Means Forceably Introducing Or Removing Material From Body Orifice Or Wound Patents (Class 604/73)
  • Publication number: 20110124980
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for examination of a pressure (p) in an intervertebral disc, a body of vertebra or any other part of a disc in a human or animal. The device (1) comprises a hollow cannula (6) with an end portion (7) arranged to be inserted into the intervertebral disc, the body of vertebra or any other part of the disc. The device further comprises an optical fibre (8) arranged in the cannula (6) and a sensor device (10) arranged on the optical fibre (8), which in use is positioned in connection to the intervertebral disc, the body of vertebra or any other part of the disc. The device also has an injection device (11) for injection of liquid into the intervertebral disc, the body of vertebra or any other part of the disc through the cannula (6) while the sensor device (10) measures the physical magnitude (p) in the anatomical organ (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Tommy Hansson, Arne Gaulitz, Hanna Hebelka Bolminger, Svante Höjer
  • Patent number: 7947010
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cleansing solution and system for administering the cleansing solution to decontaminate a wound surface. A method and kit for decontaminating a wound surface is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: DePuy Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward F. Arscott, II, Mark A. Heldreth
  • Publication number: 20110118560
    Abstract: A device, a system, or a method is described for treating a disease or a condition of one or more joints of articulating bone in a mammalian subject. The device provides one or more medicaments to one or more joints of the mammalian subject. A device is described that includes an enclosure including one or more sensors, a controller, and one or more applicators configured to surround one or more joints of articulating bone of a mammalian subject, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to detect one or more physiological conditions of the one or more joints of the mammalian subject, and the controller, configured to communicate with the one or more sensors, is configured to activate the one or more applicators, and wherein the one or more applicators are configured to inject one or more medicaments to one or more joint tissues of the mammalian subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Philip A. Eckhoff, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, Eric C. Leuthardt, Dennis J. Rivet, Elizabeth A. Sweeney, Lowell L. Wood, JR., Victoria Y.H. Wood
  • Publication number: 20110059182
    Abstract: A sprayer device and related method that delivers multicellular aggregates in suspension. A purpose of the sprayer embodiment may be to deliver cells into chronic wound beds, and additional purposes of the sprayer include additional application in other cell delivery environments, such as during open-heart surgery or other surgeries where it may be desirable to treat internal organs with aggregates of stem cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: University of Virginia Patent Foundation
    Inventors: Shayn Peirce Cottler, Adam J. Katz, Peter Stapor, Peter J. Amos
  • Patent number: 7896835
    Abstract: A system for measuring fluid intake by a sucking baby. The system includes: a feeding pathway for fluid flow from the fluid source to the baby's mouth, wherein the feeding pathway has a first opening in communication with the fluid source and a second opening in communication with the baby's mouth; and an indicator pathway for indicating the amount of fluid provided to the baby's mouth through the feeding pathway, wherein the indicator pathway has a first opening in communication with the fluid source and a second opening in communication with the baby's mouth. The amount of fluid drawn into the indicator pathway is indicative of the amount of fluid drawn into the feeding pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Kaizen International Technologies Biotech, Inc. LLP
    Inventors: Haim Emil Dahan, Jose Mario Meschiany, Lipa Leon Roitman
  • Patent number: 7875000
    Abstract: The invention relates to a disposable breast cup set which comprises a coupling element (2) to be coupled to a milk collection receptacle (1) and a breast cup connecting element (3) to be coupled to a breast cup funnel (5). The coupling element (5) and the breast cup connecting element (3) are interlinked via a tamper-evident element (4), said connection being destroyed when the coupling element (2) is for the first time separated from the breast cup connecting element (3) and preventing re-use of the set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Yvonne Krebs, Stefan Vögelin, Urs Stadelmann
  • Patent number: 7862536
