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

Abstract: These stents aid in the rehabilitation of transgender patients, vaginismus patients and vaginal reconstruction patients and similar maladies. The glass stent is made from select medical grade borosilicate glass that is non-porous, hypoallergenic, incredibly durable, and incredibly smooth, can be easily sterilized, is lightweight, and greatly reduces friction during removal. By being hollow, the typical suction effect that is created during removal is eliminated as air can enter the vaginal cavity. There is a tapered hour glass area and an open and lipped end so insertion and removal is more easily facilitated. There are also three indentions in the glass as depth guides for the patient that can be both seen and felt but are very smooth. Finally, this stent can be tailored to individual patients if their bodies require different measurements.

Abstract: Medical devices for filtering fluids flowing through a lumen and a method of forming medical devices. The devices can be used in vascular channels, urinary tracts, biliary ducts and the like, and filter emboli and other debris generated at a treatment site.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for performing gynecological procedures. According to one embodiment, there is provided a device for occluding a fallopian tube, the device including an outer member and an inner member. The outer member may be a hollow, frusto-conical structure shaped to include an open proximal end, an open distal end, and a side wall. The outer member may be self-expandable such that the distal end is biased radially outwardly. In addition, the side wall may have a porous structure to permit the ingrowth of tissue therethrough. Tines may be provided on the outer surface of the side wall to promote the anchoring of the outer member in a fallopian tube. The inner member, which may be structured to induce scarring, may comprise an elongated fibrous body fixed at its proximal end to the proximal end of the outer member. A bore may extend distally from the proximal end of the inner member to receive a delivery rod.

Abstract: Systems and related methods for treating postpartum hemorrhage through insertion of a flexible and expandable cryoballoon into the intrauterine cavity, inflating it to conform to the size and shape of the cavity, pressurizing it to apply pressure on damaged tissue and/or blood vessels that are bleeding, and filling it with a chilled fluid to provide numbing and blood coagulation. The cryoballoon can be coated with a drug or hormone to promote blood coagulation and/or uterine contractions to expedite the cessation of bleeding. In addition, cryoballoon can be coated with a topical anesthetic and/or antiseptic agent to numb and clean the damaged areas. Further, the cryoballoon can be fabricated of a biodegradable, bioerodeable or other biocompatible material so that it can be left in the intrauterine cavity for an extended period of time after insertion.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus of forming hydrogel systems in situ are provided using a delivery system configured to deliver two or more fluent prepolymer solutions without premature crosslinking. The delivery system comprises separate first and second lumens coupling first and second inlet ports and first and second outlet ports, respectively, and may include a balloon, flexible distal region, mixing chamber or steerable distal end. Multi-component hydrogel systems suitable for use with the inventive methods and apparatus are also described.

Abstract: A dual balloon catheter apparatus for controlling postpartum hemorrhage in uterine or vaginal cavities or hemorrhage in other body cavities, comprising: (1) a catheter having an inflation lumen and a deflation lumen; (2) a first inflatable balloon in fluid communication with the inflation lumen; and (3) a second inflatable balloon encompassing the first balloon and in fluid communication with the deflation lumen. A gaseous inflation medium can be introduced from an external gas source through the inflation lumen to inflate the first balloon, so as to apply a substantially even pressure along a substantial portion of an inner surface of a uterine cavity to reduce or eliminate bleeding along such inner surface. The second inflatable balloon functions to confine any gaseous inflation medium that escapes from the first balloon, due to leakage or rapture of such first balloon, and to discharge such escaped gaseous inflation medium through the deflation lumen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for transporting a molecule through a mammalian barrier membrane of at least one layer of cells comprising the steps of: ablating the membrane with an electric current from a treatment electrode; and utilizing a driving force to move the molecule through the perforated membrane.

