Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for trans-fetal membranes transport. A source of ultrasound sonication is used to deliver ultrasound sonication to fetal membranes to enhance the permeability of the fetal membranes of a gestational sac. In one embodiment, a device is used to collect substances transported from the interior of the gestational sac to the exterior of the gestational sac, such as amniotic or coelomic fluid. In another embodiment a device is used to deliver one or more substances, such as a drug, to an external surface of the fetal membranes.

Abstract: A device for occluding the fallopian tube having a wire composed of a shape memory material and an outer material encapsulating at least a portion of the wire. The device has a first elongated configuration for delivery and a second configuration for placement. In the second configuration, the wire moves toward its shape memory position and has a U-shape defined by a curved portion and first and second leg portions extending from the curved portion, the first and second leg portions extending downwardly from the curved portion and laterally outwardly.

Abstract: Described herein is a transmucosal delivery device and their use for delivering bioactive agents across a mucosal membrane. The delivery devices contain a pharmaceutically acceptable oxidizing and agents that facilitates the delivery of the blood stream across the mucosal membrane.

Abstract: Therapeutic device intended for the selective cytoreductive treatment of an obstruction in a natural lumen or passage of the human or animal body, said lumen being obstructed by the effect of a local cell proliferation, said device comprising a tubular element, in particular of cylindrical shape, intended to be placed in said natural lumen and sufficiently flexible to conform to said natural lumen, but sufficiently rigid to maintain an artificial channel in said lumen. The tubular element supports lengthwise a medicinal sleeve which is intended to come into line with, and into contact with, the obstruction once the natural lumen has been intubated, and is designed to deliver locally, at least in its outer surface portion, at least one therapeutic agent which is cytoreductive, in particular cytotoxic, through contact with the cells under whose effect said lumen is obstructed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sling, methods of making and using a sling, and kits comprising a sling for treating urinary incontinence. The sling has multiple elongation properties that serve to improve the support of the urethra. The sling may comprise a coated material adapted for urethral suspension. The coated sling has properties that appear to enhance the sling elongation characteristics. The coated sling further includes properties that reduce its susceptibility to bacterial infections. The sling further includes properties to enhance the proper tensioning of the sling.

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 method for using a dispensing apparatus having a fluid insert with an airless channel configured for labial, vaginal, transmucosal, and transdermal delivery of a therapeutic substance is disclosed.

Abstract: An intrauterine device and more specifically an intracervical device (ICD) for the local release of drugs in the loco-regional treatment of tumours of the uterine cervix comprises an elongated stem (2) to be positioned in the cervical canal (15), this stem consisting of an inner hollow core (3) and a coating (4) containing a gradual-release drug, the stem being attached to: a first element (5) for blocking the stem (2) inside the uterine cavity (12), and located at the cranial or upper end; a second blocking element (7, 71) positioned inside the vagina (11), against the ectocervix (16), located at the caudal or lower end of the stem (2).

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 comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port and at least one delivery catheter for placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube.

Abstract: An enteral dispenser and associated method of use is provided for enterally dispensing liquid medications. The enteral dispenser includes a barrel having a number of dosing gradations arranged upon its outer surface. The barrel receives a liquid medication that has been selected from a predefined group of liquid medications having a range of colors. A plunger is moveably disposed within the barrel, and a piston is coupled to a distal end of the plunger. The piston has a peripheral portion for selective alignment with respect to a desired one of the dosing gradations and is a color that is optically differentiable from each of the colors represented within the range of colors of the predefined group of liquid medications, such that an user may differentiate between the color of the a peripheral portion of the piston and the color of any selected liquid medication.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for safer and more effective deep trans-cervical intra-uterine artificial insemination (AI) is provided. Such a deep AI catheter causes minimal discomfort and risk of trauma, and does not require the services of a highly trained AI professional. First, a catheter is inserted into the cervical tract of the animal. A membrane, initially positioned inside a tube section of the catheter, is then extended from an opening in the tube and into the tract under pressure. The membrane extends into the tract without friction thereby reducing the discomfort and the risk of trauma or injury to the animal. When the membrane is fully extended into the tract, pressure causes the tip of the membrane to open thereby releasing the AI fluid and depositing the genetic material suspended in the fluid into the reproductive tract.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for performing gynecological procedures. According to one embodiment, there is provided a device for accessing the peritoneal cavity of a patient by inserting the device through the vaginal cavity, the cervix, and the uterus and past the fimbria.

Abstract: Devices and methods for transmucosal drug delivery are provided. A device includes a housing configured for intralumenal deployment into a human or animal subject; a drug-dispensing portion which contains at least one drug; and a plurality of microneedles extending, or being extendable from, the housing, the plurality of microneedles being configured to disrupt at least one region of a mucosal barrier adjacent the housing at a selected time after being intralumenally deployed in the human or animal subject. The device is operable to dispense the drug from the housing to a region of the mucosal barrier disrupted by the plurality of microneedles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to applicators for applying powders to the vaginal mucosa.

