Abstract: A modified Fletcher-Suit tandem tube applicator includes a balloon which can be inflated to both positionally secure the applicator within the vaginal canal and to distend the confronting vaginal wall thereby increasing the distance of such tissue from the radioactive source contained in the tandem tube of applicator and correspondingly reducing radiation damage to nearby tissues and organs such as the rectum and bladder.

Abstract: An intra vaginal device which is of a variable geometry and which includes a silicone matrix impregnated with progesterone, the confirmation and content of the progesterone impregnated matrix being such as to optimise effectiveness with a lower initial loading of progesterone.

Abstract: A multicomponent vaginal cylinder system composed of a tandem capable of housing one or more radiation sources, one or more removable ovoid cartridges, each cartridge capable of housing a radiation source, and a vaginal cylinder structure having corresponding hollow cavities to accommodate the insertions of the tandem and the ovoid cartridges. Radiation shielding may be removably attached to portions of the vaginal cylinder structure to shield tissues from unwanted radiation. A method for using this vaginal cylinder system to treat gynecological cancers is also disclosed.

Abstract: An assembly for penetrating the uterus of an animal during a non-surgical procedure comprising a probe having an elongated body with a longitudinal axis and a probing member extending at least laterally outwardly at the forward end of the probe body, a channel extending between an inlet opening at a distance from the probing member and an outlet opening near the probing member, wherein the channel comprises at least one bend or curve, such that the axis of the channel near the outlet opening encloses an angle different from 180° with the longitudinal axis of the probe body, the probe being adapted to be inserted, forward end first, inside the cervix of the animal, and manipulatable to gently maneuver the probing member in a forward direction through the cervix to a position in which the probing member and the outlet opening are within or adjacent the body of the uterus.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to devices and processes related to estrus synchronization. Particular embodiments of devices and processes of the present invention slowly release progesterone over a period of time for estrus synchronization.

Abstract: A vaginal douche comprises a vaginal douche applicator for introduction in the vaginal canal and a source or supply of douching fluid connected with the vaginal douche applicator. The vaginal douche applicator comprises an applicator body, a head joined to the applicator body and an internal passage for being supplied with douching fluid. Rearward discharge holes and forward discharge holes in the head communicate with the passage and discharge douching fluid into the vaginal canal. The rearward discharge holes face proximally toward the applicator body, and the forward discharge holes face distally and outwardly from the head at an angle. Douching fluid discharged into the vaginal canal is directed proximally along a plurality of external head channels of the head toward a plurality of external body channels of the applicator body. Douching fluid is directed proximally along the body channels toward the vaginal opening for exit from the vaginal canal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an alignment device and method for facilitating alignment of a medical instrument with the tubal ostium of the Fallopian tubes. More particularly, the alignment device includes an expandable member, either in the form of a balloon member or sponge member, which is expandable from a contracted state to an expanded state by a fluid. In addition, the alignment device includes a catheter member attached to the expandable member and also includes, guiding means, in the form of passageways or the like, for guiding a medical instrument through the expandable member.

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: A catheter device for non-surgical entry into a uterus, includes a tubular body having a lumen extending from a first end thereof to a second end thereof, the lumen having an external opening adjacent to or at the first end for dispensing a diagnostic fluid into the uterus. An elongated balloon is disposed distally on the tubular body for insertion into the cervical canal of the uterus, the balloon having opposing portions which occlude opposing openings of the canal.

Abstract: The present invention reveals a device, a kit and a method for simultaneously delivering and distributing at least one beneficial agent to both the cervical and vaginal lumen sides of a vagina. The device is made of a flexible circular rim and a flexible dome. The device can exist in either a relaxed state or in a compressed state. In the compressed state, pouches are formed for carrying and delivering the beneficial agent to both the cervical and vaginal lumen sides of the vagina.

Abstract: The hysteroscope port includes a cylindrical cannula dimensioned for insertion through a vagina to penetrate a cervix. A balloon element having a nonsmooth surface is positioned adjacent the distal end of the cannula for dilating the cervix and for maintaining the cervix in a dilated state. The balloon is inflatable between a narrowed insertion and withdrawal position and an expanded dilatation position. An introducer's distal portion is dimensioned for insertion through the cannula's lumen and is sufficiently long to extend beyond the cannula's distal end. The introducer's distal tip is tapered and smooth for ease of insertion. The introducer's proximal portion protrudes from the cannula's proximal opening for being grasped for insertion into and removal from the cannula.

Abstract: A vaginal drug delivery device includes a tubular base of an inert rubber composition, a first layer having a thickness up to 3 mm composed of a mixture of a drug to delivered, at least one surfactant and at least one dispersing agent applied to said outer surface of the tubular base, and a second layer of silicone rubber having a thickness up to 1 mm encapsulating the first layer on the tubular base whereby said drug will diffuse through said second layer when the device is inserted into the vagina to treat the patient with the drug in the first layer.