Abstract: A device and method for dilating a cervical canal. The device includes an elongated member with an expandable anchoring component attached to its distal tip. An expandable dilating member is attached to the elongated member proximally of the anchoring component for dilating the cervical canal. The anchoring component can be expanded after insertion of the device into the cervical canal to correctly position the device relative to the canal. A device and method for sealing a cervical canal is also provided. The device includes a tube having an expandable seal assembly attached to its distal end. The seal assembly has a ridged or corrugated surface when it is in an expanded condition to provide a seal for the cervical canal.

Abstract: A method, device, and system for treatment of urinary tract disorders is provided. The device includes a catheter having multiple lumens for insertion into a urinary bladder and for providing fluid flow within the bladder and within the fluid reservoir within the urethra. The device further includes an anchor to be placed within the bladder. A port hub having multiple ports is connected at a proximal end of the catheter. A method of treatment includes providing heated fluid to a urinary bladder and to a fluid reservoir for insertion into an adjacent organ such as the urethra. Simultaneous treatment or separate treatment may be done. Optionally, a medicated solution may be added to the heated fluid. Additionally, pressure may be adjusted so as to optimize the therapeutic effect.

Abstract: A surgical balloon is provided for insertion into a uterus that includes a substantially continuous outer wall defining an exterior surface of the balloon on a first side and an interior hollow of the balloon on a second side, with the outer wall being formed from a stretchable elastic material and being stretchable by pressure within the inner hollow between a collapsed state and an expanded state. The substantially continuous outer wall has a base portion for coupling with shaft, an intermediate portion adjacent the base portion and an end portion at a distal end of the balloon and adjacent the intermediate portion. The base portion has a first primary wall thickness, the intermediate portion has a second primary wall thickness, and the end portion has a third primary wall thickness.

Abstract: A catheter apparatus for gaining access into the uterine cavity in order to perform minimally invasive surgery or diagnostic procedures related to a uterus and fallopian tubes, includes a single-lumen catheter; and an elongated balloon disposed distally on the single-lumen catheter for insertion into a cervical canal of the uterus. The balloon has opposing portions which occlude openings of the cervical canal when inflated. A fluid displacement sleeve is slidably disposed over the single-lumen catheter. The sleeve is moveable over the elongated balloon to inflate the portions of the balloon which are adjacent the opposite openings of the cervical canal when the balloon is inserted therein. Because there is no need for a balloon inflation lumen, the outer diameter of the catheter can be minimized and the cost of the apparatus is reduced.

Abstract: A catheter apparatus for gaining access into the uterine cavity in order to perform minimally invasive surgery or diagnostic procedures related to a uterus and fallopian tubes, includes a single-lumen catheter; and an elongated balloon disposed distally on the single-lumen catheter for insertion into a cervical canal of the uterus. The balloon has opposing portions which occlude openings of the cervical canal when inflated. A fluid displacement sleeve is slidably disposed over the single-lumen catheter. The sleeve is moveable over the elongated balloon to inflate the portions of the balloon which are adjacent the opposite openings of the cervical canal when the balloon is inserted therein. Because there is no need for a balloon inflation lumen, the outer diameter of the catheter can be minimized and the cost of the apparatus is reduced.

Abstract: A device and method for enlarging and supporting a body cavity are disclosed. One embodiment of the device comprises a tubular, distending balloon having first and second distending members, spaced apart from one another, wherein the distending members are inflatable. A tubular connector interconnects the first and second distending members and forms a conduit which allows for unimpeded passage of objects through the balloon. The balloon is adapted to be inserted into a body cavity in a deflated or semi-deflated state. When the distending members are inflated, an outer surface of the balloon exerts pressure on an interior surface of the body cavity, thereby supporting the body cavity in a distended state while allowing for unimpeded passage of medical instrument and biological material through the balloon.

