Abstract: A surgical portal apparatus includes a sleeve having a proximal end and a distal end that extends along a longitudinal axis, and a surgical tape. The sleeve includes an inner wall defining an internal longitudinal passageway dimensioned for permitting passage of a surgical object therethrough and an outer wall configured for positioning against tissue. The inner and outer walls define at least a partial annular space therebetween, the annular space being in fluid communication with an opening in the outer wall. The surgical tape includes a body portion retained within the annular space of the sleeve and a leading tab extendable through the opening in the outer wall of the sleeve. The surgical tape has a first surface and a second surface, each of the first and second surfaces having at least one of tissue reactive functional groups and self-reactive functional groups.

Abstract: A device (10) for directing a medical fabric (28) into a portion of a body. An elongated housing (12) having a distal end (16) and an opening (22) at the distal end (16). A supply of medical fabric (28) in the housing (12). An actuator (24) spaced from said opening (22) and configured to advance a portion of the medical fabric (28) through said housing (12) and out of the opening (22).

Abstract: An occlusion system (5) provides a trimmable continuous embolic coil (10) that is “cut to length” at the end of its deployment into the target occlusion site. A delivery device (15) provides the “cut to length” feature for the continuous embolic coil.

Abstract: There are disclosed various dispensing mechanisms for dispensing filamentary material (24) through a catheter (12) into a treatment site of a patient, for example into an aneurysm sack (20) in a patient's vessel (22). In one embodiment the assembly (100) includes a conical material carrier (150) which is substantially aligned with the dispensing direction, thereby avoiding the need to have a rotating carrier. Another embodiment has a carrier (340) which is at least partially cylindrical. The carrier (150, 340) provides for efficient dispensation of filamentary material at substantial dispensing speeds.

Abstract: A tampon applicator assembly has a barrel with a fingergrip. The fingergrip has one or more flared portions and/or one or more rib-like or ring-like gripping structures. A tampon applicator fingergrip includes one or more flared portions having a flare angle between about 139° and about 156° and a curve represented by an equation range of y=16.127x3?1.5061x2+0.0568x+0.0001 to y=6.9136x3?0.5598x2+0.0168x+0.0003, where y is an incremental increase in a height of the curve at a distance along a length of the curve.

Abstract: A dual mode absorbent tampon comprising a mass of absorbent material compressed into a generally cylindrical shape, in a first mode of the tampon. The mass of absorbent material comprising a homogeneous mixture of a plurality of fibers which comprise at least a first type of fiber and a second type of fiber, where the first type of fiber is bondable to fibers of the plurality of fibers. At least a portion of the first type of fibers are bonded in a pre-determined pattern to adjacent fibers of the plurality of fibers wherein absorption by the tampon causes at least a portion of the mass of absorbent material to expand into a non-cylindrical shape which is dependent upon the pre-determined pattern, in a second mode of the tampon.

Abstract: A release mechanism (100, 100a) for releasing a medical implant (105) from an insertion device (110), comprising a body (10) having a proximal end (12) and a distal end (14), wherein between the proximal end and the distal end (12, 14) an actuator (16, 16a) is provided, wherein for generating a selective relative displacement between the first and second insertion elements (72; 74) of the insertion device (110), the actuator (16, 16a) has a first and at least a second direction of motion (18; 20), wherein in the first direction of motion (18), the first and second insertion elements (72; 74) can be displaced relative to one another in the longitudinal direction (18), and wherein in the at least second direction of motion (20), the actuator (16, 16a) effects a movement transversely to the longitudinal direction (18).

Abstract: A sanitary product for use by women for the absorption of menstrual fluid, having a plug and a pad joined by a sheath. The plug is substantially cylindrical so that is fits comfortably in a vaginal cavity. The pad remains outside the vaginal cavity, but has an absorbent layer on an inward side proximal to the plug and a liquid impermeable layer on an outward side. In use, a wearer can insert a finger into the sheath from the outward side of the pad to assist with insertion of the plug into the vaginal cavity. A string is provided that extends inside the sheath from the outward end of the plug to aid removal of the product. A line of weakness extends along the major axis of the pad, about which the pad is disposed to fold in use.

