Abstract: A surgical assist device used to constrict blood perfusion during surgeries is provided. The device utilizes one or more compression members to apply a controlled pressure to an open artery to stop blood perfusion at the surgical site. The compression members can be deployed and retracted manually, automatically, or remotely. The applied pressure can also be remotely monitored and controlled. The device can be used in conjunction with existing suction based coronary stabilization devices or used as a stand-along unit. The device can be used to apply controlled pressure to the arteries to constrict blood perfusion with significantly less invasion into the surgical area.

Abstract: An improved surgical clip and clip applicator for placing a surgical clip over a target structure. The surgical clip generally has a pair of opposing clamp arms, each having an associated clamping surface, and a connecting portion joining the clamp arms and biasing them to a normally closed position. The surgical clip may be opened and locked into the open position prior to being loaded into a clip applicator or the surgical clip may be opened by a clip applicator itself. The surgical clip and clip applicators require reduced actuation forces and simplified applicator mechanisms.

Abstract: A clamp has a handle assembly and a gripping assembly having a pair of jaws that can be opened and closed to grip an element, the pair of jaws being parallel to each other when they are opened and when they are closed. The clamp also has a flexible shaft having a proximal end that is operatively coupled to the handle assembly and a distal end that is operatively coupled to the gripping assembly.

Abstract: A blood vessel clip applicator preferably includes two twist pins at one end, between which a blood vessel is placed before occlusion. A magazine in the blood vessel clip applicator preferably holds a plurality of blood vessel clips and can be rotated independently from a grip assembly, whereby the twist pins can be rotated to compress a blood vessel held between them. A blood vessel clip is preferably placed on the blood vessel after it has been flattened.

Abstract: A clip device for holding a living tissue, wherein a clip operating force adjustment portion is provided with a hold member placed in a state of relatively increasing a ratio of a clip closing force to close clip hands to a clip opening force to expand the clip hands of a clip when operating the clip.

Abstract: An extra-vascular cuff-type implant with inflatable membrane(s) is provided to constrict the vein to serve as a venous valve. The inflatable bladder is inflated by hydraulic pressure from a fluid reservoir that is disposed parallel to the vein to mimic normal physiology.

Abstract: Improvements to external stents to render incompetent venous valves competent are disclosed. The device is an inelastic bio-compatible cuff (1) that encircles the venous valve cusps (15) decreasing the internal diameter of the vein wall (11) to allow apposition of the cusps (15) and create competence. The improvements over previous designs include the addition of calibrated known diameters to create competence for different phenotypes. The different diameters are indicated by holes (2, 3, 4) in the body (1). The buckle attachment (6) allows the body of the device to become conical or inverted to become pyramidal as appropriate. The buckle (5) is wider than prior art designs to allow the device to become elliptical at smaller diameters. The angle of the notches (10) in the device are approximately 15° to allow better overriding at the sapheno-femoral junction which allowing for better competence of the valve.

Abstract: Devices and methods for augmenting or otherwise enhancing closure of body lumens comprise magnetic or magnetizable components or particles which are implanted in the wall of the lumen. The magnet fields exerted by the components or particles act to close the body lumen with a desired force.

Abstract: An aorta cross clamp assembly includes a clamp having movable jaws and a removable actuator having movable handles. Initially, the actuator is connected to the clamp with the jaws in an open position. When the actuator handles are closed, the jaws also will be closed. The clamp is provided with a toothed retainer that prevents the jaws from being opened accidently. The actuator can be detached from the clamp and removed from the operative site, leaving the locked clamp in place. When it is desired to remove the clamp, the actuator can be reattached to the clamp and used to disengage the toothed retainer. The actuator then can be used to spread the jaws in order to permit the clamp to be removed. The clamp and the actuator are provided in two forms. In one form, the toothed retainer is engaged and disengaged by movement toward and away from the jaws (“horizontal” movement).

