Internal Application Patents (Class 606/21)
  • Publication number: 20120310226
    Abstract: A cryogenic tissue ablation instrument includes an elongate flexible body with a proximal supply port for coupling with a pressurized coolant, a supply lumen in communication with the proximal supply port, and an expandable balloon carried on the elongate body. A dispersion member coupled to the elongate body has an interior lumen in communication with the supply lumen, the dispersion member having one or more coolant dispersion apertures sized and located such that a pressurized flowable coolant will enter the balloon interior in the form of a liquid spray that contacts and provides substantially uniform cooling of the balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Michael Fourkas, Steven Walak, Kurt Geitz, Kristine Tatsutani
  • Publication number: 20120289951
    Abstract: Systems and methods for cryoablation of a tissue. In at least one embodiment of a cryoablation system of the present disclosure, the cryoablation system comprises an expandable stent comprising a proximal end and a distal end, a sidewall defining a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a cryoablation chamber at the distal end, the expandable stent configured to permit blood flow therethrough, and a cryoablation device comprising at least one coolant tube at least partially positioned within the cryoablation chamber, wherein the at least one coolant tube is operable to produce a cryogenic environment sufficient to ablate at least a portion of a tissue engaged within the cryoablation chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventors: Ghassan S. Kassab, Jose A. Navia, SR.
  • Publication number: 20120289952
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for ablational treatment of regions of the digestive tract in post-bariatric surgery patients who fail to achieve or maintain the desired weight loss. Bariatric procedures include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, biliopancreatic diversion, and sleeve gastrectomy. These procedures reconstruct gastrointestinal tract features, creating pouches, stoma, and tubes that restrict and/or divert the digestive flow. Post-surgical dilation of altered structures is common and diminishes their bariatric effectiveness. Ablation of compromised structures can reduce their size and compliance, restoring bariatric effectiveness. Ablation, as provided the invention, starts at the mucosa and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner. Control may also be provided by a fractional ablation that ablates some tissue within a target region and leaves a portion substantially unaffected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group, LP
    Inventors: David S. Utley, John de Csepel
  • Patent number: 8308718
    Abstract: A cryosurgical instrument and a method for separating a tissue sample from surrounding tissue of a biological tissue that is to be treated. The cryosurgical instrument includes a probe for guiding a probe head on to a biological tissue to be treated, and gas conduits for delivering coolant gas. The probe head is designed so that, in order to collect a tissue sample, a limited region of the tissue is cooled by means of the gas delivered and is separated from the surrounding tissue in a state in which it is frozen on the probe head. The instrument includes a support tube or hose in which the probe is guided and which can be moved relative to the probe in such a way that the surrounding tissue can be counter-supported during separation of the tissue sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Erbe Elektrommedizin GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Fischer, Matthias Voigtländer, Daniel Schäller, Mara Szyrach, Irina Sigle
  • Publication number: 20120283715
    Abstract: A medical system, including a catheter body, an expandable element coupled to the catheter body; a first electrically-conductive element coupled to an interior surface of the expandable element; and a second electrically-conductive element coupled to an exterior surface of the expandable element, where the first and second electrically-conductive elements form a capacitor with the expandable element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Teresa Ann MIHALIK, David J. ZARBATANY, Kaushik A. PATEL, Alexander J. ASCONEGUY, Sitha LAY, Karmi ROBISON
  • Publication number: 20120283716
    Abstract: Described herein are various methods and devices for delivering cryoablative therapy. One such device includes a cryoablation chamber and a volume displacement chamber. In use, the volume displacement chamber can be expanded to occupy a non-therapeutic volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Robert F. Bencini
  • Publication number: 20120283714
    Abstract: A method of treating a tissue region, including deploying a plurality of sensors of a medical device into contact with the tissue region; measuring at least one of an electrical voltage, capacitance or resistance value with at least one of the plurality of sensors; generating a position indicator based at least in part on the measured value; inflating an expandable element of the medical device, and thermally affecting the tissue region with the expandable element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Teresa Ann MIHALIK, David J. Zarbatany, Kaushik A. Patel, Alexander J. Asconeguy, Sitha Lay
  • Publication number: 20120283713
    Abstract: A medical system, including a catheter body, a mesh coupled to the catheter body; an expandable element enclosing the mesh, the expandable element made from a compliant natural rubber emulsion, such as Yulex® HA; and a cryogenic coolant source in fluid communication with the expandable element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Teresa Ann Mihalik, David J. Zarbatany, Kaushik A. Patel, Alexander J. Asconeguy, Sitha Lay
  • Patent number: 8303517
    Abstract: A first trocar as an medical apparatus includes an insertion hole having a projection opening for leading out a biopsy forceps into a body of a subject, a lid body for blocking the projection opening of the insertion hole, and a cooling sheet for cryogenically cooling a biopsy portion arranged in the vicinity of the lid body in a state where the biopsy forceps is stored in the insertion hole, and is capable of easily harvesting a living tissue while retaining morphological change of tissues in a living body under various hemodynamics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignees: University of Yamanashi, Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventors: Shinichi Ohno, Koji Shimomura
  • Publication number: 20120277736
    Abstract: A method for ablation in which a portion of atrial tissue around the pulmonary veins of the heart is ablated by a first elongated ablation component and a second elongated ablation component movable relative to the first ablation component and having means for magnetically attracting the first and second components toward one another. The magnetic means draw the first and second components toward one another to compress the atrial tissue therebetween, along the length of the first and second components and thereby position the device for ablation of the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Medtronics, Inc.