Abstract: The injector of the present invention (10) comprises a heat-retaining tube (12), an outer pipe (18) for inserting into a uterus which is fixed parallel to a front end of the heat-retaining tube (12), a syringe (22) for injection inserted into the heat-retaining tube (12) from the rear end of the heat-retaining tube (12), an elastic and flexible tube for injection (24) which is connected to the front end of the syringe (22) and is pulled out of the front end of the heat-retaining tube and is inserted slidably into inside of the hollow of the outer pipe (18),and a discharge nozzle (28) which is mounted integrally to the front end of the tube (24) and projects from the front end of the tube (18), and in which a portion between a projecting position from the heat-retaining tube (12) and the outer pipe (18) is regarded as a surplus length portion (24a) and the surplus length portion (24a) is paid out in a state that the outer pipe (18) is inserted to a given depth in a uterus, thereby making the discharge nozzle (

Abstract: A method for treating obstructions of tubular anatomical passageways of the urinary tract, including the urethra and fallopian tubes, provides inserting an ultrasonic catheter device into an anatomical passageway, passing ultrasound to the distal end of the catheter and infusing liquid infusate to the distal end of the catheter to expel it through lateral fluid outflow apertures at a rate which will cause fluidic dilation of the anatomical passageway.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an improved vagina cleaning system. The improved system comprises a vagina opener, a vagina cleaning-solution sprayer, a multiple-functional vagina cleaning solution, and a health-promoting bacteria introducer. The system is used to remove semen from the vagina to prevent pregnancy, to reduce pathogenic microorganisms in the vagina to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, to remove other unwanted materials from the vagina to eliminate discomfort, and to add health-promoting bacteria into the vagina to prevent abnormal colonization of microflora in the vaginal cavity. The present invention also discloses methods of using the system for cleaning the vaginal cavity and for introducing health-promoting bacteria into the vaginal cavity.

Abstract: A tissue mapping injection device suitable for use during a lymphatic breast mapping procedure is provided. The device includes a housing having an elongated body portion extending distally therefrom. A plunger is slidably positioned within the housing. A connector rod is secured to the forward end of the plunger and extends distally through the elongated body portion. The plunger and the connector rod define a fluid delivery channel. A plurality of needles are secured to the distal end of the connector rod. Each of the needles is constructed from a shape memory material and defines a fluid injection channel which communicates with the fluid delivery channel. The plunger is movable from a retracted position wherein the needles are positioned within the elongated body portion to an advanced position wherein the needles extend outwardly from the distal end of the elongated body portion.

Abstract: An intra vaginal device which is of a variable geometry and which includes a silicone matrix impregnated with progesterone, the confirmation and content of the progesterone impregnated matrix being such as to optimize effectiveness with a lower initial loading of progesterone.

Abstract: A modified Fletcher-Suit tandem tube applicator includes a balloon which can be inflated to both positionally secure the applicator within the vaginal canal and to distend the confronting vaginal wall thereby increasing the distance of such tissue from the radioactive source contained in the tandem tube of applicator and correspondingly reducing radiation damage to nearby tissues and organs such as the rectum and bladder.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an improved vagina cleaning system. The improved system comprises a vagina opener, a vagina cleaning-solution sprayer, a multiple-functional vagina cleaning solution, and a health-promoting bacteria introducer. The system is used to remove semen from the vagina to prevent pregnancy, to reduce pathogenic microorganisms in the vagina to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, to remove other unwanted materials from the vagina to eliminate discomfort, and to add health-promoting bacteria into the vagina to prevent abnormal colonization of microflora in the vaginal cavity. The present invention also discloses methods of using the system for cleaning the vaginal cavity and for introducing health-promoting bacteria into the vaginal cavity.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for artificial insemination and embryo transfer relative to livestock animals is disclosed. The invention utilizes an inner sheath/distal probe end combination to allow atraumatic navigation through the cervical anatomy of the animal to reach the uterus. The probe end both is configured to assist in the navigation through the cervical anatomy as well as is intentionally minimized in size relative to the cervical anatomy. Once navigation is completed, semen or embryos can be emplaced at the desired site.

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: A balloon apparatus adapted for sequential dissection of an anatomical space and associated methods are provided. The balloon apparatus comprises a tubular member having a lumen, a tunneling member slidably disposed in the lumen of the tubular member, a flattened substantially rectangular balloon sealed about the tubular member, a sleeve which contains the deflated balloon in generally cylindrical rolls about the tunneling member, and a retainer which prevents an inverted substantially heel-shaped portion of the balloon from everting and inflating prior to inflation of the remainder of the balloon. In a preferred method of operation, the balloon apparatus enters an anatomical space whereby the entry point into the anatomical space divides the space into a superior and inferior portions. The tunneling member is advanced into the superior portion of the space and the balloon inflated, thereby dissecting the superior portion of the anatomical space.