Abstract: A surgical clip includes a U-shaped configuration with first and second arms, and a bridge portion therebetween. The first arm is provided with a tip preferably having a catch, and the second arm extends into a deformable retainer having a tissue-piercing end and preferably also a hook. During application, tissue is clamped, and the clip is forced over the clamped tissue and the retainer of the second arm is bent and may be pierced through the tissue. The retainer is toward and around or adjacent the tip of the first arm preferably until the hook is engaged about the catch to secure the clip to the tissue and prevent the clip and tissue from separating. The clip is provided with structure that facilitates the stacking of a plurality of clips in a clip chamber of a clip applier.

Abstract: A vessel occluding clamp according to the invention provides a pair of opposing jaws connected through a hinge and one or more pieces of shape-memory material associated with the jaws. The shape-memory material exhibits a transition temperature such that when the clamp is exposed to said transition temperature, the jaws of the clamp may close partially or completely to occlude the vessel.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for temporarily reducing or abolishing blood flow by occluding blood vessels are provided. A blood vessel-occlusion device embodying features of the invention includes a deployable pressure-applying member with a location sensor, and an applicator. The location sensor is configured to detect a blood vessel, which may be occluded by compression from the pressure-applying member. A pressure-applying member may be released from the applicator, with blood-vessel compression maintained after release. The applicator is configured to engage a guide, such as a tenaculum, to aid in the placement and operation of the applicator. A pressure-applying member may also engage the guide. The invention finds use in, for example, treating uterine disorders and conditions which may be treated by occlusion of the uterine arteries, such as uterine fibroids, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, post-partum hemorrhage, and bleeding associated with caesarian section.

Abstract: A vascular occlusion device for occluding a blood vessel including a lumen, a resilient deformable member in communication with the lumen, and a fluid-impervious cover surrounding the deformable member, wherein the deformable member has an expanded state at atmospheric pressure and a collapsed state at a second pressure that is lower than atmospheric pressure. Also, a method for occluding a blood vessel using a vascular occlusion device comprised of a lumen, a deformable member in communication with the lumen at the distal end of the lumen, and a fluid impervious cover surrounding the deformable member, including the steps of deflating the deformable member by reducing the pressure therein below atmospheric pressure, inserting the distal end into a blood vessel, and allowing the deformable member to inflate by allowing the pressure in the deformable member to return to atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A replaceable pad or insert for attachment to the jaw of a jaw-type occlusion device. The insert includes a compliant cushion and a flexible non-compliant surface overlay secured to the cushion surface. The overlay can be metal or plastic and can further include notches along the overlay sides to increase flexibility of the overlay.

Abstract: A surgical clip includes a U-shaped configuration with first and second arms, and a bridge portion therebetween. The first arm is provided with a tip preferably having a catch, and the second arm extends into a deformable retainer having a tissue-piercing end and preferably also a hook. During application, tissue is clamped, and the clip is forced over the clamped tissue and the retainer of the second arm is bent and may be pierced through the tissue. The retainer is toward and around or adjacent the tip of the first arm preferably until the hook is engaged about the catch to secure the clip to the tissue and prevent the clip and tissue from separating. The clip is provided with structure that facilitates the stacking of a plurality of clips in a clip chamber of a clip applier.

Abstract: A blood vessel clip applicator preferably includes two twist pins at one end, between which a blood vessel is placed before occlusion. A magazine in the blood vessel clip applicator preferably holds a plurality of blood vessel clips and can be rotated independently from a grip assembly, whereby the twist pins can be rotated to compress a blood vessel held between them. A blood vessel clip is preferably placed on the blood vessel after it has been flattened. A blood vessel clip preferably comprises spring quality material, and preferably has a head connected to a first leg and a second leg. The magazine preferably has a constricted region adjacent to an exit aperture. As the head enters the constricted region, the compressive force exerted on the head by the constricted region opens the blood vessel clip to an open position. In an alternate embodiment, a plunger applies a blood vessel clip with a direct stroke.