    Abstract: A combined nasal spray and aspirator device includes an air pump disposed within a housing and comprises a spray and aspirator assembly. The air pump, at which an air suction connector and an air discharge connector are disposed, is driven by a driving component to perform air suction and discharge actions. The spray and aspirator assembly, mounted to the air suction connector and the air discharge connector, comprises a spray conduit and a first aspiration conduit; the spray conduit connects to an atomizer which is provided with liquids from a liquid storage container, and the first aspiration conduit connects to a mucus collector so that when some air carrying mucus enters the mucus collector, the mucus is left behind and the air enters the air pump through a second aspiration conduit. The device of the present invention integrates the operations of a nasal spray and a nasal aspirator, sucking the mucus away right after it sprays and liquefies the mucus, with said actions occurring almost simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Avita Corporation
    Inventors: Kun Sung Chen, Ying Chao Lin, Kuo Hung Huang, Ta Chieh Yang
  • Publication number: 20100318023
    Abstract: A medical system (10) is provided having a pulling device (20) and an active substance chain (50). The active substance chain (50) has at least two storage units (51) arranged like a chain, and at least one of the storage units (51) is loaded with a medicinal active substance. The pulling device (20) has a grip element (30) and a coupling element (40), and the coupling element (40) has at least one recess (41, 41?). In a free position (100) the active substance chain (50) is arranged separated from the pulling device (20), while in an inserted position (110) at least one of the storage units (51) is arranged form-fitting in a recess (41, 41?). The active substance chain (50) can be moved reversibly from the free position (100) into the inserted position (110).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: HERAEUS MEDICAL GMBH
    Inventors: Sebastian VOGT, Hubert BUECHNER, Hans BOESEBECK
  • Patent number: 7824363
    Abstract: A hands-free breast pump that includes a balanced push-pull reciprocating drive system that applies pumping force to a vacuum chamber formed by a breast interface cup during inward and outward pump strokes. The breast pump includes a breast cup that has a resilient bellows structure that partially collapses the volume of the vacuum chamber during the inward stroke and recovers the volume of the vacuum chamber during the outward stroke. The pump mechanism includes a cam drive system that translates rotary electric motor power into reciprocating linear action of an actuator arm that drives the bellows structure. The bellows structure acts like a spring that charges (resists the pump force) during the inward stroke and discharges (assists the pump force) during the outward stroke, and the shape of the cam track is designed to produce a desired operating profile for the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Myers
  • Patent number: 7806855
    Abstract: A manual breast pump, including a housing; a funnel connected to the housing and forming a passage for breast milk; a cup for receiving a breast; a lid connected to an upper portion of the housing; a handle assembly connected to the lid; a substantially semi-circular finger grip connected to the housing; a piston movably connected to the handle assembly and reciprocally movable within the housing to create a negative pressure for the expression of breast milk from the breast; a flexible insert sealably secured to the cup and forming an isolated air volume between the cup and the flexible insert. A valve is removably connected to a lower portion of the housing; and a receptacle for receiving the breast milk, the receptacle being removably attached to a lower portion of the housing. The isolated air volume expands and contracts as the piston moves reciprocally within the housing, causing the flexible insert to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Adriana B. Kliegman, Diana Sierra
  • Publication number: 20100228187
    Abstract: An applicator system with a pressurized medium and a valve for dispensing the medium, characterized in that the sprayhead has a sprayhead body, which includes an escape channel that is connected with the valve, and an outlet orifice in which the outlet channel empties, and a mouthpiece element is provided, which sits on the sprayhead body, whereas the outlet orifice and the mouthpiece element are arranged relative to each other, in order to bring the outlet orifice to the mouth of a user and to actuate the valve by the mouthpiece element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: ColepCCl Rapid Spray GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Alexander Witte
  • Patent number: 7789865
