Abstract:
Models, kits and methods useful in the demonstration of sialendoscopy devices and techniques are described. An exemplary demonstration apparatus comprises a support structure, an insert structure contacting the support structure, and a duct structure contacting the insert structure. The insert structure has a top surface defining a first opening and a bottom surface defining a second opening, and defines a channel with a first end in communication with the first opening and a second end in communication with the second opening. The duct structure comprises an elongate tubular member and has a first end in fluid communication with the first opening of the insert member, a second end, and defines a lumen extending from the first end to the second end. A portion of the duct structure is releasably disposed within the channel defined by the insert structure.
Abstract:
Various medical devices and methods are described herein. For example, various detachable control handle configurations for inclusion with a medical device are described. In another example, various probe configurations are described herein. Furthermore, various methods of treatment using a control handle are described.
Abstract:
Models, kits and methods useful in the demonstration of sialendoscopy devices and techniques are described. An exemplary demonstration apparatus comprises a support structure, an insert structure contacting the support structure, and a duct structure contacting the insert structure. The insert structure has a top surface defining a first opening and a bottom surface defining a second opening, and defines a channel with a first end in communication with the first opening and a second end in communication with the second opening. The duct structure comprises an elongate tubular member and has a first end in fluid communication with the first opening of the insert member, a second end, and defines a lumen extending from the first end to the second end. A portion of the duct structure is releasably disposed within the channel defined by the insert structure.
Abstract:
Medical devices are described and illustrated herein. In particular, steerable guide members and catheters useful in the identification and treatment of bodily passages are provided. Methods of identifying and treating bodily passages are also provided.
Abstract:
An intraluminal device is provided with a porous structure. The porous structure may be loaded with a bioactive substance to treat surrounding tissues after the intraluminal device has been implanted. The porous structure may be made by depositing a metal film on a foam structure using chemical vapor deposition. Porous structures may also be made by sintering or applying a ceramic layer to the intraluminal device. An intraluminal device is also provided with a ceramic material applied to generally straight portions of the device structure but not to portions adapted to bend. One advantage is that the ceramic material is less likely to fracture since it is applied to regions that experience less strain.
Abstract:
A stiffening member for providing controllably variable stiffness to a catheter. A hollow elongated tubular member is sized to be received in a lumen of the catheter. At least a length of the tubular member is configured, such as by forming a spiral cut therethrough, in a manner such that the distal portion of the tubular member has a greater flexibility than the proximal portion.
Abstract:
A removable filter for capturing thrombi in a body vessel. The filter has anti-thrombogenic, echogenic, and radiopaque features. The features of the filter provide for enhanced identifying and reduced endotheliosis in a body vessel of a patient. Generally, the anti-thrombogenic feature is preferably a fibrinolytic coating disposed on the filter to decrease the accumulation of fibrin thereon. The echogenic feature preferably is comprised of marks formed on the filter that give rise to reflections of ultrasound waves during ultrasonography. The radiopaque feature is preferably a polymeric coating, ceramic coating, or noble metal coating applied on the filter for enhanced fluoroscopy.
Abstract:
A cartridge-based delivery system is provided. The cartridge is at least partially disposed within a portion of a sheath. An intraluminal medical device is advanced from the cartridge into the lumen of the sheath. Kits can include a sheath and multiple cartridges.
Abstract:
A stent is provided which after expansion within the body remains substantially rigid for a certain time, at which point the stent becomes increasingly conformable, due to the biodegradation of the connecting members, and thereby avoids mechanical irritation to the body's tissue. Other portions of the stent structure may also biodegrade during this time. Also provided is a method of expanding such a stent.
Abstract:
A branch vessel prosthesis for use with an aorta stent graft defining a lumen and having a fenestration aligned with a branch vessel, includes an expandable stent that has a tubular portion, a flareable portion, and at least one bending portion located between the tubular and the flareable portions. Upon deployment of the branch vessel prosthesis, the flareable portion is flared by bending of the bending portion.