Abstract: A surgical clamp having an elongate cavity or channel to receive a replaceable pad. The pad is formed with a flexible attachment member engageable in the elongate cavity or channel of the jaw. The pad can include a tab, draw cord, pull string or pull strap to draw the pad into place on the jaw.

Abstract: A clamp has a handle assembly and a gripping assembly having a pair of jaws that can be opened and closed to grip an element, the pair of jaws being parallel to each other when they are opened and when they are closed. The clamp also has a flexible shaft having a proximal end that is operatively coupled to the handle assembly and a distal end that is operatively coupled to the gripping assembly.

Abstract: A clamp has a handle assembly, a gripping assembly having a pair of jaws that can be opened and closed to grip an element, and a shaft assembly. The shaft assembly has a flexible shaft having a proximal end that is operatively coupled to the handle assembly and a distal end that is operatively coupled to the gripping assembly. The shaft assembly also has a rigid element that can be placed in a first position where the rigid element supports the shaft in a manner where the shaft cannot be bent, and in a second position where the shaft can be bent.

Abstract: An adjustment clamp suitable for adjusting the tension of a material such as a cardiac support device. The adjustment clamp comprises a pair of interconnected, intersecting arms capable of rotating around a common axis. The arms each comprise a handle, a jaw and a shaft between the handle and jaw. The clamp also includes a latch operably mounted to the handle, wherein the latches of the two arms are capable of engaging each other to secure the clamp at a desired position. In one embodiment, the jaw comprises a flat contact surface. In another embodiment, at least one jaw of one arm comprises a roller assembly. Preferably, the clamp also includes a turning mechanism operably mounted to at least one roller assembly. Methods for using the adjustment claim to increase tension in a material are also described. In a preferred embodiment, the clamp is used to adjust the tension of a cardiac support device.

Abstract: The tie string is new to the field of embalming because there is no device used in the field of the funeral industry with self locking polymer teeth. There are linen, nylon, polyester, and cotton thread, non locking.

Abstract: An endoscopic surgical clip for occluding vessels has a jaw comprised of a pair of arms that are connected to each other and are biased together by a spring section. The arms are elongate linear cantilevered beams extending beyond the end of the spring section. Compressing a portion of the spring section opens the arms. When the pressure is released, the bias of the spring section returns the arms to the first position.

Abstract: A surgical spring clip is provided for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures. The clip has a flat planar plate shape having pair of arms connected by a base, all generally positioned within a single plane. The arms are elongate linear cantilevered beams extending beyond the base and are biased to a first or closed position generally within the plane. The base and arms define a slot for the positioning of and receiving a vessel and occluding the flow therethrough.

Abstract: Implantable embolic devices for occluding the lumens of blood vessels and other anatomical conduits comprising a generally tubular, radially expandable frame and a flexible occluder member attached to the frame. The flexible occluder member may be of generally tubular form having a closed end and an open end. The open end is attached to the frame and the closed end serves to substantially block the flow of blood through the lumen of the anatomical conduit. In some embodiments a small or self-sealing opening is formed in the closed end of the flexible occluder member such that a guidewire, catheter or other device may pass through such opening during delivery of the device and/or at some later time following implantation of the device.

Abstract: A clamp has a handle assembly, a gripping assembly having a pair of jaws that can be opened and closed to grip an element, and a shaft assembly. The shaft assembly has a flexible shaft having a proximal end that is operatively coupled to the handle assembly and a distal end that is operatively coupled to the gripping assembly. The shaft assembly also has a rigid element that can be placed in a first position where the rigid element supports the shaft in a manner where the shaft cannot be bent, and in a second position where the shaft can be bent.

Abstract: An aneurysm clip (1) is provided with two arms (2, 3) which are resiliently pivotable towards each other and carry at their free end clamping bars (12, 13) which are resiliently clamped against each other by the spring force of the arms, with outwardly curved sections of the arms adjoining the clamping bars and jointly forming a receiving space (10) for a vessel (11). In order to improve the safety of the application and the possibility of varying the application of the aneurysm clip, the clamping bars protrude from the arms towards both sides and thereby project laterally on both sides over the width of the arms in the outwardly curved sections.

