Having Orifice Sealing Means Patents (Class 604/278)
  • Patent number: 11986162
    Abstract: An endoscope comprises a handle and a shaft with an optical housing at the distal end of the shaft enclosing a camera sensor positioned so that its optical axis is at an angle with respect to a rotational axis of the shaft. The camera sensor is rotatable with the shaft relative to a proximal housing of the handle. A rotation sensor in the handle detects the rotational angle of the camera sensor with respect to the proximal housing. A processor can correct the angular orientation of an image from the image sensor, converting of a rotating variable field of view to a translating variable field of view. A processor can apply variable smoothing of the rotation of the displayed image so that smoothing during rotational deceleration is greater than smoothing during rotational acceleration. The shaft may be enclosed in a trocar that allows for a space between the shaft and trocar that can be used to carry irrigation fluid to or from a space at the end of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2024
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Timothy D. Moreau, Alec W. Kulbacki, David Blumberg, Jr., Paul L. Adams, Gregg W. Rivinius, Steven L. Henning, Joshua Filgate
  • Patent number: 11583432
    Abstract: The utility model relates to rectally installed devices for intestinal gases drainage. User comfort is improved due to the fact that the device for silent removal and collection of intestinal gases is made in the form of a hollow oblong housing with two collar projections, proximal and distal, on the outer surface of the oblong housing, between which there is a window connected in the flowing medium with the outlet; there is a stop at the outlet. The window may consist of several inlets located circumferentially between the collar protrusions; there are drainage grooves on the outer side of the distal collar protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Inventor: Dobroslav Viktorovich Udartsev
  • Patent number: 11383022
    Abstract: A funnel-shaped enema nozzle (1) that includes a flared proximal part (2) that tapers into a tubular distal part (3), has at least a part of an exterior annular wall (3a) of the tubular distal part (3) provided with a hydrophilic coating (4) to provide reduced friction during use of the nozzle (1) during performing an enema.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: MBH-INTERNATIONAL A/S
    Inventors: Henrik Bork Bjerregaard, Cathrine Ørsnes Due, Thit Rosen Hagen
  • Patent number: 11260166
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for an anti-reflux tube-type enemator that is leakproof, easy-to-clean, and quickly inflates to provide a steady flow of solution. The anti-reflux enemator includes a nozzle comprising a nozzle outlet, a tube fluidly coupled to the nozzle, and an enema bulb fluidly coupled to the tube. The enema bulb is configured to store solution therein and, in response to a squeezing force applied to the enema bulb, direct the solution through the tube and the nozzle, and expel the solution through the nozzle outlet. An anti-reflux coupler is positioned between the enema bulb and the tube through which the solution passes from the enema bulb to the tube. One or more one-way air valves are positioned relative to an aperture of the enema bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: NINGBO ALBERT NOVOSINO CO., LTD
    Inventors: Yonggui Zhang, Haibo Hu
  • Patent number: 9861795
    Abstract: A catheter including a plurality of balloons extending from the outer surface of the catheter that when inflated create a seal between the catheter and the patient's thereby eliminating leakage of fluids from around catheter during the procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: MUSC Foundation for Research Development
    Inventors: Cephus Simmons, Rebecca Copenhaver DeLegge
  • Patent number: 9629953
    Abstract: The subject invention provides novel, inexpensive, and highly effective methods and devices for convenient and effective irrigation of abscesses, puncture wounds, and similar types of deep tissue wounds. In one embodiment the subject invention provides a discharge apparatus for a reservoir housing containing irrigation solution, wherein the discharge apparatus has a specifically designed nozzle for insertion into a wound opening and through which a sufficient volume of the irrigation solution can pass at an appropriate pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: INNOVATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Paul J. Rucinski
  • Patent number: 9463110
    Abstract: A waste management system and method of use. The waste management system includes a waste transport device and a waste collection device. The waste transport device includes a generally tubular body, a distal end section configured for disposition and maintenance in a patient's rectum, and a proximal end section including a first connector biased in a sealed position. The waste collection device includes a second connector. The first connector is transitioned to an unsealed position when the first connector is secured to the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Vasu Nishtala, Michele G. Davis, Ronald L. Bracken, Robert M. Hine
  • Patent number: 9205469
