Abstract: A method and system is presented for an implantable wireless power receiver for use with a medical stimulation or monitoring device. The receiver receives transmitted energy through one or more non-inductive antenna(s), utilizes microelectronics to perform rectification of the received signal for generation of a DC power supply to power an implantable device, and may also utilize microelectronics to provide parameter settings to the device, or stimulating or other waveforms to a tissue.

Abstract: A medication delivery system for delivering medication to an internal body cavity through a natural body orifice that opens to the cavity has a pad for external placement against the body orifice and an elongated body that extends from the pad through the body orifice when the pad is externally placed against the body orifice. The elongated body carries medication and is long enough to deliver the carried medication to tissue forming the body cavity. The pad has a medication-holding zone surrounding the elongated body on an inner face of the pad and carrying medication that is delivered externally to tissue surrounding the body orifice concurrent with delivery of the medication carried by the elongated body to the tissue forming the body cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and related methods for treating fistulas such as anal or recto-vaginal fistulas, in particular by the use of a seton to secure a tissue growth promoter such as a growth factor and/or fibrin. The various devices are particularly suitable for positioning tissue growth promoters securely within a fistula. Thus, one device comprises a seton and a tissue growth promoter. Further related aspects of the invention included devices comprising an enclosure provided in between portions of a seton, devices comprising a seton and a plurality of holes for enabling the device to be sutured to tissue, devices comprising a probe and a seton that are releasably connectable end-to-end, devices comprising an attachment device to secure the ends of a seton, and devices comprising a fistula plug adapted to be secured to a section.

Abstract: A device for drug delivery to an orifice of a subject, comprising a shell which is elastically stressed by an active pharmaceutical ingredient, said shell containing and being substantially impermeable to said active pharmaceutical ingredient, wherein said shell has at least one hole sized for in-vivo release of said active pharmaceutical ingredient as a result of elastic stressing.

Abstract: Intravaginal drug delivery devices, including intravaginal rings, are provided herein. The devices include a reservoir of at least one vaginally administrable drug wherein the reservoir is surrounded at least in part by a hydrophilic elastomer. The devices are capable of exhibiting a substantially zero order release profile of drug over extended periods of time. Also disclosed are methods for making the devices and methods of using the devices to prevent or treat a biological condition.

Abstract: Implantable drug-doped component, e.g., a cochlear implant, including host material, a host-embedded drug, a sacrificial material integrated with the host. Sacrificial material facilitates release of drug from the component. Sacrificial material facilitates release through creation of voids in the host upon dissolution of sacrificial material upon contact with a solvent, e.g., perilymph fluid upon implant. Host can be polysiloxane, or silicone rubber. Drug can be anti-inflammatory, growth factor, antibody, anti-oxidant, antibiotic, corticosteroid. Sacrificial material can be: glucose monomer, sugar, cyclodextrin, dissolvable or resorbable at implant site, a salt, bioresorbable material, hyaluronic acid, polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid. Sacrificial material can be the host, and can facilitate release of drug through changing a property of sacrificial material, e.g., by exposing component to ethanol wash.

Abstract: Multi-layered vaginal rings 2 comprising silicone elastomers and pharmaceutically active ingredients are disclosed. The rings comprise a number of layers, at least one of which contains a pharmaceutically active ingredient, and each of which is a silicone elastomer. The multiple layers preferably are produced from these layers of different compositions, including an inner layer 4, a middle layer 5, and an outer layer 6. After extrusion and simultaneous curing, however, the ring 2 includes a contiguous body which comprises a continuous silicone body providing unimpeded diffusion of the pharmaceutically active ingredient from the inner layer (s) 4 to the outer layer (s) 6. Methods of producing these vaginal rings and of using them are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for insertion in an ear is provided in one example and includes a drug delivery device for insertion into an external auditory canal, wherein the drug delivery device contains one or more pharmaceutically active agents that can be released from the drug delivery device into the external auditory canal. In more particular instances, the drug delivery device can conform to the profile of the external auditory canal.