    Abstract: A portable, hands-free and user friendly breast pump for facilitating breast-feeding, incorporates a dome-shaped housing having a servomotor mechanism; a hat-shaped flange having a chamber portion, a brim portion and an outlet, the chamber portion being formed so as to be placed over a nipple on a breast so as to define a chamber between the flange and the breast, and the brim portion being formed to surround the nipple and thereby form a suction seal therebetween; and a one-way venting element formed to operatively communicate with the chamber so as to vent pumped milk from the chamber via the outlet. The housing, the flange and the venting element are connected into an integral device held against the breast and underneath clothing so as to keep the integral device hidden. Breast milk is collected via a plastic collection bag that connects directly with the pump underneath clothing such that the milk is isolated from any contaminants in the air and may be easily stored immediately after being collected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Myers, Ellen Lundy, Drew F. Meincke, Sharon Birdseye
  • Patent number: 7785305
    Abstract: A portable, hands-free and user friendly breast pump for facilitating breast-feeding, incorporates a dome-shaped housing having a servomotor mechanism; a hat-shaped flange having a chamber portion, a brim portion and an outlet, the chamber portion being formed so as to be placed over a nipple on a breast so as to define a chamber between the flange and the breast, and the brim portion being formed to surround the nipple and thereby form a suction seal therebetween; and a one-way venting element formed to operatively communicate with the chamber so as to vent pumped milk from the chamber via the outlet. The housing, the flange and the venting element are connected into an integral device held against the breast and underneath clothing so as to keep the integral device hidden. Breast milk is collected via a plastic collection bag that connects directly with the pump underneath clothing such that the milk is isolated from any contaminants in the air and may be easily stored immediately after being collected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Myers, Ellen Lundy, Drew F. Meincke, Sharon Birdseye
  • Patent number: 7771402
    Abstract: A containment arrangement for safely and effectively treating a wound on a patient without contaminating attending personnel. The arrangement comprises a patient receiving first enclosure having a patient contacting periphery, a pressurizable source in communication with the patient through a wall of the enclosure for enlarging the enclosure, and a sealing means arranged in the patient contacting periphery. A hand manipulable fluid discharge nozzle is extendably arranged through the enclosure for providing controllable treatment fluid to the wound on the patient within the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: PulseCare Medical
    Inventor: Patrick V. Marasco
  • Patent number: 7762976
    Abstract: An apparatus for extracorporeal oxygenation of a patient's blood during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. The apparatus comprises a bubble sensor, arranged at or connected to a venous line, for detecting bubbles in the venous blood received from the patient. When air bubbles are detected, a second pump is activated to draw air from an air chamber provided in an air filter connected to the venous line and arranged downstream of the bubble sensor. A first pump draws the blood from the air filter and supplies the blood to an oxygenator and to the patient via an arterial line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Sorin Group Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Schreyer, Erwin Knott, Andreas Hahn
  • Patent number: 7758547
    Abstract: A process comprises the phases of: activating a pusher, which exerts a push force on a plunger of a syringe containing the infusion liquid; measuring the push force by means of a load cell; comparing the push force with a maximum threshold; halting the pusher when the maximum threshold is exceeded; after a predetermined pause, restarting the pusher and emitting a consent signal indicating correct loading of the syringe if, within a certain time from the restart, the push force again exceeds the maximum threshold. The infusion device serves to inject an anticoagulant into an extracorporeal blood circuit. The control process guarantees against loss of infusion due to an incorrect initial loading of the syringe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Claudio Tonelli, Andrea Ligabue, Silvano Cestari
  • Patent number: 7727226
    Abstract: Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventors: John Y. Chang, Joshua Makower, Julia D. Vrany, Theodore C. Lamson, Amrish Jayprakash Walke