Abstract: A tampon applicator having an outer member adapted to house a tampon and receive an inner member. The outer member includes a fingergrip region having an indentation region that extends inwardly from the outer surface of the outer member. The indentation region has a depth dimension that is measured from the outer surface of the outer member to a lowest point of the indentation region. The indentation region comprises a first raised portion and a second raised portion, each of which having a height dimension that is measured from an individual raised portion's base to an individual raised portion's highest point, wherein the height dimension is less than the depth dimension. The first raised portion is a different size and a different shape as compared to the second raised portion.

Abstract: There is provided a multiple-component tampon applicator formed from at least three separate components. A fingergrip having a reduced cross-section as compared to that of the barrel may be formed such that it is a separate component or is integrally formed with a barrel component. The reduced cross-section fingergrip provides exceptional grippability to the user. The multiple components may be formed from materials including, for example, biopolymer including starches and proteins, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, or any combinations thereof. Prior to assembly of the applicator and prior to loading the barrel component with an absorbent pledget, petals may be formed on the insertion end of the barrel using existing processes and equipment. Alternatively, a separate insertion tip component having petals may be formed.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a lubricious polymeric composition that includes polymer and one or more lubricants. Articles formed from the lubricious polymeric composition possess enhanced softness, flexibility and lubricity. The present disclosure also provides a method for making an article formed from a lubricious polymeric composition having polymer and one or more lubricants.

Abstract: A tampon applicator having an outer member adapted to house a tampon and receive an inner member. The inner member has a first end and a second end. The first end is spaced a first distance from a first longitudinal protrusion. The second end is spaced a second distance from a second longitudinal protrusion.

Abstract: A dispensing device deposits cream onto a strip of gauze by housing a roll of gauze that is unrolled and pulled through a user-fillable reservoir of cream. The amount of cream deposited on the gauze is regulated by applying pressure to various parts of the device. Cream laden gauze is then used in the conventional manner.

Abstract: A tampon applicator barrel includes a wall forming a tube with a center axis therthrough and with a hollow interior volume. The tube has a first barrel end and a second barrel end opposite the first barrel end to form a length therebetween that corresponds to the length of the center axis. The tube increases in diameter along the length of the tube from a first diameter to a second diameter that forms a main body section, and decreases in diameter along the length of the tube from the second diameter to a third diameter that forms a reverse taper section. The center axis is substantially straight throughout the extant of the tube.

Abstract: A dual mode absorbent tampon comprising a mass of absorbent material compressed into a generally cylindrical shape, in a first mode of the tampon. The mass of absorbent material comprising a homogeneous mixture of a plurality of fibers which comprise at least a first type of fiber and a second type of fiber, where the first type of fiber is bondable to fibers of the plurality of fibers. At least a portion of the first type of fibers are bonded in a pre-determined pattern to adjacent fibers of the plurality of fibers wherein absorption by the tampon causes at least a portion of the mass of absorbent material to expand into a non-cylindrical shape which is dependent upon the pre-determined pattern, in a second mode of the tampon.

Abstract: A fluid delivery system and method for measuring flow at a patient utilizing a differential force sensor in order to precisely control the flow of fluid at very low flow rates. The system includes a fluid line through which a fluid is conveyed to the patient, and a flow controller that selectively varies a rate of flow of the fluid through the fluid line. The differential force sensor can be mounted very close to a point of entry of the fluid into the patient's body. An onboard communications device is controllably coupled to the flow controller and to the force sensor, responds to an output signal, and provides a feedback to the flow controller in a closed-loop process. The system can pump the fluid at a higher frequency until the flow rate is actually reached at the patient and then adjust to the flow rate needed to ensure patient health.

Abstract: The invention provides an applicator for skin treatment having one or more RF electrodes. An article is located between the electrodes, such as a roller or flexible belt containing one or more protruding pins electrically isolated from the RF electrodes. The invention also provides a system for skin treatment comprising the applicator of the invention and a control unit. The invention further provides a method of treating skin disorders in which a section of the skin is heated while, essentially simultaneously, piercing one or more holes in the heated section of the skin. The method of the invention may be used, for example, in collagen remodeling.