Abstract: A replaceable pad or insert for attachment to the jaw of a jaw-type occlusion device. The insert includes an elastomeric cushion with a deflecting element embedded in the cushion, providing for improved gripping of a clamped vessel while minimizing trauma to the vessel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to new and useful apparatus, systems and methods for providing an effective tool for intraluminally directed vascular anastomosis of a graft vessel to a receiving blood vessel that is performed according to a minimally invasive procedure. The intraluminally directed vascular anastomosis does not require the interruption of blood flow in the receiving blood vessel and it is versatile enough to suitably combine a variety of cutting, welding, soldering, sealing, and joining techniques. The intraluminally directed anvil apparatus comprises an anvil and a wire used for signaling the optimal anastomosis site; this signaling can be performed when the initial exploration is performed. An anastomosis device is used in conjunction with the intraluminally directed anvil apparatus for opening the anastomosis fenestra and joining the anastomosed structures.

Abstract: A surgical clip with adjustable bias spring. The surgical clip includes a moveable slide assembly, whereby the positioning of the slide relative to the clip adjusts the relative compression or extension of the biasing spring.

Abstract: An intravascular flow restrictor comprises a braided tubular structure designed to be placed in the main pulmonary artery for limiting blood pressure in the lungs. The braided structure is designed to be collapsed for placement in a delivery catheter but when ejected from the delivery catheter, assumes a substantially larger diameter disk shaped device having one or more longitudinal channels or passways therethrough.

Abstract: A blood vessel occluding device including a plug and an insertion means to permanently occlude a blood vessel. In one embodiment, the plug has a tapered shape and is made of a biocompatible material such as Silicone. The plug is inserted axially into the blood vessel and is gripped firmly by the walls of the blood vessel. The insertion device is a spring loaded device that has a spring activated needle; this insertion device provides the axial force to insert the plug into the blood vessel. The blood vessel occluding device allows the blood vessel to be occluded quickly and effectively.

Abstract: An aorta cross clamp assembly includes a clamp having movable jaws and a removable actuator having movable handles. Initially, the actuator is connected to the clamp with the jaws in an open position. When the actuator handles are closed, the jaws also will be closed. The clamp is provided with a toothed retainer that prevents the jaws from being opened accidently. The actuator can be detached from the clamp and removed from the operative site, leaving the locked clamp in place. When it is desired to remove the clamp, the actuator can be reattached to the clamp and used to disengage the toothed retainer. The actuator then can be used to spread the jaws in order to permit the clamp to be removed. The clamp and the actuator are provided in two forms. In one form, the toothed retainer is engaged and disengaged by movement toward and away from the jaws (“horizontal” movement).

Abstract: A surgical apparatus and method for occluding or encircling a body passageway, e.g. for haemostasis, is described. The apparatus comprises generally a delivery system for offering a temperature-dependent shape memory material clip (3′) (e.g. of Nitinol and suitably of generally U-shape in the open (a) condition) onto the body passageway, allowing body heat to warm the clip whereby the clip closes to a closed (b) condition in which it occludes or encircles the body passageway. The apparatus is then withdrawn from the operating zone. The apparatus includes drive and control functions for moving a train of clips (3′) within a shaft (2′) of the apparatus towards a distal end port (6′), and preferably a temperature control system whereby the clips within the housing are maintained at a first temperature, substantially below body temperature.

Abstract: The invention concerns a vascular occlusion device. The invention is characterised in that it comprises two expandable members (3, 4) enabling it to be fixed by pressure on two portions of the vessel; it further comprises an intermediate part (5) deformable in twisting to an adjustable degree depending on the relative position of the two expandable members (3, 4); thereby producing a maximum constricted region (6) defining the extent of occlusion. The invention also concerns a apparatus for setting and a method for using such a device.

