Abstract:
An orifice device for delivering one or more drugs includes an inner member having a proximal end and a distal end; and a winding helically wound around the inner member. The winding includes a plurality of distinct wires helically wound in parallel around the inner member. The winding and the inner member define at least three separate channels for carrying one or more drugs therethrough. An inlet is at the proximal end of the winding and an outlet is at the distal end of the winding for the plurality of distinct wires. In some embodiments, at least two of the plurality of distinct wires have a different dimension. An outer member is used over the winding. Also, at least two of the at least three separate channels have a different fluid flow rate. And, in some embodiments, at least two of the at least three separate channels carry a different drug.
Abstract:
A bone anchoring device includes a shaft for anchoring in a bone and a head, the shaft including a first section having a plurality of barb elements, the barb elements being elastically deformable relative to the body of the shaft, and a second section including a bone thread for engagement with the bone. The first section is located near the tip of the shaft and allows insertion by pushing whereas the second section provides enhanced resistance against pull-out.
Abstract:
A bone anchoring device includes a shaft for anchoring in a bone and a head, the shaft including a first section having a plurality of barb elements, the barb elements being elastically deformable relative to the body of the shaft, and a second section including a bone thread for engagement with the bone. The first section is located near the tip of the shaft and allows insertion by pushing whereas the second section provides enhanced resistance against pull-out.
Abstract:
The invention provides methods and devices for creating a localized pleurodesis between the thoracic wall and the lung such that a ventilation bypass conduit may be introduced into the lung through the thoracic wall and visceral membrane without causing a pneumothorax. A catheter or implantable device delivers the pleurodesis agent to the pleural cavity.
Abstract:
The invention provides methods and devices for creating a localized pleurodesis between the thoracic wall and the lung such that a ventilation bypass conduit may be introduced into the lung through the thoracic wall and visceral membrane without causing a pneumothorax. A medical device such as a catheter is used to enter the pleural cavity and deliver a pleurodesis agent to a localized area between the visceral and parietal membranes.
Abstract:
A mechanical device and/or chemical process is utilized to maintain luminal patency in conduits or other devices implanted in the lung or lungs of a patient. The mechanical device and/or chemical process ensures that air flows freely through a conduit implanted through an anastomosis into a lung. The device is suitable for use in conjunction with ventilation bypass treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Abstract:
An applicator for intravaginal devices includes an elongate handle, an insertion sleeve, and an intravaginal device support member. The elongate handle has an open first end that defines a cavity extending into the handle. The insertion sleeve extends from the open first end of the handle; it is arranged and configured to slide into the cavity of the handle and to accommodate an intravaginal device; and it has associated therewith a trigger. The intravaginal device support member is disposed in the cavity of the handle; it is operatively connected to the handle; and it has a bearing surface disposed proximate the open first end of the handle. The applicators are useful to ensure that intravaginal devices are placed in the appropriate position to be effective.
Abstract:
An implantable device for delivering a drug includes a housing and a source of drug contained within the housing. An orifice mechanism is located at the housing and communicates with the source of drug. The orifice mechanism includes an inner member having a proximal end and a distal end and a winding helically wound around the inner member. The winding and the inner member define a first channel for carrying the drug therethrough. An inlet is at the proximal end of the winding and an outlet is at the distal end of the winding. The drug is carried by the orifice mechanism and dispensed outside of the housing.
Abstract:
A bone anchoring device includes a shaft for anchoring in a bone and a head, the shaft including a first section having a plurality of barb elements, the barb elements being elastically deformable relative to the body of the shaft, and a second section including a bone thread for engagement with the bone. The first section is located near the tip of the shaft and allows insertion by pushing whereas the second section provides enhanced resistance against pull-out.
Abstract:
A ventilation bypass system which alleviates symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by allowing air to exit the lung of a patient through the thoracic wall bypassing the natural airways. A pleurodesis is formed between the visceral and parietal membranes surrounding a lung and an opening is made through the thoracic wall into the lung via the pleurodesis. The ventilation bypass system includes a conduit placed through the opening in the thoracic wall into the lung, a flange for securing the conduit to the thoracic wall and preventing over-insertion of the conduit, and a flow control device for controlling flow of material out of the lung.