    Abstract: A surgical instrument that absorbs fluid material on surfaces of a trocar is provided. The surgical instrument comprises a handle having at least two ends and an absorbent area at a first end of the handle. The absorbent area comprises a plurality of absorbent discs and a plurality of spacers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Inventor: Glenn M. Ihde, II
  • Patent number: 9132065
    Abstract: Devices for securing open a stoma in the abdomen of a patient are disclosed. Additionally, devices that secure a percutaneously-implanted tube are disclosed. In one embodiment, a helically would wire forms a first coil arrangement inside of the stomach cavity of a patient and a second coil arrangement outside of the body of the patient, the first coil arrangement and second coil arrangement cooperating to squeeze the stomach wall and the abdominal wall into an adjacent position. Methods and other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Kathryn R. Evert, Kurt J. Tekulve
  • Patent number: 8956333
    Abstract: An ear medication delivery device for delivering a treatment liquid and retaining the treatment liquid within an ear canal of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Alternamedics LLC
    Inventors: Aner Vlodaver, Benhoor Soumekh
  • Patent number: 8888752
    Abstract: A vessel for use in rinsing a user's nasal cavities includes a main body, a spout, a self-sealing nozzle, and a flow control valve actuable by the user. The spout extends off of the main body and the elastomeric nozzle attached to the spout defines an outer skirt having a deflectable free end upon contact with the walls of the user's nasal cavity. A vacuum breaker valve is formed in a top portion of the main body for actuation by the user to control the flow of a fluid positioned in the vessel out of the nozzle. The main body may include gripping indentations along opposing sidewalls thereof. The spout may be integrally formed with the main body, and the spout and the nozzle may be detachably connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Water Pik, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Cacka, Kurt M. Taylor, Kenneth A. Hair, Brian R. Williams
  • Patent number: 8845598
    Abstract: A device for holding fluid has a spout for pouring the fluid. The device includes a lid with an aperture. The aperture can be covered by a user's fingers or uncovered to control the flow of fluid out of the spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Ketan C. Mehta
  • Publication number: 20140121645
    Abstract: The present invention provides an indirect method and accompanying apparatus for supplying a high concentration of medicaments, particularly antibiotics, to the nasal sinuses by first loading the medicament into the cerebrospinal venous system (CVCS) via a Valsalva maneuver. Because the CVCS is a valveless, three-dimensional closed system, traditional physiological dogma such as veins always draining tissues does not always apply. Instead, because in its closed-system blood can flow in any direction, the blood of the CVCS and any medicaments that it contains will be drawn to any portion of it where there is increased outflow, such as the copious venousderived sinus fluid drainage present during nasal allergy or nasal infection. Thus, the very nasal congestion that impedes the effectiveness of direct medicament application, such as seen with nasal inhalers or systemic antibiotics, aids in applying the medicament indirectly to the nasal sinuses via the CVCS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Gordon Wayne Dyer
  • Publication number: 20130310773
    Abstract: A surgical access device includes a seal assembly having a seal housing and a gimbal mount disposed within the seal housing, the seal housing defining a central longitudinal axis and having a longitudinal passage for receiving at least one surgical object therethrough and the gimbal mount adapted for angular movement relative to the central longitudinal axis. The surgical access device also includes a bellows configured to engage at least a portion of the gimbal mount, the bellows dimensioned and adapted to establish a biasing relationship with the gimbal mount, such that the bellows overcomes a frictional relationship between the gimbal mount and the seal housing, thereby moving the gimbal mount towards a position in which the passage of the gimbal mount is aligned with the central longitudinal axis. The bellows is configured to be attached to a side wall of the seal housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Craig Richard, Gregory Fischvogt
  • Patent number: 8529497
    Abstract: A fecal diverting device includes an internal balloon formed at the inside of a tubular body part disposed at the front end of a connection tube, at least one external balloon formed at the outside of the tubular body part, and an enema liquid injection hole formed through the forefront of the tubular body part and the at least one external balloon and an enema liquid to be injected into an intestinal tract of a patient via an enema liquid injection hole through a control tube. A device controller connected to the control tube regulates the amounts of fillers filling the internal balloon and the at least one external balloon and controlling the injection of the enema liquid, supplied from an enema liquid supplying unit, into the intestinal tract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Jae-Hwang Kim
