USRE36176E - Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof - Google Patents

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof Download PDF

Info

Publication number
USRE36176E
USRE36176E US08/927,494 US92749497A USRE36176E US RE36176 E USRE36176 E US RE36176E US 92749497 A US92749497 A US 92749497A US RE36176 E USRE36176 E US RE36176E
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
band
stomach
recess
securing
gastric
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US08/927,494
Inventor
Lubomyr I. Kuzmak
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ethicon Endo Surgery Inc
Original Assignee
Kuzmak; Lubomyr I.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=26692092&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=USRE36176(E) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Kuzmak; Lubomyr I. filed Critical Kuzmak; Lubomyr I.
Priority to US08/927,494 priority Critical patent/USRE36176E/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of USRE36176E publication Critical patent/USRE36176E/en
Assigned to ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC. reassignment ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KUZMAK, LUBOMYR I
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/0003Apparatus for the treatment of obesity; Anti-eating devices
    • A61F5/0013Implantable devices or invasive measures
    • A61F5/005Gastric bands
    • A61F5/0066Closing devices for gastric bands
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/12Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for ligaturing or otherwise compressing tubular parts of the body, e.g. blood vessels, umbilical cord
    • A61B17/12009Implements for ligaturing other than by clamps or clips, e.g. using a loop with a slip knot
    • A61B17/12013Implements for ligaturing other than by clamps or clips, e.g. using a loop with a slip knot for use in minimally invasive surgery, e.g. endoscopic surgery
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/0003Apparatus for the treatment of obesity; Anti-eating devices
    • A61F5/0013Implantable devices or invasive measures
    • A61F5/005Gastric bands
    • A61F5/0053Gastric bands remotely adjustable
    • A61F5/0056Gastric bands remotely adjustable using injection ports
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61BDIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets
    • A61B17/12Surgical instruments, devices or methods, e.g. tourniquets for ligaturing or otherwise compressing tubular parts of the body, e.g. blood vessels, umbilical cord
    • A61B17/132Tourniquets
    • A61B17/135Tourniquets inflatable

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for the treatment of morbid obesity, and, in particular, relates to gastric banding devices which encircle a portion of the stomach to form a stoma opening of reduced diameter so as to restrict food intake.
  • a laparoscopic gastric band and a method for using such a band is disclosed in U.S. Ser. No 07/719,123, filed Jun. 20, 1991, in the name of Lubomyr I. Kuzmak. Reference is also made to Lubomyr I. Kuzmak, "Stoma Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding," Problems in General Surgery, Volume 9, No 2, J. B. Lippincott Co., April/June 1992.
  • the devices disclosed in the Kuzmak and Kuzmak et al patents and patent application referred to above have proven to be successful in practice, some potential disadvantages remain.
  • the belt-like band construction of the devices wherein one end of the band fits through a buckle at the other end can be difficult to tighten, and bulges are created at the ends of the inflated or expanded section (caused by the fact that the expanded section only partially extends around the circumference of the band), thereby resulting in localized compression of the stomach wall.
  • the parts of the band must be sutured together when the band is placed at a desired position around the stomach and this suturing can be difficult to carry out.
  • a gastric banding device for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach and which is particularly adapted for use in, but not limited to, laparoscopic implantation and removal of the device.
  • the device comprises: an elongate band member including a band portion for, in use, encircling a stomach to form a stoma opening in the stomach, the band member including a free end; an expandable section secured to the band portion of the band member for varying the size of the stoma opening; a securing member located near the free end of the band member and protruding outwardly therefrom; a recess, formed in an intermediate portion of the band member segment having a thickness greater than the thickness of the remainder of the band member, for receiving the securing member therein; and means for retaining the securing member in the recess so that the band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around the stoma opening.
  • the retaining means comprises a moveable threaded bolt, and in a preferred embodiment, the securing member includes a threaded hole therein in which the bolt is received.
  • the bolt preferably comprises a distal part of an elongate control element located within the band member and extending longitudinally thereof.
  • the control element includes a proximal end which extends beyond the band member for allowing remotely controlled release of the securing member from the recess by movement of the bolt.
  • the device further includes a guiding plate, located within the band member of on one side of the recess, for guiding the movement of the bolt, and a holding plate located within the band member on the other side of the recess, for retaining the free end of the bolt.
  • the expandable section preferably comprises an expandable member corresponding to that discussed above, i.e., one extending around substantially the entire circumference of the band portion, i.e., the portion that, in use encircles the stomach wall.
  • a remotely disposed fluid injection unit is preferably provided which is in fluid connection with the expandable section through the band member such that the size of the stomach opening can be altered by adding or withdrawing fluid to cause expansion and retraction of the expandable section.
  • a barrier means for preventing tissue from growing around the securing member.
  • the barrier means preferably comprises a soft sponge-like silicone barrier element.
  • a thin loop is formed around the securing member for ensuring a secure fit between the securing member and the recess.
  • a method for removing a band encircling a stomach which forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter by employing a securing means to retain a locking element projecting from said band at a location near the distal end of said band into a recess formed at an intermediate location along said band, the method comprising the steps of: completely removing the securing means through a small incision, thus also releasing the locking element from the recess; and laparoscopically removing the band.
  • the further step of removing an injection port in communication with the expandable section through the small incision prior to the laparoscopically removing step is also performed.
  • a method for laparoscopically implanting a gastric band device including an encircling band portion which, in use, encircles a stomach so as to form a restricted stoma opening for limiting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, the gastric band device including an expandable section secured to the encircling band portion for varying the size of the stomach opening, an elongate band port incorporating a remotely operable securing means for, when the device is implanted, retaining a locking element projecting from the gastric band device at a location near the distal end of the encircling band portion in a locking position wherein the locking element is received in a recess formed at an intermediate location along the gastric banding device so that, when the band is implanted, the encircling band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around the stoma opening, and expansion control means, communicating with the expandable section through a channel formed in the elongate band portion
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the modified laparoscopic SASGB device of the present invention as placed in position around a stomach;
  • FIG. 2(a) is a side view of the SASGB device constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing the device in an extended rest state.
  • FIG. 2(b) is a cross sectional view of a detail of FIG. 2(a) showing the locking recess or slot;
  • FIG. 3(a) is a top plan view of the device of FIG. 2(a);
  • FIG. 3(b) is a side view of the locking element of the device of FIG. 2(a);
  • FIG. 4 is a side view of the device of FIG. 2(a) with the band locked in place to form a circle or loop;
  • FIG. 5(a) is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 2(a) with the band unlocked;
  • FIG. 5(b) is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 2(a) with the band unlocked and the locking bolt and associated control member completely remove.
  • a SASGB device generally denoted 10, is shown in place around a stomach S. More particularly, the device 10 comprises a band 12 which includes a loop or encircling portion (which is not fully visible in FIG. 1) that, in use, fully encircles the stomach S so as to form stoma opening at the loop portion, thereby restricting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach S.
  • a channel 14 allows fluid to be transmitted to or removed from an expandable section or portion of the device 10 which is not visible in FIG. 1, while a further channel 16 contains an elongate control member 18 for a securing or locking mechanism for encircling loop.
  • the SASGB device 10 of FIG. 1 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 2 to 5.
  • the band locking device referred to above includes an outwardly projecting securing or locking member 20 located towards the tip or free (distal) end of the band 12 and a recess or slot 22 in which locking member 20 is received, as described hereinafter.
  • the abovementioned expandable or inflatable section of the band 12 is denoted 24, and extends along the entire band portion 12a which, in use, encircles the stomach, as is perhaps best seen in FIG. 4.
  • the channel 14 itself forms a passage, or accommodates a separate tube 26, which connects the expandable or inflatable section 24 of the band 12 with an injection unit 28 for injecting or removing solution in order to adjust the size of the stoma opening.
  • This solution is a physiologically compatible fluid, such as saline.
  • the recess or slot 22 located in an intermediate band portion 12b is shaped to accommodate locking member or element 20 therein when the distal end of band 12 is formed into a loop as shown in FIG. 4.
  • the locking element 20 has a hole 20a therein through which screw threaded locking bolt 30 formed at the end of the control member 18 introduced through channel 16 (and best seen in FIG. 4) is inserted, thus securing the locking member 20 in the recess or slot 22.
  • a first, holding or retaining plate 32 having an opening 32a therein is provided near the free or distal end of channel 16 adjacent to recess 22 to hold the tip of the threaded screw bolt 30.
  • Plate 32 is bonded into the band 12.
  • the opening 32a in the plate 32 is sized to fit or match the shape of the tip of the screw bolt 30 and is not threaded.
  • a second, guiding plate 34 has an opening 34a therein the diameter of which equals the diameter of the bolt 30 without the screw thread.
  • Plate 34 is bonded into band 12 on the other side of the slot 22.
  • the band thickness of the receiving segment or portion of the band 12b is greater than the thickness of the remainder of the band. This increased thickness is necessary in order to accommodate the thickness of the locking element or projection 20 formed near the distal end of the band, while still allowing channel 14 to reach the inflatable portion 24.
  • the band locking element 20 and the band 12 itself are preferably made of silicone and, as described above, the former has an opening 20a with a screw type thread for locking the band 12 in place around the stomach.
  • the proximal edge of the band locking element 20 is preferably 11/2 centimeters from the tip or free end of the band.
  • the band locking element 20 is preferably of the truncated polygonal shape shown in the drawings and has a height of 4 millimeters and a length at its base of 6 millimeters.
  • the inflatable section or part 24 is preferably reinforced and in the exemplary embodiment under consideration, the section 24 is 8 centimeters in length.
  • Reinforcement of the sides of the inflatable part 24 is important in order to eliminate side bulging and to increase the circular inflation which is important in providing stoma calibration.
  • the silicone covering the band 12 may be used for reinforcement.
  • the tube 26 located within channel 14 is also preferably made of silicone.
  • the retaining plate 32 and the guiding plate 34 are preferably made of silicone and are located 11/2 centimeters from the recess or slot 22 on opposite sides thereof.
  • Bolt 30 is advantageously made of silicone or plastic as is control element 18.
  • the band 12 is, as stated, preferably made of silicone and is wider than previously used bands, advantageously 13 mm.
  • the band thickness of the portion of the band 12a covered by the inflatable section 24, i.e., that which encircles the stomach, is similar in thickness to previous bands, preferably 2 mm.
  • the band thickness of the receiving segment is preferably between 4 to 6 mm.
  • the band thickness of the elongate band portion 12c is preferably between 2 to 4 mm, and is roughly one-half to two-thirds of the thickness of the receiving segment.
  • the front part of the band 12, i.e., band portions 12a and 12b, indicated by bracket 36, is preferably reinforced with a mesh of Dacron polyethylene terephthalate.
  • the remaining elongate band portion 12c is preferably not reinforced so that it is soft and flexible.
  • a thin loop of silicone is bonded around the projecting barrier or locking element 20.
  • a soft sponge-like silicone guard portion is advantageously placed around the projecting locking element 20 in order to prevent the capsule tissue, i.e., tissue forming a capsule around the band, from growing into that space.
  • capsule tissue may cause some limited resistance when the band is removed without major surgery.
  • Linear markings may be placed on both parts of the band 12 that are joined together as shown in FIGS.
  • FIG. 4 shows the device in the fully locked position with the bolt 30 fury extended through the projection locking element 20 and into the holding or retaining plate 32.
  • the diameter of the "locked" band i.e., the band in the closed position shown in FIG. 4, is preferably 4 cm, although a diameter between about 4 to 6 cm could be acceptable.
  • the band device 10 is particularly adapted to be laparoscopically implanted.
  • the device disclosed in application Ser. No. 08/019,302 filed on Feb. 18, 1993 can also be laparoscopy implanted and, in this regard, is not limited to any particular method of implantation
  • the differences between the device of the present application and that of the earlier application, and more specifically, the increased flexibility and the thinner, more streamlined shape of the gastric band device of the invention facilitate laparoscopic implantation thereof.
  • the laparoscopic procedure used to implant the device is that disclosed in Ser. No. 07/179,123, filed on Jun. 20, 1991, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. In fact, the only differences in the procedure flow from the differences in the two band devices.
  • the band 12 of the invention would be placed around the stomach in the same general way after using an endoscope introduced into a cannula to dissect tissue surrounding the stomach so as to provide a path for the gastric band 12.
  • the remotely controlled movement of the control member 10 would be used to provide locking of the locking mechanism (comprising locking element or projection 20 and slot or recess 22), thus fixing band 12 in place in an encircling relation around the stomach.
  • the injection unit 28, located at the end of the band 12 would be implanted in the abdominal wall muscles, as in the prior application, and the overall laparoscopic procedure would likewise be similar.
  • the living body in which the device of the invention is inserted creates a thin capsule around the implanted silicone band 12 that is not adhered to the band 12.
  • the site of the injection unit implantation i.e., the site at which unit 28 is disposed within the abdominal wall muscles
  • the proximal end of the band 12 is exposed as well.
  • the band locking mechanism comprising locking element 20 and slot or recess 22
  • the control member 18 and the locking bolt 30, which are stiff and difficult to cut relative to elongate band portion 12c, are removed sufficiently from the band 12, as shown in FIG. 5(a), so that the elongate portion 12c, i.e., the portion not containing the recess 22 or the expandable section 24, may be easily cut close to recess 22, without cutting the control member 18.
  • portion 12b containing the recess 22 and portion 12a containing the expandable section 24 can then be removed laparoscopically at the site of the these portions of the band 12, i.e. at the stoma opening.
  • the SASGB of the present invention can also be removed by completely removing the control member 18 from within the band 12 and by removing the injection port 28 through a small superficial incision. With these components removed, the entire SASGB, including the relatively thin elongate portion 12c, is then removed laparoscopically at the site of the stoma.
  • One advantage of removing the band or a part thereof at the stoma is that the surgeon may wish to gain access to this area in any event in order to remove suturing at the stoma.
  • the band device 10 of the present invention is more effective than the prior art in uniformly controlling the size of stoma opening and, among other advantages, is less invasive to the stomach wall because of the use of the inflatable part 24 which covers the entire portion of band 12a that encircles the stomach.
  • the use of the thinner elongate portion 12 also helps to relieve the discomfort felt by some patients when the elongate portion 12C is of a greater thickness.