Abstract: A medicinal delivery device adapted to being applied to a surface of an internal organ and exhibiting a three dimensional shaped body having an upper surface and at least one underside layer within which is entrained a medicinal application layer. Upon adhering the underside of the body to an exterior of the organ, medication is administered in a controlled and time release delivery fashion. A deformable upper portion of the body is provided in combination with at least one underside and suction inducing location. The medicinal and suction inducing locations further can include concentrically arranged layers. An aperture is located within an enclosed inner defined volume associated with the suction inducing location.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices and treatment methods are provided, particularly for use in the bladder. The device is configured for retention in the bladder for at least a portion of the drug delivery period and includes at least one biodegradable component such that following a biodegradation at a selected time, the retention function is lost and the device or portions thereof are resorbed and/or excreted. The method may include deploying into the bladder of a patient a device having a device structure housing a drug formulation comprising at a drug; releasing drug from the device structure into the bladder; and then, changing the composition of urine in the bladder, e.g., by altering the pH, to trigger degradation of at least part of the device structure to enable the device structure or parts thereof to be excreted from the bladder.

Abstract: The present technology provides intravaginal devices designed to deliver lubricants to the vagina for a sustained period of time. The intravaginal devices include a first segment comprising an outer surface and a lumen containing a lubricant, wherein the first segment is configured to deliver the contents of the lumen to the outer surface, and the first segment comprises a polymer selected from the group consisting of a hydrophilic, semi-permeable elastomer and a hydrophobic elastomer. The lubricant may be an aqueous lubricant. The present technology further provides an intravaginal device including a solid first segment that includes a hydrophilic semi-permeable elastomer, an outer surface and an aqueous lubricant, wherein the first segment is configured to deliver the aqueous lubricant to the outer surface.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices for urine voiding postponement, and methods for treating conditions such as central diabetes insipidus, enuresis, nocturia, urinary frequency or incontinence. The devices deliver a desmopressin flux through the skin of a patient in a low dose amount just necessary to achieve a desired anti-diuretic effect without undesirable side effects such as hyponatremia. The devices are designed to permit a state of normal urinary production to return quickly after the desmopressin flux is terminated.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices, methods and systems for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that enhance aqueous flow through the normal outflow system of the eye with minimal to no complications. The implant can be reversibly deformed to a first shape, such as a generally linear shape conducive to insertion. Upon insertion, the implant can deform to a second shape, such as a generally non-linear shape conducive to retention within the eye. The shape also improves fluid flow from the anterior chamber and prevents or reduces clogging.

Abstract: A uterine fibroid treatment device providing for localized delivery of one or more treatment drugs for treating various uterine conditions including, for example, uterine fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic adhesions and endometriosis. Generally, the uterine treatment device comprises a physical positioning element that can be inserted, positioned and maintained in close proximity to the uterine tissue to be treated. The treatment drugs delivered to the treatment location can include various combinations of anti-proliferative agents and angiogenesis inhibitors to provide different treatments concurrently. In some embodiments, the physical element can also serve the dual purpose of delivering the treatment drugs while simultaneously cutting off blood flow to a mature fibroid to initiate hypoxic/ischemic conditions within the mature fibroid.

Abstract: A nasal insert may include a wall in the shape of a tube, the wall including a first end defining a first orifice and a second end defining a second orifice. The first end may have a diameter, diagonal measurement, or cross-sectional area larger than that of the second end. The first end may define at least one break in the wall, so that the first end incompletely encircles the first orifice. The second end may completely encircle the second orifice.