Abstract: A surgical instrument that allows a surgeon to temporarily halt the flow of blood to a tissue during a surgical procedure (temporary hemostasis) and restore the flow of blood to the tissue when desired without damaging the tissue is described. The instrument comprises a handle means, a hollow barrel member, a loop and an operating means coupled to the loop to drive the loop between contracted state and an expanded state. Preferably, one end of the loop is removable from the operating means so that temporary hemostasis can be induced in virtually any tissue of the body.

Abstract: Septal defect occluders are disclosed which can be used with a catheter deployment system to occlude a septal defect. The septal defect occluders of the present invention comprise a metallic frame structure that supports a biodegradable member. The frame structure is made from a shape memory metal such as Nitinol. The frame forms two opposing umbrella or disc shaped halves that are connected via a central region. The biodegradable member is attached to the umbrella or disc shaped halves and can be any of numerous biodegradable materials and is preferably a co-polymer of glycolide and lactide. This material initially forms a barrier to blood flow that occludes the defect. Over time, this material is replaced by the body with scar tissue formation and endothelial cells. The metal frame is left coated with the body's own material that blocks the defect.

Abstract: A tissue connector assembly comprising a clip movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration and a mechanical restraining device including a plurality of strands releasably attachable to the clip for restraining the clip in its open configuration. A needle may be releasably attached to the clip. A flexible member may also interconnect the clip and the needle.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved surgical loop (1; 2; 3) for constricting or ligating, partially or fully, an anatomic conduit (AC) during a surgical intervention. The surgical loop (1; 2; 3) is preferably comprised of an elastomeric tubular body (14), a curved needle (12) that is attached to one free end of said tubular body to facilitate its insertion through a body tissue containing an anatomic conduit (AC), and a pledget (10; 20; 30) which is frictionally engaged and positionable along the length of said tubular body (14). Pledget (10; 20; 30) is frictionally engaged with a first portion (146) of tubular body (14) through a closed-perimeter opening (102; 202; 302), thereby forming an integral assembly with said tubular body. A second portion (147) of tubular body is subsequently frictionally engaged or restrained with pledget (10; 20; 30) through a slot (103; 203; 303) configured therein.

Abstract: A clamp has a handle assembly, a gripping assembly having a pair of jaws that can be opened and closed to grip an element, and a shaft assembly. The shaft assembly has a flexible shaft having a proximal end that is coupled to the handle assembly and a distal end that is coupled to the gripping assembly. The flexible shaft also defines a bore that retains a cable which is operatively coupled to the handle assembly and to the gripping assembly. The shaft assembly also includes a retractable generally rigid covering which can be oriented in a first position where the covering exposes a portion of the flexible shaft, and in a second position where the covering completely covers the flexible shaft.

Abstract: Vaso-occlusive devices with selectively flattened surfaces are described. Also described are methods of making and using these devices.

Abstract: A blood vessel clip, preferably comprising spring quality material, has a head connected to a first leg and a second leg. Preferably, the two legs of the blood vessel clip are in a “V” configuration so that a blood vessel can be located therebetween. The blood vessel clip is adapted so that, when forced axially through a constricted region of a clip applicator, a compressive force is exerted on the head by the constricted region. This compressive force causes the legs of the clip to move closer relative to one another, thereby closing the clip and occluding a blood vessel located between the two legs. A variety of blood vessel clips having different shapes, cross-sections and grooves suitable for occluding a blood vessel are described.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a medical device for endoscopically ligating and cutting a body vessel. The device may be percutaneously inserted into a patient to perform several possible procedures. The improvements to the device include a hinged jaw capable of grasping and crimping body vessels. An improved clip delivery system and an improved clip which ligate body vessels are also described. The instrument includes a rotating cutting member which provides more efficient body vessel cutting means. Furthermore, the entire system allows a simplified and more efficient method of operation.