  • Publication number: 20100114016
    Abstract: A method of using a nasal wash system includes providing a nasal washing device including a container including a saline solution, a cap for the container, a delivery tube carried by the cap for withdrawing saline solution from the container, an atomizing nozzle for spraying the saline solution, a conduit carrying the atomizing nozzle, the conduit including a malleable portion, and a pump mechanism coupled to the malleable conduit and including a movable pump member; adjusting the malleable portion of the conduit to a desired configuration to control a point of impact of a discharge mist from the atomizing nozzle; and moving the movable pump member of the pump mechanism so that saline solution is withdrawn from the container through the delivery tube, through the pump mechanism, through the conduit, and sprayed out of the atomizing nozzle as a discharge mist, while the atomizing nozzle remains stationary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: Med-Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David Gallo, Diane Heatley, Jeff Harlan
  • Patent number: 7651486
    Abstract: The invention allows an increase in scope of application of a surgical device wherein the operational handpiece is embodied in the form of two parts, one of which includes a handpiece with an injection cannula and the other being a complementary part. The complementary part includes a stabilization handle and can be placed onto the injection cannula in addition to being able to be fixed to the handpiece of the operational handpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Human Med AG
    Inventor: Andreas Pein
  • Patent number: 7648467
    Abstract: The invention is an apparatus (10) for treating inverted nipples and/or the collection of NAF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventors: Paul C. Wang, Kathleen McConnell
  • Publication number: 20100010435
    Abstract: A mucous suction device, comprising in combination, a longitudinally elongated, generally tubular, one-piece plastic body, the body having an axially elongated tapered, first portion extending toward an inlet proximate one end of the body, the body having an axially elongated second portion extending toward an outlet proximate an opposite end of the body, radially outwardly extending annular retention rings in said body second portion, said rings having sharp annular peripheries and said rings being axially resiliently flexible and axially spaced apart, and there being body side porting between said body first and second portions, said side porting being manually controllable to control suction exertion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Craig R. McCrary, Thomas R. Thornbury, Arnold M. Heyman
  • Patent number: 7641629
    Abstract: An electric breast pump is disclosed as including a hood to be fitted over a breast of a user, a chamber in fluid communication with the hood member via a one-way valve, a pump motor operatively associated with a pump diaphragm movable to draw air from the hood into the chamber via the valve, in which the chamber has an opening and a lid which is operatively associated with the motor, in which the lid is movable between a first position to close the opening and a second position in which the opening is open, and in which the lid is at the first position when the motor is in operation and is at the second position when the motor is not in operation. The breast pump also includes sensors for detecting the passing of milk, and a microcontroller for calculating the rate of flow of milk on the basis of data received from the sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Sea Profit (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventor: Yat Keung William Yuen
  • Patent number: 7635359
    Abstract: Disclosed is a receptacle for use with a medical suction device which is equipped with a cover body and an external case for detachably holding and air-tightly surrounding the receptacle and a patient-side tube for introducing waste liquid into the receptacle, and designed to create a negative pressure in both an interior space of the cover body and the external case and an interior space of the receptacle so as to allow waste liquid to be sucked into the receptacle through the patient-side tube. The receptacle has an air-pervious/liquid-impervious element having air perviousness and liquid imperviousness. The air-pervious/liquid-impervious element at least partly constitutes a portion of the receptacle to be surrounded by the cover body and the external case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Daiken Iki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hajime Nakazawa, Hiroaki Takimoto
  • Patent number: 7611500