Abstract: An intrauterine system is disclosed for use in the treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding; menorraghia; dysmenorrhoea; endometriosis; uterine fibroids; climacteric complaints; osteoporosis; and urogenital atrophy. The system is formed by a frame defining an interior space for receipt of a deposit of a therapeutically effective dose of a biologically active compound. The frame has an open structure allowing access to a substantial part of an outer surface of the deposit, and the deposit has a rate controlling structure that controls a rate of release of the compound within the uterus. One or more retention elements are provided on the frame for retaining the frame within the uterus of a female mammal.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and compositions are described that includes an implantable device including one or more compartments. One or more pharmaceutically effective compounds stabilized in a sugar glass composition, at least one of the one or more stabilized pharmaceutically effective compounds in the sugar glass composition enclosed within the one or more compartments; and one or more reservoirs configured to provide access for one or more release agents to an interior of the sugar glass composition, wherein the one or more reservoirs are configured to controllably dispense the one or more release agents to disrupt the sugar glass composition from the interior of the sugar glass composition.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for stenting, spacing, draining, ventilating and/or delivering drugs and other therapeutic or diagnostic substances to desired locations within the bodies of human or non-human animal subjects, including methods and systems for treating paranasal sinusitis and ethmoid disease.

Abstract: The present technology provides intravaginal devices designed to intravaginally deliver difficult to formulate water-soluble molecules and macromolecules for a sustained period of time. The devices include a chamber having at least one orifice and containing a sustained-release formulation. Such formulations include a water-swellable polymer and an intravaginally administrable substance. Methods of making and using the devices are also provided.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to methods, devices, and computer systems thereof for reducing stomach volume in a subject. In certain embodiments, a subject receives a stomach-volume-reducing device that optionally includes at least one reservoir configured to release at least one appetite suppressant. In an embodiment, the stomach-volume-reducing device is responsive to one or more environmental conditions of the subject, for example, pH or chemical chemicals in the stomach of the subject. In an embodiment, the stomach-volume-reducing device controls hunger in the subject.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions for inhibiting transmission of a sexually transmitted infection that contain one or more polyanionic microbicides, such as carrageenans, including lambda carrageenan, as well as water-soluble metal salts and specified antiretroviral agents comprising NNRTIs and NRTIs. Also disclosed are methods for making and using the compositions. Also disclosed are intravaginal rings for delivering water-soluble compounds, and preferably high molecular weight water-soluble polymers at essentially a zero order rate. The rings include an outer layer of non-water-swellable elastomer, and preferably high molecular weight water-soluble polymer and an inner layer of the water-soluble polymer, which is imbedded in the outer layer, and an aperture through the outer layer for release thereof only through that aperture.

Abstract: Implantable drug delivery devices are provided lo have a deployment shape for implantation in the body and a retention shape for retention in the body. The device may have one or more elongated drug reservoirs containing a drug, mid the drug reservoir may be formed from a deformable material. In one case, a first filament is attached to the first end of the drug reservoir and second filament is attached to the second end of the drug reservoir, wherein a fastener is positioned about the first and second filaments to permit shortening and prevent lengthening of the filaments with reference to the ends of the daig reservoir, as a means for transforming the device from the implantation shape to the retention shape.

Abstract: A surgical technique and device wherein an indwelling tube is placed in the eye of a patient having glaucoma. The tube diverts aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to the suprachoroidal space from which it is removed by blood flowing in the choroidal and uveal tissues. This decreases the intraocular pressure.

Abstract: A vaginal therapeutic device having an exterior surface of copper metal that has a configuration for insertion in and retention in the vagina, and utilizes the copper metal as an antimicrobial agent to therapeutically treat abnormal biological conditions in the vagina. The exterior configuration of the device defines a plurality of protuberances to resist expulsion of the device from the vagina.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a nose plug device comprising a compressible material to exert a pressure on bleeding areas in inner wall of nostril. The present nose plug device can further comprise a bio-lubricant coating to help in device removal.

Abstract: A modular capsule includes a first therapeutic agent having a first solubility in biological fluids in an implanted environment and a second therapeutic agent having a second lower solubility in the biological fluids. The modular capsule is configured such that dissolution of the first therapeutic agent increases a rate of dissolution of the second therapeutic agent.

Abstract: A system for delivering a therapeutic agent to biological tissue includes a surgically implantable lead to be inserted into the biological tissue. The surgically implantable lead includes a preformed cavity. A modular capsule is configured to be retained within the preformed cavity. The modular capsule includes a first therapeutic agent and a second therapeutic agent, wherein the first therapeutic agent elutes rapidly into the biological tissue and the second therapeutic agent elutes more slowly into the biological tissue.