  • Patent number: 8506537
    Abstract: Sealing device for sealing externally debouching, natural or artificial body canals of animals or human beings, the device enabling liquid tight sealing against the inner wall of the bowel system of the animal or human being, the device further being made from a resilient material. The device is soft and resilient and may thus not trigger the analreflex, but is still able to provide a fluid-tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Jan Torstensen, Allan Tanghoj
  • Publication number: 20130190678
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for anesthetizing a tympanic membrane of an ear. The systems are personalizable to ensure proper anesthetizing solution administration. The systems and methods may also be useful for administering a solution to the ear canal of a human patient and for maintaining the solution therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventors: Bernard H. Andreas, Mansour Saleki, Rohit Girotra, Alfredo Cantu, Nikhil Bhat
  • Patent number: 8449512
    Abstract: A method and device may be used to avoid surgically re-opening a stoma or the like in an animal, including human beings. The stoma stabilitating device comprises an anchoring portion, preferably flat, that includes an opening configured to surround a stoma. The anchoring portion preferably includes an inner tension ring attached to an inner edge to define the opening and a tension ring attached to an outer edge. The anchoring portion may include additional structural rings. The device may be of a mesh construction and used to maintain, for example, a stoma, a fistula, a tracheotomy and any other pathway from outside the body to the inner part of the body. The device may be used to maintain an open pathway for air and to maneuver devices within a cavity. The device may also be used internally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: DaVinci Biomedical Research Products Inc.
    Inventors: Mario Villani, Leo Cappabianca, David A. Merrill, Rosanna Villani, Giuseppe Villani
  • Patent number: 8419722
    Abstract: An apparatus for percutaneous delivery of a sealant comprising: at least two fluid reservoirs, an introducer needle having a distal tip that is in fluid communication with at least one reservoir, a fluid delivery tube that is in fluid communication with a second reservoir, wherein the fluid delivery tube has a tip and wherein the fluid delivery tube is configured so that the tip of the fluid delivery tube does not extend past the distal tip of the introducer needle during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Spinal Restoration, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Richards, Brian D. Burkinshaw, Kevin Pauza, James B. Rogan, John Wheeler
  • Patent number: 8403923
    Abstract: A method and kit for treating a disc that is leaking nucleus pulposus through at least one defect in the annulus fibrosus. The method includes injecting a fibrin sealant into the disc to reduce at least a portion of the at least one defect, wherein the fibrin sealant injected into the disc comprises fibrinogen and an activating compound, wherein at least a portion of the fibrin forms after injection, with the proviso that a corticosteroid is absent from the fibrin sealant injected into the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Spinal Restoration, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven I. Whitlock, Brian D. Burkinshaw, Kevin Pauza
  • Patent number: 8357147
    Abstract: A method of repairing a defect in an annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc, without excising the entire nucleus pulposus of the disc. The method includes inserting an introducer needle through the annulus fibrosus by puncturing the annulus fibrosus with the introducer needle, injecting an in situ curable, bio-compatible polymerizable or polymeric material composition into the disc through the introducer needle directly or indirectly so that the in situ curable composition contacts a defect in the annulus fibrosus; and curing said material in situ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Spinal Restoration, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian D. Burkinshaw, John L. Wheeler, James B. Rogan, Steven I. Whitlock
  • Patent number: 8298213
    Abstract: A medical instrument comprises a funnel having a tube with opposite first and second ends, respectively, with a conical portion at the first end. Conical portion has an outer conical surface which increases in outer diameter in a direction from the second end to the first end. A mouth is provided at an end of the conical portion distant to the end, and a lip extends about a part of the circumference of the mouth. The lip protrudes from the conical surface. A first grip is formed axially along the tube and provides a visual reference to the lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Steven Jiwan Singh
  • Patent number: 8079988