    Abstract: A wound closure apparatus is disclosed which includes a housing that contains a vacuum pump and a chamber for holding a disposable wound fluid collection canister. The canister resides within the chamber and connects at an outlet with the vacuum pump and at an inlet with a pad. The pad is placed over a wound and adhesively secured thereto. When the vacuum pump activates, it evacuates air from the canister resulting in wound fluids flowing from the wound into the canister. After the canister is filled, it is removed from the chamber and replaced with another canister to continue the removal of wound fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Cesar Z. Lina, Keith Heaton
  • Patent number: 7611078
    Abstract: Parts of a powdered medicine multi-dose administering device are assembled, powdered medicine is filled and assembly that is obtained is inspected all on an automatic production line to increase productivity while preventing the production of defective products. The powdered medicine multi-dose administering device is produced through automated steps of inserting a filter (12) in a filter-fitting portion (11a) of a container (10), inserting an inner cylinder (15) in the container body (10), filling the container with the powdered medicine through a ring-like opening between an opening in the upper part of the container and the inner cylinder, fitting an inner closure (19) to the container and to the inner cylinder, fitting a nozzle (20) to the container while coupling it to the inner cylinder, and inspecting the thus obtained assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Teijin Limited
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Zaima, Masahiko Dohi, Seiji Mochizuki, Hiroshi Kuroda
  • Publication number: 20090247941
    Abstract: A nasal irrigator for yoga includes a connection mechanism, an air vent and a conduit. The connection mechanism is used to connect a vessel. The liquid of the vessel flows to the nasal irrigator and the air vent will balance the pressure between the vessel and outside during the flowing. Hence, the user can rinse the nasal cavity by himself easily. Also, the nasal irrigator is convenient to carry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: SHIN-CHIANG LU
  • Publication number: 20090093830
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for penetrating the bone marrow is provided. The apparatus includes a housing, a penetrator assembly, operable to penetrate the bone marrow, a connector operable to releasably attach the penetrator assembly to a drill shaft, the drill shaft operable to connect the penetrator assembly to a gear assembly, a gear assembly operable to engage and rotate the drill shaft, a motor operable to engage the reduction gear assembly and drive the penetrator into the bone marrow by rotation of the drill shaft, and a power supply and associated circuitry operable to power the motor. The apparatus and method may be adapted to insert a probe through the skull and into the brain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Larry J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20090088682
    Abstract: A wearable infusion device comprises a component that causes a piston to move an incremental distance to cause the device to dispense a dose of medicament from a reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventors: Brett Cross, Brett J. Carter, John M. Adams, John R. McKenzie, Tom A. Saul
  • Publication number: 20090054833
    Abstract: A power neti pot has a mini pump, batteries, a detachable electric cord and plug, an AC/DC switch in the bottom of the base and an on/off switch on the side of the base. There is a cup with a lid seated on top of the base. An outlet tube connected to the pump is connected to a tapered spout on top of the cup. The pump delivers the liquid in the cup through the tube, exiting the spout into the sinus cavities to promote healing of sinus problems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventors: Hong Cui O'hare, Douglas Lee Smith
  • Publication number: 20080312636
    Abstract: A catheter with a balloon anchor may be sized to fit through an inner needle and introduced into the patient through the needle. The inner needle may comprise an atraumatic needle with a side port and/or a blunt tip. The catheter may include a radiopaque coil disposed over the distal portion of the catheter body to assist with catheter placement when viewed with fluoroscopy and/or x-ray. The distal portion of the catheter can be very flexible. A balloon inflation tube may terminate proximal to a proximal end of the expandable balloon anchor such that the distal portion of catheter can be flexible. This termination of the inflation tube may also position the inflation tube away from the annulus and nerve roots, so as to avoid irritation of the annulus and rubbing of the nerve roots that may potentially obscure FAD test results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: Kyphon Inc.