Abstract

An adjustable gastric banding device for regulating the size of a stoma opening in the stomach of a patient includes an elongate band portion that encircles the stomach to as to limit the food intake by the digestive potion of the stomach. The device can be readily implanted and removed using laparoscopic procedures. A locking element protruding from a location near the distal end of the encircling band portion is inserted into a slot formed in a receiving segment at an intermediate location along the encircling band portion so as to form a circle or loop of fixed diameter. The receiving segment has a thickness which is greater than the thickness of the encircling band portion and of the rear portion of the band. A moveable bolt secures the locking element in the slot. The bolt can be displaced remotely, thus releasing the locking element and allowing easy laparoscopic removal of the banding device. The entire circumference of the stomach encircling band portion is covered by an expandable section in contact with the surface of the stomach. The size of the stoma opening can be adjusted by injecting into or removing fluid from the expandable section.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation-in-part of my application Ser. No. 08/019,302, filed on Feb. 18, 1993, .Iadd.now abandoned, .Iaddend.entitled "Adjustable Gastric Banding Device."
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a device for the treatment of morbid obesity, and, in particular, relates to gastric banding devices which encircle a portion of the stomach to form a stoma opening of reduced diameter so as to restrict food intake.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
In the previously known stoma adjustable silicone gastric banding (SASGB), disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,592,339 (Kuzmak et al.), which is hereby incorporated by reference, an inflatable or expandable section of a gastric band covers a portion of the circle defined by the band. The expandable section of the device permits some adjustment of the size of the stoma opening both intraoperatively and postoperatively. This device is simple in construction and enables the desired diameter of the stoma opening to be maintained U.S. Pat. No. 4,696,288 (Kuzmak et al.), which is also hereby incorporated by reference discloses a calibrating apparatus which facilitates controlling the size of the stoma with a gastric band.
Even with the ability to adjust the stoma size, it may still be desirable in given situations, e.g., obstruction of the stoma from edema and migration of the band to remove the band entirely when deflation is insufficient to relieve the condition. A scheme for enabling gastric bands to be removed is discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,074,868 (Kuzmak), which is hereby incorporated by reference. When a remotely situated pull cord is retracted, a suture cutting blade severs sutures securing overlapping portions of the band which encircle the stomach. Another removable gastric band device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,160,338 (Vincent).
A laparoscopic gastric band and a method for using such a band is disclosed in U.S. Ser. No 07/719,123, filed Jun. 20, 1991, in the name of Lubomyr I. Kuzmak. Reference is also made to Lubomyr I. Kuzmak, "Stoma Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding," Problems in General Surgery, Volume 9, No 2, J. B. Lippincott Co., April/June 1992.
Although the devices disclosed in the Kuzmak and Kuzmak et al patents and patent application referred to above have proven to be successful in practice, some potential disadvantages remain. For example, the belt-like band construction of the devices wherein one end of the band fits through a buckle at the other end can be difficult to tighten, and bulges are created at the ends of the inflated or expanded section (caused by the fact that the expanded section only partially extends around the circumference of the band), thereby resulting in localized compression of the stomach wall. Further, the parts of the band must be sutured together when the band is placed at a desired position around the stomach and this suturing can be difficult to carry out.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to provide a laparoscopic SASGB which is more effective in providing uniform modification of the stoma size, is less invasive to the stomach wall, and is also easily reversible.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a laparoscopic gastric band positioned around the stomach which includes a locking element secured by a remotely removable device which eliminates or substantially reduces the discomfort caused to some patients by related devices.
It is another object of the present invention to eliminate bulging associated with SASGB devices of the prior art and thus eliminate localized compression of the stomach wall.
It is a further object of the present invention to eliminate the need for suturing of the band together in order to secure the band at a desired position around the stomach.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a SASGB having an increased range of stoma adjustment.
In accordance with a one aspect of the invention, a gastric banding device is provided for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach and which is particularly adapted for use in, but not limited to, laparoscopic implantation and removal of the device. According to a preferred embodiment thereof, the device comprises: an elongate band member including a band portion for, in use, encircling a stomach to form a stoma opening in the stomach, the band member including a free end; an expandable section secured to the band portion of the band member for varying the size of the stoma opening; a securing member located near the free end of the band member and protruding outwardly therefrom; a recess, formed in an intermediate portion of the band member segment having a thickness greater than the thickness of the remainder of the band member, for receiving the securing member therein; and means for retaining the securing member in the recess so that the band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around the stoma opening.
Advantageously, the retaining means comprises a moveable threaded bolt, and in a preferred embodiment, the securing member includes a threaded hole therein in which the bolt is received. The bolt preferably comprises a distal part of an elongate control element located within the band member and extending longitudinally thereof. The control element includes a proximal end which extends beyond the band member for allowing remotely controlled release of the securing member from the recess by movement of the bolt. Advantageously, the device further includes a guiding plate, located within the band member of on one side of the recess, for guiding the movement of the bolt, and a holding plate located within the band member on the other side of the recess, for retaining the free end of the bolt.
The expandable section preferably comprises an expandable member corresponding to that discussed above, i.e., one extending around substantially the entire circumference of the band portion, i.e., the portion that, in use encircles the stomach wall.
A remotely disposed fluid injection unit is preferably provided which is in fluid connection with the expandable section through the band member such that the size of the stomach opening can be altered by adding or withdrawing fluid to cause expansion and retraction of the expandable section.
Advantageously, a barrier means is provided for preventing tissue from growing around the securing member. The barrier means preferably comprises a soft sponge-like silicone barrier element.
Preferably, a thin loop is formed around the securing member for ensuring a secure fit between the securing member and the recess.
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, a method is provided for removing a band having an expandable section encircling a stomach which forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter by employing a securing means to retain a locking element projecting from said band at a location near the distal end of said band into a recess formed at an intermediate location along said band, the method comprising the steps of: retracting the securing means so as to release the locking element from the recess cutting the band close to the recess on a side of the recess opposite the expandable section, the securing means being sufficiently retracted such that it is not severed by the cutting; removing the cut portion not containing the recess and the expandable section through a small incision; and laparoscopically removing the remainder of the band containing the recess and the expandable section.
In accordance with an additional aspect the invention, a method is provided for removing a band encircling a stomach which forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter by employing a securing means to retain a locking element projecting from said band at a location near the distal end of said band into a recess formed at an intermediate location along said band, the method comprising the steps of: completely removing the securing means through a small incision, thus also releasing the locking element from the recess; and laparoscopically removing the band.
Preferably, for either method described above, the further step of removing an injection port in communication with the expandable section through the small incision prior to the laparoscopically removing step is also performed.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention a method is provided for laparoscopically implanting a gastric band device including an encircling band portion which, in use, encircles a stomach so as to form a restricted stoma opening for limiting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, the gastric band device including an expandable section secured to the encircling band portion for varying the size of the stomach opening, an elongate band port incorporating a remotely operable securing means for, when the device is implanted, retaining a locking element projecting from the gastric band device at a location near the distal end of the encircling band portion in a locking position wherein the locking element is received in a recess formed at an intermediate location along the gastric banding device so that, when the band is implanted, the encircling band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around the stoma opening, and expansion control means, communicating with the expandable section through a channel formed in the elongate band portion, for controlling expansion and contraction of said expandable section, said method comprising the steps of:
using an endoscope introduced into an cannula to dissect tissue surrounding the stomach to provide a path for the elongate band portion of the gastric band device;
laparoscopically introducing the gastric band into the abdominal cavity such that said encircling band portion encircles the stomach and said locking element is inserted in said recess so that said encircling band portion forms a circle of predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening of the stomach;
operating said securing means to lock said locking element in said recess; and
implanting said expansion control means in the abdominal muscle wall.
Other features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in, or apparent from, the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be describe in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the modified laparoscopic SASGB device of the present invention as placed in position around a stomach;
FIG. 2(a) is a side view of the SASGB device constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, showing the device in an extended rest state.
FIG. 2(b) is a cross sectional view of a detail of FIG. 2(a) showing the locking recess or slot;
FIG. 3(a) is a top plan view of the device of FIG. 2(a);
FIG. 3(b) is a side view of the locking element of the device of FIG. 2(a);
FIG. 4 is a side view of the device of FIG. 2(a) with the band locked in place to form a circle or loop;
FIG. 5(a) is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 2(a) with the band unlocked; and
FIG. 5(b) is a side view of the device shown in FIG. 2(a) with the band unlocked and the locking bolt and associated control member completely remove.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to FIG. 1, a SASGB device, generally denoted 10, is shown in place around a stomach S. More particularly, the device 10 comprises a band 12 which includes a loop or encircling portion (which is not fully visible in FIG. 1) that, in use, fully encircles the stomach S so as to form stoma opening at the loop portion, thereby restricting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach S. As described in more detail below, a channel 14 allows fluid to be transmitted to or removed from an expandable section or portion of the device 10 which is not visible in FIG. 1, while a further channel 16 contains an elongate control member 18 for a securing or locking mechanism for encircling loop.
The SASGB device 10 of FIG. 1 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 2 to 5. As shown in these figures, the band locking device referred to above includes an outwardly projecting securing or locking member 20 located towards the tip or free (distal) end of the band 12 and a recess or slot 22 in which locking member 20 is received, as described hereinafter. The abovementioned expandable or inflatable section of the band 12 is denoted 24, and extends along the entire band portion 12a which, in use, encircles the stomach, as is perhaps best seen in FIG. 4. The channel 14 itself forms a passage, or accommodates a separate tube 26, which connects the expandable or inflatable section 24 of the band 12 with an injection unit 28 for injecting or removing solution in order to adjust the size of the stoma opening. This solution is a physiologically compatible fluid, such as saline.
Considering the securing or locking mechanism in more detail, the recess or slot 22 located in an intermediate band portion 12b is shaped to accommodate locking member or element 20 therein when the distal end of band 12 is formed into a loop as shown in FIG. 4. The locking element 20 has a hole 20a therein through which screw threaded locking bolt 30 formed at the end of the control member 18 introduced through channel 16 (and best seen in FIG. 4) is inserted, thus securing the locking member 20 in the recess or slot 22. As can best be seen in FIG. 2(b), a first, holding or retaining plate 32 having an opening 32a therein is provided near the free or distal end of channel 16 adjacent to recess 22 to hold the tip of the threaded screw bolt 30. Plate 32 is bonded into the band 12. The opening 32a in the plate 32 is sized to fit or match the shape of the tip of the screw bolt 30 and is not threaded. A second, guiding plate 34 has an opening 34a therein the diameter of which equals the diameter of the bolt 30 without the screw thread. Plate 34 is bonded into band 12 on the other side of the slot 22. The control member 18, which terminates at the distal end thereof in the threaded locking bolt 30, extends at the opposite proximal end thereof beyond the length of the band 12, thus enabling movement of bolt 30, and hence locking of the distal end of the band 12 in recess 22, to be controlled remotely.
As is shown in FIGS. 2(a) and 3(a), the band thickness of the receiving segment or portion of the band 12b is greater than the thickness of the remainder of the band. This increased thickness is necessary in order to accommodate the thickness of the locking element or projection 20 formed near the distal end of the band, while still allowing channel 14 to reach the inflatable portion 24.
In a specific, non-limiting but advantageous embodiment, the band locking element 20 and the band 12 itself are preferably made of silicone and, as described above, the former has an opening 20a with a screw type thread for locking the band 12 in place around the stomach. The proximal edge of the band locking element 20 is preferably 11/2 centimeters from the tip or free end of the band. Further, the band locking element 20 is preferably of the truncated polygonal shape shown in the drawings and has a height of 4 millimeters and a length at its base of 6 millimeters. The inflatable section or part 24 is preferably reinforced and in the exemplary embodiment under consideration, the section 24 is 8 centimeters in length. Reinforcement of the sides of the inflatable part 24 is important in order to eliminate side bulging and to increase the circular inflation which is important in providing stoma calibration. The silicone covering the band 12 may be used for reinforcement. The tube 26 located within channel 14 is also preferably made of silicone. The retaining plate 32 and the guiding plate 34 are preferably made of silicone and are located 11/2 centimeters from the recess or slot 22 on opposite sides thereof. Bolt 30 is advantageously made of silicone or plastic as is control element 18.
The band 12 is, as stated, preferably made of silicone and is wider than previously used bands, advantageously 13 mm. The band thickness of the portion of the band 12a covered by the inflatable section 24, i.e., that which encircles the stomach, is similar in thickness to previous bands, preferably 2 mm. The band thickness of the receiving segment is preferably between 4 to 6 mm. The band thickness of the elongate band portion 12c is preferably between 2 to 4 mm, and is roughly one-half to two-thirds of the thickness of the receiving segment. The front part of the band 12, i.e., band portions 12a and 12b, indicated by bracket 36, is preferably reinforced with a mesh of Dacron polyethylene terephthalate. The remaining elongate band portion 12c is preferably not reinforced so that it is soft and flexible.
In order to better accommodate the positioning of the band parts in the locking position, a thin loop of silicone, indicated at 38 in FIG. 3(a), is bonded around the projecting barrier or locking element 20. Additionally, a soft sponge-like silicone guard portion, indicated at 40 in FIG. 3(a) and FIG. 3(b), is advantageously placed around the projecting locking element 20 in order to prevent the capsule tissue, i.e., tissue forming a capsule around the band, from growing into that space. Such capsule tissue may cause some limited resistance when the band is removed without major surgery. Linear markings (not shown) may be placed on both parts of the band 12 that are joined together as shown in FIGS. 4, 5(a) and 5(b) so that when the markings are matched with each other, an indication is provided that the locking parts are in correct position. As noted above, FIG. 4 shows the device in the fully locked position with the bolt 30 fury extended through the projection locking element 20 and into the holding or retaining plate 32. The diameter of the "locked" band, i.e., the band in the closed position shown in FIG. 4, is preferably 4 cm, although a diameter between about 4 to 6 cm could be acceptable.
As set forth above, the band device 10 is particularly adapted to be laparoscopically implanted. In this regard, although the device disclosed in application Ser. No. 08/019,302 filed on Feb. 18, 1993, can also be laparoscopy implanted and, in this regard, is not limited to any particular method of implantation, the differences between the device of the present application and that of the earlier application, and more specifically, the increased flexibility and the thinner, more streamlined shape of the gastric band device of the invention facilitate laparoscopic implantation thereof. In general, the laparoscopic procedure used to implant the device is that disclosed in Ser. No. 07/179,123, filed on Jun. 20, 1991, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. In fact, the only differences in the procedure flow from the differences in the two band devices. In this regard, the band 12 of the invention would be placed around the stomach in the same general way after using an endoscope introduced into a cannula to dissect tissue surrounding the stomach so as to provide a path for the gastric band 12. However, in contrast to the earlier device, the remotely controlled movement of the control member 10 would be used to provide locking of the locking mechanism (comprising locking element or projection 20 and slot or recess 22), thus fixing band 12 in place in an encircling relation around the stomach. The injection unit 28, located at the end of the band 12, would be implanted in the abdominal wall muscles, as in the prior application, and the overall laparoscopic procedure would likewise be similar.
Considering methods of removal of the band 12 after implantation, as indicated above, the living body in which the device of the invention is inserted creates a thin capsule around the implanted silicone band 12 that is not adhered to the band 12. By exposing the site of the injection unit implantation, i.e., the site at which unit 28 is disposed within the abdominal wall muscles, the proximal end of the band 12 is exposed as well. Through displacement of the threaded bolt 30 by remotely controlled movement of control member 18, the band locking mechanism (comprising locking element 20 and slot or recess 22) can be released.
In accordance with one method of removing the band, the control member 18 and the locking bolt 30, which are stiff and difficult to cut relative to elongate band portion 12c, are removed sufficiently from the band 12, as shown in FIG. 5(a), so that the elongate portion 12c, i.e., the portion not containing the recess 22 or the expandable section 24, may be easily cut close to recess 22, without cutting the control member 18. This allows the relatively thin band portion 12c to be removed with the injection unit 28 through the site of the injection unit implantation, preferably in the abdominal muscles near the skin. The remainder of the SASGB, i.e., portion 12b containing the recess 22 and portion 12a containing the expandable section 24, can then be removed laparoscopically at the site of the these portions of the band 12, i.e. at the stoma opening.
Alternatively, referring to FIG. 5(b), the SASGB of the present invention can also be removed by completely removing the control member 18 from within the band 12 and by removing the injection port 28 through a small superficial incision. With these components removed, the entire SASGB, including the relatively thin elongate portion 12c, is then removed laparoscopically at the site of the stoma. One advantage of removing the band or a part thereof at the stoma is that the surgeon may wish to gain access to this area in any event in order to remove suturing at the stoma.
As should be evident from the foregoing, the band device 10 of the present invention is more effective than the prior art in uniformly controlling the size of stoma opening and, among other advantages, is less invasive to the stomach wall because of the use of the inflatable part 24 which covers the entire portion of band 12a that encircles the stomach. The use of the thinner elongate portion 12 also helps to relieve the discomfort felt by some patients when the elongate portion 12C is of a greater thickness.
Although the present invention has been described relative to specific exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that variations and modifications can be effected in these exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims (41)