Abstract: A device that delivers one or more substances into a vaginal lumen according to one of a plurality of release patterns. The device comprises a supporting structure, substance dispensers, and/or coupling elements which are configured to release one or more substances, for example, drugs, in manner designed to optimize treatment of one or more medical conditions.

Abstract: The disclosed invention provides apparatus and methods for delivering a payload to a target location inside the body. A finger board is retained on the finger of a user, having a proximal end and a distal end. A payload holder is included at the distal end of the finger board for holding a payload during positioning and prior to delivery. An ejector is included for the purpose of ejecting the payload from the payload holder when actuated by a user.

Abstract: Bioactive, hydroforming luminal liner compositions are formed of high molecular weight crystalline, absorbable copolyesters dissolved in a liquid derivative of a polyether glycol that undergoes transformation into a tissue-adhering, resilient interior cover or liner for the controlled release of its bioactive payload at clinically compromised conduits in humans as in the case of bacteria- and yeast-infected vaginal canals, esophagi, and arteries following angioplasty.

Abstract: Systems, methods, apparatus and devices for performing improved gynecologic and urologic procedures using a flowable distension media are disclosed. The system and devices provide simplified use and reduced risk of adverse events. Patient benefit is achieved through improved outcomes, reduced pain, especially peri-procedural pain, and reduced recovery times. The various embodiments enable procedures to be performed outside the hospital setting, such as in a doctor's office or clinic.

Abstract: The invention provides a devices, methods and systems to measure and record uterine tissue environment components such as pH during the course of uterine artery occlusion. The uterus becomes ischemic due to the occlusion thereof, and its pH drops sharply within minutes of uterine artery occlusion and remains relatively low for a period of time. The return of normal pH is an indicator of return of blood to the ischemic tissue. In use, a catheter with a pH measuring tip is advanced through the patient's vaginal canal and into the patient's uterine cavity until the pH measuring active electrode on the distal end of the catheter contacts or penetrates the uterine fundus. The active electrode detects the pH and a signal representing pH is transmitted to a pH recording and monitoring device which preferably displays the pH. The signal may be transmitted through a conductor or by a radio transmitter. Components other than pH may be monitored such a pCO2, and pO2.

Abstract: A steerable sonohysterographic injection catheter for identifying sentinel lymph nodes in uterine cancer patients includes a tubular shaft housing a needle extendible therefrom. The needle is preferably sized for intrauterine insertion and configured to deliver a fluid such as a contrast media to a tumor location. The catheter preferably includes a sealing device such as a selectively inflatable balloon disposed at a position along the outside of the catheter. The sealing device is configured for placement at an opening of a patient's cervix to prevent the leaking of the contrast media out of the uterus through the cervix. The distal end of the catheter is steerable so as to allow the tip of the needle to be positioned substantially near the tumor location.

Abstract: A method of treating tissue comprises introducing into a hollow organ a support device and, after insertion, arranging the support device into a non-yielding configuration substantially filling the hollow organ and substantially preventing walls of the hollow organ from moving inward in combination with inducing contraction of the hollow organ around the support device to cut off blood flow through at least a portion of the walls of the hollow organ and removing the support device after blood flow has been cut off for a predetermined time.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying agents, including hemostatic agent, to the cervix and accompanying areas.

Abstract: An absorbent article, e.g. tampons, sanitary napkins, panty liners and the like, and the process for their preparation in which a hydrophobic and/or cationactive layer is attached to a conventional absorbent layer, for the binding of microorganisms, specifically for treating or alleviating or prophylactically preventing vaginal fungal infections.

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.

Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus. The method includes the following steps: inserting an access tool through a cervix and a cervical canal into the uterus; after inserting the access tool into the uterus, creating a seal between an exterior surface of the access tool and an interior cervical os; providing an indication to a user that the seal has been created; delivering vapor through the access tool lumen into the uterus; and condensing the vapor on tissue within the uterus.

Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus. The method include the following steps: inserting an access tool through a cervix and a cervical canal into the uterus; after inserting the access tool into the uterus, inserting a vapor delivery tool through an access tool lumen; delivering vapor through the vapor delivery tool into the uterus; and condensing the vapor on tissue within the uterus. The system has an access tool, the access tool being adapted to be inserted through a human cervical canal to place an opening of the access tool lumen within a uterus when the access tool is inserted through the cervical canal; and a vapor delivery mechanism, the vapor delivery mechanism having a vapor delivery tool and a vapor source, the vapor delivery tool being adapted to be inserted through the access tool to deliver condensable vapor from the vapor source to the uterus, the condensable vapor being adapted to condense within the uterus.

Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus. In some embodiments the method includes the steps of: inserting an access tool through a cervix and a cervical canal into the uterus; placing an expansion mechanism in contact with tissue within the uterus to move uterine tissue surfaces away from an opening in an access tool lumen; delivering vapor through the vapor delivery tool into the uterus; and condensing the vapor on tissue within the uterus. The system has an access tool adapted to be inserted through a human cervical canal to place an opening of an access tool lumen within a uterus when the access tool is inserted through the cervical canal; an expansion mechanism adapted to be advanced into the uterus to move uterine tissue surfaces away from the opening in the access tool lumen; and a vapor delivery mechanism adapted to deliver condensable vapor through the access tool to the uterus, the condensable vapor being adapted to condense within the uterus.

Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus. The method includes the steps of inserting an access tool through a cervix and a cervical canal into the uterus; actively cooling the cervical canal; delivering vapor through the access tool lumen into the uterus; and condensing the vapor on tissue within the uterus. The system has an access tool with a lumen, the access tool being adapted to be inserted through a human cervical canal to place an opening of the lumen within a uterus when the access tool is inserted through the cervical canal; an active cooling mechanism adapted to cool the cervical canal, the active cooling mechanism having a coolant source; and a vapor delivery mechanism adapted to deliver condensable vapor through the access tool to the uterus, the condensable vapor being adapted to condense within the uterus.

Abstract: In the preferred embodiment, bovine semen is mixed with a suitable solution to form an insemination medium which is injected into the reproductive organs of a female bovine to flood the uterine horns in a nonsurgical AI procedure. The invention includes an AI instrument having a disposable, single use pipette that may be used with this nonsurgical procedure. The AI instrument does not include a balloon and is referred to as “catheter free”. Preferably, the uterine horns are flooded concurrently, but in the alternative, they may be flooded sequentially.

Abstract: The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port and at least one delivery catheter for placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube.

Abstract: A device and method for delivering a bioactive to the uterine wall. In one embodiment, the device comprises a balloon having the bioactive present within the material of the balloon or on an outside surface of the balloon. Another embodiment provides a method comprising inserting the balloon into the uterus, inflating the balloon so that the outside surface of the balloon exerts pressure on uterine wall and delivering the bioactive to the uterine wall.

Abstract: The present provides novel systems and methods to facilitate embryo transfer, to maximize implantation rates and to improve pregnancy rates resulting from In Vitro fertilization.

Abstract: Transvaginal delivery instrumentation and methods are disclosed for delivering a biocompatible bulking mass transvaginally into a target tissue mass between the vaginal and urethral walls to constrict the urethra to alleviate female incontinence. Delivery is effected by urging a selected portion of the tissue structure between the vaginal and urethral walls into the vaginal cavity as a target structure, and passing a bulking mass from the vaginal cavity through the vaginal wall and into the target structure. Particular transvaginal delivery instrumentation comprises a vaginal and urethral probes adapted to be introduced into the vagina and urethra and bulking mass delivery instruments adapted to be introduced through a vaginal probe lumen and port into the target tissue structure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for safer and more effective deep trans-cervical intra-uterine artificial insemination (AI) is provided. Such a deep AI catheter causes minimal discomfort and risk of trauma, and does not require the services of a highly trained AI professional. First, a catheter is inserted into the cervical tract of the animal. A membrane, initially positioned inside a tube section of the catheter, is then extended from an opening in the tube and into the tract under pressure. The membrane extends into the tract without friction thereby reducing the discomfort and the risk of trauma or injury to the animal. When the membrane is fully extended into the tract, pressure causes the tip of the membrane to open thereby releasing the AI fluid and depositing the genetic material suspended in the fluid into the reproductive tract.

Abstract: An endometrial ablation device comprising a shaft and inner and outer balloons connected to the shaft. The outer balloon has a plurality of pores on an outer surface. The inner balloon and outer balloon are independently inflatable such that the inner balloon is initially inflated to substantially fill the uterine cavity and the outer balloon is inflated subsequently. The outer balloon is filled with a treatment fluid which exits through the pores of the outer balloon.

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 related to an apparatus for uterine anesthesia that comprises an outer tube and an inner tube positioned within the outer tube. The apparatus is positioned in the cervical os of a patient and an anesthetic is dispensed through the inner tube. A stopper surrounding the inner tube prevents a drainage of the anesthetic through the interstice between the two tubes, while an applicator surrounding the outer tube prevents a loss of the anesthetic along the cervical walls and into the vaginal canal. The applicator also maintains the cervical os in a dilated position, operating as a tenaculum and providing access to the uterus by a clinician. Methods for providing uterine anesthesia are also provided.