Abstract: A filter is provided that is convertible from a filter configuration to an open, stent-like configuration. The filter includes a plurality of intraluminal filter elements (filter legs) that may be formed into a single cone or dual cone filter structure. A retainer secures the filter legs in the filter configuration upon initial deployment within a vessel. The retainer is then either self-releasing or removable to permit the filter legs to expand from the filter configuration into what may generally be described as an open or stent-like configuration. A filter web extends, at least in part, between the filter legs.

Abstract: A remote cannulation assembly is disclosed for rapidly cannulating a body part such as a heart during a medical procedure. Cannulation is often conducted in procedures such as the installation of a ventricular assist device. The cannulation assembly of the invention utilizes an isolation valve to create a sealed fluid environment for the procedure. The invention further includes a coring assembly that may be used with the cannulation apparatus. Methods of cannulating a heart or other body part are also disclosed in which the risk of emboli is reduced. Additionally, methods of connecting and disconnecting two fluid conducting elements are disclosed.

Abstract: A blood vessel fastening knot used in intracavitary surgery, pre-tied in multiple loops at the central of a section of surgical wire, and temporary bound and fixed in position allowing later fastening with a size of the loops merely for a wire carrier to pass through so one end of the wire as guided by the carrier may wrap up a blood vessel and pass through said knot to release the knot by pulling outwardly both ends of the wire for the wire to fasten both of the blood vessel and the knot simultaneously.

Abstract: A device for closing an aperture in a vessel wall comprising an elongated member positionable inside the vessel against an internal opening of the aperture and having a dimension exceeding a dimension of the internal opening of the aperture to prevent egress of fluid through the aperture, and at least two curved legs positionable outside the vessel to help retain the elongated member in position.

Abstract: Methods, compositions and apparatus are disclosed for treating abnormal conditions within a body. The apparatus includes vaso-occlusion devices each comprising a core formed of a metal, metal alloy, or non-metal material. Each core is coated with a polymer material that can include a bioactive agent. The methods include treating patients having abnormal blood flow at a site in their body by implanting such a coated vaso-occlusive device into the body at the site of the abnormal blood flow. The methods also include a method of making the vaso-occlusion devices. The composition includes a coating for the vaso-occlusive devices.

Abstract: The invention provides devices, systems and methods for occluding arteries without puncturing skin or vessel walls. The devices, systems and methods for occluding arteries are configured to be applied to arteries externally of the arteries. Occlusion may be temporary or permanent, and may be partial or complete. Clamping a device to tissue near to an artery is effective to compress tissue around the artery and to indirectly compress the artery. The methods, devices and systems of the invention find use in, for example, treatment of uterine disorders and conditions which may be treated by occlusion of the uterine arteries. A uterine artery may be accessed via a patient's vagina by compressing a portion of the vaginal wall around a portion of a uterine artery to occlude a uterine artery. Clamping of an artery may also be performed by clamping a device directly onto an artery.

Abstract: The invention provides ligating clips for surgical use which have antimicrobial or antibiotic properties. More particularly, the ligating clips have antimicrobial and/or antibiotic agents either in a coating or provided within the material from which the clip is manufactured. The invention also provides a method for inhibiting the growth of or killing microorganisms by coating a ligating clip or ligating clip applying instrument with an antimicrobial or antibiotic coating composition or incorporating an antimicrobial or antibiotic coating into the material from which the ligating clip or ligating clip applying instrument was made.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for preventing cerebral embolization during endovascular procedures in the carotid arteries. The invention comprises a guide catheter and balloon, which may selectively occlude the common carotid artery, and further comprises a wire and balloon, which may selectively occlude the internal carotid artery. Occlusion of the common carotid artery will induce retrograde flow at the site, redirecting emboli to the external carotid artery. Occlusion of the internal carotid artery reduces the risk of emboli migrating to the brain, and allows clearance of the site by antegrade blood flow from the common carotid artery. Occlusion of both the common and internal carotid arteries induces a quiescent state at the site during the procedure. Control of blood flow by selective inflation and deflation of either or both balloons, in concert with the procedures, will reduce the risk of emboli migrating to the brain.