What is claimed is:
1. A gastric banding device for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said device comprising:
an elongate band member including a band portion for, in use, encircling a stomach to form a stoma opening in the stomach, said band member including a free end and an intermediate portion having a thickness greater than the thickness of the remainder of said band member;
an expandable section secured to said band portion of said band member for varying the size of the stoma a opening;
a securing member located near said free end of said band member and protruding outwardly therefrom;
a recess, formed in said intermediate portion of said band member, for receiving said securing member therein; and
means, including a movable control member separate from said securing member, for positively retaining said securing member in aid recess to that said band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening.
2. A gastric binding device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said central member comprises a moveable bolt for releasably retaining said securing member in said recess.
3. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 2, wherein said ring member includes a threaded hole therein in which said bolt is received.
4. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 2, wherein said bolt comprises a distal part of an elongate control element located within said band member and extending longitudinally thereof.
5. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 2, wherein said control element includes a proximal end which extends beyond said band member for allowing remotely controlled release of securing member from said recess by movement of said bolt.
6. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 2, further comprising a guiding plate, located within said band member of on one side of said recess, for guiding the movement of said bolt, and a holding plate located within said band member on the other side of said recess, for retaining the free end of said bolt.
7. A gastric banding device as recited in claim 1, wherein said expandable section comprises an expandable member extending around substantially the entire circumference of said band portion that, in use, encircles the stomach wall.
8. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said expandable section includes reinforcement in the sidewall thereof.
9. A gastric banding device as recited in claim 1, further comprising a remotely disposed fluid injection unit in fluid connection with said expandable section through said band member such that the size of the stoma opening can be altered by adding or withdrawing fluid to cause expansion and retraction of said expandable section.
10. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising barrier means for preventing tissue from growing around said securing member.
11. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 10, wherein sad barrier means comprises a soft sponge-like silicone barrier element.
12. A gastric banding device a claimed in claim 1, further comprising a thin loop extending around a peripheral surface of said securing member which is received in said recess for ensuring a secure fit between said securing member and said recess.
13. A method for removing a gastric band device including an encircling band portion encircling a stomach so as to form a restricted stoma opening for limiting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said gastric band device including an expandable section secured to said encircling band portion for varying the size of the stomach opening, an elongate band portion incorporating a remotely operable securing means for retaining a locking element projecting from said gastric band device at a location near the distal end of said encircling band portion in a locking position wherein said locking element is received in a recess formed at an intermediate location along said gastric banding device so that said encircling band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening, and expansion control means, located in the abdominal muscle wall at the proximal end of said gastric band device, for controlling expansion and contraction of said expandable section, said method comprising the steps of:
providing an incision in the abdominal muscle wall at the location of said expansion control means;
retracting said securing means so as to release said locking element from said recess;
cutting said elongate band portion close to said recess on a side of said recess opposite said expandable section, with said securing means sufficiently retracted such that the securing means is not severed by said cutting, so as to produce a cut portion of said elongate band portion;
removing both said expansion control means and said cut portion of said elongate band portion through said incision; and
laparoscopically removing the remainder of said gastric band device containing said recess and said expandable section at the location of said stoma opening.
14. A method for removing a gastric band device including an encircling band portion encircling a stomach so as to form a restricted stoma opening for limiting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said gastric band device including an expandable section secured to said encircling band portion for varying the size of the stomach opening, an elongate band portion incorporating a remotely operable securing means for retaining an outwardly projecting locking element formed integral with and projecting from said gastric band device at a location at least near the distal end of said encircling band portion in a locking position wherein said locking element is received in a recess formed at in intermediate fixed distance along said gastric banding device from said locking element so that said encircling band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening, and expansion control means, located in the abdominal muscle wall at the proximal end of said gastric band device, for controlling expansion and contraction of said expandable section, said method comprising the steps of:
providing an incision in the abdominal muscle wall at the location of said expansion control means;
removing said expansion control means through said incision;
releasing said outwardly projecting locking element from said recess and completely removing said securing means from said gastric band device through said incision; and
laparoscopically removing said gastric band device at the location of said stoma opening.
15. A method for laparoscopically implanting a gastric band device including an encircling band portion which, in use, encircles a stomach so as to form a restricted stoma opening for limiting food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said gastric band device including an expandable section secured to said encircling band portion for varying the size of the stomach opening an elongate band portion incorporating a remotely operable securing means for, when the device is implanted, retaining an outwardly projecting locking element formed integral with and projecting from said gastric band device at a location at least near the distal end of said encircling band portion in a locking position wherein aid locking element is received in a recess formed at an intermediate fixed distance along said gastric banding device from said locking element so that, when the band is implanted, said encircling band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening, and expansion control means, communicating with said expandable section through a channel formed in said elongate band portion, for controlling expansion said contraction of said expandable section, said method comprising the steps of:
using an endoscope introduced into an cannula to dissect tissue surrounding the stomach to provide a path for the elongate band portion of the gastric band device;
laparoscopically introducing the gastric band into the abdominal cavity such that said encircling band portion encircles the stomach and said locking element is in inserted in said recess so that said encircling band portion forms a circle of a fixed diameter around said stoma opening of the stomach which is predetermined prior to insertion of the locking element into the recess by said fixed distance between the locking element and the recess;
operating said securing means to lock said locking element in said recess; and
implanting said expansion control means in the abdominal muscle wall.
16. A gastric banding device for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said device comprising:
a band member including encircling band means for, in use, encircling a stomach in a single loop so as to form a stoma opening in the stomach;
an expandable section ending completely around the entire length of said encircling band means so that, in use, the expandable section fully encircles the stoma opening; and
means for controlling expansion and contraction of said expandable section so as to control the size of the stoma opening;
said band means having a free end and said device further comprising a first interlocking securing means disposed at a first predetermined fixed position at least close to said free end and a second interlocking securing means, disposed at a second predetermined fixed position located at an intermediate portion along said band, for interlocking with said first interlocking securing means to provide securing of said free end of said band means to said intermediate portion of said band means at said second position so that the band means forms a single loop circle of predetermined fixed diameter around the stoma opening.
17. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 16, wherein said expandable section comprises an elongate inflatable element having reinforced walls.
18. A gastric banding device as recited in claim 16, further comprising releasing means for remotely releasing said securing means.
19. A gastric banding device for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said device comprising:
an elongate band member including a band portion for, in use, encircling a stomach to form a stoma opening in the stomach, said band member including a free end, and securing means for securing the free end of said band member to an intermediate portion of said band member so that said band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening said securing means comprising first had second fixed interlocking means formed integrally with the band member for, when interlocked, forming said band portion into said circle of predetermined diameter; and an expandable section secured to said band portion of said band member for varying the size of the stoma opening; said first interlocking means comprising a securing member located near the free end of said band member and protruding outwardly therefrom and said second interlocking means comprising a recess formed in said band member at said intermediate portion thereof for receiving said securing member therein.
20. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 19, wherein said securing means further comprises retaining means separate from said securing member for positively retaining said securing member in said recess.
21. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 20, wherein said retaining means comprises a moveable bolt.
22. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 20, wherein said retaining means comprises a distal part of an elongate control element located within said band member and extending longitudinally thereof.
23. A gastric banding devices as claimed in claim 22, wherein said control element includes a proximal end which extends beyond said band member for allowing remotely controlled release of securing member from said recess by movement of said retaining means.
24. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 21, wherein said bolt has a free end, said device further comprising a guiding plate, located within said band member of on one side of said recess, for guiding the movement of said bolt, and a holding plate located within said band member on the other side of the recess, for retaining the free end of said bolt.
25. A gastric banding device as recited in claim 19, wherein expandable section comprises an expandable member extending around the entire circumference of said band portion that, in use, encircles the stomach wall in a single loop.
26. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 19, wherein said band portion of said band member is of a first thickness and the remainder of the band member is of a second, greater thickness.
27. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 19, wherein said expandable section includes reinforcement in the sidewalls thereof.
28. A gastric banding device as recited in claim 19, further comprising a remotely disposed fluid injection unit in fluid connection with Aid expandable section through said band member such that the size of the stoma opening can be altered by adding or withdrawing fluid to cause expansion and retraction of said expandable section.
29. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 19, further comprising barrier means on said band member for preventing tissue from growing around said securing member.
30. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 29 wherein said barrier means comprises a soft sponge-like silicone barrier element.
31. A gastric banding device as claimed in claim 19, further comprising a thin loop formed around the securing member for ensuring a secure fit between said securing member and said recess.
32. A device as claimed in claim 19, wherein said securing means further comprises retaining means separate from said securing member for positively retaining said securing member in said recess.
33. A method for controlling the size of a stoma opening in a stomach as to provide the restriction of food intake to the digestive portion of the stomach, said method comprising the steps of:
placing elongate band around an exterior surface of a stomach that a portion of the band encircles the stomach;
inserting a locking element formed integrally with and projecting outwardly from said band at a location near the distal end of the band into a recess formed at an intermediate location along the said band so as to form said band into a complete circle of fixed diameter around the stomach; and
positively securing said locking element in said recess using a retaining member separate from said locking element.
34. The method as recited in claim 33, further comprising varying the amount of fluid contained in an expandable section located on a surface of said band in contact with the exterior surface of the stomach so as to vary the size of the stoma opening.
35. The method as claimed in claim 33 wherein securing of said locking element in said recess comprises using a remotely located control member connected to said retaining member by a connector element extending along the length of said band to move said retaining member so as to lock said locking element in said recess.
36. The method as claimed in claim 33 further comprising using a remotely located control member connected to said retaining member by a connector element extending along the length of said band to move said retaining member so as to release said locking member from said recess.
37. A gastric banding device for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said device comprising:
an elongate band member including a band portion for, in use, encircling a stomach to form a stoma opening in the stomach, said band member including a free end, and securing means for securing the free end of said band member to an intermediate portion of said band member so that said band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening, said securing means comprising first and second fixed interlocking means formed integrally with the band member for, when interlocked, forming said band portion into said circle of predetermined diameter; and a retaining member separate from said first and second interlocking means for positively securing said first and second interlocking means together so as to prevent unlocking thereof; and an expandable section secured to said band portion of said band member for varying the size of the stoma opening.
38. A device as claimed in claim 37 further comprising a control member located at the proximal end of said band member and connected to said retaining member by a connector element extending along the length of said band member for controlling movement of said retaining member.
39. A device as claimed in claim 37 wherein one of said first and second interlocking means comprises a projection and the other of said first and second interlocking means comprises a recess and wherein said retaining member engages said projection in said recess to provide locking of said projection in said recess.
40. The device as claimed in claim 39 wherein said retaining member comprises a movable bolt. .Iadd.
41. A gastric banding device for forming a stoma opening in a stomach so as to restrict food intake to the lower digestive portion of the stomach, said device being adapted for laparoscopic placement around the stomach and comprising:
an elongate band member including a band portion for use, in use, encircling a stomach to form a stoma opening in the stomach, said band member including a free end, and securing means for securing the free end of said band member to an intermediate portion of said band member so that said band portion forms a circle of a predetermined fixed diameter around said stoma opening, said securing means comprising first and second fixed interlocking means, formed integrally with the band member and defining said band portion therebetween, for, when interlocked, forming said band portion into said circle of predetermined diameter; and an expandable section, secured to an inner stomach facing surface of said band portion of said band member and extending substantially coextensively with said band portion, for varying the size of the stoma opening, said expandable section being connected by means of a fluid tight connection through an elongate tubular member to an injection reservoir so that said expandable section is in fluid communication with said injection reservoir. .Iaddend.
US08/927,494 1993-02-18 1997-09-11 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof Expired - Lifetime USRE36176E (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/927,494 USRE36176E (en) 1993-02-18 1997-09-11 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US1930293A 1993-02-18 1993-02-18
US08/059,592 US5449368A (en) 1993-02-18 1993-05-12 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof
US08/927,494 USRE36176E (en) 1993-02-18 1997-09-11 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof

Related Parent Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US1930293A Continuation-In-Part 1993-02-18 1993-02-18
US08/059,592 Reissue US5449368A (en) 1993-02-18 1993-05-12 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
USRE36176E true USRE36176E (en) 1999-03-30

Family

ID=26692092

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/059,592 Ceased US5449368A (en) 1993-02-18 1993-05-12 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof
US08/927,494 Expired - Lifetime USRE36176E (en) 1993-02-18 1997-09-11 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US08/059,592 Ceased US5449368A (en) 1993-02-18 1993-05-12 Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (2) US5449368A (en)
CA (1) CA2107629C (en)

