system for an enteral feeding tube having a base deployed outside the human body and an indwelling retainer which is deployed within a lumen or cavity of the body by insertion through a stoma from outside the body. The retention system includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, an external tube diameter, and tube walls defining a feeding lumen and an inflation lumen. The retention system also includes an inflatable balloon located at a distal end of the tube in fluid communication with the inflation lumen, the balloon having thin, flexible walls, a predetermined spheroid shape, and a volume at which a fluid in the balloon is under no pressure such that upon inflation with a fluid to pressurize fluid in the balloon, the balloon assumes a stable spheroid shape and exhibits a substantially linear pressure versus volume curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Wordwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Alison S. Bagwell, Thomas G. Estes, Donald J. McMichael, John A. Rotella, Scott M. Teixeira
  • Patent number: 8133199
    Abstract: An activation circuit for selectively providing an electrical current to one or more electroactive polymers (EAPs) in a medical device is disclosed. The activation circuit may include a sensor for sensing a measure related to a parameter of an elongated member and/or a balloon of the medical device. The electrical current may be provided to the one or more EAPs according to the sensed parameter of the elongated member and/or the balloon of the medical device. In some cases, the activation circuit may include a comparator for comparing the sensed measure to a threshold to determine when the electrical current is applied to the EAPs. The parameter may be a pressure, a fluid flow, a temperature, and/or other suitable parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan Weber, Kent D. Harrison
  • Publication number: 20110270176
    Abstract: A system including a catheter and an expandable member. The catheter includes an independent inflation lumen and an separate independent deflation lumen capable of sequential inflation and deflation of an expandable member in rapid succession, such as less than five seconds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Kevin J. Ehrenreich, Jesus Magana
  • Publication number: 20110196341
    Abstract: A deflation indicator system for visually indicating an inflation status of a balloon-type or other inflatable internal bolster of a medical device is disclosed. The indicator system enables an observer to ascertain from an external vantage point whether the internal bolster of the indwelling device is inflated. In one embodiment, the medical device comprises an elongate body defining a lumen, and an inflatable internal bolster for securing a portion of the medical device within the patient. A deflation indicator is also disclosed, including a flexible membrane in fluid communication with the internal bolster. The membrane is included in an external portion of the medical device. The membrane assumes a first concavely-shaped position when the internal bolster is deflated. Correspondingly, the membrane assumes a second convexly-shaped position when the internal bolster is inflated. The positions of the membrane are externally observable to indicate the inflation status of the internal bolster.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventor: Glade H. Howell
  • Patent number: 7981078
    Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided an inflation/deflation system for a dilatation balloon comprising a receptacle, a pressure member, a sensing system and a data processing and display unit. The receptacle is adapted to contain an inflation fluid to be introduced into the balloon during its inflation. The receptacle also has an inlet/outlet port adapted for connection to the dilatation balloon; The pressure member is adapted to be axially displaced within the receptacle to cause the fluid to exit the receptacle via the outlet port. The sensing system comprises a first sensor and a second sensor. The first sensor is associated with the pressure member to sense its axial displacement. The second sensor is associated with the interior of the receptacle to sense in a non-contact manner the pressure P of the inflation fluid within the receptacle, and to provide a corresponding data signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Mego Afek AC Ltd.
    Inventor: Moshe Mandel
  • Patent number: 7967780
    Abstract: An enteral feeding unit that reduces the occurrence of gastro-esophogeal-pharynegal reflux during feeding includes an automatable feeding pump with a feedback sensor for sensing a relative pressure in a patient's stomach and esophagus, and a regulator system for controlling and monitoring feeding rate to the patient as a function of the relative gastro-esophageal pressure. The system includes a stomach probe that provides a fluid-tight closure of the esophagus. The stomach probe includes a tampon-bladder for watertight closure of the esophagus, in which the tampon-bladder is formed of flexible and/or elastic material. At least an inner cavity of the bladder is provided for the reception of a fluid medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred G. Goebel
  • Patent number: 7959602
    Abstract: Apparatus with a pneumatic or hydraulic or mechanical therapeutic catheter. The therapy energy required to treat internal vessels of the patient is transferred by the same fluid or the same elements from the proximal end section to the distal end section of the catheter that transfer information from the distal end section to the proximal end section of the catheter. The information provides understanding of the state of the vessel and how the therapy fluid of the therapy element of the catheter acts on the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Convergenza AG
    Inventors: Hans Jurgen Tiedtke, Horst Lussem
  • Patent number: 7951111
    Abstract: A valvuloplasty catheter has a dog-bone shaped balloon with semi-compliant smaller diameter waist and non-compliant larger diameter bulbous end regions. The balloon centers across the valve with the waist adjacent to the annulus. One bulbous region serves to hyperextend the valve leaflets and the other assists in stabilizing the balloon position to reduce migration. The semi-compliant waist increases in diameter as fluid enters the balloon until it comes into contact with the valve annulus. The pressure within the balloon per unit of volume delivery has a greater slope after contact with the annulus than before resulting in a change in slope for the pressure versus volume curve. The diameter of the balloon and annulus are determined at this inflection point when the balloon contacts the annulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Intervalve, Inc.