    Abstract: An enema device for use with a source of enema fluid having an elongated nozzle includes a hollow elongated rigid body having an interior extending between first and second ends and a feed portion formed at the first end defining a feed portion opening. A hollow nozzle receiving portion extends from the feed portion opening and is in fluid communication with the feed portion opening and the interior of the hollow elongated body. The hollow nozzle receiving portion is sized and configured to slidably receive the elongated nozzle, wherein when the elongated nozzle is slidably received within the hollow nozzle receiving portion, the elongated nozzle is in fluid communication with the interior of the hollow elongated body. The enema device further includes a discharge portion disposed at the second end of the elongated body. The discharge portion defines a discharge opening in communication with the interior of the hollow elongated body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: The Beechie Company
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Beechie
  • Patent number: 8057448
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device, method, system and kit for receiving effluent from an individual. In an alternative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device, method, system and kit for collecting effluent from an individual during a medical or diagnostic procedure including but not limited to, imaging or viewing one or more sections of an individual's gastrointestinal tract. In another alternative embodiment, the effluent is collected in a hollow area in order to prevent the effluent form contaminating a component, device or apparatus used in connection with the medical or diagnostic procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Bracco Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Williams, Harry Bratton, David J. Vining
  • Patent number: 7976522
    Abstract: The invention relates to an appliance for irrigation and/or drainage, which appliance comprising a body side member comprising an adhesive wafer for securing the appliance to the patient's skin, said wafer can be provided with an aperture for receiving a stoma, surrounding a wound, a fistula or a drainage site, a wall of flexible material, the wall comprising a rear wall and a front wall, the rear wall being attached to the wafer and having an opening suitable for surrounding the surface area of the skin to be cleansed, and the front wall comprising a coupling flange adapted for removable coupling and sealing to matching coupling means, an sealed chamber which, when inflated, provides a distance between the adhesive wafer and the coupling flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Michael Hansen, Bent Hall Jensen
  • Patent number: 7867207
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a coupling assembly such as a coupling assembly for coupling an ostomy bag to a base plate, said base plate being adhered around a stoma. The present invention especially relates to a coupling assembly comprising a first, second and third coupling part, which are coupled together to form a coupling assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Henning Therkelsen, Holm Tina Soerensen, Ole Madsboel, Laesoe Ingrid Fink
  • Publication number: 20100174243
    Abstract: An apparatus, for introducing fluent therapeutic material through an annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc, includes a needle having a distal end for insertion through an entry site of the annulus fibrosus. The needle defines a first conduit through which the pressurized fluent therapeutic material is introduced. An expandable seal is disposed about an exterior surface of the needle. The expandable seal has a non-expanded, non-sealing configuration to facilitate penetration of the needle through the annulus fibrosus and withdrawal of the needle therefrom. The expandable seal also has an expanded, sealing configuration during introduction of the fluent therapeutic material. The expandable seal then engages the annulus fibrosus in its expanded, sealing configuration to prevent or minimize leakage of fluent therapeutic material through the entry site. The expandable seal assumes its expanded, sealing configuration during introduction of fluent therapeutic material under pressure into the annulus fibrosus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. McKay
  • Patent number: 7670331
    Abstract: A device for urinary catheterization including an oblong member for opening the human bladder and a guide member for manipulating the oblong member. The guide member may be provided in a bent configuration, e.g. being curled or folded, such that the size of the device is small in comparison with the size of known catheters, especially in comparison with existing catheters for male users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventor: Allan Tanghoej
  • Publication number: 20090062770
    Abstract: In order to enlarge the uterus, inter alia for diagnostic purposes, it is proposed to seal the cervix once a liquid, such as a gel, has been introduced, by means of a sealing stopper, so that liquid does not constantly have to be supplied to the uterus. The sealing stopper is preferably coupled to a gel feed device which may comprise a simple syringe-type structure. This system comprises a non-return valve, as a result of which a gel can only be displaced in the direction of the uterus. In order to ensure that the sealing stopper can be removed, return means, such as a piece of string, are attached thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: GYNAECOLOGIQ