Cited By (120)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040049209A1 (en) * 2000-05-12 2004-03-11 Salomon Benchetrit Adjustable gastroplastry ring comprising a grip tab
US20040087977A1 (en) * 2000-03-06 2004-05-06 United States Surgical Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
EP1484040A2 (en) * 2003-06-04 2004-12-08 AMI Agency for Medical Innovations GmbH An apparatus for creating an artificial reduction in the gastrointestinal tract
US20040254537A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2004-12-16 Conlon Sean P. Subcutaneous self attaching injection port with integral moveable retention members
US20040267292A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2004-12-30 Byrum Randal T. Implantable band with transverse attachment mechanism
US20040267288A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2004-12-30 Byrum Randal T. Implantable band having improved attachment mechanism
US20050002984A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2005-01-06 Byrum Randal T. Implantable band with attachment mechanism having dissimilar material properties
US20050143766A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2005-06-30 Endoart Sa Telemetrically controlled band for regulating functioning of a body organ or duct, and methods of making, implantation and use
US20050187566A1 (en) * 2004-02-20 2005-08-25 Byrum Randal T. Surgically implantable adjustable band having a flat profile when implanted
US20050183730A1 (en) * 2004-02-20 2005-08-25 Byrum Randal T. Method for implanting an adjustable band
US20050192531A1 (en) * 2002-08-28 2005-09-01 Janel Birk Fatigue-resistant gastric banding device
US20050192629A1 (en) * 1999-06-25 2005-09-01 Usgi Medical Inc. Methods and apparatus for creating and regulating a gastric stoma
US20050228415A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2005-10-13 Michael Gertner Methods and devices for percutaneous, non-laparoscopic treatment of obesity
EP1591140A1 (en) 2004-04-27 2005-11-02 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. A surgically implantable injection port having a centered catheter connection tube
US20050251182A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2005-11-10 Bachmann Michel A Surgical ring featuring a reversiblediameter remote control system
US20050251181A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2005-11-10 Bachmann Michel A Closure system for surgical ring
US20050267533A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2005-12-01 Michael Gertner Methods and devices for the surgical creation of satiety and biofeedback pathways
EP1607071A1 (en) 2004-06-16 2005-12-21 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. A method of assembling an adjustable band
US20050283118A1 (en) * 2003-12-19 2005-12-22 Joshua Uth Implantable medical device with simulataneous attachment mechanism and method
US20060173238A1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Starkebaum Warren L Dynamically controlled gastric occlusion device
US20060173472A1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Starkebaum Warren L Gastric banding device
US20060190039A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2006-08-24 Janel Birk Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US20060195139A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2006-08-31 Michael Gertner Extragastric devices and methods for gastroplasty
US20060217668A1 (en) * 2005-03-22 2006-09-28 Schulze Dale R Method of implanting a subcutaneous injection port having stabilizing elements
US20060235445A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2006-10-19 Janel Birk Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US20060235448A1 (en) * 2005-04-13 2006-10-19 Roslin Mitchell S Artificial gastric valve
US20060244291A1 (en) * 2005-04-29 2006-11-02 Buell Motorcycle Company Movable tailrack for a motorcycle
US20060271088A1 (en) * 2005-05-02 2006-11-30 Almuhannad Alfrhan Percutaneous intragastric balloon device and method
US20060276812A1 (en) * 2005-04-04 2006-12-07 Hill James W Dynamic reinforcement of the lower esophageal sphincter
US20060293626A1 (en) * 2005-06-24 2006-12-28 Byrum Randal T Applier for implantable medical device
US20070010790A1 (en) * 2005-06-24 2007-01-11 Byrum Randal T Injection port
US20070015955A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Mark Tsonton Accordion-like gastric band
US20070016231A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Precurved gastric band
US20070016229A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band suture tab extender
US20070015954A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Dlugos Daniel F Gastric band with mating end profiles
US20070016230A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band
US20070129739A1 (en) * 2001-03-05 2007-06-07 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US20070156013A1 (en) * 2006-01-04 2007-07-05 Allergan, Inc. Self-regulating gastric band with pressure data processing
US20070173685A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-07-26 Jambor Kristin L Method of implating a medical device using a suture tab extender
US20070173881A1 (en) * 2004-03-18 2007-07-26 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for volume adjustment of intragastric balloons
US20070199170A1 (en) * 2006-02-28 2007-08-30 Dipippo Joe Self-cleaning hair brush
US20070250086A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-10-25 Wiley Jeffrey P Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
US20070265645A1 (en) * 2006-01-04 2007-11-15 Allergan, Inc. Hydraulic gastric band collapsible reservoir
US20070288033A1 (en) * 2006-06-09 2007-12-13 Allergan, Inc. Intragastric balloon retrieval mechanisms
US20070288048A1 (en) * 2006-06-09 2007-12-13 Ortiz Mark S Articulating blunt dissector/gastric band application device
US20080172079A1 (en) * 2006-09-29 2008-07-17 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for intragastric balloon with in situ adjustment means
US7416528B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-08-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Latching device for gastric band
EP1977703A1 (en) 2007-04-04 2008-10-08 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
EP1977700A1 (en) 2007-04-04 2008-10-08 Ethicon Endo-Surgery Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
EP1977702A1 (en) 2007-04-04 2008-10-08 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249540A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249560A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249561A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20090082793A1 (en) * 2004-01-23 2009-03-26 Allergan, Inc. Releasably-securable one-piece adjustable gastric band
US20090182356A1 (en) * 2002-08-13 2009-07-16 Coe Frederick L Remotely adjustable gastric banding device
US20090264901A1 (en) * 2008-04-17 2009-10-22 Ethan Franklin Implantable access port device and attachment system
US20090270904A1 (en) * 2008-04-23 2009-10-29 Birk Janel A Remotely Adjustable Gastric Banding System
US20090312785A1 (en) * 2008-06-11 2009-12-17 Allergan, Inc. Implantable Pump System
US20100087843A1 (en) * 2008-10-06 2010-04-08 Allergan, Inc. Mechanical Gastric Band With Cushions
US20100174307A1 (en) * 2007-04-13 2010-07-08 Allergan, Inc. Remote deflation of intragastric balloon
US7758493B2 (en) 2003-10-23 2010-07-20 Proxy Biomedical Limited Gastric constriction device
US20100185049A1 (en) * 2008-10-22 2010-07-22 Allergan, Inc. Dome and screw valves for remotely adjustable gastric banding systems
US7776061B2 (en) 2004-09-28 2010-08-17 Garner Dean L Fluid adjustable band
US20100217198A1 (en) * 2008-04-17 2010-08-26 Allergan, Inc. Implantable access port device having a safety cap
US20100234682A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2010-09-16 Michael Gertner Closed loop gastric restriction devices and methods
US20100234808A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2010-09-16 Uth Joshua R Injection Port Applier with Downward Force Actuation
US20110040141A1 (en) * 2004-03-08 2011-02-17 Allergan, Inc. Closure system for tubular organs
US20110054407A1 (en) * 2009-08-26 2011-03-03 Allergan, Inc. System including access port and applicator tool
US20110054248A1 (en) * 2009-08-28 2011-03-03 Allergan, Inc. Gastric band with electric stimulation
US7901419B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2011-03-08 Allergan, Inc. Telemetrically controlled band for regulating functioning of a body organ or duct, and methods of making, implantation and use
US20110090210A1 (en) * 2002-03-05 2011-04-21 Isao Sasaki Image display apparatus and control method therefor
US20110137112A1 (en) * 2009-08-28 2011-06-09 Allergan, Inc. Gastric band with electric stimulation
US20110144424A1 (en) * 2004-06-01 2011-06-16 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method of implanting a fluid injection port
US20110184229A1 (en) * 2009-05-01 2011-07-28 Allergan, Inc. Laparoscopic gastric band with active agents
US20110196394A1 (en) * 2010-02-10 2011-08-11 Allergan, Inc. Implantable injection port
US20110196195A1 (en) * 2010-02-05 2011-08-11 Allergan, Inc. Implantable subcutaneous access port
US20110201875A1 (en) * 2010-02-12 2011-08-18 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US20110201874A1 (en) * 2010-02-12 2011-08-18 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US20110208229A1 (en) * 2010-02-24 2011-08-25 Allergan, Inc. Source reservoir with potential energy for remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US20110218392A1 (en) * 2009-08-26 2011-09-08 Allergan, Inc. Implantable bottom exit port
US8162897B2 (en) 2003-12-19 2012-04-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Audible and tactile feedback
US8376929B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2013-02-19 Allergan, Inc. Implantable pump system with calibration
US8425401B2 (en) 2008-01-30 2013-04-23 Medical Components, Inc. Gastric inflation band with integrated infusion catheter
US8517915B2 (en) 2010-06-10 2013-08-27 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8698373B2 (en) 2010-08-18 2014-04-15 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Pare piezo power with energy recovery
US8708979B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2014-04-29 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable coupling device
US8725435B2 (en) 2011-04-13 2014-05-13 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Syringe-based leak detection system
US8764624B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-07-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Inductively powered remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8801597B2 (en) 2011-08-25 2014-08-12 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port with mesh attachment rivets
US8821373B2 (en) 2011-05-10 2014-09-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Directionless (orientation independent) needle injection port
US8840541B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-09-23 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Pressure sensing gastric banding system
US8858421B2 (en) 2011-11-15 2014-10-14 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Interior needle stick guard stems for tubes
US8864840B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2014-10-21 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implants with collapsible frames
US8870966B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2014-10-28 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric balloon for treating obesity
US8876694B2 (en) 2011-12-07 2014-11-04 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Tube connector with a guiding tip
US8882655B2 (en) 2010-09-14 2014-11-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port system
US8888732B2 (en) 2011-03-11 2014-11-18 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intraluminal sleeve with active agents
US8905916B2 (en) 2010-08-16 2014-12-09 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port system
US8920447B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2014-12-30 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Articulated gastric implant clip
US8939888B2 (en) 2010-04-28 2015-01-27 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Method and system for determining the pressure of a fluid in a syringe, an access port, a catheter, and a gastric band
US8956380B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2015-02-17 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Reactive intragastric implant devices
US8961394B2 (en) 2011-12-20 2015-02-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-sealing fluid joint for use with a gastric band
US8961393B2 (en) 2010-11-15 2015-02-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Gastric band devices and drive systems
US8992415B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-03-31 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable device to protect tubing from puncture
US9028394B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2015-05-12 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting mechanical gastric band
US9044298B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2015-06-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting gastric band
US9050165B2 (en) 2010-09-07 2015-06-09 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US9089395B2 (en) 2011-11-16 2015-07-28 Appolo Endosurgery, Inc. Pre-loaded septum for use with an access port
US9125718B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-09-08 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Electronically enhanced access port for a fluid filled implant
US9192501B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-11-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely powered remotely adjustable gastric band system
US9198790B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2015-12-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Upper stomach gastric implants
US9199069B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2015-12-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable injection port
US9211207B2 (en) 2010-08-18 2015-12-15 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Power regulated implant
US9226840B2 (en) 2010-06-03 2016-01-05 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Magnetically coupled implantable pump system and method
US9295573B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2016-03-29 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting gastric band having various compliant components and/or a satiety booster
US9398969B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-07-26 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Upper stomach gastric implants
US9463107B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2016-10-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Variable size intragastric implant devices
US9498365B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-11-22 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implants with multiple fluid chambers
US9668901B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2017-06-06 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Intragastric implants with duodenal anchors
US10070980B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2018-09-11 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Anchored non-piercing duodenal sleeve and delivery systems