Abstract: A tampon assembly used for penetration injuries to provide hemostasis and simultaneous broad spectrum antibiotic/anesthetic application. The tampon includes a helically-wound absorbent member impregnated with coagulant, covered with biodegradable or plastic accordion-pleated sheath including a bioluminescent tape outer marker. The device would also contain a measured dose of antibiotic/anesthetic suspension sealed within the confines of the outer sheath. The outer sheath would preferably have a perforated petal-shaped tip to enable wound insertion followed by through passage of the contained wound packing and treatment liquids/emulsions, etc. A radio opaque cotton withdrawal string would attach to the absorbent member at the end facing the wound opening. An insertion stick/plunger is used for tampon deposition within the wound. Manual pressure on the plunger would cause seal rupture and expulsion of the wound packing and treatment through the ruptured tip of the sheath.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a lubricious polymeric composition that includes polymer and one or more lubricants. Articles formed from the lubricious polymeric composition possess enhanced softness, flexibility and lubricity. The present disclosure also provides a method for making an article formed from a lubricious polymeric composition having polymer and one or more lubricants.

Abstract: A tampon having an auxiliary patch. The tampon can include a compressed absorbent member having an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a longitudinal axis, and a body disposed between the insertion end and the withdrawal end. The compressed absorbent member can have an exterior surface. In addition, the tampon can include an auxiliary patch that can partially cover the exterior surface of the compressed absorbent member. The tampon can also include an overwrap.

Abstract: The tampon applicator assembly includes a tampon applicator section, an outer housing section, and a plunger section. The combined tampon applicator section and plunger section function as a conventional plunger-type tampon applicator. The outer housing section includes a sleeve with a proximal portion and a distal portion. The (distal) insertion end of the tampon applicator section essentially fits inside the proximal portion of the sleeve, and the distal portion of the sleeve is designed to accommodate a feminine hygiene product, such as a pad, a disposable wipe, a towelette disposal mitt, a simple disposal bag, and other products associated with menstruation.

Abstract: The invention relates to an endosurgical extraction bag for collecting body tissue or body fluid, with a bag main part formed from a flexible envelope, and with a first admission opening for introducing tissue or fluid into the bag main part of the bag. Arranged in the bag main part, there is an inner envelope which is connected to the main part (bag) and opens toward the first admission opening, but adjoins the bag main part sealingly in respect of the first admission opening, and which has a second admission opening at its second end remote from the first admission opening and spaced apart from an end of the bag main part remote from the first admission opening, through which second admission opening the tissue or fluid can be introduced into the bag main part.

Abstract: A personal hygiene device for cleaning orifices, such as the nostrils, one at a time without batteries or power. The device can further be usable in the application of medications, which can be disposed in a tubular body of the device for exact dosage amounts. The personal hygiene device can be reusable without deformation.

Abstract: An applicator for intravaginal devices includes an elongate handle, an insertion sleeve, and an intravaginal device support member. The elongate handle has an open first end that defines a cavity extending into the handle. The insertion sleeve extends from the open first end of the handle; it is arranged and configured to slide into the cavity of the handle and to accommodate an intravaginal device; and it has associated therewith a trigger. The intravaginal device support member is disposed in the cavity of the handle; it is operatively connected to the handle; and it has a bearing surface disposed proximate the open first end of the handle. The applicators are useful to ensure that intravaginal devices are placed in the appropriate position to be effective.

Abstract: There is provided a multiple-component tampon applicator formed from at least three separate components. A fingergrip having a reduced cross-section as compared to that of the barrel may be formed such that it is a separate component or is integrally formed with a barrel component. The reduced cross-section fingergrip provides exceptional grippability to the user. The multiple components may be formed from materials including, for example, biopolymer including starches and proteins, cardboard, heat shrink plastic, paper slurry, plastic, plastic tubing, pulp slurry, pulp-molded paper, or any combinations thereof. Prior to assembly of the applicator and prior to loading the barrel component with an absorbent pledget, petals may be formed on the insertion end of the barrel using existing processes and equipment. Alternatively, a separate insertion tip component having petals may be formed.

Abstract: A device for introducing an object into a vagina includes finger mounting means whereby the device is mountable on a user's finger, and a holder which protrudes from the finger mounting means and which is insertable into a user's vagina, the holder being configured to hold an object whilst being inserted into the user's vagina and then release the object once positioned inside the vagina.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an ergonomically improved tampon applicator having a plunger and a barrel. The barrel has four distinct sections, namely a finger grip section, a reverse taper section, a main body section, and an insertion tip section. The reverse taper section is tapered towards the fingergrip section and the main body section is tapered in an opposite direction towards the insertion tip section. A maximum diameter is formed where the reverse taper section and main body section meet on the barrel. The maximum diameter provides a sensory means to the user to alert the user when the applicator has been inserted at the proper depth in the vagina.

Abstract: This distribution device comprises a syringe body (30), a distributor (32), a feed tube (56) for a first active medical fluid opening into the syringe body (30), a tube (60) for the injection of this active fluid connected to a distal extremity (46) of the syringe body (30), a pressurized tube (64) designed to be connected to a patient through a pressurized line (12) and a tube (66) for the measurement of venous or arterial pressure. The pressurized, injection and measurement tubes open into a chamber (62) bounded within the body (32B) of the distributor (32). The device (2) comprises a flush tube (68) which is at least partly bounded by the body (32B) of the distributor (32), which opens into the chamber (62) and is fitted with a valve (70, 80) which can be operated manually.

Abstract: An applicator for introducing a therapeutic substance into a body cavity of a subject in need of the therapeutic substance is provided. The applicator has the look and feel of a conventional tampon applicator but delivers a therapeutic substance. Generally, the applicator has a first outer member having a shape suitable for insertion into a body cavity of a mammal and has a dispensing end and a second end distal to the dispensing end. A second inner member is coaxially and slidably housed within the first member such that one end of the second inner member is within the first member. The applicator of the present invention also has at least one aperture located in a side wall of the outer member. The aperture is located on the side wall of the outer member between the dispensing end and the second end of the outer member.

Abstract: A system for facilitating hemostasis of a puncture site in a blood vessel injects an absorbable sponge pledget in a hydrated state to a position at an exterior of the blood vessel puncture to facilitate hemostasis. The system includes a tract dilator for locating the puncture, an introducer, and a pusher. The introducer includes a staging chamber for receiving the absorbent sponge pledget and a delivery chamber having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the staging chamber into which a hydrated pledget passes. The pledget is hydrated and compressed within the introducer and then ejected with the pusher to the delivery site to facilitate hemostasis of the blood vessel puncture. The system delivers the absorbable sponge pledget over a guidewire to ensure the proper positioning of the pledget over the puncture. The implanted absorbable sponge once delivered expands rapidly to fill the target site and is absorbed by the body over time.

Abstract: Applicator for inserting an object such as a tampon into a natural orifice of the human body, comprising the said object inserted in a tubular outer and a plunger intended to expel the said object such as a tampon from the tubular outer. The applicator comprises a flexible sleeve fixed concentrically to the outer, folded initially between the distal end of this outer and the object such as a tampon, the length of the deployed sleeve corresponding substantially to that of the object. The flexible sleeve deploys around the object such as a tampon when the latter leaves the outer under the effect of the plunger.

Abstract: An intravaginal device having an overwrap containing an enclosed material, and a withdrawal string passing through a portion of the overwrap formed into a loop, the withdrawal string enabling a user to remove the intravaginal device after use.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for in vitro testing of catamenial tampon-and-applicator systems are disclosed. The apparatus comprises an in vitro receptacle for accepting tampons deployed during the testing procedure. The in vitro receptacle comprises a sleeve with a tampon-deflecting zone, representing an in vivo vaginal channel with a frontal area of a cervix.

Abstract: An incontinence insert device and a method for placing an incontinence insert within a vagina. The device includes an expandable insert and a single piece applicator. The applicator assists in the proper placement of the insert into the vagina. Once inside the vagina, the insert expands to its expanded position, providing support to the urinary tract and thereby decreasing the tendency for the involuntary escape of urine.