    Inventor: David E. Francischelli
  • Patent number: 8298218
    Abstract: A cryogenic medical device is provided, including a catheter body defining a proximal portion and a distal portion; a expandable treatment element on the distal portion of the catheter body; a plurality of granules disposed within the expandable treatment element; an encapsulation member surrounding the plurality of granules, the encapsulating member having a plurality of selectable geometric configurations; and an actuator element coupled to the encapsulation member for the selective adjustment thereof. A method for thermally treating a selected region of tissue is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventor: Rachid Mahrouche
  • Patent number: 8298216
    Abstract: Medical devices, systems, and methods for pain management and other applications may apply cooling with at least one probe inserted through an exposed skin surface of skin. The cooling may remodel one or more target tissues so as to effect a desired change in composition of the target tissue and/or a change in its behavior, often to interfere with transmission of pain signals along sensory nerves. Alternative embodiments may interfere with the function of motor nerves, the function of contractile muscles, and/or some other tissue included in the contractile function chain so as to inhibit muscle contraction and thereby alleviate associated pain. In some embodiments, other sources of pain such as components of the spine (optionally including herniated disks) may be treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: MyoScience, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Burger, Lisa Elkins, Ronald Williams
  • Patent number: 8298217
    Abstract: An elongated catheter device with a distal balloon assembly is adapted for endovascular insertion. Coolant injected through the device may, in different embodiments, directly cool tissue contacting the balloon, or may cool a separate internal chamber. Plural balloons may be provided, wherein a secondary outer balloon surrounds a primary inner balloon, the primary balloon being filled with coolant and acting as the cooling chamber, the secondary balloon being coupled to a vacuum return lumen to serve as a robust leak containment device and thermal insulator around the cooling chamber. One or more sensors may be disposed between the balloons or the vacuum return lumen, to detect leaks and control the flow of fluid through the device. Examples of sensors include pressure and temperature sensors, optical sensors, magnetic flow switches and flow meters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventors: Miriam Lane, Marwan Abboud, Rachid Mahrouche, Teresa Ann Mihalik
  • Patent number: 8298219
    Abstract: A method of cryogenically treating a tissue region is provided, including positioning a treatment region of a medical device proximate the tissue region; transferring coolant in a substantially liquid phase from a coolant reservoir to a subcooler; transitioning the coolant from the liquid phase into a supercritical state; transferring the supercritical coolant to the treatment region; changing the coolant from the supercritical state to at least one of a liquid phase and a gaseous phase at the treatment region; ablating the tissue region; and evacuating coolant from the treatment region of the medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre LaLonde
  • Publication number: 20120271291
    Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device having an elongate body with both a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the elongate body defines an intake lumen and an exhaust lumen. The medical device also has a first pliable element defining a cooling chamber disposed at a point along the elongate body, with the cooling chamber being in fluid communication with the intake lumen and the exhaust lumen. A second pliable element is provided which at least partially encloses the first pliable element, thereby defining a junction between the first and second pliable element. A check valve is included which is in fluid communication with the junction between the first pliable element and second pliable element, the valve further being in fluid communication with the exhaust lumen. Additionally, the medical device may include sensors or other monitoring means in fluid communication with the junction and the cooling chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC CRYOCATH LP
    Inventors: Marwan ABBOUD, Rachid MAHROUCHE, Teresa Ann MIHALIK, Chadi HARMOUCHE, Jean-Luc PAGEARD, John W. LEHMANN
  • Publication number: 20120265188
    Abstract: There is provided a method of supplying cryoenergy to a plaque within a blood vessel. The method comprises expanding an expandable membrane of a catheter apparatus with a pressure of less than 5 ATM (507 kPa), the catheter apparatus having been placed in thermal contact with the plaque within the blood vessel. The method also comprises establishing a temperature of between +15° C. (288K) and ?35° C. (238K) at an interface of the expandable membrane and the blood vessel. A system and catheter apparatus are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: CRYOTHERAPEUTICS GMBH
    Inventors: Maurice Buchbinder, Randell Louis Werneth, Yiannakis Petrou Yianni, Daniel Nahon, J. Christopher Flaherty, Domenic Santoianni
  • Publication number: 20120265187