Families Citing this family (331)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6102922A (en) * 1995-09-22 2000-08-15 Kirk Promotions Limited Surgical method and device for reducing the food intake of patient
US5938669A (en) * 1997-05-07 1999-08-17 Klasamed S.A. Adjustable gastric banding device for contracting a patient's stomach
US5910149A (en) * 1998-04-29 1999-06-08 Kuzmak; Lubomyr I. Non-slipping gastric band
US6045561A (en) * 1998-06-23 2000-04-04 Orthopaedic Biosystems Ltd., Inc. Surgical knot manipulator
US8666495B2 (en) 1999-03-05 2014-03-04 Metacure Limited Gastrointestinal methods and apparatus for use in treating disorders and controlling blood sugar
US9101765B2 (en) 1999-03-05 2015-08-11 Metacure Limited Non-immediate effects of therapy
WO2000072912A1 (en) * 1999-05-26 2000-12-07 Impulse Dynamics Nv Local cardiac motion control using applied electrical signals and mechanical force
US6482145B1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2002-11-19 Obtech Medical Ag Hydraulic anal incontinence treatment
US6464628B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-10-15 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical anal incontinence
US6454701B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus with energy transfer device
US6454698B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence treatment with energy transfer device
US6453907B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Food intake restriction with energy transfer device
US6461292B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-10-08 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence treatment with wireless energy supply
US6471635B1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2002-10-29 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence disease treatment with controlled wireless energy supply
US6454699B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Food intake restriction with controlled wireless energy supply
IT1315260B1 (en) * 1999-12-07 2003-02-03 Valerio Cigaina REMOVABLE GASTRIC BANDAGE
US20030208212A1 (en) * 1999-12-07 2003-11-06 Valerio Cigaina Removable gastric band
FR2802407B1 (en) * 1999-12-21 2002-12-13 Rc Medical DESERRABLE GASTROPLASTY RING
DE19962581A1 (en) * 1999-12-23 2001-06-28 Ecotec Ag The surgical clamping sewing apparatus makes circular seams has an opposing pressure plate and offers safe,accurate use
FR2804011B1 (en) * 2000-01-20 2002-07-19 Rc Medical SINGLE CONTROL GASTROPLASTY RING
US6600953B2 (en) 2000-12-11 2003-07-29 Impulse Dynamics N.V. Acute and chronic electrical signal therapy for obesity
US6454700B1 (en) * 2000-02-09 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus with wireless energy supply
DE60113965T2 (en) 2000-02-10 2006-07-06 Potencia Medical Ag TREATMENT OF HARNINE CONTINENCE WITH WIRELESS ENERGY SUPPLY
ATE295136T1 (en) 2000-02-10 2005-05-15 Potencia Medical Ag MECHANICAL DEVICE FOR TREATING IMPOTENCY
ATE304336T1 (en) 2000-02-10 2005-09-15 Potencia Medical Ag CONTROLLED URINARY INCONTINENCE TREATMENT
US6470892B1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2002-10-29 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical heartburn and reflux treatment
US6463935B1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2002-10-15 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled heartburn and reflux disease treatment
EP1253886B1 (en) 2000-02-11 2008-12-10 Potentica AG Impotence treatment apparatus with energy transforming means
ATE380006T1 (en) 2000-02-11 2007-12-15 Potencia Medical Ag CONTROLLED IMPOTENCY TREATMENT
US6450946B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2002-09-17 Obtech Medical Ag Food intake restriction with wireless energy transfer
US7442165B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2008-10-28 Obtech Medical Ag Penile prosthesis
US20030100929A1 (en) 2000-02-14 2003-05-29 Peter Forsell Controlled penile prosthesis
US6475136B1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2002-11-05 Obtech Medical Ag Hydraulic heartburn and reflux treatment
CN1196451C (en) 2000-02-14 2005-04-13 波滕西亚医疗公司 Male impotence prosthesis apparatus with wireless energy supply
US8645137B2 (en) 2000-03-16 2014-02-04 Apple Inc. Fast, language-independent method for user authentication by voice
US7033373B2 (en) * 2000-11-03 2006-04-25 Satiety, Inc. Method and device for use in minimally invasive placement of space-occupying intragastric devices
WO2002053093A2 (en) * 2001-01-05 2002-07-11 Impulse Dynamics Nv Regulation of eating habits
US6572627B2 (en) * 2001-01-08 2003-06-03 Shlomo Gabbay System to inhibit and/or control expansion of anatomical features
AU2002255245A1 (en) * 2001-04-18 2002-10-28 Impulse Dynamics Nv Analysis of eating habits
FR2823663B1 (en) * 2001-04-18 2004-01-02 Cousin Biotech DEVICE FOR TREATING MORBID OBESITY
CA2447514C (en) * 2001-05-18 2010-07-06 University College London A flexible device for transfixing and joining tissue
US7083629B2 (en) 2001-05-30 2006-08-01 Satiety, Inc. Overtube apparatus for insertion into a body
US6558400B2 (en) 2001-05-30 2003-05-06 Satiety, Inc. Obesity treatment tools and methods
FR2825264B1 (en) * 2001-06-01 2004-04-02 Surgical Diffusion GASTROPLASTY RING
US6511490B2 (en) * 2001-06-22 2003-01-28 Antoine Jean Henri Robert Gastric banding device and method
FR2836823B1 (en) * 2002-03-06 2004-12-24 Cousin Biotech GASTRIC CONSTRICTION DEVICE WITH BELLOWS BELLOWS
FR2840193B1 (en) * 2002-05-31 2005-02-11 Textile Hi Tec GASTRIC BAND
US20040034275A1 (en) 2002-07-29 2004-02-19 Peter Forsell Multi-material incontinence treatment constriction device
MXPA05001208A (en) 2002-07-29 2005-06-08 Potencia Medical Ag Durable implant.
US6746460B2 (en) 2002-08-07 2004-06-08 Satiety, Inc. Intra-gastric fastening devices
US7033384B2 (en) 2002-08-30 2006-04-25 Satiety, Inc. Stented anchoring of gastric space-occupying devices
US7214233B2 (en) 2002-08-30 2007-05-08 Satiety, Inc. Methods and devices for maintaining a space occupying device in a relatively fixed location within a stomach
US7229428B2 (en) 2002-10-23 2007-06-12 Satiety, Inc. Method and device for use in endoscopic organ procedures
US7220237B2 (en) 2002-10-23 2007-05-22 Satiety, Inc. Method and device for use in endoscopic organ procedures
US6656194B1 (en) 2002-11-05 2003-12-02 Satiety, Inc. Magnetic anchoring devices
FR2847150B1 (en) * 2002-11-15 2005-01-21 Claude Mialhe OCCLUSIVE DEVICE WITH MEDICAL OR SURGICAL DESTINATION
DE10303307B4 (en) * 2003-01-28 2010-12-30 Siemens Ag Machine with a rotor and a supraleltende rotor winding
WO2004066887A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-12 Potencia Medical Ag Incontinence treatment apparatus with connection device
US20060142635A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2006-06-29 Peter Forsell Electrically operable incontinence treatment apparatus
US7407481B2 (en) * 2003-01-31 2008-08-05 Peter Forsell Impotence treatment apparatus with connection device
WO2004066879A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-12 Potencia Medical Ag Electrically operable impotence treatment apparatus
US7175638B2 (en) 2003-04-16 2007-02-13 Satiety, Inc. Method and devices for modifying the function of a body organ
EP1641522B1 (en) * 2003-06-20 2012-12-19 Metacure Limited Gastrointestinal apparatus for detecting a change in posture
US7500944B2 (en) * 2003-06-27 2009-03-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable band with attachment mechanism
US20070060971A1 (en) * 2003-07-21 2007-03-15 Ofer Glasberg Hepatic device for treatment or glucose detection
US8792985B2 (en) 2003-07-21 2014-07-29 Metacure Limited Gastrointestinal methods and apparatus for use in treating disorders and controlling blood sugar
US20050070937A1 (en) * 2003-09-30 2005-03-31 Jambor Kristin L. Segmented gastric band
US7914543B2 (en) 2003-10-14 2011-03-29 Satiety, Inc. Single fold device for tissue fixation
US7097650B2 (en) 2003-10-14 2006-08-29 Satiety, Inc. System for tissue approximation and fixation
US20050177176A1 (en) 2004-02-05 2005-08-11 Craig Gerbi Single-fold system for tissue approximation and fixation
EP1713402B1 (en) 2004-02-13 2018-07-04 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for reducing stomach volume
US7708684B2 (en) 2004-02-27 2010-05-04 Satiety, Inc. Methods and devices for reducing hollow organ volume
US8252009B2 (en) 2004-03-09 2012-08-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Devices and methods for placement of partitions within a hollow body organ
US8628547B2 (en) 2004-03-09 2014-01-14 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Devices and methods for placement of partitions within a hollow body organ
US8449560B2 (en) 2004-03-09 2013-05-28 Satiety, Inc. Devices and methods for placement of partitions within a hollow body organ
US9028511B2 (en) 2004-03-09 2015-05-12 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Devices and methods for placement of partitions within a hollow body organ
CA2561193A1 (en) * 2004-03-26 2005-10-20 Satiety, Inc. Systems and methods for treating obesity
US7481763B2 (en) 2004-05-28 2009-01-27 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Metal bellows position feedback for hydraulic control of an adjustable gastric band
US7374565B2 (en) 2004-05-28 2008-05-20 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Bi-directional infuser pump with volume braking for hydraulically controlling an adjustable gastric band
US7351240B2 (en) * 2004-05-28 2008-04-01 Ethicon Endo—Srugery, Inc. Thermodynamically driven reversible infuser pump for use as a remotely controlled gastric band
US7351198B2 (en) 2004-06-02 2008-04-01 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable adjustable sphincter system
US7955357B2 (en) 2004-07-02 2011-06-07 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Expandable rod system to treat scoliosis and method of using the same
US8612016B2 (en) 2004-08-18 2013-12-17 Metacure Limited Monitoring, analysis, and regulation of eating habits
US20060106288A1 (en) 2004-11-17 2006-05-18 Roth Alex T Remote tissue retraction device
US7879068B2 (en) * 2005-01-14 2011-02-01 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Feedback sensing for a mechanical restrictive device
US7775966B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-08-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device
US7601162B2 (en) * 2005-01-14 2009-10-13 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Actuator for an implantable band
US9339190B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2016-05-17 Metacure Limited Charger with data transfer capabilities
US9821158B2 (en) 2005-02-17 2017-11-21 Metacure Limited Non-immediate effects of therapy
US7775215B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-08-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method for determining implanted device positioning and obtaining pressure data
US8066629B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-11-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Apparatus for adjustment and sensing of gastric band pressure
US8016744B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-09-13 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method
US7658196B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-02-09 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method for determining implanted device orientation
US7927270B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-04-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. External mechanical pressure sensor for gastric band pressure measurements
US7699770B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-04-20 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable restriction device
US8608797B2 (en) 2005-03-17 2013-12-17 Valtech Cardio Ltd. Mitral valve treatment techniques
US8463404B2 (en) 2005-03-24 2013-06-11 Metacure Limited Electrode assemblies, tools, and methods for gastric wall implantation
ATE533403T1 (en) * 2005-03-24 2011-12-15 Metacure Ltd WIRELESS CABLES FOR GASTROINTESTINAL APPLICATIONS
US7727141B2 (en) 2005-05-04 2010-06-01 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) safe remotely adjustable artifical sphincter
EP1890763A4 (en) 2005-06-02 2017-05-03 Metacure Limited Gi lead implantation
US8951285B2 (en) 2005-07-05 2015-02-10 Mitralign, Inc. Tissue anchor, anchoring system and methods of using the same
US7766815B2 (en) * 2005-07-28 2010-08-03 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Electroactive polymer actuated gastric band
US8677377B2 (en) 2005-09-08 2014-03-18 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for building an intelligent automated assistant
US8348961B2 (en) * 2005-10-17 2013-01-08 Automated Medical Products Corporation Gastric band introducer
US8442841B2 (en) 2005-10-20 2013-05-14 Matacure N.V. Patient selection method for assisting weight loss
US8295932B2 (en) 2005-12-05 2012-10-23 Metacure Limited Ingestible capsule for appetite regulation
US20070185518A1 (en) * 2006-02-07 2007-08-09 Hassier William L Jr Method for aiding a surgical procedure
US20070185519A1 (en) * 2006-02-07 2007-08-09 Hassler William L Jr Articulating surgical instrument
US8152710B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2012-04-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Physiological parameter analysis for an implantable restriction device and a data logger
US8870742B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2014-10-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. GUI for an implantable restriction device and a data logger
US20070255335A1 (en) * 2006-04-28 2007-11-01 Medtronic, Inc. Controller for gastric constriction device with selectable electrode configurations
US20070255336A1 (en) * 2006-04-28 2007-11-01 Medtronic, Inc. Gastric constriction device with selectable electrode combinations
US9318108B2 (en) 2010-01-18 2016-04-19 Apple Inc. Intelligent automated assistant
US20080319435A1 (en) * 2006-10-12 2008-12-25 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Shape-changing tissue constrictor and methods of use
US8246533B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2012-08-21 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Implant system with resonant-driven actuator
US7862502B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2011-01-04 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for adjusting a gastrointestinal restriction device
US11259924B2 (en) 2006-12-05 2022-03-01 Valtech Cardio Ltd. Implantation of repair devices in the heart
US9883943B2 (en) 2006-12-05 2018-02-06 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Implantation of repair devices in the heart
US11660190B2 (en) 2007-03-13 2023-05-30 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation Tissue anchors, systems and methods, and devices
US8977255B2 (en) 2007-04-03 2015-03-10 Apple Inc. Method and system for operating a multi-function portable electronic device using voice-activation
US20080262522A1 (en) * 2007-04-20 2008-10-23 Rachadip Singh Sachasin Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Restrictive Bariatric Procedure And Related Device
US8417329B2 (en) * 2007-05-09 2013-04-09 Metacure Ltd. Analysis and regulation of food intake
US8092474B2 (en) * 2007-05-21 2012-01-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for placement of an intra-abdominal or intra-thoracic appliance through a natural body orifice
US20080304710A1 (en) * 2007-06-08 2008-12-11 Lijie Xu Method and apparatus for processing image of at least one seedling
BRPI0817871B8 (en) 2007-10-11 2021-06-22 Implantica Patent Ltd device for controlling the flow in an organ of the body
US8696543B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-04-15 Kirk Promotion Ltd. Method for controlling flow of intestinal contents in a patient's intestines
US8992409B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2015-03-31 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow in a bodily organ
WO2010042045A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2010-04-15 Milux Holding S.A. A system, an apparatus, and a method for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient
US8795153B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-08-05 Peter Forsell Method for treating female sexual dysfunction
US8057472B2 (en) 2007-10-30 2011-11-15 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Skeletal manipulation method
US8187163B2 (en) 2007-12-10 2012-05-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods for implanting a gastric restriction device
US8100870B2 (en) 2007-12-14 2012-01-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Adjustable height gastric restriction devices and methods
US8377079B2 (en) 2007-12-27 2013-02-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Constant force mechanisms for regulating restriction devices
US8142452B2 (en) 2007-12-27 2012-03-27 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
US9330720B2 (en) 2008-01-03 2016-05-03 Apple Inc. Methods and apparatus for altering audio output signals
US8591395B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2013-11-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric restriction device data handling devices and methods
EP3964243A1 (en) * 2008-01-28 2022-03-09 Implantica Patent Ltd Blood clot removal device, system, and method
US8337389B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2012-12-25 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for diagnosing performance of a gastric restriction system
US8192350B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2012-06-05 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for measuring impedance in a gastric restriction system
HUE054386T2 (en) 2008-01-29 2021-09-28 Implantica Patent Ltd Apparatus for treating obesity
US8221439B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2012-07-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using kinetic motion
US7844342B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2010-11-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using light
US8114345B2 (en) 2008-02-08 2012-02-14 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method of sterilizing an implantable medical device
US8591532B2 (en) 2008-02-12 2013-11-26 Ethicon Endo-Sugery, Inc. Automatically adjusting band system
US8057492B2 (en) 2008-02-12 2011-11-15 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Automatically adjusting band system with MEMS pump
US20090209995A1 (en) * 2008-02-14 2009-08-20 Byrum Randal T Implantable adjustable sphincter system
US8034065B2 (en) 2008-02-26 2011-10-11 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
US8187162B2 (en) 2008-03-06 2012-05-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Reorientation port
US8233995B2 (en) 2008-03-06 2012-07-31 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method of aligning an implantable antenna
US8382829B1 (en) 2008-03-10 2013-02-26 Mitralign, Inc. Method to reduce mitral regurgitation by cinching the commissure of the mitral valve
US11202707B2 (en) 2008-03-25 2021-12-21 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable implant system
US8996376B2 (en) 2008-04-05 2015-03-31 Apple Inc. Intelligent text-to-speech conversion
CN102014766A (en) * 2008-04-22 2011-04-13 伊西康内外科公司 Methods and devices for providing direction to surgical tools
US8423130B2 (en) 2008-05-09 2013-04-16 Metacure Limited Optimization of thresholds for eating detection
US10496753B2 (en) 2010-01-18 2019-12-03 Apple Inc. Automatically adapting user interfaces for hands-free interaction
US20100030549A1 (en) 2008-07-31 2010-02-04 Lee Michael M Mobile device having human language translation capability with positional feedback
EP2349170B1 (en) 2008-10-10 2023-09-27 Implantica Patent Ltd. Apparatus for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction
WO2010042058A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2010-04-15 Milux Holding S.A. An improved artificial valve
EP3708136A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2020-09-16 MedicalTree Patent Ltd. Heart help device, system, and method
CA3004075C (en) 2008-10-10 2020-06-02 Medicaltree Patent Ltd. Heart help device, system, and method
EP2349078A4 (en) 2008-10-10 2018-02-07 Kirk Promotion LTD. Fastening means for implantable medcial control assembly
US8372093B2 (en) * 2008-11-04 2013-02-12 Koletry Processing L.L.C. Systems and processes for controlling gastric bands based on geographic location
US8382756B2 (en) 2008-11-10 2013-02-26 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. External adjustment device for distraction device