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 Cervical Dilator which performs dilatation of the uterine cervix through the use of an inflatable balloon powered by compressed gas. The balloon is manufactured of non-compliant materials, so that its dimensions when fully inflated are predetermined. Physiologic saline or other liquid is introduced into the ballon by a piston or diaphragm that is driven by a self-contained compressed gas source. This arrangement places a barrier between the patient and the gas source, thereby eliminating the possibility ot gas embolization. The rate at which compressed gas is delivered to the system is precisely controlled by a trigger and valve mechanism. This allows the physician to precisely, and progressively, inflate the ballon and consequently dilate the cervix to the chosen caliber.

Abstract: An expandable polymeric medical article is formed by a novel dip-molding process, involving multiple dipping and rotational drying of liquid polymeric material layer at different pivotal positions. Preferably, the rotational drying is conducted so as to form an expandable polymeric medical article having a reverse thickness gradient in relation to the thickness gradient of conventional dip-molded polymeric medical articles. Specifically, the expandable polymeric medical article of the present invention has an expandable body member and a neck member, wherein such neck member has a wall thickness that is greater than that of the expandable body member, before any significant expansion of such body member.

Abstract: A cervical canal dilating assembly and method of use are shown. The dilator assembly includes a plastic shaft, a first inflatable member, and a second inflatable member. The shaft can range from being rigid to being highly flexible. The second inflatable member is fabricated of a non-elastic material and is configured to have a maximum inflatable diameter. The second inflatable member is configured to have a predetermined maximum inflatable diameter ranging from 4 to 20 mm. The dilating assembly can also be at least partially covered by a sheath. A control system includes means for measuring pressure configured for at least monitoring the pressure of the second inflatable member. A wire can be used in selected configurations to stiffen and shape the shaft. In operation, the initial penetration of the dilating assembly into the uterus uses a wire for increased stiffness. The dilating assembly is then forwarded through the remainder of the cervical canal.

Abstract: Tail-mounted devices and methods for securing an object in an animal's, preferably a cow's, vagina, the device typically comprising a first and second tail anchor or ring, and a tether attached to the first tail anchor. The invention is most suited for and capable of attachment to a housing or object that is inserted into the cow's vagina. The purpose of the disclosed devices and methods is to hold an object resident in the vagina for an extended periods of time, including periods of 14 days or longer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling uterine contractions in a female comprises providing sensors for sensing uterine contractions; providing an electric signal generator for generating signals to be applied on the uterus; providing a control unit for receiving signal corresponding to uterus contractions from the sensors and actuate said signal generator to generate a non-excitatory electric signal in a predetermined timing and duration with respect to a sensed uterine contraction; providing signal delivery leads for delivering the electric signal from the electric signal generator to predetermined locations on the uterus; sensing a uterine contraction using the sensors; and applying non-excitatory electric field at the predetermined locations on the uterus in predetermined timing and duration with respect to the sensed uterine contraction.

Abstract: A device (1) for staunching bleeding from an incision (2) made in the wall (3) of the vagina (4) of a subject comprises an inflatable member (8) carried on a tubular carrier member (5) which is inflatable within the vagina (4) for applying pressure to the wall (3) of the vagina (4) for urging a portion of the wall (3) adjacent the incision (2) against an adjacent portion of the anatomy, for example, the pubic bone (41) for staunching bleeding from the incision (2). The inflatable member (8) is inflated through the carrier member (5) through a releasable one-way valve (27) which retains inflatable medium, for example, air in the inflatable member (8) and which also facilitates exhausting of the inflatable medium from the inflatable member (8) for removal of the inflatable member (8) from the vagina (4). A drain tube (30) extending through the carrier member (5) drains blood and other fluids from the vagina (4) between the inflatable member (8) and the cervix (33).

Abstract: Methods and apparatus of forming hydrogel systems in situ are provided using a delivery system configured to deliver two or more fluent prepolymer solutions without premature crosslinking. The delivery system comprises separate first and second lumens coupling first and second inlet ports and first and second outlet ports, respectively, and may include a balloon, flexible distal region, mixing chamber or steerable distal end. Multi-component hydrogel systems suitable for use with the inventive methods and apparatus are also described.