Abstract: An implant having a tube for permitting fluid flow has an outer flange at the outlet end and a retention projection near the inlet end. A delivery device for implanting the implant has a central bore for accommodating the implant during the implantation procedure. When the implant is loaded in the delivery device, the retention projection of the implant protrudes beyond the outside surface of the delivery device. After the delivery device and implant have penetrated the tissue through which drainage is desired, and the retention projection has fully penetrated through the tissue, the delivery device is withdrawn. The retention projection acts as a hook engaging the inside surface of the tissue, causing the implant to stay implanted in the tissue. An implant may also be provided with a mechanism for temporary occlusion, in whole or in part, of the flow passage.

Abstract: A system for delivering a flowable substance capable of changing from liquid to solid for use as implants and surgical sealants includes a first reservoir containing a first flowable substance including a bulking agent, a second reservoir containing a second flowable substance including a reacting agent, and a cannula. A method of delivering flowable substance that changes from liquid to solid for use as implants and surgical sealants includes introducing a cannula having first and second lumens into the body, passing a flowable substance including a bulking agent through the first lumen, passing a second flowable substance including a reacting agent through the second lumen, mixing the first and second flowable substances in the cannula so that the bulking agent reacts with the reacting agent to form a flexible elongated fiber in the cannula, and moving the fiber through the opening in the cannula and into the body to form at least one of an implant and surgical seal.

Abstract: Applicator for inserting an object such as a tampon into a natural orifice of the human body, comprising the said object inserted in a tubular outer and a plunger intended to expel the said object such as a tampon from the tubular outer. The applicator comprises a flexible sleeve fixed concentrically to the outer, folded initially between the distal end of this outer and the object such as a tampon, the length of the deployed sleeve corresponding substantially to that of the object. The flexible sleeve deploys around the object such as a tampon when the latter leaves the outer under the effect of the plunger.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for implanting and forming both a polysaccharide fiber and an implant formed of the fiber. In one system, a liquid including polysaccharide and a liquid including a cross linking agent are mixed in a cannula to form a cross linked polysaccharide fiber in the cannula. In another system, a carrier fluid delivers a previously manufactured fiber through a cannula. A cutter is optionally provided on the cannula to sever the fiber after a sufficient length of fiber is implanted.

Abstract: A tampon applicator assembly and a method for placing a tampon within a vagina. The assembly includes an expandable tampon and a single piece applicator. The applicator assists in the proper placement of the tampon into the vagina. Once inside the vagina, the tampon expands to its expanded position, and absorbs body fluid.

Abstract: A process treats the surface of a polymeric tampon applicator so as to improve its whitening. The process applies electron beam energy to the applicator in sufficient magnitude and time duration to achieve the desired whitening.

Abstract: Presbyopia is more effectively corrected by techniques and implants designed to exert an inwardly-directed force on the ciliary body. The force is preferably either perpendicular to the optical axis, or generally perpendicular wherein the zonular plexus is deflected inwardly approximately along an axis bisecting the angle described by the anterior zonular fibers when viewed in a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A method of introducing continuous lengths of filament into the body in surgical procedures in which it is desirable to place a significant amount of material into the body through a small portal. The material so introduced may serve to bulk a tissue or cavity of the body or to occlude a vas, as well as to introduce diagnostic or therapeutic agents into a site in the body. A device for implementing the method has a mechanism for feeding the filament through a conduit in such a manner that sufficient force is applied to the filament that it is forced into the desired site. In one embodiment, a system of reciprocating cannulae and synchronized grippers is used to supply the requisite force to the filament.

Abstract: A device for applying a filamentous implant by means of a pressure-generating and fluid-containing unit which is connected to a housing containing the thread to be implanted. The housing opens out into a channel used for delivering the thread externally. The pressure generation unit generates a static pressure on a fluid contained inside the device, said fluid pushing the thread to be implanted through the distal narrowed tip of the channel, towards the exterior or into a tissue or a body cavity. The fluid remains inside the device in the course of this process. The distal end of the device can be plugged in order to prevent the fluid from exiting after application of the implant. The application can be stopped once an adequate quantity of the implant material has been implanted by severing the thread in the vicinity of the distal end of the channel or at the proximal end.