Abstract: A system and method of topically applying an anesthetic, or other medication, to one or both lips of the mouth. An applicator device is provided that has a curved first wall, a curved second wall, and a horizontal shelf that joins the first wall to the second wall. The first wall, the second wall and the horizontal shelf combine to define either one or two curved lip compartments. A volume of the anesthetic, or other medication, is placed within the curved lip compartments. The applicator device is partially placed in a person's mouth so that the second wall is positioned between the back of the lips and in front of the teeth. While in this position, the lip of the user passes into the curved lip compartment and is contacted by the anesthetic.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system, device and methods for treating or preventing genital tract infection. The system includes a point-of-use recharge kit having a first reusable intravaginal delivery device (RIDD1) and a second reusable intravaginal delivery device (RIDD2), and a therapeutic agent. Each RIDD includes a permeable wall defining an enclosed interior reservoir. The reservoir is adapted to receive the therapeutic agent. The system enables the point-of-use loading and reloading at least one of the RIDDs with the therapeutic agent by the end user.

Abstract: A tool for manipulating a solid object (12) in a cavity (16) of a human or animal body, comprising a longitudinal rod member (14) adapted for insertion into said body cavity (16), a first coupling member (26) connected to one of the rod member (14) and the object (12) through a flexible filament (28), and a second coupling member (24) connected to the other of the rod member and the object, said first and second coupling members being arranged for being mechanically coupled together through magnetic attraction, wherein one of the first and second coupling members forms a recess (30), the other of the first and second coupling members is configured as a key member (26), and magnetic poles of at least one of the first and second coupling members are arranged for drawing the key member into the recess along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rod member, wherein the key member and recess are constituted such that when the key member is drawn into the recess, an operative contact surfac

Abstract: A magnetically guided device driven by the repulsive forces generated by superconductive materials, housed in a thermally insulated vessel, due to phenomenon known as the Meissner-effect in response to the externally generated magnetic fields. The vessels will be installed in or on medical diagnostic, delivery or other procedural devices or capsules, and will enable wireless maneuvering and navigation of the host device through the lumens and cavities of the human body without any physical contact. Medical application fields include, but are not limited to, visual mapping, diagnostics, biopsy and other therapeutic and drug delivery procedures in the human body. The vessel is equipped with superconductive material, such as superconductive rings and/or disks, possessing supermagnetic properties.

Abstract: A medicinal delivery device is provided. The device includes a clip defining an ala inner surface-engaging portion about a first end thereof. The clip also defines an ala outer surface-engaging portion about a second end thereof. The ala outer surface-engaging portion is in spaced-apart and generally inward facing arrangement relative to the first end of the clip. This forms a gap between the ala inner surface-engaging portion and the ala outer surface-engaging portion for receiving a patient's ala. A medicine chamber is carried about the first end of the clip for dispensing medicine into the patient's nasal cavity.

Abstract: A method for reducing the spread of bacterial infections includes identifying a group of individuals at risk of an infection that colonizes in the nose, determining whether any individuals can be exclude, designating an individual or group of individuals who will receive treatment, providing a strip, mask, and/or clip, the strip, mask, and/or clip having an effective amount of antimicrobial agent capable of being delivered to the colony of bacteria in, on, and around the nose, the strip, mask, and/or clip is applied to the nose of the individual or group so to allow the agent to migrate to eradicate the colony.

Abstract: A drug therapy elution system and method for treating blood vessels. The system includes an enclosed receptacle containing the drug therapy for treating the damaged blood vessel. The system also includes one or more conduits that permit elution of the drug therapy from the enclosed receptacle into the damaged blood vessel wall. The system also includes one or more fixation mechanisms that can secure the enclosed receptacle to the blood vessel wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ocular implant, particularly a glaucoma stent. It is the object of the present invention to devise an ocular implant which allows the ocular eye pressure to be regulated, i.e., to be maintained at a desired level, while preventing the flow resistance from increasing over time, for example due to fibrosis. In order to achieve this object, the ocular implant according to the invention comprises a small tube (5), the wall surface (3) of which encloses a hollow duct that is open on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the hollow duct, wherein a first opening (1) allowing ocular humor to flow in and a second opening (2) allowing the ocular humor to be discharged is provided, and wherein the wall surface (3) is formed by a liquid-tight material, and wherein at least one pressure-controlled valve (4) is disposed in the area of the wall surface (3).