    Inventors: David Miller, Michael Smith, Steve Mouw, Erika Palmer
  • Publication number: 20080195038
    Abstract: Device (10) for dispensing a pre-defined quantity of oil to an ear, comprising a nozzle (20) operably coupled to the vessel (12) containing oil (14), the nozzle (20) being adapted to be placed in the ear and capable of expelling the oil (14) from the vessel (12) when desired and permitting expulsion when the vessel (12) and/or device (10) is in a substantially upright or substantially inverted position. The present application also relates to a kit of parts for producing the device (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Michael James Hill, Mark Llewellyn
  • Publication number: 20080171969
    Abstract: A disposable syringe (2) is disclosed. Withdrawal of a plunger handle (18) in the direction of arrow B to fill the syringe causes a moveable safety bobbin (20) to lock, and shaft (16) slides in the direction of arrow B relative to safety bobbin (20) and washer (22). Subsequent depression of plunger handle (18) in the direction of arrow A causes safety bobbin (20) to move along barrel (4), from which position it can not be withdrawn. This therefore prevents subsequent withdrawal of piston (14) and therefore prevents re-use of the syringe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: ID-Tech Limited
    Inventors: Phillip Owen Byrne, Harry Raymond Ingham, Penelope Rosemary Attridge
  • Publication number: 20080149098
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser for dispensing a metered volume of a fluid product having a storage chamber for storing the fluid product in; a dispensing outlet through which the fluid product is dispensable from the dispenser; a metering chamber which is adapted to provide the metered volume of the fluid product for dispensing through the dispensing outlet by movement of the metering chamber between a contracted state and an expanded state, movement of the metering chamber from the contracted state to the expanded state placing the metering and storage chambers in fluid communication to enable the metering chamber to receive from the storage chamber an excess volume of the fluid product comprising the metered volume and a surplus volume; and a bleed arrangement adapted to bleed the surplus volume of the fluid product from the metering chamber is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Stanley George Bonney, Louis Albert Della-Porta, Paul Kenneth Rand
  • Publication number: 20080125742
    Abstract: A wound mediating device is provided to facilitate healing of tissue. The wound mediating device includes a wound mediating substance encapsulated in microbubbles which are suspended in a slurry. The slurry is stored in, and supplied from, any suitable container configured for use with a surgical instrument capable of propelling the slurry towards tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald J. Podhajsky
  • Publication number: 20080114333
    Abstract: Improved anastomosis devices having structural upgrades to increase ease of use while simultaneously increasing patent safety. The anastomosis device can include an introducer member having an introducer rod and an introducer cap to provide additional support to a catheter portion of the anastomosis device such that damage associated with installation of the catheter, deployment of tissue approximating structures and/or removal of the catheter can be minimized. The anastomosis device can further include a valve cap designed to constrain and reinforce a thin-walled section of a proximal funnel portion of the anastomosis device such that ballooning of the thin-walled section under the influence of a pressurized inflation fluid can be avoided during inflation as well as a time of tissue approximation and tissue healing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Inventors: Vincent G. Copa, Sidney F. Hauschild
  • Patent number: 7351235
    Abstract: A snivel removing device includes a housing having a partition to form two chambers and an outlet port and an inlet port communicating with the chambers. One or more bladders are attached to the housing, and communicating with the chambers, and compressible and expandable to draw the snivel into one of the chambers of the housing via the inlet port, and then into the other chamber of the housing, and to flow out through the outlet port of the housing. Two or more check valve may be used to control the flowing of the snivel. An arm is attached to each bladder, and an operating device may operate the arm to depress and to expand the bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Jackey Chiou
  • Publication number: 20080065001
    Abstract: A portable debridement and irrigation device includes a body structure and a disposable spray nozzle structure and spray reduction cup removably mounted thereon. A battery-powered electric pump device is in liquid transmission connection with the disposable spray nozzle device. A removable and replaceable liquid storage container which holds a sterile liquid is held within a storage container receiving chamber formed within the body structure in liquid transmission connection with the electric pump, and a pump engagement switch is operatively interposed between the battery and the electric pump for engaging and disengaging the electric pump. Finally, a pump speed control device with a limiting device for preventing it from proceeding beyond a predetermined operating setting unless the operator intentionally disengages the limiting device is operatively connected to the electric pump for adjusting the operating speed of the pump and thus the outflow speed of liquid from the spray nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventors: Kent DiNucci, Dennis Gusman