    Inventors: Niek EXALTO, Mark Hans Emanuel
  • Publication number: 20080294125
    Abstract: A surgical access apparatus includes a housing, an access member extending from the housing and having a longitudinal passageway for passage of an object and defining trailing and leading ends and an elongated seal mechanism mounted relative to the housing. The elongated seal mechanism includes a trailing hub and a leading hub longitudinally spaced from the trailing hub, and being adapted for relative rotational movement about the longitudinal axis, a plurality of spokes extending between and connected to the trailing hub and the leading hub, and an elongated seal member disposed within the spokes and adapted to establish a sealing relation about the object. The spokes define a first minimum internal dimension in a first condition thereof in the absence of an object and defining a second minimum internal dimension in a second condition thereof upon insertion of the object and relative rotation of the trailing hub and the leading hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Kenneth Allen Focht, Jared Alden Judson, Oivind Brockmeier
  • Publication number: 20080147020
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for providing sterilize access to a body cavity through the wall of a body lumen. In one exemplary embodiment, a translumenal access device is provided having an outer elongate tubular member with an attachment housing located on a distal end thereof and adapted to form a seal with a tissue wall. The device can further include an inner sheath extending through a passageway of the outer elongate tubular member and adapted to isolate the sealed region of the tissue wall from the inner lumen in the elongate tubular member. The inner sheath can be removably mated to the device to allow any bacteria present within the sheath to be removed from the device after the sealed region of tissue is sterilized. The tubular member will be thus provide a sterile pathway which can be used to access a body cavity through the sealed tissue region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew M. Zwolinski
  • Patent number: 7361170
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device, method, system and kit for receiving effluent from an individual. In an alternative embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device, method, system and kit for collecting effluent from an individual during a medical or diagnostic procedure including but not limited to, imaging or viewing one or more sections of an individual's gastrointestinal tract. In another alternative embodiment, the effluent is collected in a hollow area in order to prevent the effluent form contaminating a component, device or apparatus used in connection with the medical or diagnostic procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: E-Z-EM, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Williams, Harry Bratton, David J. Vining
  • Publication number: 20080051739
    Abstract: A seal assembly establishes sealing engagement with a plurality of differently dimensioned instruments passing through a trocar. The seal assembly is a caged seal assembly movably disposed within the trocar and includes at least two seal segments disposable into and out of a sealing orientation relative to the instrument. A cage structure of the seal assembly includes at least two cage segments each connected to a seal segment, a biasing assembly connected to the cage structure and disposed and structured to normally bias the seal segments into sealing orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventor: Richard H. McFARLANE
  • Patent number: 7105009
    Abstract: A trocar includes a valve housing and cannula which define a working channel. A valve disposed in the valve housing along the working channel includes a gel material which defines a slit that functions as a zero seal in the absence of an instrument, and an instrument seal in the presence of an instrument. The slit is formed by mating gel components which are preferably separated during storage of the device. This separation can be facilitated by a pull strip which can be pre-lubricated and inserted into the slit for ultimate removal prior to activation of the trocar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Applied Medical Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Gary M. Johnson, Russell E. Ahlberg
  • Patent number: 6726663
    Abstract: A modular trocar assembly having a cannula, a passive valve seal assembly and an instrument seal assembly all releasably joined to define a central axial bore, where the passive valve seal assembly contains a valve seal which prevents passage of gas through the trocar assembly into the atmosphere when no instrument is inserted but which opens to allow for insertion of an instrument, and where the instrument seal assembly contains an instrument reducer seal which prevents passage of gas through the trocar assembly into the atmosphere when an instrument is inserted through the valve seal. The passive valve seal assembly and the instrument seal assembly are preferably composed of plastic so as to be disposable, while the cannula is preferably composed of a sterilizable material to enable reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: ConMed Corporation