Abstract: Multi-layered vaginal rings 2 comprising silicone elastomers and pharmaceutically active ingredients are disclosed. The rings comprise a number of layers, at least one of which contains a pharmaceutically active ingredient, and each of which is a silicone elastomer. The multiple layers preferably are produced from these layers of different compositions, including an inner layer 4, a middle layer 5, and an outer layer 6. After extrusion and simultaneous curing, however, the ring 2 includes a contiguous body which comprises a continuous silicone body providing unimpeded diffusion of the pharmaceutically active ingredient from the inner layer (s) 4 to the outer layer (s) 6. Methods of producing these vaginal rings and of using them are also disclosed.

Abstract: A uterine fibroid treatment device providing for localized delivery of one or more treatment drugs for treating various uterine conditions including, for example, uterine fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic adhesions and endometriosis. Generally, the uterine treatment device comprises a physical positioning element that can be inserted, positioned and maintained in close proximity to the uterine tissue to be treated. The treatment drugs delivered to the treatment location can include various combinations of anti-proliferative agents and angiogenesis inhibitors to provide different treatments concurrently. In some embodiments, the physical element can also serve the dual purpose of delivering the treatment drugs while simultaneously cutting off blood flow to a mature fibroid to initiate hypoxic/ischemic conditions within the mature fibroid.

Abstract: A medicinal delivery device is provided. The device includes a clip defining an ala inner surface-engaging portion about a first end thereof. The clip also defines an ala outer surface-engaging portion about a second end thereof. The ala outer surface-engaging portion is in spaced-apart and generally inward facing arrangement relative to the first end of the clip. This forms a gap between the ala inner surface-engaging portion and the ala outer surface-engaging portion for receiving a patient's ala. A medicine chamber is carried about the first end of the clip for dispensing medicine into the patient's nasal cavity.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for administration to a patient body. The composition includes a physiologically-acceptable formulation including at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient, wherein said physiologically-acceptable formulation including said at least one active pharmaceutical ingredient is provided in a delivery form, said delivery form being administrable to a patient body through a plurality of administration routes, which include the oral and rectal routes.

Abstract: A vaginal therapeutic device made of copper metal has a shape to fit in the vagina and utilizes the copper metal as an antimicrobial agent to therapeutically treat abnormal biological conditions in the vagina.

Abstract: A vaginal drug delivery system includes a device formed of porous material that holds a flowable therapeutic formulation. The device, preferably in a soft, prewetted state, is inserted into the vagina to reside typically at or near the cervix where it continuously releases the flowable therapeutic formulation through its outer surface which is in contact with the vaginal surfaces. In operation, the flowable therapeutic formulation migrates via capillary forces from a reservoir that is centrally located in the device and through a covering that envelopes the reservoir.

Abstract: A tampon has an absorbent body that absorbs liquid. On an outer surface of the absorbent body, the absorbent body includes an applied portion to which an agent is applied and that includes at least two applied layer. The at least two applied layer includes a first applied layer formed by applying a first agent, and a second applied layer formed by applying a second agent over the first applied layer, the first agent including active pharmaceutical ingredient and a first water-soluble carrier that carries the active pharmaceutical ingredient, the second agent including active pharmaceutical ingredient and a second water-soluble carrier that carries the active pharmaceutical ingredient and has a melting point lower than that of the first water-soluble carrier.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an intravaginal device comprising: (a) an annular first matrix comprising a pocket and a pocket wall, wherein the pocket wall has a uniform thickness, and wherein the pocket wall encompasses the pocket; and (b) a second matrix comprising an anticholinergic agent, wherein the second matrix is located in the pocket. The present invention is also directed to a method of making an intravaginal device, the method comprising: (a) placing a first matrix into a mold, the mold being shaped so as to form an annular intravaginal device comprising a pocket and a pocket wall, wherein the pocket wall has a uniform thickness, and wherein the pocket wall encompasses the pocket; (b) curing the first matrix; (c) placing a second matrix comprising an anticholinergic agent in the pocket; and (d) curing the second matrix.