US8911346B2 (en) * 2008-12-05 2014-12-16 Onclomed, Inc. Gastric restriction devices with fillable chambers and ablation means for treating obesity
US8357081B2 (en) * 2008-12-05 2013-01-22 Onciomed, Inc. Method and apparatus for gastric restriction of the stomach to treat obesity
WO2010067118A1 (en) 2008-12-11 2010-06-17 Novauris Technologies Limited Speech recognition involving a mobile device
US10517719B2 (en) 2008-12-22 2019-12-31 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Implantation of repair devices in the heart
WO2010073246A2 (en) 2008-12-22 2010-07-01 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Adjustable annuloplasty devices and adjustment mechanisms therefor
US8715342B2 (en) 2009-05-07 2014-05-06 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Annuloplasty ring with intra-ring anchoring
US8241351B2 (en) 2008-12-22 2012-08-14 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Adjustable partial annuloplasty ring and mechanism therefor
US8911494B2 (en) 2009-05-04 2014-12-16 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Deployment techniques for annuloplasty ring
US8353956B2 (en) 2009-02-17 2013-01-15 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Actively-engageable movement-restriction mechanism for use with an annuloplasty structure
US8197490B2 (en) 2009-02-23 2012-06-12 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Non-invasive adjustable distraction system
US8100932B2 (en) 2009-03-31 2012-01-24 Onciomed, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating obesity and controlling weight gain using self-expanding intragastric devices
US20100249822A1 (en) * 2009-03-31 2010-09-30 Raj Nihalani Method and apparatus for treating obesity and controlling weight gain using adjustable intragastric devices
US9622792B2 (en) 2009-04-29 2017-04-18 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Interspinous process device and method
US9968452B2 (en) 2009-05-04 2018-05-15 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Annuloplasty ring delivery cathethers
US9858925B2 (en) 2009-06-05 2018-01-02 Apple Inc. Using context information to facilitate processing of commands in a virtual assistant
US10241752B2 (en) 2011-09-30 2019-03-26 Apple Inc. Interface for a virtual digital assistant
US10255566B2 (en) 2011-06-03 2019-04-09 Apple Inc. Generating and processing task items that represent tasks to perform
US10241644B2 (en) 2011-06-03 2019-03-26 Apple Inc. Actionable reminder entries
US9431006B2 (en) 2009-07-02 2016-08-30 Apple Inc. Methods and apparatuses for automatic speech recognition
US9949812B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2018-04-24 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of anal incontinence in women
US10952836B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2021-03-23 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of urinary incontinence in women
US20110040313A1 (en) * 2009-08-14 2011-02-17 Dlugos Jr Daniel F Implantable restriction device with protective member
US8672830B2 (en) * 2009-09-18 2014-03-18 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable restriction system with release mechanism
US9750629B2 (en) * 2009-09-18 2017-09-05 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable restriction system tension release mechanism
US10098737B2 (en) 2009-10-29 2018-10-16 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Tissue anchor for annuloplasty device
US9180007B2 (en) 2009-10-29 2015-11-10 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Apparatus and method for guide-wire based advancement of an adjustable implant
US20110118650A1 (en) * 2009-11-18 2011-05-19 Anteromed, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating obesity and controlling weight gain and absorption of glucose in mammals
WO2011067770A1 (en) 2009-12-02 2011-06-09 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Delivery tool for implantation of spool assembly coupled to a helical anchor
US10705794B2 (en) 2010-01-18 2020-07-07 Apple Inc. Automatically adapting user interfaces for hands-free interaction
US10553209B2 (en) 2010-01-18 2020-02-04 Apple Inc. Systems and methods for hands-free notification summaries
US10679605B2 (en) 2010-01-18 2020-06-09 Apple Inc. Hands-free list-reading by intelligent automated assistant
US10276170B2 (en) 2010-01-18 2019-04-30 Apple Inc. Intelligent automated assistant
WO2011089450A2 (en) 2010-01-25 2011-07-28 Andrew Peter Nelson Jerram Apparatuses, methods and systems for a digital conversation management platform
WO2011092710A2 (en) 2010-02-01 2011-08-04 Metacure Limited Gastrointestinal electrical therapy
US8682667B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-03-25 Apple Inc. User profiling for selecting user specific voice input processing information
US9248043B2 (en) 2010-06-30 2016-02-02 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. External adjustment device for distraction device
US8734488B2 (en) 2010-08-09 2014-05-27 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Maintenance feature in magnetic implant
US20120089172A1 (en) * 2010-10-11 2012-04-12 Allergan, Inc. Re-shaping intragastric implants
US10762293B2 (en) 2010-12-22 2020-09-01 Apple Inc. Using parts-of-speech tagging and named entity recognition for spelling correction
WO2012112396A2 (en) 2011-02-14 2012-08-23 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Device and method for treating fractured bones
US9262612B2 (en) 2011-03-21 2016-02-16 Apple Inc. Device access using voice authentication
US10057736B2 (en) 2011-06-03 2018-08-21 Apple Inc. Active transport based notifications
US10792152B2 (en) 2011-06-23 2020-10-06 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Closed band for percutaneous annuloplasty
US8994660B2 (en) 2011-08-29 2015-03-31 Apple Inc. Text correction processing
US10743794B2 (en) 2011-10-04 2020-08-18 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Devices and methods for non-invasive implant length sensing
US10016220B2 (en) 2011-11-01 2018-07-10 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable magnetic devices and methods of using same
US8858623B2 (en) 2011-11-04 2014-10-14 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Implant having multiple rotational assemblies
EP3970627B1 (en) 2011-11-08 2023-12-20 Edwards Lifesciences Innovation (Israel) Ltd. Controlled steering functionality for implant-delivery tool
US10134385B2 (en) 2012-03-02 2018-11-20 Apple Inc. Systems and methods for name pronunciation
US9483461B2 (en) 2012-03-06 2016-11-01 Apple Inc. Handling speech synthesis of content for multiple languages
US9280610B2 (en) 2012-05-14 2016-03-08 Apple Inc. Crowd sourcing information to fulfill user requests
US9721563B2 (en) 2012-06-08 2017-08-01 Apple Inc. Name recognition system
US9456916B2 (en) 2013-03-12 2016-10-04 Medibotics Llc Device for selectively reducing absorption of unhealthy food
US9495129B2 (en) 2012-06-29 2016-11-15 Apple Inc. Device, method, and user interface for voice-activated navigation and browsing of a document
US9576574B2 (en) 2012-09-10 2017-02-21 Apple Inc. Context-sensitive handling of interruptions by intelligent digital assistant
US9547647B2 (en) 2012-09-19 2017-01-17 Apple Inc. Voice-based media searching
EP2900150B1 (en) 2012-09-29 2018-04-18 Mitralign, Inc. Plication lock delivery system
WO2014064695A2 (en) 2012-10-23 2014-05-01 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Percutaneous tissue anchor techniques
US9949828B2 (en) 2012-10-23 2018-04-24 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Controlled steering functionality for implant-delivery tool
EP2911616B1 (en) 2012-10-29 2020-10-07 NuVasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable devices for treating arthritis of the knee
US9730793B2 (en) 2012-12-06 2017-08-15 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Techniques for guide-wire based advancement of a tool
KR102118209B1 (en) 2013-02-07 2020-06-02 애플 인크. Voice trigger for a digital assistant
US9724084B2 (en) 2013-02-26 2017-08-08 Mitralign, Inc. Devices and methods for percutaneous tricuspid valve repair
US9011365B2 (en) 2013-03-12 2015-04-21 Medibotics Llc Adjustable gastrointestinal bifurcation (AGB) for reduced absorption of unhealthy food
US9067070B2 (en) 2013-03-12 2015-06-30 Medibotics Llc Dysgeusia-inducing neurostimulation for modifying consumption of a selected nutrient type
US9368114B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2016-06-14 Apple Inc. Context-sensitive handling of interruptions
US10449333B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2019-10-22 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Guidewire feeder
WO2014144579A1 (en) 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Apple Inc. System and method for updating an adaptive speech recognition model
AU2014233517B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2017-05-25 Apple Inc. Training an at least partial voice command system
CN105283214B (en) 2013-03-15 2018-10-16 北京泰德制药股份有限公司 Translate conduit, system and its application method
US9582608B2 (en) 2013-06-07 2017-02-28 Apple Inc. Unified ranking with entropy-weighted information for phrase-based semantic auto-completion
WO2014197336A1 (en) 2013-06-07 2014-12-11 Apple Inc. System and method for detecting errors in interactions with a voice-based digital assistant
WO2014197334A2 (en) 2013-06-07 2014-12-11 Apple Inc. System and method for user-specified pronunciation of words for speech synthesis and recognition
WO2014197335A1 (en) 2013-06-08 2014-12-11 Apple Inc. Interpreting and acting upon commands that involve sharing information with remote devices
US10176167B2 (en) 2013-06-09 2019-01-08 Apple Inc. System and method for inferring user intent from speech inputs
KR101959188B1 (en) 2013-06-09 2019-07-02 애플 인크. Device, method, and graphical user interface for enabling conversation persistence across two or more instances of a digital assistant
CN105265005B (en) 2013-06-13 2019-09-17 苹果公司 System and method for the urgent call initiated by voice command
CN105453026A (en) 2013-08-06 2016-03-30 苹果公司 Auto-activating smart responses based on activities from remote devices
US10070857B2 (en) 2013-08-31 2018-09-11 Mitralign, Inc. Devices and methods for locating and implanting tissue anchors at mitral valve commissure
US10751094B2 (en) 2013-10-10 2020-08-25 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable spinal implant
WO2015059699A2 (en) 2013-10-23 2015-04-30 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Anchor magazine
US9610162B2 (en) 2013-12-26 2017-04-04 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Implantation of flexible implant
EP4242756A3 (en) 2014-04-28 2023-11-15 NuVasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. System for informational magnetic feedback in adjustable implants
US9620105B2 (en) 2014-05-15 2017-04-11 Apple Inc. Analyzing audio input for efficient speech and music recognition
US10592095B2 (en) 2014-05-23 2020-03-17 Apple Inc. Instantaneous speaking of content on touch devices
US9502031B2 (en) 2014-05-27 2016-11-22 Apple Inc. Method for supporting dynamic grammars in WFST-based ASR
US9785630B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-10-10 Apple Inc. Text prediction using combined word N-gram and unigram language models
US9760559B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-09-12 Apple Inc. Predictive text input
US9842101B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-12-12 Apple Inc. Predictive conversion of language input
US9715875B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-07-25 Apple Inc. Reducing the need for manual start/end-pointing and trigger phrases
US9966065B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2018-05-08 Apple Inc. Multi-command single utterance input method
US10170123B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2019-01-01 Apple Inc. Intelligent assistant for home automation
US10078631B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2018-09-18 Apple Inc. Entropy-guided text prediction using combined word and character n-gram language models
US9430463B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2016-08-30 Apple Inc. Exemplar-based natural language processing
US9734193B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-08-15 Apple Inc. Determining domain salience ranking from ambiguous words in natural speech
US9633004B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2017-04-25 Apple Inc. Better resolution when referencing to concepts
US10289433B2 (en) 2014-05-30 2019-05-14 Apple Inc. Domain specific language for encoding assistant dialog
US10659851B2 (en) 2014-06-30 2020-05-19 Apple Inc. Real-time digital assistant knowledge updates
US9338493B2 (en) 2014-06-30 2016-05-10 Apple Inc. Intelligent automated assistant for TV user interactions
US10446141B2 (en) 2014-08-28 2019-10-15 Apple Inc. Automatic speech recognition based on user feedback
US9818400B2 (en) 2014-09-11 2017-11-14 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for discovering trending terms in speech requests
US10789041B2 (en) 2014-09-12 2020-09-29 Apple Inc. Dynamic thresholds for always listening speech trigger
US9668121B2 (en) 2014-09-30 2017-05-30 Apple Inc. Social reminders
US9646609B2 (en) 2014-09-30 2017-05-09 Apple Inc. Caching apparatus for serving phonetic pronunciations
US10074360B2 (en) 2014-09-30 2018-09-11 Apple Inc. Providing an indication of the suitability of speech recognition
US9886432B2 (en) 2014-09-30 2018-02-06 Apple Inc. Parsimonious handling of word inflection via categorical stem + suffix N-gram language models
US10127911B2 (en) 2014-09-30 2018-11-13 Apple Inc. Speaker identification and unsupervised speaker adaptation techniques
EP3206629B1 (en) 2014-10-14 2021-07-14 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Apparatus for heart valve leaflet restraining
US10552013B2 (en) 2014-12-02 2020-02-04 Apple Inc. Data detection
US9711141B2 (en) 2014-12-09 2017-07-18 Apple Inc. Disambiguating heteronyms in speech synthesis
JP6847341B2 (en) 2014-12-26 2021-03-24 ニューベイシブ スペシャライズド オーソペディックス,インコーポレイテッド Systems and methods for extension
US10238427B2 (en) 2015-02-19 2019-03-26 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Systems and methods for vertebral adjustment
US20160256269A1 (en) 2015-03-05 2016-09-08 Mitralign, Inc. Devices for treating paravalvular leakage and methods use thereof
US9865280B2 (en) 2015-03-06 2018-01-09 Apple Inc. Structured dictation using intelligent automated assistants
US9886953B2 (en) 2015-03-08 2018-02-06 Apple Inc. Virtual assistant activation
US9721566B2 (en) 2015-03-08 2017-08-01 Apple Inc. Competing devices responding to voice triggers
US10567477B2 (en) 2015-03-08 2020-02-18 Apple Inc. Virtual assistant continuity
US9899019B2 (en) 2015-03-18 2018-02-20 Apple Inc. Systems and methods for structured stem and suffix language models
US9842105B2 (en) 2015-04-16 2017-12-12 Apple Inc. Parsimonious continuous-space phrase representations for natural language processing
CA2982063A1 (en) 2015-04-30 2016-11-03 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Annuloplasty technologies
US10083688B2 (en) 2015-05-27 2018-09-25 Apple Inc. Device voice control for selecting a displayed affordance
US10127220B2 (en) 2015-06-04 2018-11-13 Apple Inc. Language identification from short strings
US10101822B2 (en) 2015-06-05 2018-10-16 Apple Inc. Language input correction
US10186254B2 (en) 2015-06-07 2019-01-22 Apple Inc. Context-based endpoint detection
US10255907B2 (en) 2015-06-07 2019-04-09 Apple Inc. Automatic accent detection using acoustic models
US11025565B2 (en) 2015-06-07 2021-06-01 Apple Inc. Personalized prediction of responses for instant messaging
US10747498B2 (en) 2015-09-08 2020-08-18 Apple Inc. Zero latency digital assistant
US10671428B2 (en) 2015-09-08 2020-06-02 Apple Inc. Distributed personal assistant
US9697820B2 (en) 2015-09-24 2017-07-04 Apple Inc. Unit-selection text-to-speech synthesis using concatenation-sensitive neural networks
US11010550B2 (en) 2015-09-29 2021-05-18 Apple Inc. Unified language modeling framework for word prediction, auto-completion and auto-correction
US10366158B2 (en) 2015-09-29 2019-07-30 Apple Inc. Efficient word encoding for recurrent neural network language models
US11587559B2 (en) 2015-09-30 2023-02-21 Apple Inc. Intelligent device identification
BR112018007347A2 (en) 2015-10-16 2018-10-23 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. adjustable devices for the treatment of knee arthritis
US10691473B2 (en) 2015-11-06 2020-06-23 Apple Inc. Intelligent automated assistant in a messaging environment
US10049668B2 (en) 2015-12-02 2018-08-14 Apple Inc. Applying neural network language models to weighted finite state transducers for automatic speech recognition
WO2017100774A1 (en) 2015-12-10 2017-06-15 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. External adjustment device for distraction device
US10223066B2 (en) 2015-12-23 2019-03-05 Apple Inc. Proactive assistance based on dialog communication between devices
WO2017117370A2 (en) 2015-12-30 2017-07-06 Mitralign, Inc. System and method for reducing tricuspid regurgitation
US10751182B2 (en) 2015-12-30 2020-08-25 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation System and method for reshaping right heart
KR20180107173A (en) 2016-01-28 2018-10-01 누베이시브 스페셜라이즈드 오소페딕스, 인크. System for osteotomy
US10446143B2 (en) 2016-03-14 2019-10-15 Apple Inc. Identification of voice inputs providing credentials
US10702274B2 (en) 2016-05-26 2020-07-07 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation Method and system for closing left atrial appendage
US9934775B2 (en) 2016-05-26 2018-04-03 Apple Inc. Unit-selection text-to-speech synthesis based on predicted concatenation parameters
US9972304B2 (en) 2016-06-03 2018-05-15 Apple Inc. Privacy preserving distributed evaluation framework for embedded personalized systems
US10249300B2 (en) 2016-06-06 2019-04-02 Apple Inc. Intelligent list reading
US10049663B2 (en) 2016-06-08 2018-08-14 Apple, Inc. Intelligent automated assistant for media exploration
DK179309B1 (en) 2016-06-09 2018-04-23 Apple Inc Intelligent automated assistant in a home environment
US10067938B2 (en) 2016-06-10 2018-09-04 Apple Inc. Multilingual word prediction
US10192552B2 (en) 2016-06-10 2019-01-29 Apple Inc. Digital assistant providing whispered speech
US10586535B2 (en) 2016-06-10 2020-03-10 Apple Inc. Intelligent digital assistant in a multi-tasking environment
US10509862B2 (en) 2016-06-10 2019-12-17 Apple Inc. Dynamic phrase expansion of language input
US10490187B2 (en) 2016-06-10 2019-11-26 Apple Inc. Digital assistant providing automated status report
DK179049B1 (en) 2016-06-11 2017-09-18 Apple Inc Data driven natural language event detection and classification
DK179343B1 (en) 2016-06-11 2018-05-14 Apple Inc Intelligent task discovery
DK201670540A1 (en) 2016-06-11 2018-01-08 Apple Inc Application integration with a digital assistant
DK179415B1 (en) 2016-06-11 2018-06-14 Apple Inc Intelligent device arbitration and control
GB201611910D0 (en) 2016-07-08 2016-08-24 Valtech Cardio Ltd Adjustable annuloplasty device with alternating peaks and troughs
US10593346B2 (en) 2016-12-22 2020-03-17 Apple Inc. Rank-reduced token representation for automatic speech recognition
US11045627B2 (en) 2017-04-18 2021-06-29 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation Catheter system with linear actuation control mechanism
DK179745B1 (en) 2017-05-12 2019-05-01 Apple Inc. SYNCHRONIZATION AND TASK DELEGATION OF A DIGITAL ASSISTANT
DK201770431A1 (en) 2017-05-15 2018-12-20 Apple Inc. Optimizing dialogue policy decisions for digital assistants using implicit feedback
KR102005238B1 (en) * 2017-08-08 2019-07-30 김재황 Auto tension measuring instrument
US10835221B2 (en) 2017-11-02 2020-11-17 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Implant-cinching devices and systems
US11135062B2 (en) 2017-11-20 2021-10-05 Valtech Cardio Ltd. Cinching of dilated heart muscle
CA3086884A1 (en) 2018-01-24 2019-08-01 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Contraction of an annuloplasty structure
EP4248904A3 (en) 2018-01-26 2023-11-29 Edwards Lifesciences Innovation (Israel) Ltd. Techniques for facilitating heart valve tethering and chord replacement
CA3106104A1 (en) 2018-07-12 2020-01-16 Valtech Cardio, Ltd. Annuloplasty systems and locking tools therefor
AU2020375903A1 (en) 2019-10-29 2021-12-23 Edwards Lifesciences Innovation (Israel) Ltd. Annuloplasty and tissue anchor technologies