    Inventor: William G. Dennis
  • Patent number: 6706026
    Abstract: A device is provided for instilling a fluid into the cavity of the uterus which avoids various disadvantages inherent in prior art devices, e.g., patient discomfort, an adjustable seal to accommodate varying dimensions of the uterus of the patient, a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that could be performed in a relatively short period of time with little risk to the patient. The device provides a simple design to accomplish the ends described above and avoiding more complex designs including more complex procedures inherent in prior art devices. Moreover, the device and procedure may provide an even more definitive and reliable diagnostic means for the detection of abnormalities, polyps and tumors and to measure and monitor endometrial thickness within the uterus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Cook Urological Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven R. Goldstein, Rodney W. Bosley, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030153881
    Abstract: A medical instrument (1) comprises a tampon-like section (2) for introduction into a body cavity. The section (2) has an inner part (3), a first cuff (4) surrounding the inner part (3) and a second cuff (5) surrounding at least parts of the first cuff (4) which is permeable for application medium. A medical instrument was produced to stop body fluids from discharge, to stop bleeding and administer application media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Bruno Roche, Raymond C. Legrand, Max R. Laubscher
  • Patent number: 6579270
    Abstract: A surgical handpiece and tip having two coaxial tubes or channels mounted within a body. The first tube is used for aspiration and is smaller in diameter than the second tube so as to create an annular passage between the first and second tube. The annular passage communicates with a pumping chamber formed between two electrodes. The pumping chamber works by boiling a small volume of the surgical fluid. As the fluid boils, it expands rapidly, thereby propelling the liquid downstream of the pumping chamber out of the annular passage. The distal end of the annular gap is sealed by a nozzle at the distal ends of the first and second tube and a plurality of orifices or ports may be formed in the nozzle. As the expanding gas is propelled down the annular gap, the gas/liquid stream is forced out of the distal orifice in a controlled and directed manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Alcon Manufacturing, Ltd.
    Inventors: Glenn Sussman, Donald M. Cohen
  • Publication number: 20030069552
    Abstract: An anti-reflux drainage device includes an elongated member defining a lumen, and a valve disposed along the elongated member. The valve can include one or more lumens in fluid connection with the lumen of the elongated member, a socket, a shaft disposed in the socket, and a stopper connected to the shaft that occludes the second lumen when exposed to retrograde pressure. Another such device includes an elongated member and a ball valve. The ball valve can include a seat and a shoulder defined by the elongated member, and a ball disposed in the elongated member between the seat and shoulder that occludes lumen when exposed to retrograde pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Christopher R. O'Keefe, John O. McWeeney
  • Publication number: 20030050612
    Abstract: A urethral suppository comprising a non-meltable base member sized to prevent insertion of the base member into the urethra, a non-meltable reinforcement projecting from the base member, and a meltable portion formed around a portion of the reinforcement. The meltable portion tapers along the reinforcement and is shaped for cooperating with the action of the periurethral musculature to retain the suppository within the urethra. A method of delivering one or more therapeutic agents to the female urinary tract, the method involving insertion of the urethral suppository into the urethra. A method for manufacturing a reinforced urethral suppository.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventors: S. Grant Mulholland, Paul Zupkas
  • Patent number: 6428502
    Abstract: A lacrimal cannula, which is used for the removal of plugs or obstructions from mammalian lacrimal canaliculi having a punctum, includes a body having a distal portion, a proximal portion, an external annulus disposed proximate the distal portion, and a hollow bore for fluid delivery from the distal portion. The external annulus has an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the distal portion. The distal portion is inserted into the mammalian punctum without dilating the punctum and the external annulus has a generally spherical geometry which forms a seal with the external surface of the punctum without dilating the punctum and without the necessity of forcefully pressing the cannula against the punctal tissue to create a seal. The distal portion also has a relatively short length so that the distal portion is easily inserted into the canaliculus without contacting the plug or obstruction and thus interfering with the formation of the punctal seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Alcon Manufacturing, Ltd.