    Abstract: A method for cryogenically treating a target tissue comprises providing a cryogenic device having one or more tissue penetrating needle probes, and advancing the one or more tissue penetrating needle probes through skin disposed above the target tissue into the target tissue. The target tissue comprises a motor nerve. The method also includes cooling the target tissue with the one or more tissue penetrating needle probes, and temporarily disrupting signal conduction from the motor nerve thereby preventing contraction of a muscle operably coupled to the motor nerve. This reduces or eliminates hyperdynamic wrinkles of a patient's face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: MyoScience, Inc.
    Inventors: Francis R. Palmer, III, Michael Hsu, Kristine Tatsutani
  • Publication number: 20120265186
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a steerable, curvable catheter with one, two, or more ablation elements that can be used for various applications including vertebroplasty. The catheter can include an elongate, tubular body, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a central lumen extending therethrough; a deflectable zone on the distal end of the tubular body, deflectable through an angular range; a handle on the proximal end of the tubular body; and a deflection control on the handle; an energy delivery control on the handle; and one or more energy delivery elements on the distal end of the device for ablating tissue within bone. The energy delivery elements could be RF heating electrodes in a monopole or dipole arrangement although other energy delivery modalities are also contemplated. For example, the energy delivery elements include cryoprobes. Systems and methods involving the ablation catheter are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventors: Keith Burger, John Stalcup, Michael T. Lyster, Gerard von Hoffmann, Arvind Soni
  • Patent number: 8287526
    Abstract: A catheter includes a cryoablation tip with an electrically-driven ablation assembly for heating tissue. The cryoablation tip may be implemented with a cooling chamber through which a controllably injected coolant circulates to lower the tip temperature, and having an RF electrode at its distal end. The RF electrode may be operated to warm cryogenically-cooled tissue, or the coolant may be controlled to conductively cool the tissue in coordination with an RF treatment regimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventors: Steven G. Arless, Fredric L. Milder, Marwan Abboud, Dan Wittenberger, Sean Carroll
  • Publication number: 20120259322
    Abstract: A systems and methods for controlling temperature in a cryogenic device includes providing a device having a probe and a heater element. A distal region of the probe is engaged with the target region. Measuring and recording current temperature of a proximal region of the probe and time of the measurement is used to determine slope of a temperature curve defined by two points. The first point is defined by the current temperature and time of measurement and a second point is defined by a previous measurement of proximal region temperature and time of measurement. When the slope is less than a slope threshold value a treatment flag is activated, treatment start time is recorded and the proximal region is heated with the heater element. Heating is discontinued and the treatment flag is deactivated after elapsed treatment time exceeds a duration threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventors: Michael Fourkas, Ronald Williams, Punit Govenji, Byron Reynolds, Phillip Olsen
  • Patent number: 8282628
    Abstract: Disclosed are vertebroplasty methods that include cauterizing an inner cavity of a vertebra of a mammal, such as a human, and injecting bone cement into the vertebra. Systems and kits for performing such methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Paul, Sean Suh, Mark Weiman, Jody L. Seifert
  • Publication number: 20120253336
    Abstract: A method for cryo-induced renal neuromodulation includes applying cryoenergy to neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or to vascular structures that contact, feed or perfuse the neural fibers. In one embodiment, cryoenergy is applied via a distal energy-delivering section of a flexible catheter. The distal section may include a plurality of microtubes for transporting a cryogen to the distal tip. The energy-delivering section contacts and extracts heat from the wall of the renal artery. In one embodiment, the distal energy-delivering section is radially expandable. The renal nerve is cooled to a degree such that nerve function is disrupted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: CRYOMEDIX, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Littrup, Alexei Babkin, Barron Nydam, William Nydam
  • Publication number: 20120253337
    Abstract: A method of performing a cryotherapy procedure can include introducing a cryotherapy balloon catheter at a treatment site inside a patient's body; regulating, during a first phase of a cryotherapy procedure, flow of cryogenic fluid to and exhaust from a distal balloon portion of the cryotherapy balloon catheter to cause an initial pressure to be maintained inside the distal balloon portion that is sufficiently high to cause an outer wall of the distal balloon portion to be pressed against body tissue at the treatment site; and regulating, during a second phase of the cryotherapy procedure, flow of cryogenic fluid to and exhaust from the distal balloon portion to cause a) a temperature inside the distal balloon portion to reach a value sufficient to deliver therapeutic levels of cryotherapy to the body tissue, and b) a second-phase pressure to be maintained that is within a threshold value of the initial pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventor: JAMES R. WATSON