Abstract: A method is provided for manufacturing a medicated tampon assembly having a tampon body, the method including applying a formulation including a therapeutic agent to a substrate to produce a plurality of dosage forms; separating one of the dosage forms from the substrate; and coupling one of the dosage forms to the tampon body. A medicated tampon assembly is provided including a dosage form including a formulation including a therapeutic agent; a substrate portion separated from a substrate, wherein the substrate portion is coupled to the dosage form; and a tampon body having a distal end, wherein the substrate portion is coupled to the distal end of the tampon body.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an Intra Uterine Ball (IUB) device useful for a gynecological procedure or treatment. The aforesaid device comprises a hollow sleeve for at least partial insertion into the uterine cavity; and, an elongate conformable member with at least a portion comprised of shape memory alloy. The elongate member is adapted to be pushed out from said sleeve within said uterine cavity. It is the core of the invention that the elongate member is adapted to conform into a predetermined three dimensional ball-like configuration within said uterine cavity following its emergence from said sleeve, such that expulsion from said uterine cavity, malposition in said uterine cavity, and perforation of the uterine walls is prevented.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical delivery system that releases an active agent in a controlled manner for an extended period in the vaginal cavity to treat or cure ailments associated with the vaginal cavity or proximal areas. The delivery system includes an applicator which is composed of a high internal phase emulsion, allowing the delivery system to adhere to the mueosal surfaces of the body, primarily the lining of vaginal cavity. The delivery system can maintain the high internal phase emulsion at a temperature of 86° F. for at least one month, without decomposition or instability of the emulsion.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of reducing symptoms associated with an abrupt reduction in an endogenous or exogenous chemical in subjects, the methods comprising: (a) administering to the subject a single dosage form comprising an active agent, wherein the release rate of the active agent from the single dosage form tapers throughout the administration; and (b) removing the single dosage form from the subjects after the release rate of the active agent is at or below a terminal symptom threshold level.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for configuring several modules each individually small enough to pass through a digestive tract; and a tether or other means for releasably configuring at least the several modules in a group. Such a tether may (directly or indirectly) couple some of the modules via at least a gap in another module from which the tether may slip free, in some embodiments. Such methods may include modes of administering a medication or otherwise taking an action in response to the one or more phenomena.

Abstract: A drug delivery device for the inner ear is described. A drug delivery member for the inner ear without any stimulation electrodes has an intra-cochlear portion that penetrates into the inner ear of the patient and contains a drug eluting polymer material having at least one therapeutic drug which is released over time in a therapeutically effective amount into fluid in the inner ear of the patient. An extra-cochlear portion of the drug delivery member resides in the middle ear of a patient and completely occludes where the intra-cochlear portion penetrates into the inner ear. An anchor rod is within the intra-cochlear portion of the drug delivery member and adapted to extend out into the middle ear, ending in a retrieval knob for pulling the drug delivery member out of the cochlea.

Abstract: A catheter assembly including a foldable internal bolster. According to one embodiment, the catheter assembly includes a catheter, a first flexible filament and a second flexible filament. The catheter includes a tubular body and a pair of flexible legs. The tubular body is a generally cylindrical member shaped to include a proximal end, a distal end, a longitudinal lumen, a pair of external notches, a first bore extending from the proximal end to one of the notches, and a second bore extending from the proximal end to the other of the notches. Each of the flexible legs has a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being integrally formed on the distal end of the tubular body. One end of the first filament is fixed to one of the flexible legs, and the opposite end of the first filament is slidably inserted up through the first bore. One end of the second filament is fixed to the other of the flexible legs, and the opposite end of the second filament is slidably inserted up through the second bore.