Abstract: An intraluminal grafting system having a balloon catheter assembly, a capsule catheter assembly and capsule jacket assembly is used for deploying in the vessel of an animal body a bifurcated graft having a plurality of attachment systems. The deployment catheters contain an ipsilateral capsule assembly, a contralateral capsule assembly and a distal capsule assembly, wherein the attachment systems of the bifurcated graft are disposed within the three capsule assemblies. A removable sheath of the capsule jacket assembly covers the bifurcated graft and capsule assemblies to provide a smooth transition along the length of the deployment catheters. The bifurcated graft is comprised of a main tubular member and two tubular legs, having attachment systems with wall engaging members secured to the superior end of the main tubular member and the inferior ends of the tubular legs. An inflatable membrane configured on the balloon catheter is used to firmly implant the attachment systems within the vessel.

Abstract: A tamponade device for controlling post-partum hemorrhage includes an inner drain tube co-axially encircled by an inflatable balloon. The device is inserted into the uterine cavity, and the balloon is distended with a medium supplied with sufficient pressure and volume to apply even pressure along the surface of an interior uterine wall. With the application of such pressure, bleeding is stopped as evidenced by a cessation of blood draining from the inner drain tube. The inner tube includes a drainage port at an inserted end for draining blood and other fluids from the interior of the uterine cavity. An integral valve and medium insufflation and supply tubes operate to control inflation and deflation of the balloon. The supply tube co-axially encircles the drain tube to define a thin passageway between an inner surface of the supply tube and an outer surface of the drain tube. Perforations in the supply tube allow the medium to pass from this passageway in order to distend the balloon.

Abstract: A tamponade device for controlling post-partum hemorrhage includes an inner drain tube co-axially encircled by an inflatable balloon. The device is inserted into the uterine cavity, and the balloon is distended with a medium supplied with sufficient pressure and volume to apply even pressure along the surface of an interior uterine wall. With the application of such pressure, bleeding is stopped as evidenced by a cessation of blood draining from the inner drain tube. The inner tube includes a drainage port at an inserted end for draining blood and other fluids from the interior of the uterine cavity. An integral valve and medium insufflation and supply tubes operate to control inflation and deflation of the balloon. The supply tube co-axially encircles the drain tube to define a thin passageway between an inner surface of the supply tube and an outer surface of the drain tube. Perforations in the supply tube allow the medium to pass from this passageway in order to distend the balloon.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing regeneration of endometrial synechia, which comprises: an air injection tube, into which air is injected from the outside; a drainage lumen tube for draining intrauterine residue and blood, in which the air injection tube is received; an air hole formed at one side around an upper end of the drainage lumen tube to eject the air passed through the air injection tube; and a balloon fixed to the drainage lumen tube while covering the air hole formed at one side around the upper end of the drainage lumen tube, the balloon being configured to be inflated to conform to a shape of a woman's uterus within the uterus by the air injected through the air injection tube and air hole. The balloon of the apparatus is adapted to uniformly and safely spread to the whole interior of the uterus including the intrauterine isthmus and fundus uteri, thereby preventing regeneration of endometrial synechia as well as minimizing inconvenience to patients.

Abstract: A device for preparing a pregnant woman to delivery and facilitating the delivery itself, which comprises an entirely expandable stretch body, which is positioned in the expulsion area of the urogenital canal in such a way that it is partly inside the vagina and partly outside. There is also disclosed a preparatory gymnastics method involving the inventive device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating female stress-induced incontinence and other similar diseases associated with weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. A guiding catheter with temperature sensor(s) is positioned in patient's urethra. An inflatable balloon carried by a forward end of the catheter is inflated to sit in a neck of a bladder. Measuring indicia on the exterior of the catheter is indicative of a distance between the bladder neck and external meatus. A vagina probe member provided with a laser output in a forward portion thereof is then positioned in place such that the laser output is at about a level of the bladder neck, as facilitated by the guiding catheter. The laser output is operationally connected to a medical laser generating and monitoring device that delivers a laser beam to selected areas in the pelvic floor to cause denaturing and recoiling of the tissue collagen in the area surrounding the urethra.