  • Publication number: 20120245574
    Abstract: A catheter-based medical device including controlled refrigerant dispersion is disclosed. The device includes a fluid injection tube that carries refrigerant from a coolant supply to the distal portion of the device. A fluid dispersion unit is disposed on the distal end of the fluid tube to control the angle of distribution for refrigerant that is expelled from the fluid injection tube. Controlling the angle of distribution for the refrigerant facilitates dispersion of the fluid in a predetermined spray pattern. The disclosure further relates to cryoablation treatment systems incorporating such a catheter, and to cryoablation treatment methods for tissue treatment to address various conditions suitably treatable with cryoablation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Lalonde
  • Publication number: 20120239018
    Abstract: A cryosurgical system for assisting an operator in placing and operating cryosurgical probes in the prostate of a human patient. The cryosurgical system includes a computer system being programmed with software capable of performing the following steps: a) capturing a plurality of transverse views of the prostate; b) capturing a sagittal view of the prostate; c) outlining the capsule of the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall of the patient with the assistance of the operator, utilizing the captured plurality of transverse views and the captured sagittal view; d) constructing a 3-dimensional model of the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall utilizing the outlines of step c), above; and, e) utilizing the 3-dimensional model of the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall to determine i) the number of cryosurgical probes to be utilized; ii) probe settings; and, iii) probe placement positions. The resultant ice thus produced by the cryosurgical probes is optimized for a specific patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: ENDOCARE, INC.
    Inventors: SHENGHAO BAO, JAY J. EUM
  • Publication number: 20120232541
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal pulmonary veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's pulmonary veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120226269
    Abstract: The invention provides surgical systems and methods for ablating heart tissue within the interior and/or exterior of the heart. A plurality of probes is provided with each probe configured for introduction into the chest for engaging the heart. Each probe includes an elongated shaft having an elongated ablating surface of a predetermined shape. The elongated shaft and the elongated ablating surface of each probe are configured to ablate a portion of the heart. A sealing device affixed to the heart tissue forms a hemostatic seal between the probe and the penetration in the heart to inhibit blood loss therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: James L. COX, Stephen W. BOYD, Hanson S. GIFFORD, III, Matthias VASKA
  • Patent number: 8257348
    Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for altering the tissue in and around an intervertebral disc through localized hypothermia therapy to restore function of the disc and reduce pain. Hypothermia therapy is defined as the reduction of tissue temperature to below that of the equilibrium temperature. Target therapeutic temperatures and times are varied according to the desired treatment effect. Intended effects of hypothermia of the intervertebral disc include cellular disruption leading to cell death and or structural and chemical denaturation within the anulus fibrosus, nucleus pulposus, or nerve fibers, temporary or permanent deadening of the nerves within or surrounding the disc, induction of a healing response, angiogenesis, or accelerated degeneration and/or drying of the nucleus pulposus and/or anulus fibrosus. Various effects can be achieved by reaching different temperatures for differing periods of time or by the proximity of the hypothermia therapy device to the treatment target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Allen Carl
  • Patent number: 8251992
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for ablational treatment of regions of the digestive tract in post-bariatric surgery patients who fail to achieve or maintain the desired weight loss. Bariatric procedures include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, biliopancreatic diversion, and sleeve gastrectomy. These procedures reconstruct gastrointestinal tract features, creating pouches, stoma, and tubes that restrict and/or divert the digestive flow. Post-surgical dilation of altered structures is common and diminishes their bariatric effectiveness. Ablation of compromised structures can reduce their size and compliance, restoring bariatric effectiveness. Ablation, as provided the invention, starts at the mucosa and penetrates deeper into the gastrointestinal wall in a controlled manner. Control may also be provided by a fractional ablation that ablates some tissue within a target region and leaves a portion substantially unaffected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: David S. Utley, John de Csepel
  • Patent number: 8235976
    Abstract: Devices and methods for cold-treating lesions within the body. A temperature monitoring device for use with a cryo therapy apparatus may include a cryo therapy apparatus, one or more tubular members coupled to the cryo therapy apparatus, and a temperature monitoring member coupled to the tubular member. The temperature monitoring member may comprise a retractable needle, an infrared sensor, an ultrasound transmitter, or a stent having a plurality of spikes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel M. Lafontaine