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4592339A (en) * 1985-06-12 1986-06-03 Mentor Corporation Gastric banding device
US4632114A (en) * 1985-03-22 1986-12-30 C. R. Bard, Inc. Urethral sphincter cuff
US4696288A (en) * 1985-08-14 1987-09-29 Kuzmak Lubomyr I Calibrating apparatus and method of using same for gastric banding surgery
US4863985A (en) * 1987-10-20 1989-09-05 Rhone-Poulenc Chimie Aqueous silicone emulsions crosslinkable into elastomeric state
US5006106A (en) * 1990-10-09 1991-04-09 Angelchik Jean P Apparatus and method for laparoscopic implantation of anti-reflux prosthesis
US5074868A (en) * 1990-08-03 1991-12-24 Inamed Development Company Reversible stoma-adjustable gastric band
US5152770A (en) * 1990-03-22 1992-10-06 Ab Hepar Implantable device for occluding a duct in the body of a living being
US5160338A (en) * 1991-11-13 1992-11-03 Inamed Development Co. Device for removing implantable articles
US5226429A (en) * 1991-06-20 1993-07-13 Inamed Development Co. Laparoscopic gastric band and method

Patent Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4632114A (en) * 1985-03-22 1986-12-30 C. R. Bard, Inc. Urethral sphincter cuff
US4592339A (en) * 1985-06-12 1986-06-03 Mentor Corporation Gastric banding device
US4696288A (en) * 1985-08-14 1987-09-29 Kuzmak Lubomyr I Calibrating apparatus and method of using same for gastric banding surgery
US4863985A (en) * 1987-10-20 1989-09-05 Rhone-Poulenc Chimie Aqueous silicone emulsions crosslinkable into elastomeric state
US5152770A (en) * 1990-03-22 1992-10-06 Ab Hepar Implantable device for occluding a duct in the body of a living being
US5074868A (en) * 1990-08-03 1991-12-24 Inamed Development Company Reversible stoma-adjustable gastric band
US5006106A (en) * 1990-10-09 1991-04-09 Angelchik Jean P Apparatus and method for laparoscopic implantation of anti-reflux prosthesis
US5226429A (en) * 1991-06-20 1993-07-13 Inamed Development Co. Laparoscopic gastric band and method
US5160338A (en) * 1991-11-13 1992-11-03 Inamed Development Co. Device for removing implantable articles