Abstract: A surgical balloon for insertion into a body cavity with a major chamber having a first volume and an annexed minor chamber communicating therewith and having a second volume less than the first volume has a continuous outer wall which defines the exterior surface of the balloon on a first side and the interior hollow of the balloon on a second side. The wall is formed from a stretchable elastic material permitting the interior hollow of the balloon to accommodate a variable volume of fluid ranging from a minimum deflated volume associated with a relaxed state of the wall to a maximum inflated volume associated with a stretched state of the wall. The wall has selected areas of varying expansibility attributable to varying wall thickness, heat or chemical treatment. The wall provides the balloon with an inflated shape within the cavity approximating the interior shape of the body cavity, including a first portion approximating the major chamber and a second portion approximating the minor chamber.

Abstract: A surgical balloon is provided for insertion into a uterus that includes a substantially continuous outer wall defining an exterior surface of the balloon on a first side and an interior hollow of the balloon on a second side, with the outer wall being formed from a stretchable elastic material and being stretchable by pressure within the inner hollow between a collapsed state and an expanded state. The substantially continuous outer wall has a base portion for coupling with shaft, an intermediate portion adjacent the base portion and an end portion at a distal end of the balloon and adjacent the intermediate portion. The base portion has a first primary wall thickness, the intermediate portion has a second primary wall thickness, and the end portion has a third primary wall thickness.

Abstract: A catamenial device for blood leakage prevention composed of an inflatable member and an absorbent intravaginal member such as a tampon. The inflatable member houses a resiliently expandable inflation member generally made of open cell foam, and has an opening for airflow communication between the interior of the inflatable member and the outside environment. During insertion into a vaginal canal, the inflation member is inserted in a contracted state. Upon placement to proper vaginal location, the inflation member expands by resiliency drawing air from the ouside environment into the inflatable member via the opening in the inflatable member. Inflation of the inflatable member can be activated manually by the user or via an intravaginal applicator which has the dual function of inserting and delivering the device into the vagina and that of actuating the inflation of the inflatable member.

Abstract: A device for regulating and controlling urinary incontinence, comprising a fluid pump, a rigid chamber interconnected to the pump having an outlet for fluid flow, and extension member connected to said outlet, the extension member is of a pliable material and cylindrical in shape and adapted for insertion into a woman's vagina, to enable a woman's pelvic muscles to be exercised and toned.

Abstract: An intravaginal inflatable member impermeable to fluids adapted to collect upon inflation, menstrual blood and also capable of [provide] providing sealable closure of the vaginal canal for the prevention of vaginal exit of menstrual blood. By being inflatable, the device is easily inserted and removed when deflated and is also capable of sealing off the blood collected avoiding the spillage of blood upon extraction and disposal. The inflation of the device can be conveniently initiated prior to insertion into vagina and completed with the device fully inserted or can be initiated and completed with the device already inserted into the vagina. Inflation of the device can be achieved without the use of an external pneumatic source, but with a self-inflating apparatus within the device. The cup shaped member can be used as a standing alone device or in combination with a vaginal tampon for the prevention of blood leakage.

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: Apparatus and methods are provided for treating female urinary incontinence by injecting a bulking agent at the interface between the mucosal and submucosal layers of the urethral wall. The remodeling device comprises an elongated shaft preferably having means for forming a localized inward protrusion of the urethral wall, and a needle, movable between retracted and deployed positions, for delivering a bulking agent into the urethral wall in the vicinity of the localized inward protrusion to thereby reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with urinary incontinence.