  • Publication number: 20120197245
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the treatment of a body cavity or lumen are described where a heated fluid and/or gas may be introduced through a catheter and into treatment area within the body contained between one or more inflatable/expandable members. The catheter may also have optional pressure and temperature sensing elements which may allow for control of the pressure and temperature within the treatment zone and also prevent the pressure from exceeding a pressure of the inflatable/expandable members to thereby contain the treatment area between these inflatable/expandable members. Optionally, a chilled, room temperature, or warmed fluid such as water may then be used to rapidly terminate the treatment session.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: Channel Medsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Rogers BURNETT, Brian Michael NEIL, William Walter MALECKI, Kathleen Marie KOCH, Gregory Jin-keng LEE
  • Publication number: 20120197243
    Abstract: A method of assessing a tissue ablation treatment, including positioning a medical device adjacent a target tissue; measuring a first impedance magnitude a first frequency with the medical device; measuring a first impedance phase at a second frequency with the medical device; ablating at least a portion of the target tissue with the medical device; measuring at second impedance magnitude at a third frequency with the medical device; measuring a second impedance phase at a fourth frequency with the medical device; comparing at least one of (i) the first and second impedance magnitudes and (ii) the first and second impedance phases; and providing an indication of the efficacy of the ablation treatment based at least in part on the comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: Marshall L. SHERMAN, Catherine R. CONDIE, Mark T. STEWART
  • Publication number: 20120197244
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods for treating, inhibiting, reducing the size of or preventing enlargement of, aneurysms in a subject by delivering thermal or cryo energy to the vasculature of the subject at or near the site of an existing or potential aneurysm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
    Inventors: Robert J. Siegel, Michael Shehata
  • Publication number: 20120191079
    Abstract: A system for conducting a denervation of the neural plexus adjacent the renal artery of a patient comprises a first elongate member operatively coupled to a testing element, a second elongate member having a distal portion coupled to an ablative element, and a controller configured to: activate an ablative element to selectively denervate a portion of the neural plexus which is positioned adjacent the ablative element; monitor a level of a compound in blood sampled from the testing element of the first elongate member; and modulate the activation of the ablative element based at least in part upon the level of renin monitored using the testing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Hansen Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederic H. MOLL, Farzad Soleimani, David C. Lundmark
  • Publication number: 20120191080
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided, including regulating the generation and formation of ice and active warming of an instrument applied to the tissue of a patient. The method may include measuring a parameter from a sensor disposed on the instrument. The forming of ice and active warming of the instrument may be via a thermal source in fluid communication with the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: H. Toby Markowitz
  • Publication number: 20120191081
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided, including regulating the generation and formation of ice and active warming of an instrument applied to the tissue of a patient. The method may include measuring a parameter from a sensor disposed on the instrument. The forming of ice and active warming of the instrument may be via a thermal source in fluid communication with the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: H. Toby Markowitz
  • Publication number: 20120191082
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided, including regulating the generation and formation of ice on an elongate body applied to the tissue of a patient. The method may include measuring a parameter from a sensor disposed on the instrument. The forming of ice and active warming of the instrument may be via a thermal source in fluid communication with the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: H. Toby Markowitz
  • Patent number: 8225643
    Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device having an elongate body with both a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the elongate body defines an intake lumen and an exhaust lumen. The medical device also has a first pliable element defining a cooling chamber disposed at a point along the elongate body, with the cooling chamber being in fluid communication with the intake lumen and the exhaust lumen. A second pliable element is provided which at least partially encloses the first pliable element, thereby defining a junction between the first and second pliable element. Moreover, a check valve is included which is in fluid communication with the junction between the first pliable element and second pliable element, the valve further being in fluid communication with the exhaust lumen. In addition, the medical device may include sensors or other monitoring means in fluid communication with the junction and the cooling chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventors: Marwan Abboud, Rachid Mahrouche, Teresa Ann Mihalik, Chadi Harmouche, Jean-Luc Pageard, John W. Lehmann