  • Publication number: 20080021486
    Abstract: A resection device includes an elongated probe shaft and a tissue resection member disposed at a distal end of the elongated probe shaft. The tissue resection member has a cutting surface configured for being placed in contact with tissue. In one aspect of the invention, at least one ejection port is located adjacent to the cutting surface of the tissue resection member, wherein the at least one ejection port is coupled to a source of a polymerizable hemostasis-promoting material that is delivered to the resection site of interest. In certain embodiments, polymerization of the hemostasis-promoting material may be accelerated by application of heat, radiofrequency energy, or ultra violet light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Arnold E. Oyola, Marcia Buiser, Paul DiCarlo
  • Publication number: 20070299438
    Abstract: A kit for use in a lateral thoracotomy procedure includes an introducer having an elongated flexible body. The distal end of the introducer forms at least a partial loop in a relaxed state. A lumen extends through at least a portion of the introducer, and at least one torque imparting receptacle is accessible via the lumen. The kit also includes a torque transfer device having a handle and a shaft fixedly coupled thereto. The shaft may be inserted into the lumen and the at least one receptacle such that, when the user imparts torque to the handle, the shaft transfers the torque to the introducer through the receptacle. The proximal end of the introducer may include a connector that to receive the handle of the torque transfer device or an ablation device. Sizing indicators may be included on the elongated body, preferably near the distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventors: Michael C. Holzbaur, Jonathan L. Podmore
  • Patent number: 7288083
    Abstract: A nasal-nasopharyngeal irrigating and cleansing system including a cup with one or more assemblies that allow the flow and control of various irrigating, cleansing and medicinal liquids into the nasal passages. The construction of the cup provides sealing surfaces to allow the controlled flow of the liquids into the nose through either nostril without spillage. The flow of the liquid through the nasal passages removes via abrasion any virus or irritant substances that may be in the nasal passages or on the nasal membranes. According to one aspect of the invention as the liquid is dispensed, the angle of the cup to the face changes but a sealing rim on the cup wall continues to seal to the user's face as the angle of the cup to the user's face changes, allowing liquid to be drawn up into the user's nose via vacuum or gravity. A method of using the device of the invention for irrigating, cleansing and coating the nasal passages with antiviral agents or other beneficial medicines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Andrew W. Holman
  • Patent number: 7022101
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a method for cleansing the colon of a patient, which comprises the steps of producing a lavage water at a temperature of 20-38° C. by an apparatus connected to a water resource; contacting an cleansing instrument of the apparatus with the anus of the patient, said the cleansing instrument having a curve plane with a cleansing opening, and said curve plane fitting to the portion of the patient's body close to the anus so that the cleansing opening can completely fit the anus; directing the lavage water into the anal canal of the patient under a predetermined pressure in coordination with the abdomen-contracting action of the patient; removing the cleansing instrument when the patient feels abdominal distension; and discharging the feces in the colon out of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventors: Haohan Xu, Tao Jin
  • Patent number: 6997897
    Abstract: A motorized pump is disclosed that includes a flexible diaphragm fitting within a rigid member, a motor drive mechanism for drawing a puller member attached to the diaphragm away from the rigid member to create a space between the diaphragm and the rigid member and form a negative pressure region within that space, and an outlet communicating with the negative pressure region. In one embodiment, the pump provides a negative pressure in a single chamber which can be used to operate one or two breast shield assembles. In another embodiment, the pump is particularly adapted for double-pumping and provides two chambers which generate vacuum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Brian H. Silver, Larry D. Annis
  • Patent number: 6939329
    Abstract: Apparatus for supporting a syringe (6, 10) includes a handle portion (2) and a cradle (4). A clip (14) is provided for connecting the plungers (8) of two or more syringes (6, 10), and two or more syringes (6, 10) are operated by placing one (6) in the cradle (4) and attaching the clip (14) to the plungers (8) for simultaneous operation of the plungers (8). The handle portion (2) also forms a cavity for storing the clips (14). The apparatus is preferably used in combination with an applicator tip (12) that combines the outputs from the two or more syringes (6, 10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Harvest Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Wesley H. Verkaart