Abstract: Methods for conducting an operation on a living organism are provided, including methods in which a channel is provided around a tissue of the organism, and an encapsulating composition is infused into the channel to encapsulate the tissue in a capsule. The capsule impedes materials encapsulated therein from migrating to other tissues outside the capsule. Also provided are apparatuses for performing methods of the invention. In addition, an improved method of radiation therapy, in which a locally persistent radiation enhancing agent, such as iron dextran or colloidal chromic phosphate P-32, is administered in or near a tissue to be treated, is provided. The methods and apparatuses are especially useful in the treatment and removal of tumors.

Abstract: A device for inserting a substantially square sheet of flexible material through a laparoscopic cannula into an abdominal cavity. The device is an elongate, generally cylindrical member having a proximal end and a distal end and a body portion therebetween. A pair of tines is rigidly affixed to the distal end of the body portion with a slot separating the tines. A handle is affixed to the proximal end of the body portion. The slot defined between the pair of tines is dimensioned to accommodate the sheet thickness therewithin. In a preferred use, the sheet of material is inserted between the tines with diagonal corners of the sheet within the slot. The free corners of the sheet are drawn together with one hand and the handle of the device is rotated to wrap the sheet around the exterior surface of the two tines.

Abstract: A method of introducing continuous lengths of filament into the body in surgical procedures in which it is desirable to place a significant amount of material into the body through a small portal. The material so introduced may serve to bulk a tissue or cavity of the body or to occlude a vas, as well as to introduce diagnostic or therapeutic agents into a site in the body. A device for implementing the method has a mechanism for feeding the filament through a conduit in such a manner that sufficient force is applied to the filament that it is forced into the desired site. In one embodiment, a system of reciprocating cannulae and synchronized grippers is used to supply the requisite force to the filament.

Abstract: An insertion device 10 for inserting material 13 into a body cavity is provided. An elongate, tubular holder 12, shaped for insertion into the body cavity, is adapted to hold the material to be inserted. The holder 12 has a material expulsion end portion 14 and a plunger 20, which is telescopically and slidably mounted in the holder, which is adapted to expel the material from the holder when pushed manually into the holder. The holder, and preferably the plunger as well, comprises an outer paper layer 28 and a polymer layer 30, adhered to the paper layer on its outer surface, the layer having adequate water resistance to maintain its integrity during insertion into the body cavity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for laparoscopic insertion and application of a liquid, gel or like medicinal material enables the laparoscopic surgeon to utilize various spray patterns to apply the desired material. In laparoscopy surgery of the abdomen (including pelvis), all instrumentation and all surgical products must be introduced through "ports" consisting of valved, sleeved or tubes. To properly and efficiently introduce and apply liquid, gel or like medicinal material, the present invention provides a method and apparatus for dispensing the desired material with a desired pattern or spray. The instrument consists of an elongated instrument body that can receive a selected flexible delivery tube having a distal end with a nozzle. The instrument body articulates at its distal end, thereby flexing the dispensing tube. The selected nozzle of the selected dispensing tube can be flexed to dispense with a desired spray pattern into any position of the patient's abdominal cavity.

Abstract: An insertion device 10 for inserting material 13 into a body cavity is provided. An elongate, tubular holder 12, shaped for insertion into the body cavity, is adapted to hold the material to be inserted. The holder 12 has a material expulsion end portion 14 and a plunger 20, which is telescopically and slidably mounted in the holder, which is adapted to expel the material from the holder when pushed manually into the holder. The holder, and preferably the plunger as well, comprises an outer paper layer 28 and a polymer layer 30, adhered to the paper layer on its outer surface, the layer having adequate water resistance to maintain its integrity during insertion into the body cavity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for laparoscopic insertion and application of a sheet like material (such as an adhesion barrier) and like products enables the laparoscopic surgeon to utilize large and full size sheets of Interceed (3".times.4") in abdominal (including pelvic) surgery. In laparoscopy surgery of the abdomen (including pelvis), all instrumentation and all surgical products must be introduced through "ports" consisting of valved sleeves or tubes. To properly and efficiently introduce and apply a large or full size sheet of sheet like material, the present invention provides a method and apparatus of grasping and furling the sheet and then unfurling, releasing and applying it after passage into the patient's abdominal cavity. The instrument consists of an operational grasping and furling portion which is rotated to furl the sheet like material. It is then "backloaded" or drawn into a tubular portion of the instrument, an inserter sheath for passage through the valved "port".