  • Patent number: 8221401
    Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus. The method includes the steps of inserting an access tool through a cervix and a cervical canal into the uterus; actively cooling the cervical canal; delivering vapor through the access tool lumen into the uterus; and condensing the vapor on tissue within the uterus. The system has an access tool with a lumen, the access tool being adapted to be inserted through a human cervical canal to place an opening of the lumen within a uterus when the access tool is inserted through the cervical canal; an active cooling mechanism adapted to cool the cervical canal, the active cooling mechanism having a coolant source; and a vapor delivery mechanism adapted to deliver condensable vapor through the access tool to the uterus, the condensable vapor being adapted to condense within the uterus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Aegea Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Hugh R. Sharkey, Ramiro Reyes, Kurt D. Sparks
  • Patent number: 8216153
    Abstract: A cryosurgical instrument for separating a tissue sample from a biological tissue to be treated, for purposes of biopsy. The cryosurgical instrument includes a probe for bringing a probe head up to the biological tissue and a gas line for supplying cooling gas from a gas source of a cryosurgical apparatus to the probe head. The probe head cools a limited tissue region, by means of the supplied gas, for obtaining a tissue sample. The tissue sample can be separated from the surrounding tissue when frozen onto the probe head. The instrument has a support tube in which the probe is guided and which can be moved relative to the probe in such a way that the surrounding tissue can be supported by means of the support tube during the separating of the tissue sample. The instrument also includes an accelerating device that provides a predefined force for the separating process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: ERBE Elektromedizin GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Fischer, Mara Szyrach, Daniel Schäller, Matthias Voigtländer, Irina Sigle
  • Publication number: 20120165803
    Abstract: In some implementations, a method of ablating body tissue includes (a) locating an inflatable balloon portion of a cryotherapy balloon catheter at a treatment site internal to a patient's body, and inflating the inflatable balloon portion; (b) employing electrodes that are disposed on an expandable surface of the inflatable balloon portion to electrically characterize body tissue at the treatment site; (c) ablating the body tissue by supplying a cryotherapy agent to the inflatable balloon portion to cool the body tissue to a therapeutic temperature; (d) employing the electrodes to determine whether the ablating caused desired electrical changes in the body tissue; and (e) repeating (c) and (d) when it is determined that the ablating did not cause the desired electrical changes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: BOB BENCINI, FRANK INGLE, JOE KOBLISH, REBECCA TIN, JIM MAZZONE, BYRON CHUN, DAVID LAWRENCE
  • Publication number: 20120165802
    Abstract: A medical device comprising a shaft having a kink radius; a tube disposed within the shaft; a fluid source in fluid communication with the tube; an elongate member disposed within the tube, and the elongate member imparting a kink radius on the tube, the imparted kink radius of the tube being larger than the kink radius of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC CRYOCATH LP
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre LALONDE
  • Patent number: 8206332
    Abstract: A catheter is adapted to exchange heat with a body fluid, such as blood, flowing in a body conduit, such as a blood vessel. The catheter includes a shaft with a heat exchange region disposed at its distal end. This region may include hollow fibers which are adapted to receive a remotely cooled heat exchange fluid preferably flowing in a direction counter to that of the body fluid. The hollow fibers enhance the surface area of contact, as well as the mixing of both the heat exchange fluid and the body fluid. The catheter can be positioned to produce hypothermia in a selective area of the body or alternatively positioned to systemically cool the entire body system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignees: Zoll Circulation Inc., The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Wayne A. Noda, Mike L. Jones, Scott M. Evans, Blair D. Walker, William J. Worthen, Yves Pierre Gobin
  • Patent number: 8197470
    Abstract: A method and system of providing therapy to a patient's uterus. The method include the following steps: inserting an access tool through a cervix and a cervical canal into the uterus; after inserting the access tool into the uterus, inserting a vapor delivery tool through an access tool lumen; delivering vapor through the vapor delivery tool into the uterus; and condensing the vapor on tissue within the uterus. The system has an access tool, the access tool being adapted to be inserted through a human cervical canal to place an opening of the access tool lumen within a uterus when the access tool is inserted through the cervical canal; and a vapor delivery mechanism, the vapor delivery mechanism having a vapor delivery tool and a vapor source, the vapor delivery tool being adapted to be inserted through the access tool to deliver condensable vapor from the vapor source to the uterus, the condensable vapor being adapted to condense within the uterus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Aegea Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Hugh R. Sharkey, Ramiro Reyes, Kurt D. Sparks