    Inventors: William Drasler, Wes Pedersen, Mark Ungs
  • Publication number: 20110064774
    Abstract: The invention relates to bulking agents and apparatus and methods for using the disclosed bulking agents. The bulking agents can be used to treat such conditions as urinary and fecal incontinence, gastro-esophageal reflux, aneurismal blockages, and cosmetic deformities. The invention also relates to an injection method that reduces the injection pressure required to place the bulking agents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: George Bourne, Mike Madden, Art Madenjian, Doreen Rao, Marcia Buiser, Jianmin Li, Raymond Rackley, Barry N. Gellman
  • Patent number: 7901347
    Abstract: A balloon controller for an endoscope apparatus, which expands or shrinks a first balloon attached to an insertion portion of an endoscope by supplying fluid to the first balloon or drawing fluid from the first balloon, and which expands or shrinks a second balloon attached to an insertion assist implement for guiding the insertion portion when the insertion portion is inserted, by supplying fluid to the second balloon or drawing fluid from the second balloon, the balloon controller including a display device which displays an image expressing the states of expansion and shrinkage of the first balloon and the second balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi Sekiguchi, Toshio Sakamoto, Yuji Wada
  • Patent number: 7892202
    Abstract: An inflation syringe having an improved display and method of displaying pressurization information. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for providing both numeric and non-numeric indications of an inflation pressurization associated with an inflation syringe. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a progressive non-numeric display is provided for displaying the pressurization of the inflation syringe along with numeric indicators of the pressurization. The progressive display includes a plurality of indicia corresponding to a range of inflation pressurization values. The indicia are actuated to indicate inflation pressurization and to allow the practitioner to not only easily monitor the general intensity of the pressurization but to monitor changes in the pressurization without needing to interpret numerical values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred P. Lampropoulos, Steve Taylor, Thomas Stout, Jim Mottola, Blaine Johnson
  • Patent number: 7842027
    Abstract: A combination aspiration/irrigation and illumination device using optical fibers circumferentially disposed around the aspiration conduit for transmitting illuminating light to a cavity to be aspirated. The ends of the optical fibers being formed at an angle relative to the aspiration conduit so as to direct the illuminating light inward to provide intensified illumination ahead of the aspiration conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Jonas V. Lieponis
  • Publication number: 20100292536
    Abstract: A fluid control device which controls a flow rate of a fluid supplied or sucked to or from an inflation and deflation member, includes: a first pipe system connected to the inflation and deflation member, wherein the fluid flow of a predetermined flow rate is supplied to the first pipe system; a second pipe system connected to the inflation and deflation member, wherein a fluid flow of a flow rate lower than the predetermined flow rate is supplied to the second pipe system; a device which switches the first pipe system to the second pipe system when a predetermined amount of fluid is supplied or sucked to or from the inflation and deflation member through the first pipe system; and a device which controls the pressure in the inflation and deflation device by using the second pipe system based on a pressure in the second pipe system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Shinichi Yamakawa, Tsuyoshi Ashida, Takayuki Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7713191
    Abstract: A balloon controller for an endoscope apparatus which enables an operator to correctly and immediately grasp circumstances relating to an abnormal condition at the time of occurrence of the abnormal condition. The balloon controller controls expansion and shrinkage of each of a first balloon attached to an insertion portion of an endoscope and a second balloon attached to an insertion assist implement, by supplying air to the balloon or drawing air from the balloon. Pressure indicating portions on which the values of pressures in the first and second balloons are displayed are provided in a front surface of a main body of the balloon controller. When an abnormal condition occurs, an error code and the pressure values are alternately displayed on the pressure indicating portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi Sekiguchi, Tetsuya Fujikura
  • Publication number: 20100022950
    Abstract: Medical devices having electrically conductive pathways are disclosed. More particularly, the disclosure is directed to catheter shafts including an electrically conductive wire embedded in a polymeric tube. The disclosure is also directed to catheter shafts including an electrically conductive media coextruded in a polymeric tube. The disclosure is also directed to catheter shafts including electrically conductive pathways formed with electrically conductive ink, paste, adhesive and/or epoxy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: James M. ANDERSON, Karl A. JAGGER, Allen DELANDER, Richard R. MILLER
  • Publication number: 20090036830
    Abstract: A catheter assembly configured for treatment of a vessel bifurcation. The catheter assembly includes a catheter shaft and first and second balloons. The second balloon extends radially outward relative to the first balloon when expanded. A valve arrangement controls expansion of the second balloon. Portions of the valve arrangement can be positioned at proximal and distal end portions of the catheter shaft. Typically, the first balloon is expanded followed by expansion of the second balloon. A stent having a lateral branch opening is operatively mounted to the first balloon. The second balloon is configured to extend through the lateral branch opening when the second balloon is expanded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Brian Jablonski, Jay Rassat