Abstract: A vaginal douche applicator includes an applicator body for positioning in the vaginal canal and comprising an elongate body portion and a tip disposed at a distal end of the body portion. The body portion has an open proximal end for being coupled with a source of a douching fluid that includes water, and the tip defines a closed distal end for the applicator body. The applicator body has a fluid passage therein communicating with the open proximal end for receiving the douching fluid from the source. A plurality of discharge holes are formed in the applicator body in communication with the fluid passage by which the douching fluid is discharged from the fluid passage into the vaginal canal. The body portion has an external surface of stainless steel for contacting vaginal tissue whereby vaginal odors are neutralized due to contact of the tissue with the stainless steel in the presence of the water of the douching fluid supplied to the vaginal canal through the applicator.

Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.

Abstract: A placement guide for positioning ablation devices within a human body is disclosed. The placement guide comprise an outer catheter and an inner tubular member disposed within a lumen of the outer catheter. When a stop on the inner tubular member engages a seat on the outer catheter, a distal projection of the inner tubular member extends from the distal end of the outer catheter. While monitoring the position of the inner tubular member through an endoscope inserted in its lumen, a clinician positions the distal projection within a human body for optimal ablation. After securing the outer catheter in position, the inner tubular member is withdrawn and replaced with an ablation device which is inserted distally within the outer catheter lumen until a stop on the ablation device engages the seat on the outer catheter wherein a distal projection of the ablation device extends from the distal end of the outer catheter.

Abstract: An apparatus for iontophoretically delivering an agent to a patient having a uterus and a cervix. The apparatus comprises a probe sized to fit within the cervical canal. A cervical cap has an inner surface. The probe projects from the inner surface. A first electrode has a first portion operably connected to the cervical cap and a second portion operably connected to the probe. The first electrode is configured to be electrically connected to a power supply. A second electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply. A reservoir having a first portion operably connected to the cervical cap and a second portion operably connected to the probe.

Abstract: An artificial insemination system and its use requires a sheath which has a first lumen for receiving and holding an endoscope, and a second lumen through which semen can be injected into the uterus of the animal to be inseminated. Additionally, the sheath includes a blunt guide probe which extends distally from the distal end of the sheath. A window covers the distal end of the first lumen so that the user can use the endoscope to view the guide probe and the general area surrounding the guide probe. When using the system, the endoscope is initially inserted into the first lumen of the sheath. The combination of sheath and endoscope are then inserted into the vagina of the animal and, using the endoscope, the guide probe is position at the cervical os. While continuing to view the guide probe with the endoscope, the guide probe is directed through the cervix until the distal end of the second lumen is positioned in the uterus.

Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or infection by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm or agglutinable components of male ejaculate and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STDs or the carbohydrate moieties expressed on cell surfaces by which the microorganisms bind to the cells, are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins prevent conception by binding to the sperm or agglutinable components of male ejaculate to render the sperm incapable of fertilization. They also bind to the pathogenic microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to carbohydrates expressed on cell surfaces to prevent infection by the microorganisms or treat such infections. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The lectins can also be applied to or contained within a condom.

Abstract: The method of applying screening or treatment fluid to tissue, and employing an elongated carrier, having a first end portion; a flexible outer container having a generally tubular second end portion and a frangible inner container protectively located within the outer container, there being screening or treatment fluid within the inner container, and a fluid applicator carried by the flexible outer container, to communicate with the interior of the outer container which includes a connector having a body defining oppositely projecting third and fourth end portions, and interfitting the third and fourth end portions with the first and second end portions, respectively, so that the elongated carrier is substantially rigidly joined to first end portion of the flexible outer container, exerting pressure on a pressure application region of the outer container spaced from the connector body, and sufficient to rupture the inner container, thereby releasing screening or treatment fluid into the interior of the outer

Abstract: This invention is directed to novel methods for gynecologic embolotherapy. The methods directly access the blood vessels to be embolized transcervically rather than arterially. The methods provide precise directed delivery of embolizing compositions, and are particularly suited for treating uterine fibroids. Kits containing one or more devices for transcervical injection and an embolizing composition are also provided. In a preferred embodiment, fluid embolizing compositions are used. In a more preferred embodiment, these fluid embolic compositions comprise a biocompatible polymer, a biocompatible solvent and a biocompatible water insoluble contrast agent. In a most preferred embodiment, the contrast agent is characterized by having an average particle size of about 10 .mu.m or less.