Abstract: A method of treating abnormal biological conditions arising in and/or affecting the vagina involves supplying a flow of water to the vaginal canal while a treatment device having an external surface of stainless steel is disposed therein so as to primarily or preventatively treat an existing or potential abnormal biological condition including fungal, bacterial, viral, inflammatory and neoplastic conditions. The supply of water to the vaginal canal while the stainless steel of the treatment device is disposed therein causes a natural reaction to occur in the vaginal canal which prevents and/or normalizes abnormal biological conditions.

Abstract: A method of treating an abnormal biological condition involves the steps of introducing a metal oxide into the vaginal canal and repeating the step of introducing at regular intervals to treat an abnormal biological condition. The abnormal biological condition treated in accordance with the present invention may be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Treating may involve treating at least one of an abnormal fungal, bacterial, biofilm, viral, inflammatory or neoplastic biological condition.

Abstract: An artificial insemination (AI) device for the insemination of bovines and other animals including three hollow and essentially cylindrical tubular elements. Each element is provided with an open proximal and an open distal end, the three elements being: an outer protective sheath, an inner sheath, and a semen tube, whereby the diameter of the elements is such that the inner sheath is axially movable in the outer protective sheath and the semen tube is axially movable in the inner sheath, whereby the length of the outer sheath is less than the length of the inner sheath and whereby the inner sheath and the semen tube are jointly axially displaceable in and through the outer sheath.

Abstract: A non-invasive method for treating cells affected by at least one oncogenic virus is disclosed, comprising providing a substance comprising at least one of ozone, an ozone donor, oxygen and an oxygen donor; and subjecting the body tissue comprising the affected cells to the substance. The method is applied in the uterus cavity or uterine tubes for treating cells infected by pathologic viruses, bacteria or fungi. The device comprises a cup, having a bottom and a wall, and a shaft connected at one end to the bottom. The wall and shaft respectively extend in opposite directions from the bottom. The shaft has at least one inlet duct and at least one outlet duct. The wall has a mouth portion arranged to encircle the portio of the cervix uteri, and a chamber is defined by the bottom, wall and portio. The outlet duct(s) has at least one opening within the chamber.

Abstract: A tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end. The body includes an absorbency zone adjacent the distal end, wherein the absorbency zone includes absorbent material; an application zone adjacent the proximal end and spaced apart from the distal end; and a therapeutic agent positioned substantially within the application zone. A method produces a device for delivering a therapeutic agent. The method includes manufacturing a tampon having a body with a distal end, a proximal end, an absorbency zone adjacent the distal end, and an application zone adjacent the proximal end; and locating a therapeutic agent substantially within the application zone.

Abstract: A drug or diagnostic agent) is delivered intravaginally or to the interlabial space by positioning an interlabial device, such as an absorbent pad, between the labia. The pad is retained between the labia to deliver an active agent, or allow a reaction with a diagnostic agent. Alternatively, the pad is applied after medication is administered, to help reduce discomfort to the subject, or loss of medication. The active agent may be carried by the pad itself, or in an intravaginal extension of the pad, or separately in a suppository or other dosage form. In particular examples, the pad has a smaller minor portion superimposed on a larger major portion, and the smaller minor portion is inserted as a leading edge between the labia of the subject to facilitate interlabial insertion. In another example, the pad is placed interlabially after insertion of an agent into the vagina.

Abstract: A urinary incontinence device is disclosed. The device is a compressible resilient insert having top that contacts at least two opposed vaginal walls and deforms and substantially conforms to the shape of the vaginal cavity or cervical fornices. A removal member may be provided on the device such that when the removal member is pulled the device is removed from the vagina.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.

Abstract: Devices and methods for personal hygiene. The devices of the present invention include a connector that can connect to an output of a shower head to deliver a flow of fluid through a fluid conduit to an applicator for delivery of a fluid flow and/or cleaning agent to a target area, such as the vagina. Optionally, a valve assembly and reservoir for medicant or a cleaning solution can be disposed adjacent the applicator.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.

Abstract: The A fertilization process comprises includes the following steps: a) a container (15) which can be introduced into, and lodged in, the uterine cavity of the mammal is provided; b) the container (15) is filled with a culture medium, at least one ovocyte of the mammal, and spermatozoa; c) the filled container (15) is inserted into the uterine cavity; d) the container (15) is left for a given length of time to allow fertilization of the ovocyte(s) to take place; e) the contents of the container (15) are released into the uterine cavity. The container may be made from a tube of biodegradable or non-biodegradable material. In the latter case, it is associated with a stiffening device. A biodegradable container (15) filled with gametes and a culture medium is placed in the uterine cavity using an implantation device (20) which is then withdrawn from the mammal's genital tract.