  • Patent number: 6866994
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for accomplishing a noninvasive screen for breast disease markers, including breast cancer markers and cytologically abnormal cells. Intraductal fluid is noninvasively aspirated using compression, heating and suction cycles. The removed sample is thereafter assayed for the presence of cytologically abnormal cells and/or one or more breast disease markers. Sample size and intraductal mobility of breast disease markers may be enhanced by retrograde introduction of a carrier. Devices and assays are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: NeoMatrix, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Morton
  • Patent number: 6712803
    Abstract: A drug dispensing system for substantially preventing addictive use of drugs. The system has multiple dispensers each containing a drug such as nasal spray. The drug in at least one of the dispensers is diluted to a first pre-selected concentration level with a diluent and the drug in at least a second one of the dispensers is diluted to a second lower pre-selected concentration level with a diluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Howard Paritsky
  • Patent number: 6656149
    Abstract: An expansible medical suction canister has an expansible chamber and a support. The chamber is expandable to an open position and compressible to a closed position. The chamber also has opposing first and second ends. The first and the second ends are spaced relatively farther apart in the open position than in the closed position. The support is connected between the opposing ends and moves with the opposing ends between the open and closed positions. The support also has a locked condition in the open position. The support may have a first element and a second element. The first and the second elements preferably move between open and closed positions with the opposing chamber ends. In one aspect, the first element may have a stop surface and the second element may include a leg with an end that abuts the stop surface in the open position, whereby compression of the canister to the closed position is resisted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Leland L. Ladd
  • Patent number: 6648851
    Abstract: An applicator for administering a medication to an animal, particularly a mastitis treatment, is made up of an elongated syringe having an integral blunt-tipped cannula provided at one end thereof. The cannula has a first portion for partial insertion of the cannula and a second portion for complete insertion of the cannula. The diameter of the cannula first portion is smaller than the diameter of the cannula second portion and the cannula first and second portions join at an annular shoulder which limits the partial insertion of the cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Pharmacia & Upjohn Company
    Inventors: Thomas Walter Pyret, Fred W. Wall
  • Publication number: 20030181886
    Abstract: This device is a reusable bacteria inhibiting hygienic device for feminine/colon and external genital cleansing suited for use while seated on the toilet or standing in a tub respectively. This device includes a rigid stationary/flexible portable container proficient in delivering a sufficient amount of douche, colon or external genital cleansing preparation. A vented cap, a volume sensitive valve, an adequate length of tubing with one end attached to a retainer cap and the other end to the top of a control valve with a backflush prevention ballcheck valve. It then connects the bottom of the ballcheck valve to a short length of tubing further onto an accessory nozzle of choice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Felipe Negron
  • Patent number: 6613010
    Abstract: A needle-less injector suitable for injecting fluid through a surface includes a housing, a driver, an engine and a trigger. The housing contains a fluid and the engine contains a compressed gas. Upon application of sufficient force to the trigger, the compressed gas is released from the engine forcing the driver through the interior of the housing, expelling the liquid from the housing at a speed sufficient to pierce an injection surface. In one embodiment, the needle-less injector includes a mechanism for mitigating the kickback associated with releasing compressed gas from the engine. In another embodiment, the housing includes finger rests that provide stability and resistance to activate the device. In another embodiment, the engine is fitted with a reusable valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: PenJet Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas P. Castellano
  • Publication number: 20030144626
    Abstract: A diffusion cell to facilitate the automatic or manual removal of test aliquots of liquid from a receptor chamber of the diffusion cell so as to determine percantaneous absorption through a membrane of a substance from a donor chamber into a receptor chamber of the diffusion cell. There is utilized a capillary port through which the test aliquot is to be removed. A refilling tube connects also with the receptor chamber to add receptor liquid into the receptor chamber as the test aliquot is being removed. A quick release clamping apparatus secures the donor housing which contains the donor chamber tightly to the main housing of the diffusion cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: Royal A. Hanson, Bruce E. Renslow, Steven W. Shaw, Jerome S. Elkins