Abstract: A uterine balloon apparatus and method for countering hemorrhaging in a patient after childbirth. The balloon apparatus is comprised of a balloon, a physiologic fluid, such as a normal saline solution and a control. A characteristic feature of the invention is that a fluid pressure inside of the balloon is maintained at a safe level by the control as a uterus contracts to resume its physiologic function. The control is comprised of a pressure relief valve, a pressure regulator valve, a fill valve and flexible tubing. Another characteristic feature of the invention is that the fluid pressure inside of the balloon is prevented from exceeding a level which would cause a premature ejection of the balloon or damage to the uterus. The balloon in an inflated state, is inserted into the uterus with the assistance of a catheter which extends part way into the interior of the balloon.

Abstract: An intravaginal inflatable member impermeable to fluids capable when inflated of providing sealable closure of the vaginal canal for the prevention of exit of menstrual blood from the vaginal orifice. The inflatable member can be connected to an absorbent member or can be a stand alone device. Inflation of the inflatable member can be activated manually by the user or via an intravaginal applicator which has the dual function of inserting and delivering the device into the vagina and that of actuating the source of inflation to inflate the inflatable member.

Abstract: A catheter apparatus for gaining access into the uterine cavity in order to perform minimally invasive surgery or diagnostic procedures related to a uterus and fallopian tubes, includes a single-lumen catheter; and an elongated balloon disposed distally on the single-lumen catheter for insertion into a cervical canal of the uterus. The balloon has opposing portions which occlude openings of the cervical canal when inflated. A fluid displacement sleeve is slidably disposed over the single-lumen catheter. The sleeve is moveable over the elongated balloon to inflate the portions of the balloon which are adjacent the opposite openings of the cervical canal when the balloon is inserted therein. Because there is no need for a balloon inflation lumen, the outer diameter of the catheter can be minimized and the cost of the apparatus is reduced.

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 device and a method for modulating urination in patients having an obstructed urinary bladder outlet, the device including: (a) a catheter having a first end, and (b) a ferromagnetic element operatively connected to the catheter, wherein the catheter is designed and configured such that when the device is disposed within the body, a magnetic force applied to the ferromagnetic element causes the first end to be wedged into the urinary tract.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a percutaneous intragastric balloon catheter for the treatment of obesity. The invention occupies a portion of the gastric cavity causing a feeling of satiety and decreasing the consumption of food by an obese patient. This invention consists in a percutaneous intragastric balloon that is placed in a non-surgically form. The percutaneous intragastric balloon catheter is collocated by percutaneous endoscopic gastrotomy (PEG). The invention comprises an affixed valve for regulating the amount of fluid introduced or evacuated from the percutaneous intragastric balloon.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus of forming hydrogel systems in situ are provided using a delivery system configured to deliver two or more fluent prepolymer solutions without premature crosslinking. The delivery system comprises separate first and second lumens coupling first and second inlet ports and first and second outlet ports, respectively, and may include a balloon, flexible distal region, mixing chamber or steerable distal end. Multi-component hydrogel systems suitable for use with the inventive methods and apparatus are also described.

Abstract: A surgical balloon for insertion into a body cavity with a major chamber having a first volume and an annexed minor chamber communicating therewith and having a second volume less than the first volume has a continuous outer wall which defines the exterior surface of the balloon on a first side and the interior hollow of the balloon on a second side. The wall is formed from a stretchable elastic material permitting the interior hollow of the balloon to accommodate a variable volume of fluid ranging from a minimum deflated volume associated with a relaxed state of the wall to a maximum inflated volume associated with a stretched state of the wall. The wall provides the balloon with an inflated shape within the cavity approximating the interior shape of the body cavity, including a first portion approximating the major chamber and a second portion approximating the minor chamber.