  • Publication number: 20120143097
    Abstract: A method for the treatment of a patient for the purpose of lowering blood pressure and/or treating cardiac arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation includes the insertion of an ablation catheter into the lumen of a renal artery. The ablation catheter is equipped with an electrode that can stimulate the wall tissue in the renal artery to help identify the location of a renal nerve. High-frequency stimulation of the renal nerve causes a decrease in the blood pressure of the patient thereby indicating that a renal nerve is nearby. The ablation catheter is used to ablate the renal nerve using radiofrequency, ultrasound, microwave energy or cryogenic cooling. An irrigated ablation catheter may be used to decrease damage to cells in the wall of the lumen of the renal artery other than the renal nerve, such as the endothelial cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Robert W. Pike, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120143131
    Abstract: Methods and devices for bonding a balloon assembly, such as a balloon assembly including an inner balloon and an outer balloon, to a catheter shaft are disclosed. In some cases, a proximal waist of the inner balloon may be bonded to an interior surface of an outer tubular member of the catheter shaft and a proximal waist of the outer balloon may be bonded to an exterior surface of the outer tubular member. In other cases, the proximal waist of the inner balloon may be bonded to a reduced diameter portion of the outer tubular member of the catheter shaft and the proximal waist of the outer balloon may be bonded to the outer tubular member, such as a non-reduced outer diameter portion of the outer tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: ZAYA TUN, RAJ SUBRAMANIAM, JUDY DEL ROSARIO, LORNA FOSSE, DESMOND CHEUNG
  • Publication number: 20120143177
    Abstract: A plurality of catheter-based ablation apparatus embodiments are provided that address several areas of atrial target tissue and which feature firm and consistent ablation element to tissue contact enabling the creation of effective continuous lesions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Boaz Avitall
  • Publication number: 20120136343
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the treatment of a body cavity or lumen are described where a heated fluid and/or gas may be introduced through a catheter and into treatment area within the body contained between one or more inflatable/expandable members. The catheter may also have optional pressure sensing elements which may allow for control of the pressure within the treatment zone and also prevent the pressure from exceeding a pressure of the inflatable/expandable members to thereby contain the treatment area between these inflatable/expandable members. Optionally, a chilled or room temperature fluid such as water may then be used to rapidly terminate the treatment session.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: Channel Medsystems, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Rogers BURNETT
  • Patent number: 8187261
    Abstract: A method of performing a cryotherapy procedure can include introducing a cryotherapy balloon catheter at a treatment site inside a patient's body; regulating, during a first phase of a cryotherapy procedure, flow of cryogenic fluid to and exhaust from a distal balloon portion of the cryotherapy balloon catheter to cause an initial pressure to be maintained inside the distal balloon portion that is sufficiently high to cause an outer wall of the distal balloon portion to be pressed against body tissue at the treatment site; and regulating, during a second phase of the cryotherapy procedure, flow of cryogenic fluid to and exhaust from the distal balloon portion to cause a) a temperature inside the distal balloon portion to reach a value sufficient to deliver therapeutic levels of cryotherapy to the body tissue, and b) a second-phase pressure to be maintained that is within a threshold value of the initial pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Watson
  • Publication number: 20120130359
    Abstract: Neuromodulation cryotherapeutic devices and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A cryotherapeutic device configured in accordance with a particular embodiment of the present technology can include an elongated shaft having distal portion and a supply lumen along at least a portion of the shaft. The shaft can be configured to locate the distal portion intravascularly at a treatment site proximate a renal artery or renal ostium. The supply lumen can be configured to receive a liquid refrigerant. The cryotherapeutic device can further include a cooling assembly at the distal portion of the shaft. The cooling assembly can include an applicator in fluid communication with the supply lumen and configured to deliver cryotherapeutic cooling to nerves proximate the target site when the cooling assembly is in a deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventor: Roman Turovskiy