    Inventor: John C. Lang
  • Patent number: 6238373
    Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable membrane disposed inside, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a endoscopic work space while the inflatable membrane is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short conventional open surgery instruments during endoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: General Electric Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger A. de la Torre, George D. Hermann, Christopher Eric Thayer
  • Patent number: 6093176
    Abstract: A modular trocar assembly having a cannula, a passive valve seal assembly and an instrument seal assembly all releasably joined to define a central axial bore, where the passive valve seal assembly contains a valve seal which prevents passage of gas through the trocar assembly into the atmosphere when no instrument is inserted but which opens to allow for insertion of an instrument, and where the instrument seal assembly contains an instrument reducer seal which prevents passage of gas through the trocar assembly into the atmosphere when an instrument is inserted through the valve seal. The passive valve seal assembly and the instrument seal assembly are preferably composed of plastic so as to be disposable, while the cannula is preferably composed of a sterilizable material to enable reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Core Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: William G. Dennis
  • Patent number: 5997515
    Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable membrane disposed inside, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a endoscopic work space while the inflatable membrane is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short conventional open surgery instruments during endoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger A. de la Torre, George D. Hermann, Christopher Eric Thayer
  • Patent number: 5871474
    Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable membrane disposed inside, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a endoscopic work space while the inflatable membrane is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short conventional open surgery instruments during endoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: George D. Hermann, Christopher Eric Thayer
  • Patent number: 5817067
    Abstract: A cap (10) for a medical appliance to be retained in a human body includes a lid body (2), a connecting plug body (1), and a hinge (3). The lid body (2) is coupled to the connecting plug body (1) through the hinge (3). The connecting plug body (1), hinge (3), and lid body (2) are integrally formed of the same synthetic resin material. The lid body (2) is provided on a center area on an inner face thereof with an engaging member (4) made of a resilient material. The lid body (2) is provided on an end thereof with a strap (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Tsukada Medical Research Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu Tsukada
  • Patent number: 5634911
    Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable membrane disposed inside, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a endoscopic work space while the inflatable membrane is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short conventional open surgery instruments during endoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: General Surgical Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: George D. Hermann, Cristopher E. Thayer
  • Patent number: 5599317
    Abstract: A sealable external access catheter including a portion implanted in the body of the patient, a fixation or anchoring sleeve extending through the skin, and a portion located outside the patient and provided as its free end with a self-sealing septum made of a material which is repeatably and sealably pierceable by an infusion instrument. The septum may include two fins forming a flat base enabling it to be easily attached to the patient's skin. The catheter is provided with a sealing plug whereby any danger of infection is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Hauser
  • Patent number: 5584850
    Abstract: A trocar is adapted to form a seal around a surgical instrument and includes a cannula having an axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end. A seal housing disposed at the proximal end has a proximal wall with a hole extending into the housing. A septum valve disposed within the housing has a normal state when the instrument is absent from the trocar, and a stretched state when the instrument is being withdrawn from the trocar. A spacer extending between the proximal wall and the septum valve, engages the valve at a particular position which separates the valve into an inner portion, which is adapted to form a seal with the instrument and an outer portion, which is adapted to form a seal with the housing. The spacer has an axial length sufficient to space the particular position of the septum wall from the hole in the proximal wall a distance greater than the radial length of the inner portions of the valve in the stretched state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Applied Medical Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Charles C. Hart, Vincent C. Tangherlini
  • Patent number: RE44380
    Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable membrane disposed inside, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a endoscopic work space while the inflatable membrane is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short conventional open surgery instruments during endoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventors: Roger A. de la Torre, George D. Hermann, Christopher Eric Thayer