Abstract: A surgical balloon for insertion into a body cavity with a major chamber having a first volume and an annexed minor chamber communicating therewith and having a second volume less than the first volume has a continuous outer wall which defines the exterior surface of the balloon on a first side and the interior hollow of the balloon on a second side. The wall is formed from a stretchable elastic material permitting the interior hollow of the balloon to accommodate a variable volume of fluid ranging from a minimum deflated volume associated with a relaxed state of the wall to a maximum inflated volume associated with a stretched state of the wall. The wall has selected areas of varying expansibility attributable to varying wall thickness, heat or chemical treatment. The wall provides the balloon with an inflated shape within the cavity approximating the interior shape of the body cavity, including a first portion approximating the major chamber and a second portion approximating the minor chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus and method delivers an expandable body member into a uterine cavity of a uterus through a cervical opening and deploys the expandable body member in the uterine cavity. The expandable body member in a compressed state is inserted into the uterine cavity. A fluid is provided to the uterine cavity at a pressure sufficient to inflate the uterine cavity. The expandable body member expands from the compressed state to the expanded state. After expansion of the expandable body member and inflation of the uterine cavity, the fluid pressure is relieved thereby collapsing the uterine cavity about the expandable body member in the expanded state such that an endometrial layer of the uterus and a surface of the expandable body member substantially contact each other in a facially opposing relationship maximizing contact therebetween.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus of forming hydrogel systems in situ are provided using a delivery system configured to deliver two or more fluent prepolymer solutions without premature crosslinking. The delivery system comprises separate first and second lumens coupling first and second inlet ports and first and second outlet ports, respectively, and may include a balloon, flexible distal region, mixing chamber or steerable distal end. Multi-component hydrogel systems suitable for use with the inventive methods and apparatus are also described.

Abstract: A device and method for enlarging and supporting a body cavity are disclosed. One embodiment of the device comprises a tubular, distending balloon having first and second distending members, spaced apart from one another, wherein the distending members are inflatable. A tubular connector interconnects the first and second distending members and forms a conduit which allows for unimpeded passage of objects through the balloon. The balloon is adapted to be inserted into a body cavity in a deflated or semi-deflated state. When the distending members are inflated, an outer surface of the balloon exerts pressure on an interior surface of the body cavity, thereby supporting the body cavity in a distended state while allowing for unimpeded passage of medical instrument and biological material through the balloon.

Abstract: A one-piece cervical fitting has a passage formed therethrough which receives an elongated medical device such as an endoscope. The passage forms a fluid-tight seal with the outer surface of the medical device. The outer surface of the fitting defines a pilot portion which is of reduced outer dimension to facilitate entry of the fitting into the cervical canal of a human uterus. The pilot portion joins a tapered outer surface portion which enables the fitting to form a fluid-tight seal with uteri of different sizes. The tapered portion joins with an outer surface portion of constant outer dimension which in turn joins with an enlarged end portion.

Abstract: A uterine balloon apparatus and method for countering hemorrhaging in a patient after childbirth. The balloon apparatus is comprised of a balloon, a physiologic fluid, such as a normal saline solution and a control. A characteristic feature of the invention is that a fluid pressure inside of the balloon is maintained at a safe level by the control as a uterus contracts to resume its physiologic function. The control is comprised of a pressure relief valve, a pressure regulator valve, a fill valve and flexible tubing. Another characteristic feature of the invention is that the fluid pressure inside of the balloon is prevented from exceeding a level which would cause a premature ejection of the balloon or damage to the uterus. The balloon in an inflated state, is inserted into the uterus with the assistance of a catheter which extends part way into the interior of the balloon.

Abstract: A probe for a speculum for use in examining the interior of a body cavity. The probe comprised an elongated tubular member (1) having a first and second end and an expandable sealing element (2) encircling said tubular member at or near the first end (3). A means for admission of a fluid (50) is provided to the interior of said sealing element to effect expansion thereof. A removable closure means is adapted to engage the second end (30). A means for admission of a fluid into the bore of said tubular member is also provided (32). The closure means provides a line of sight and extending there through and along the bore of the tubular member.