Cited By (222)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20050192629A1 (en) * 1999-06-25 2005-09-01 Usgi Medical Inc. Methods and apparatus for creating and regulating a gastric stoma
US8317809B2 (en) 2000-03-06 2012-11-27 Covidien Lp Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US20040087977A1 (en) * 2000-03-06 2004-05-06 United States Surgical Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US20110137325A1 (en) * 2000-03-06 2011-06-09 Tim Nolan Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US7179267B2 (en) 2000-03-06 2007-02-20 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US9173658B2 (en) 2000-03-06 2015-11-03 Covidien Lp Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US7824422B2 (en) * 2000-05-12 2010-11-02 Compagnie Européenne d'etude et de Recherche de Dispositifs pour l'Implatation Par Laporoscopie Adjustable gastroplastry ring comprising a grip tab
US20040049209A1 (en) * 2000-05-12 2004-03-11 Salomon Benchetrit Adjustable gastroplastry ring comprising a grip tab
US7901416B2 (en) 2001-03-05 2011-03-08 Tyco Healthcare Group, L.P. Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US20070129739A1 (en) * 2001-03-05 2007-06-07 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Apparatus and method for performing a bypass procedure in a digestive system
US20110090210A1 (en) * 2002-03-05 2011-04-21 Isao Sasaki Image display apparatus and control method therefor
US20090182356A1 (en) * 2002-08-13 2009-07-16 Coe Frederick L Remotely adjustable gastric banding device
US8845513B2 (en) 2002-08-13 2014-09-30 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding device
US20050192531A1 (en) * 2002-08-28 2005-09-01 Janel Birk Fatigue-resistant gastric banding device
US7811298B2 (en) 2002-08-28 2010-10-12 Allergan, Inc. Fatigue-resistant gastric banding device
US8382780B2 (en) 2002-08-28 2013-02-26 Allergan, Inc. Fatigue-resistant gastric banding device
US7060080B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2006-06-13 Endoart S.A. Closure system for surgical ring
US7901419B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2011-03-08 Allergan, Inc. Telemetrically controlled band for regulating functioning of a body organ or duct, and methods of making, implantation and use
US7238191B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2007-07-03 Endoart S.A. Surgical ring featuring a reversible diameter remote control system
US8012162B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2011-09-06 Allergan, Inc. Surgical ring featuring a reversible diameter remote control system
US20050251182A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2005-11-10 Bachmann Michel A Surgical ring featuring a reversiblediameter remote control system
US20080027469A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2008-01-31 Endoart Sa Surgical ring featuring a reversible diameter remote control system
US20050251181A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2005-11-10 Bachmann Michel A Closure system for surgical ring
US7972346B2 (en) 2002-09-04 2011-07-05 Allergan Medical S.A. Telemetrically controlled band for regulating functioning of a body organ or duct, and methods of making, implantation and use
US20050143766A1 (en) * 2002-09-04 2005-06-30 Endoart Sa Telemetrically controlled band for regulating functioning of a body organ or duct, and methods of making, implantation and use
EP1484040A2 (en) * 2003-06-04 2004-12-08 AMI Agency for Medical Innovations GmbH An apparatus for creating an artificial reduction in the gastrointestinal tract
EP1484040A3 (en) * 2003-06-04 2008-07-23 AMI Agency for Medical Innovations GmbH An apparatus for creating an artificial reduction in the gastrointestinal tract
US20100234808A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2010-09-16 Uth Joshua R Injection Port Applier with Downward Force Actuation
US20040254537A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2004-12-16 Conlon Sean P. Subcutaneous self attaching injection port with integral moveable retention members
US8211127B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2012-07-03 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Injection port with extendable and retractable fasteners
US8007474B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2011-08-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable medical device with reversible attachment mechanism and method
US7862546B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2011-01-04 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Subcutaneous self attaching injection port with integral moveable retention members
US20100130941A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2010-05-27 Conlon Sean P Audible And Tactile Feedback
US8758303B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2014-06-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Injection port with applier
US8764713B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2014-07-01 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method of repositioning an injection port
US20110082426A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2011-04-07 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Subcutaneous self attaching injection port with integral moveable retention members
US8715243B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2014-05-06 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Injection port applier with downward force actuation
US8864717B2 (en) 2003-06-16 2014-10-21 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Subcutaneous self attaching injection port with integral moveable retention members
US20050283119A1 (en) * 2003-06-16 2005-12-22 Joshua Uth Implantable medical device with reversible attachment mechanism and method
US20050002984A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2005-01-06 Byrum Randal T. Implantable band with attachment mechanism having dissimilar material properties
US20040267292A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2004-12-30 Byrum Randal T. Implantable band with transverse attachment mechanism
US20040267288A1 (en) * 2003-06-27 2004-12-30 Byrum Randal T. Implantable band having improved attachment mechanism
US7951067B2 (en) 2003-06-27 2011-05-31 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable band having improved attachment mechanism
US20100049214A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2010-02-25 Allergan, Inc. Implantable medical implants having fasteners and methods of fastening
US20090259190A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2009-10-15 Allergan, Inc. Implantable injection port and protective cap
US7947011B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-05-24 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US7762998B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2010-07-27 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US20060190039A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2006-08-24 Janel Birk Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US8496614B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2013-07-30 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system
US7892200B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-02-22 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US20100042052A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2010-02-18 Allergan, Inc. Methods of operating an implantable injection port system
US8409203B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2013-04-02 Allergan, Inc. Implantable medical implants having fasteners
US7972315B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-07-05 Allergan, Inc. Implantable injection port and protective cap
US8007479B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-08-30 Allergan, Inc. Implantable injection port
US20060235445A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2006-10-19 Janel Birk Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US7901381B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-03-08 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US8317761B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2012-11-27 Allergan, Inc. Methods of deploying an implantable injection port
US20090264827A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2009-10-22 Allergan, Inc. Methods of implanting an injection port
US20100286649A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2010-11-11 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system
US8007465B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-08-30 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US20090254052A1 (en) * 2003-09-15 2009-10-08 Allergan, Inc. Implantable device fastening system and methods of use
US7811275B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2010-10-12 Allergan, Inc. Methods of implanting an injection port
US8079989B2 (en) 2003-09-15 2011-12-20 Allergan, Inc. Methods of operating an implantable injection port system
US10238517B2 (en) 2003-10-23 2019-03-26 Proxy Biomedical Limited Gastric constriction device
US7758493B2 (en) 2003-10-23 2010-07-20 Proxy Biomedical Limited Gastric constriction device
US20110004054A1 (en) * 2003-10-23 2011-01-06 Proxy Biomedical Limited Gastric Constriction Device
US8162897B2 (en) 2003-12-19 2012-04-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Audible and tactile feedback
US20050283118A1 (en) * 2003-12-19 2005-12-22 Joshua Uth Implantable medical device with simulataneous attachment mechanism and method
US7850660B2 (en) 2003-12-19 2010-12-14 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Implantable medical device with simultaneous attachment mechanism and method
US20090082793A1 (en) * 2004-01-23 2009-03-26 Allergan, Inc. Releasably-securable one-piece adjustable gastric band
US8900117B2 (en) 2004-01-23 2014-12-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Releasably-securable one-piece adjustable gastric band
US7311716B2 (en) 2004-02-20 2007-12-25 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Surgically implantable adjustable band having a flat profile when implanted
US20050187566A1 (en) * 2004-02-20 2005-08-25 Byrum Randal T. Surgically implantable adjustable band having a flat profile when implanted
US7594885B2 (en) 2004-02-20 2009-09-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for implanting an adjustable band
US20050183730A1 (en) * 2004-02-20 2005-08-25 Byrum Randal T. Method for implanting an adjustable band
US20110040141A1 (en) * 2004-03-08 2011-02-17 Allergan, Inc. Closure system for tubular organs
US8377081B2 (en) 2004-03-08 2013-02-19 Allergan, Inc. Closure system for tubular organs
US20070173881A1 (en) * 2004-03-18 2007-07-26 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for volume adjustment of intragastric balloons
US8236023B2 (en) 2004-03-18 2012-08-07 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for volume adjustment of intragastric balloons
US20050228415A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2005-10-13 Michael Gertner Methods and devices for percutaneous, non-laparoscopic treatment of obesity
US20050267533A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2005-12-01 Michael Gertner Methods and devices for the surgical creation of satiety and biofeedback pathways
US7946976B2 (en) 2004-03-23 2011-05-24 Michael Gertner Methods and devices for the surgical creation of satiety and biofeedback pathways
US20060195139A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2006-08-31 Michael Gertner Extragastric devices and methods for gastroplasty
US7963907B2 (en) 2004-03-23 2011-06-21 Michael Gertner Closed loop gastric restriction devices and methods
US20100234682A1 (en) * 2004-03-23 2010-09-16 Michael Gertner Closed loop gastric restriction devices and methods
EP1591140A1 (en) 2004-04-27 2005-11-02 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. A surgically implantable injection port having a centered catheter connection tube
US20110144424A1 (en) * 2004-06-01 2011-06-16 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method of implanting a fluid injection port
US8585662B2 (en) 2004-06-01 2013-11-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method of implanting a fluid injection port
EP1607071A1 (en) 2004-06-16 2005-12-21 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. A method of assembling an adjustable band
US7776061B2 (en) 2004-09-28 2010-08-17 Garner Dean L Fluid adjustable band
US20060173472A1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Starkebaum Warren L Gastric banding device
US20060173238A1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Starkebaum Warren L Dynamically controlled gastric occlusion device
US20060217668A1 (en) * 2005-03-22 2006-09-28 Schulze Dale R Method of implanting a subcutaneous injection port having stabilizing elements
US20060276812A1 (en) * 2005-04-04 2006-12-07 Hill James W Dynamic reinforcement of the lower esophageal sphincter
US20060235448A1 (en) * 2005-04-13 2006-10-19 Roslin Mitchell S Artificial gastric valve
US8251888B2 (en) 2005-04-13 2012-08-28 Mitchell Steven Roslin Artificial gastric valve
US8623042B2 (en) 2005-04-13 2014-01-07 Mitchell Roslin Artificial gastric valve
US20060244291A1 (en) * 2005-04-29 2006-11-02 Buell Motorcycle Company Movable tailrack for a motorcycle
US20060271088A1 (en) * 2005-05-02 2006-11-30 Almuhannad Alfrhan Percutaneous intragastric balloon device and method
US9345604B2 (en) 2005-05-02 2016-05-24 Almuhannad Alfrhan Percutaneous intragastric balloon device and method
US7918844B2 (en) 2005-06-24 2011-04-05 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Applier for implantable medical device
US7651483B2 (en) 2005-06-24 2010-01-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Injection port
US20060293626A1 (en) * 2005-06-24 2006-12-28 Byrum Randal T Applier for implantable medical device
US20070010790A1 (en) * 2005-06-24 2007-01-11 Byrum Randal T Injection port
US7416528B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-08-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Latching device for gastric band
US20070016231A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Precurved gastric band
US20070015955A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Mark Tsonton Accordion-like gastric band
US8182411B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2012-05-22 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band with mating end profiles
US8298133B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2012-10-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
US20070173685A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-07-26 Jambor Kristin L Method of implating a medical device using a suture tab extender
US20070250086A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-10-25 Wiley Jeffrey P Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
US7615001B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2009-11-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Precurved gastric band
US20070016229A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band suture tab extender
US20070016230A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band
US7367937B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-05-06 Ethicon Endo-Surgey, Inc. Gastric band
US7364542B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-04-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band suture tab extender
US7618365B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2009-11-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method of implating a medical device using a suture tab extender
US20070015954A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Dlugos Daniel F Gastric band with mating end profiles
US20070156013A1 (en) * 2006-01-04 2007-07-05 Allergan, Inc. Self-regulating gastric band with pressure data processing
US8308630B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2012-11-13 Allergan, Inc. Hydraulic gastric band with collapsible reservoir
US8905915B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2014-12-09 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-regulating gastric band with pressure data processing
US8043206B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2011-10-25 Allergan, Inc. Self-regulating gastric band with pressure data processing
US20100324358A1 (en) * 2006-01-04 2010-12-23 Birk Janel A Hydraulic gastric band with collapsible reservoir
US20070265645A1 (en) * 2006-01-04 2007-11-15 Allergan, Inc. Hydraulic gastric band collapsible reservoir
US8323180B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2012-12-04 Allergan, Inc. Hydraulic gastric band with collapsible reservoir
US7798954B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2010-09-21 Allergan, Inc. Hydraulic gastric band with collapsible reservoir
US20070199170A1 (en) * 2006-02-28 2007-08-30 Dipippo Joe Self-cleaning hair brush
US8753369B2 (en) 2006-06-09 2014-06-17 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric balloon retrieval mechanisms
US9125726B2 (en) 2006-06-09 2015-09-08 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric balloon retrieval mechanisms
US7763039B2 (en) 2006-06-09 2010-07-27 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Articulating blunt dissector/gastric band application device
US20100168783A1 (en) * 2006-06-09 2010-07-01 Allergan, Inc. Intragastric balloon retrieval mechanisms
US20070288033A1 (en) * 2006-06-09 2007-12-13 Allergan, Inc. Intragastric balloon retrieval mechanisms
US20070288048A1 (en) * 2006-06-09 2007-12-13 Ortiz Mark S Articulating blunt dissector/gastric band application device
US20080172079A1 (en) * 2006-09-29 2008-07-17 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for intragastric balloon with in situ adjustment means
US9326877B2 (en) 2006-09-29 2016-05-03 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Apparatus and method for intragastric balloon with in situ adjustment means
US20080249542A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249561A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7815653B2 (en) 2007-04-04 2010-10-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249560A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249540A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
EP1977702A1 (en) 2007-04-04 2008-10-08 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7803166B2 (en) 2007-04-04 2010-09-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20080249539A1 (en) * 2007-04-04 2008-10-09 Stokes Michael J Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7803165B2 (en) 2007-04-04 2010-09-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
EP1977700A1 (en) 2007-04-04 2008-10-08 Ethicon Endo-Surgery Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
EP1977703A1 (en) 2007-04-04 2008-10-08 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7799040B2 (en) 2007-04-04 2010-09-21 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US7951159B2 (en) 2007-04-04 2011-05-31 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method for plicating and fastening gastric tissue
US20100174307A1 (en) * 2007-04-13 2010-07-08 Allergan, Inc. Remote deflation of intragastric balloon
US9173757B2 (en) 2007-04-13 2015-11-03 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Apparatus and method for remote deflation of intragastric balloon
US8425401B2 (en) 2008-01-30 2013-04-23 Medical Components, Inc. Gastric inflation band with integrated infusion catheter
US20100217198A1 (en) * 2008-04-17 2010-08-26 Allergan, Inc. Implantable access port device having a safety cap
US8409221B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2013-04-02 Allergan, Inc. Implantable access port device having a safety cap
US8398654B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2013-03-19 Allergan, Inc. Implantable access port device and attachment system
US9023062B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2015-05-05 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port device and attachment system
US20090264901A1 (en) * 2008-04-17 2009-10-22 Ethan Franklin Implantable access port device and attachment system
US9023063B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2015-05-05 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port device having a safety cap
US20090270904A1 (en) * 2008-04-23 2009-10-29 Birk Janel A Remotely Adjustable Gastric Banding System
US20090312785A1 (en) * 2008-06-11 2009-12-17 Allergan, Inc. Implantable Pump System
US8292800B2 (en) 2008-06-11 2012-10-23 Allergan, Inc. Implantable pump system
US8376929B2 (en) 2008-07-14 2013-02-19 Allergan, Inc. Implantable pump system with calibration
US8317677B2 (en) 2008-10-06 2012-11-27 Allergan, Inc. Mechanical gastric band with cushions
US20100087843A1 (en) * 2008-10-06 2010-04-08 Allergan, Inc. Mechanical Gastric Band With Cushions
US20100185049A1 (en) * 2008-10-22 2010-07-22 Allergan, Inc. Dome and screw valves for remotely adjustable gastric banding systems
US8900118B2 (en) 2008-10-22 2014-12-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Dome and screw valves for remotely adjustable gastric banding systems
US20110184229A1 (en) * 2009-05-01 2011-07-28 Allergan, Inc. Laparoscopic gastric band with active agents
US8708979B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2014-04-29 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable coupling device
US8715158B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2014-05-06 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable bottom exit port
US20110218392A1 (en) * 2009-08-26 2011-09-08 Allergan, Inc. Implantable bottom exit port
US8506532B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2013-08-13 Allergan, Inc. System including access port and applicator tool
US20110054407A1 (en) * 2009-08-26 2011-03-03 Allergan, Inc. System including access port and applicator tool
US20110054248A1 (en) * 2009-08-28 2011-03-03 Allergan, Inc. Gastric band with electric stimulation
US20110137112A1 (en) * 2009-08-28 2011-06-09 Allergan, Inc. Gastric band with electric stimulation
US20110196195A1 (en) * 2010-02-05 2011-08-11 Allergan, Inc. Implantable subcutaneous access port
US8882728B2 (en) 2010-02-10 2014-11-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable injection port
US20110196394A1 (en) * 2010-02-10 2011-08-11 Allergan, Inc. Implantable injection port
US20110201874A1 (en) * 2010-02-12 2011-08-18 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8678993B2 (en) 2010-02-12 2014-03-25 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US20110201875A1 (en) * 2010-02-12 2011-08-18 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US20110208229A1 (en) * 2010-02-24 2011-08-25 Allergan, Inc. Source reservoir with potential energy for remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8758221B2 (en) 2010-02-24 2014-06-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Source reservoir with potential energy for remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8840541B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-09-23 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Pressure sensing gastric banding system
US8764624B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-07-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Inductively powered remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8939888B2 (en) 2010-04-28 2015-01-27 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Method and system for determining the pressure of a fluid in a syringe, an access port, a catheter, and a gastric band
US9295573B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2016-03-29 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting gastric band having various compliant components and/or a satiety booster
US9044298B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2015-06-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting gastric band
US9028394B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2015-05-12 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting mechanical gastric band
US9192501B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-11-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely powered remotely adjustable gastric band system
US9241819B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2016-01-26 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable device to protect tubing from puncture
US9125718B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-09-08 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Electronically enhanced access port for a fluid filled implant
US8992415B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-03-31 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable device to protect tubing from puncture
US9226840B2 (en) 2010-06-03 2016-01-05 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Magnetically coupled implantable pump system and method
US8517915B2 (en) 2010-06-10 2013-08-27 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8905916B2 (en) 2010-08-16 2014-12-09 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port system
US9211207B2 (en) 2010-08-18 2015-12-15 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Power regulated implant
US8698373B2 (en) 2010-08-18 2014-04-15 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Pare piezo power with energy recovery
US9050165B2 (en) 2010-09-07 2015-06-09 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8882655B2 (en) 2010-09-14 2014-11-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port system
US9463107B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2016-10-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Variable size intragastric implant devices
US8870966B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2014-10-28 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric balloon for treating obesity
US9795498B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2017-10-24 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Intragastric balloon for treating obesity
US9668901B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2017-06-06 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Intragastric implants with duodenal anchors
US8956380B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2015-02-17 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Reactive intragastric implant devices
US8864840B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2014-10-21 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implants with collapsible frames
US10070980B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2018-09-11 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Anchored non-piercing duodenal sleeve and delivery systems
US9801747B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2017-10-31 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Non-inflatable gastric implants and systems
US8920447B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2014-12-30 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Articulated gastric implant clip
US9681974B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2017-06-20 Apollo Endosurgery Us, Inc. Intragastric implants with collapsible frames
US9198790B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2015-12-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Upper stomach gastric implants
US9539133B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2017-01-10 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Stomach-spanning gastric implants
US9498365B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-11-22 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implants with multiple fluid chambers
US9398969B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-07-26 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Upper stomach gastric implants
US8961393B2 (en) 2010-11-15 2015-02-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Gastric band devices and drive systems
US8888732B2 (en) 2011-03-11 2014-11-18 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intraluminal sleeve with active agents
US8725435B2 (en) 2011-04-13 2014-05-13 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Syringe-based leak detection system
US8821373B2 (en) 2011-05-10 2014-09-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Directionless (orientation independent) needle injection port
US8801597B2 (en) 2011-08-25 2014-08-12 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port with mesh attachment rivets
US9199069B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2015-12-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable injection port
US8858421B2 (en) 2011-11-15 2014-10-14 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Interior needle stick guard stems for tubes
US9089395B2 (en) 2011-11-16 2015-07-28 Appolo Endosurgery, Inc. Pre-loaded septum for use with an access port
US8876694B2 (en) 2011-12-07 2014-11-04 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Tube connector with a guiding tip
US8961394B2 (en) 2011-12-20 2015-02-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-sealing fluid joint for use with a gastric band

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2107629C (en) 1999-12-21
US5449368A (en) 1995-09-12
CA2107629A1 (en) 1994-08-19

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
USRE36176E (en) Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof
EP0611561B1 (en) Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device
CA2483243C (en) Implantable band with transverse attachment mechanism
AU2006202985B2 (en) Gastric band with mating end profiles
US5074868A (en) Reversible stoma-adjustable gastric band
EP1743606B1 (en) Accordion-like gastric band
JP4722442B2 (en) Implantable band with attachment mechanism
EP0702529B2 (en) Universal gastric band
EP1574189B1 (en) A surgically implantable adjustable band having a flat profile when implanted
US7594885B2 (en) Method for implanting an adjustable band
RU2372878C2 (en) Adjustable bandage assembly method
US20030208212A1 (en) Removable gastric band
CA2390666A1 (en) Removable gastric band
JP2005103299A (en) Implantable band having improved attachment mechanism
MXPA06008068A (en) Gastric band with mating end profiles
MXPA06008069A (en) Accordion-like gastric band

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

AS Assignment

Owner name: ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC., OHIO

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KUZMAK, LUBOMYR I;REEL/FRAME:012365/0792

Effective date: 20011127

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PETITION RELATED TO MAINTENANCE FEES FILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: PMFP); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PETITION RELATED TO MAINTENANCE FEES DISMISSED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: PMFS); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY