Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to control mechanisms situated at a distal end of an elongated flexible member that provide for precision movement of a component coupled to a distal end or other portion of the control mechanism. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to control mechanisms situated at a distal end of an elongated flexible member dimensioned for deployment within a vessel of the body that provide for precision movement of a component coupled to a distal end or other portion of the control mechanism. Various embodiments are directed to a position converter situated at a distal end of a catheter and configured to convert movement of a proximal actuation member into one or both of controlled rotational movement and controlled axial movement of a component coupled to a distal end of the position converter substantially free of one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip impacting actuation member movement. Various embodiments are directed to a position converter situated at a distal end of a catheter and configured to convert movement of a proximal actuation member into one or both of controlled rotational movement and controlled axial movement of a component coupled to a distal end of the position converter to one of a plurality of stable circumferential and/or axial positions.
The position converter may comprise various types of orientation, positioning, and/or indexing components. For example, in some embodiments, the position converter may comprise a ratcheting arrangement configured to convert axial movement of a proximal actuation member into one or both of controlled rotational movement and controlled axial movement of a component coupled to the distal end of the position converter. In other embodiments, the position converter may comprise a magnetic indexing arrangement configured to magnetically urge a component coupled to the distal end of the position converter to one of a plurality of stable circumferential and/or axial positions. In further embodiments, the position converter may comprise a geometric keyed orientation mechanism configured to guide a key component of a proximal actuation member into and along a keyway arrangement that limits movement of a component coupled to the distal end of the position converter to one of a plurality of stable circumferential positions and/or stable axial positions. The component coupled to the distal end of the position converter may comprise a medical device, such as a sensor, an electrode, an ablation device, or other medical instrument. The component may comprise, for example, an ablation electrode or other type of ablation device, such as an ultrasound, laser, microwave, or thermal ablation device, configured for one or both of ablation and monitoring/imaging.
Embodiments of the disclosure are generally directed to apparatuses and methods for ablating target tissue of the body from within a vessel. Embodiments are directed to high frequency AC ablation catheters, systems, and methods that employ a control mechanism for moving an electrode during ablation with precision. Various embodiments of the disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods for ablating perivascular renal nerves, such as for the treatment of hypertension.
According to various embodiments, an apparatus includes a catheter comprising a flexible shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, a length, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The length of the shaft is sufficient to access a location within the body at or proximate target tissue to be ablated. A flexible actuation member is provided within the lumen of the shaft and extends between the shaft's proximal and distal ends. The actuation member is moveable within the lumen of the shaft and subject to one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip along its length during movement within the shaft's lumen. A flexible support is coupled to a distal end of the actuation member and extendible beyond a distal tip of the shaft. An electrode is provided at a distal end of the support member and configured to contact tissue at or near the target tissue.
The electrode is configured to deliver high frequency AC energy sufficient to ablate the target tissue proximate the electrode. The support member is configured to maintain a desired position of the electrode. A position converter is provided at the distal end of the shaft and configured to convert movement of the actuation member into at least controlled rotational movement of the support member and the electrode to one of a plurality of stable circumferential positions substantially free of the one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip impacting actuation member movement. In some embodiments, the position converter is configured to convert axial movement of the actuation member, which is subject to elastic deformation, friction, and whip, into controlled axial movement of the support member and the electrode to one of a plurality of stable axial positions.
In accordance with various embodiments, a catheter includes a flexible shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, a length, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The length of the shaft is sufficient to access a patient's renal artery relative to a percutaneous access location. A flexible actuation member is provided within the lumen and extends between the proximal and distal ends of the shaft. The actuation member is moveable within the lumen of the shaft and subject to one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip along its length during movement within the shaft's lumen. A flexible support is provided at a distal end of the actuation member and extendible beyond a distal tip of the shaft and into a lumen of the renal artery. An electrode is provided at a distal end of the support member and configured to contact an inner wall of the renal artery and deliver high frequency AC energy sufficient to ablate perivascular renal nerve tissue proximate the electrode. The support member is configured to urge the electrode into contact with the inner wall of the renal artery.
A position converter is provided at the distal end of the shaft and configured to convert movement of the actuation member into at least controlled rotational movement of the support member and the electrode to one of a plurality of stable circumferential positions substantially free of the one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip impacting actuation member movement. In some embodiments, the position converter is configured to convert axial movement of the actuation member, which is subject to elastic deformation, friction, and whip, into controlled axial movement of the support member and the electrode to one of a plurality of stable axial positions.
According to some embodiments, the position converter includes a ratcheting arrangement configured to mechanically convert axial movement of the actuation member into controlled rotational movement of the support member and the electrode to one of the plurality of stable circumferential and/or axial positions. In other embodiments, the position converter includes a magnetic indexing arrangement configured to magnetically urge the support member and the electrode to one of the plurality of stable circumferential and/or axial positions. In further embodiments, the position converter includes a geometric keyed orientation mechanism configured to guide a key component of the support member into and along a keyway arrangement that limits movement of the support member and the electrode to one of the plurality of stable circumferential and/or axial positions.
In accordance with various embodiments, a catheter includes a flexible shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, a length, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The length of the shaft is sufficient to access target tissue of the body. A slotted tube includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a length extending between the proximal and distal ends sufficient to access the target tissue. The slotted tube is dimensioned for displacement within the lumen of the shaft. The slotted tube includes a plurality of regions defined along the length of the slotted tube having disparate slot patterns associated with disparate mechanical properties including torque transmission and bending flexibility.
In some embodiments, an electrical conductor arrangement extends along the length of the slotted tube. An electrode arrangement is provided at the distal end of the slotted tube and coupled to the conductor arrangement. The electrode arrangement is configured to deliver high frequency AC energy sufficient to ablate the target tissue. In other embodiments, different types of components may be situated at the distal end of the slotted tube and provided with appropriate conductors/couplings, such as a medical device, a sensor, an electrode, an ablation device, or other medical instrument. Representative examples of components that may be situated at the distal end of the slotted tube include, for example, an ultrasound, laser, microwave, or thermal energy transfer device, some of which can be configured for one or both of ablation and monitoring/imaging.
According to some embodiments, a catheter includes a flexible shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, a length, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The length of the shaft is sufficient to access a patient's renal artery relative to a percutaneous access location. A slotted tube includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a length extending between the proximal and distal ends sufficient to access the patient's renal artery relative to the percutaneous access location. The slotted tube is dimensioned for displacement within the lumen of the shaft and includes a plurality of regions defined along its length having disparate slot patterns associated with disparate mechanical properties including torque transmission and bending flexibility. An electrical conductor arrangement extends along the length of the slotted tube. An electrode arrangement is provided at the distal end of the slotted tube and coupled to the conductor arrangement. The electrode arrangement is configured to deliver high frequency AC energy sufficient to ablate perivascular renal nerve tissue proximate the renal artery.
Embodiments are directed to methods of ablating target tissue involving advancing an ablation electrode of an ablation catheter to a location of the body at or near target tissue to be ablated. The ablation electrode is provided at a distal end of a flexible support member. The support member is coupled to a position converter situated at a distal end of the catheter. Also coupled to the position converter is a flexible actuation member that extends from the distal end of the catheter to its proximal end. Movement of the support member and the electrode is effected by movement of the actuation member at the proximal end of the catheter, typically by a clinician or robotic system. Movement of the actuation member within the catheter's shaft is subject to one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip which can adversely impact control of electrode movement at or near the target tissue. Methods of the disclosure involve converting movement of the actuation member, which is adversely impacted by one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip, into controlled rotational movement and/or controlled axial displacement which is substantially free of any such elastic deformation, friction, and/or whip.
Methods involve controlling electrode rotation during ablation to one of a plurality of predetermined stable circumferential positions, which eliminates any adverse impact of elastic deformation, friction, and/or whip impacting movement of an actuation member at the proximal end of the catheter. Methods may also involve controlling electrode axial displacement during ablation to one of a plurality of predetermined stable axial positions, which eliminates any adverse impact of elastic deformation, friction, and or whip impacting movement of the actuation member.
These and other features can be understood in view of the following detailed discussion and the accompanying drawings.
Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods for ablating target tissue of the body. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods for controlling the movement of an ablation electrode during ablation with precision. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods for ablating perivascular renal nerves from within the renal artery using a precision electrode movement control apparatus for the treatment of hypertension.
Ablation of perivascular renal nerves can be an effective treatment for hypertension. Radiofrequency (RF) electrodes placed in the renal artery can be used to ablate the renal nerves, but with risk of injury to the artery wall. To control injury to the artery wall, one approach is to ablate at discrete locations along and around the artery. However, reliable control of electrode position has been difficult, which is adversely impacted by catheter or electrode “whip” as the electrode is moved around in the artery, for example. Also, precise control of the proximal hub of conventional ablation devices may not translate into correspondingly precise control of the tip, due to flexibility, curves, friction, and so forth. Embodiments of the disclosure provide a more precise way of controlling electrode position to desired locations in the renal artery, for example.
Various embodiments of the disclosure are directed to apparatuses and methods for renal denervation for treating hypertension. Hypertension is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure is elevated. Persistent hypertension is a significant risk factor associated with a variety of adverse medical conditions, including heart attacks, heart failure, arterial aneurysms, and strokes. Persistent hypertension is a leading cause of chronic renal failure. Hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system serving the kidneys is associated with hypertension and its progression. Deactivation of nerves in the kidneys via renal denervation can reduce blood pressure, and may be a viable treatment option for many patients with hypertension who do not respond to conventional drugs.
The kidneys are instrumental in a number of body processes, including blood filtration, regulation of fluid balance, blood pressure control, electrolyte balance, and hormone production. One primary function of the kidneys is to remove toxins, mineral salts, and water from the blood to form urine. The kidneys receive about 20-25% of cardiac output through the renal arteries that branch left and right from the abdominal aorta, entering each kidney at the concave surface of the kidneys, the renal hilum.
Blood flows into the kidneys through the renal artery and the afferent arteriole, entering the filtration portion of the kidney, the renal corpuscle. The renal corpuscle is composed of the glomerulus, a thicket of capillaries, surrounded by a fluid-filled, cup-like sac called Bowman's capsule. Solutes in the blood are filtered through the very thin capillary walls of the glomerulus due to the pressure gradient that exists between the blood in the capillaries and the fluid in the Bowman's capsule. The pressure gradient is controlled by the contraction or dilation of the arterioles. After filtration occurs, the filtered blood moves through the efferent arteriole and the peritubular capillaries, converging in the interlobular veins, and finally exiting the kidney through the renal vein.
Particles and fluid filtered from the blood move from the Bowman's capsule through a number of tubules to a collecting duct. Urine is formed in the collecting duct and then exits through the ureter and bladder. The tubules are surrounded by the peritubular capillaries (containing the filtered blood). As the filtrate moves through the tubules and toward the collecting duct, nutrients, water, and electrolytes, such as sodium and chloride, are reabsorbed into the blood.
The kidneys are innervated by the renal plexus which emanates primarily from the aorticorenal ganglion. Renal ganglia are formed by the nerves of the renal plexus as the nerves follow along the course of the renal artery and into the kidney. The renal nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system which includes sympathetic and parasympathetic components. The sympathetic nervous system is known to be the system that provides the bodies “fight or flight” response, whereas the parasympathetic nervous system provides the “rest and digest” response. Stimulation of sympathetic nerve activity triggers the sympathetic response which causes the kidneys to increase production of hormones that increase vasoconstriction and fluid retention. This process is referred to as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system (RAAS) response to increased renal sympathetic nerve activity.
In response to a reduction in blood volume, the kidneys secrete renin, which stimulates the production of angiotensin. Angiotensin causes blood vessels to constrict, resulting in increased blood pressure, and also stimulates the secretion of the hormone aldosterone from the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone causes the tubules of the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water, which increases the volume of fluid in the body and blood pressure.
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition that has been linked to kidney function. CHF occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively throughout the body. When blood flow drops, renal function degrades because of insufficient perfusion of the blood within the renal corpuscles. The decreased blood flow to the kidneys triggers an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity (i.e., the RAAS becomes too active) that causes the kidneys to secrete hormones that increase fluid retention and vasorestriction. Fluid retention and vasorestriction in turn increases the peripheral resistance of the circulatory system, placing an even greater load on the heart, which diminishes blood flow further. If the deterioration in cardiac and renal functioning continues, eventually the body becomes overwhelmed, and an episode of heart failure decompensation occurs, often leading to hospitalization of the patient.
The right and left kidneys are supplied with blood from the right and left renal arteries that branch from respective right and left lateral surfaces of the abdominal aorta 20. Each of the right and left renal arteries is directed across the crus of the diaphragm, so as to form nearly a right angle with the abdominal aorta 20. The right and left renal arteries extend generally from the abdominal aorta 20 to respective renal sinuses proximate the hilum 17 of the kidneys, and branch into segmental arteries and then interlobular arteries within the kidney 10. The interlobular arteries radiate outward, penetrating the renal capsule and extending through the renal columns between the renal pyramids. Typically, the kidneys receive about 20% of total cardiac output which, for normal persons, represents about 1200 mL of blood flow through the kidneys per minute.
The primary function of the kidneys is to maintain water and electrolyte balance for the body by controlling the production and concentration of urine. In producing urine, the kidneys excrete wastes such as urea and ammonium. The kidneys also control reabsorption of glucose and amino acids, and are important in the production of hormones including vitamin D, renin and erythropoietin.
An important secondary function of the kidneys is to control metabolic homeostasis of the body. Controlling hemostatic functions include regulating electrolytes, acid-base balance, and blood pressure. For example, the kidneys are responsible for regulating blood volume and pressure by adjusting volume of water lost in the urine and releasing erythropoietin and renin, for example. The kidneys also regulate plasma ion concentrations (e.g., sodium, potassium, chloride ions, and calcium ion levels) by controlling the quantities lost in the urine and the synthesis of calcitrol. Other hemostatic functions controlled by the kidneys include stabilizing blood pH by controlling loss of hydrogen and bicarbonate ions in the urine, conserving valuable nutrients by preventing their excretion, and assisting the liver with detoxification.
Also shown in
The autonomic nervous system of the body controls involuntary actions of the smooth muscles in blood vessels, the digestive system, heart, and glands. The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. In general terms, the parasympathetic nervous system prepares the body for rest by lowering heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and stimulating digestion. The sympathetic nervous system effectuates the body's fight-or-flight response by increasing heart rate, increasing blood pressure, and increasing metabolism.
In the autonomic nervous system, fibers originating from the central nervous system and extending to the various ganglia are referred to as preganglionic fibers, while those extending from the ganglia to the effector organ are referred to as postganglionic fibers. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system is effected through the release of adrenaline (epinephrine) and to a lesser extent norepinephrine from the suprarenal glands 11. This release of adrenaline is triggered by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine released from preganglionic sympathetic nerves.
The kidneys and ureters (not shown) are innervated by the renal nerves 14.
Most of the nerves innervating the renal vasculature are sympathetic postganglionic fibers arising from the superior mesenteric ganglion 26. The renal nerves 14 extend generally axially along the renal arteries 12, enter the kidneys 10 at the hilum 17, follow the branches of the renal arteries 12 within the kidney 10, and extend to individual nephrons. Other renal ganglia, such as the renal ganglia 24, superior mesenteric ganglion 26, the left and right aorticorenal ganglia 22, and celiac ganglia 28 also innervate the renal vasculature. The celiac ganglion 28 is joined by the greater thoracic splanchnic nerve (greater TSN). The aorticorenal ganglia 26 is joined by the lesser thoracic splanchnic nerve (lesser TSN) and innervates the greater part of the renal plexus.
Sympathetic signals to the kidney 10 are communicated via innervated renal vasculature that originates primarily at spinal segments T10-T12 and L1. Parasympathetic signals originate primarily at spinal segments S2-S4 and from the medulla oblongata of the lower brain. Sympathetic nerve traffic travels through the sympathetic trunk ganglia, where some may synapse, while others synapse at the aorticorenal ganglion 22 (via the lesser thoracic splanchnic nerve, i.e., lesser TSN) and the renal ganglion 24 (via the least thoracic splanchnic nerve, i.e., least TSN). The postsynaptic sympathetic signals then travel along nerves 14 of the renal artery 12 to the kidney 10. Presynaptic parasympathetic signals travel to sites near the kidney 10 before they synapse on or near the kidney 10.
With particular reference to
Smooth muscle cells can be stimulated to contract or relax by the autonomic nervous system, but can also react on stimuli from neighboring cells and in response to hormones and blood borne electrolytes and agents (e.g., vasodilators or vasoconstrictors). Specialized smooth muscle cells within the afferent arteriole of the juxtaglomerular apparatus of kidney 10, for example, produces renin which activates the angiotension II system.
The renal nerves 14 innervate the smooth muscle 34 of the renal artery wall 15 and extend lengthwise in a generally axial or longitudinal manner along the renal artery wall 15. The smooth muscle 34 surrounds the renal artery circumferentially, and extends lengthwise in a direction generally transverse to the longitudinal orientation of the renal nerves 14, as is depicted in
The smooth muscle 34 of the renal artery 12 is under involuntary control of the autonomic nervous system. An increase in sympathetic activity, for example, tends to contract the smooth muscle 34, which reduces the diameter of the renal artery lumen 13 and decreases blood perfusion. A decrease in sympathetic activity tends to cause the smooth muscle 34 to relax, resulting in vessel dilation and an increase in the renal artery lumen diameter and blood perfusion. Conversely, increased parasympathetic activity tends to relax the smooth muscle 34, while decreased parasympathetic activity tends to cause smooth muscle contraction.
Adjacent the intima 32 is the media 33, which is the middle layer of the renal artery 12. The media is made up of smooth muscle 34 and elastic tissue. The media 33 can be readily identified by its color and by the transverse arrangement of its fibers. More particularly, the media 33 consists principally of bundles of smooth muscle fibers 34 arranged in a thin plate-like manner or lamellae and disposed circularly around the arterial wall 15. The outermost layer of the renal artery wall 15 is the adventitia 36, which is made up of connective tissue. The adventitia 36 includes fibroblast cells 38 that play an important role in wound healing.
A perivascular region 37 is shown adjacent and peripheral to the adventitia 36 of the renal artery wall 15. A renal nerve 14 is shown proximate the adventitia 36 and passing through a portion of the perivascular region 37. The renal nerve 14 is shown extending substantially longitudinally along the outer wall 15 of the renal artery 12. The main trunk of the renal nerves 14 generally lies in or on the adventitia 36 of the renal artery 12, often passing through the perivascular region 37, with certain branches coursing into the media 33 to enervate the renal artery smooth muscle 34.
Embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented to provide varying degrees of denervation therapy to innervated renal vasculature. For example, embodiments of the disclosure may provide for control of the extent and relative permanency of renal nerve impulse transmission interruption achieved by denervation therapy delivered using a treatment apparatus of the disclosure. The extent and relative permanency of renal nerve injury may be tailored to achieve a desired reduction in sympathetic nerve activity (including a partial or complete block) and to achieve a desired degree of permanency (including temporary or irreversible injury).
Returning to
Major components of a neuron include the soma, which is the central part of the neuron that includes the nucleus, cellular extensions called dendrites, and axons, which are cable-like projections that carry nerve signals. The axon terminal contains synapses, which are specialized structures where neurotransmitter chemicals are released in order to communicate with target tissues. The axons of many neurons of the peripheral nervous system are sheathed in myelin, which is formed by a type of glial cell known as Schwann cells. The myelinating Schwann cells are wrapped around the axon, leaving the axolemma relatively uncovered at regularly spaced nodes, called nodes of Ranvier. Myelination of axons enables an especially rapid mode of electrical impulse propagation called saltation.
In some embodiments, a treatment apparatus of the disclosure may be implemented to deliver denervation therapy that causes transient and reversible injury to renal nerve fibers 14b. In other embodiments, a treatment apparatus of the disclosure may be implemented to deliver denervation therapy that causes more severe injury to renal nerve fibers 14b, which may be reversible if the therapy is terminated in a timely manner. In preferred embodiments, a treatment apparatus of the disclosure may be implemented to deliver denervation therapy that causes severe and irreversible injury to renal nerve fibers 14b, resulting in permanent cessation of renal sympathetic nerve activity. For example, a treatment apparatus may be implemented to deliver a denervation therapy that disrupts nerve fiber morphology to a degree sufficient to physically separate the endoneurium tube of the nerve fiber 14b, which can prevent regeneration and re-innervation processes.
By way of example, and in accordance with Seddon's classification as is known in the art, a treatment apparatus of the disclosure may be implemented to deliver a denervation therapy that interrupts conduction of nerve impulses along the renal nerve fibers 14b by imparting damage to the renal nerve fibers 14b consistent with neruapraxia. Neurapraxia describes nerve damage in which there is no disruption of the nerve fiber 14b or its sheath. In this case, there is an interruption in conduction of the nerve impulse down the nerve fiber, with recovery taking place within hours to months without true regeneration, as Wallerian degeneration does not occur. Wallerian degeneration refers to a process in which the part of the axon separated from the neuron's cell nucleus degenerates. This process is also known as anterograde degeneration. Neurapraxia is the mildest form of nerve injury that may be imparted to renal nerve fibers 14b by use of a treatment apparatus according to embodiments of the disclosure.
A treatment apparatus may be implemented to interrupt conduction of nerve impulses along the renal nerve fibers 14b by imparting damage to the renal nerve fibers consistent with axonotmesis. Axonotmesis involves loss of the relative continuity of the axon of a nerve fiber and its covering of myelin, but preservation of the connective tissue framework of the nerve fiber. In this case, the encapsulating support tissue 14c of the nerve fiber 14b are preserved. Because axonal continuity is lost, Wallerian degeneration occurs. Recovery from axonotmesis occurs only through regeneration of the axons, a process requiring time on the order of several weeks or months. Electrically, the nerve fiber 14b shows rapid and complete degeneration. Regeneration and re-innervation may occur as long as the endoneural tubes are intact.
A treatment apparatus may be implemented to interrupt conduction of nerve impulses along the renal nerve fibers 14b by imparting damage to the renal nerve fibers 14b consistent with neurotmesis. Neurotmesis, according to Seddon's classification, is the most serious nerve injury in the scheme. In this type of injury, both the nerve fiber 14b and the nerve sheath are disrupted. While partial recovery may occur, complete recovery is not possible. Neurotmesis involves loss of continuity of the axon and the encapsulating connective tissue 14c, resulting in a complete loss of autonomic function, in the case of renal nerve fibers 14b. If the nerve fiber 14b has been completely divided, axonal regeneration causes a neuroma to form in the proximal stump.
A more stratified classification of neurotmesis nerve damage may be found by reference to the Sunderland System as is known in the art. The Sunderland System defines five degrees of nerve damage, the first two of which correspond closely with neurapraxia and axonotmesis of Seddon's classification. The latter three Sunderland System classifications describe different levels of neurotmesis nerve damage.
The first and second degrees of nerve injury in the Sunderland system are analogous to Seddon's neurapraxia and axonotmesis, respectively. Third degree nerve injury, according to the Sunderland System, involves disruption of the endoneurium, with the epineurium and perineurium remaining intact. Recovery may range from poor to complete depending on the degree of intrafascicular fibrosis. A fourth degree nerve injury involves interruption of all neural and supporting elements, with the epineurium remaining intact. The nerve is usually enlarged. Fifth degree nerve injury involves complete transection of the nerve fiber 14b with loss of continuity.
Referring now to
The embodiment shown in
The position converter 204 is configured to convert movement of the actuation member 206 into at least controlled rotational movement of the support member 205 and the electrode 208 to one of a plurality of stable circumferential positions substantially free of one or more of elastic deformation, friction, and whip impacting actuation member movement. The position converter 204 may also be configured to convert movement of the actuation member 206 into controlled axial movement of the support member 205 and the electrode 208 to one of a plurality of stable axial position. In some embodiments, the actuation member 206 and the support member 205 define a continuous member, and the position converter 204 acts upon this continuous member. In other embodiments, the actuation member 206 and the support member 205 define separate members, each having a proximal end and a distal end. In such embodiments, the proximal end of the support member 205 and the distal end of the actuation member 206 are coupled via the position converter 204.
Turning now to
A magnet 216 is situated on the actuation member 206 at a desired location. Magnets 215 situated on the catheter's shaft 202 interact with the actuation member magnet 216 to urge the support member 205 and electrode 208 into only specific stable locations. The support member 205 and electrode 208 are advanced and rotated between the stable locations by the clinician or a robotic system. Advantageously, only rough imaging information is required to verify that the electrode 208 is in the desired location, since the magnetic forces prevent small misalignments, and the electrode 208 is stable only in a substantially different position which could easily be seen on an imaging device.
According to a representative method of use, the support number 205 and electrode 208 are advanced to the distal-most extent, at which point the electrode 208 is activated with the magnets 216, 215 aiding in circumferential alignment at a first treatment location. The support member 205 may be withdrawn a short distance into the catheter's shaft 202 and the electrode 208 activated again, with the magnets 216, 215 aiding in positioning the electrode 208 at a circumferential orientation different from the first location, and so forth until ablation has been performed at all desired treatment locations.
According to various embodiments, the shaft 202 of the ablation catheter 100 includes multiple sets of magnets 215 at different axial locations, with polarities arranged at different circumferential points at the different axial locations. In the embodiment illustrated in
Pairs of magnets 215 are situated circumferentially offset from one another by 90° at the four axial positions #1, #2, #3, and #4, each of which defines a magnetically stable position. A single magnet is shown situated on the support member 205. The support member 205 and electrode 208 are urged by the magnetic forces to orient at these axial positions to four different circumferential directions. For additional alignment force, the support member 205 can include multiple magnets 216 oriented appropriately so that the multiple sets of shaft magnets 215 and multiple support member magnets 216 interact.
When the support member 205 is advanced to one axial position, the magnets 215 on the shaft 202 interact with the magnet 216 on the support member 205 to urge the electrode 208 to one circumferential location. When the support number 205 is advanced or retracted to a different axial position, the magnets 215 on the shaft 202 interact with the magnet 216 on the support member 205 to urge the electrode 208 to a different circumferential location. In this way, a desired number (e.g., 2 to 10) discrete ablation sites, for example, can be obtained at predetermined axial and circumferential locations. Any one spot in the renal artery 12 would have minor or small areas of injury, and any subsequent healing response or stenosis would be insignificant.
It is understood that the number of magnet pairs and location of these pairs (circumferentially and/or axially) on the shaft 202 can differ from that shown in
In accordance with other embodiments, and with reference to
The magnets 215 in the catheter's shaft 202 can be continuous, or a series of oriented magnets. The magnets on the support member 205 can similarly be continuous or a series of oriented magnets. According to some embodiments, when the support member 205 is advanced or retracted by corresponding movement of the actuation member 206, the support member 205 rotates in a predictable helical path, providing position control for the electrode 208 along a predictable helical path on the artery wall 15. In other embodiments, when the support member 205 is rotated by corresponding movement of the actuation member 206, the support member 205 rotates in a predictable circumferential path, providing position control for the electrode 208 along a predictable circumferential path on the artery wall 15. Intermittent application of RF energy to electrical conductors coupled to the electrode 208 produces a helical pattern or a circumferential pattern of separate ablation zones. In some embodiments, a physical helical groove can be provided to further aid in orienting the support member 205 and electrode 208 along a predictable helical path.
If alignment mechanisms were incorporated near the proximal hub of the ablation catheter as in the case of conventional approaches, curvature, poor torque transmission and/or friction could significantly reduce the effectiveness of such alignment mechanisms. Because the present embodiments use magnetic alignment forces that are applied near the distal end of the shaft 202 and actuation member 206, any elastic deformation in the bulk of the shaft 202 or actuation member 206 would have no significant effect on electrode 208 positioning (rotational and/or axial positioning).
Multiple magnets 215 around the circumference of the catheter's shaft 205 can be used to create multiple discrete stable locations of the support member 205 and electrode 208 at the same axial location, so that two or more small ablation spots can be obtained at that axial location, spaced circumferentially apart to control artery wall injury. An additional set of magnets 216 can be used to similarly guide the support member 205 and electrode 208 to two or more stable circumferential locations at a different axial location. In this way, less axial distance is required to obtain discrete areas of ablation, which may be an advantage in anatomies with short renal artery trunks. Mechanical guides near the end of a catheter's shaft 202 can be used to control the location or orientation of the electrode 208. Mechanical guides and magnetic guides can be used in combination.
In accordance with various embodiments, apparatuses and methods provide for circumferential position control of an RF electrode placed in vessel of the body using a ratcheting arrangement provided at a distal end of the shaft of an ablation catheter. An ablation catheter employing a ratcheting arrangement that provides for precision control of an electrode's circumferential position is particularly useful for ablating perivascular renal nerves adjacent the renal artery of the patient. To avoid renal artery stenosis, discrete zones of ablation can be created by moving an RF electrode axially and/or circumferentially in the renal artery.
According to various embodiments, a ratcheting position control arrangement includes a spring-loaded rotating ratcheting element, like portions of a ballpoint pen retraction mechanism. In a pen, for example, the ink reservoir typically does not rotate, but components of the ratcheting mechanism do. In some embodiments, the ratcheting position control arrangement can be actuated to move the ablation electrode to a number of discrete circumferential stable locations were ablation is performed. In such embodiments, each actuation of the ratcheting causes the ablation electrode to move from one stable circumferential location to the next stable circumferential location. This process is repeated until ablation has been performed at each of the stable circumferential locations.
In accordance with other embodiments, combined axial and circumferential positioning of the ablation electrode is achieved. In embodiments where the rotation feature of the ratchet mechanism is combined with the axial displacement feature (like the pen retracting), the ablation electrode is moved both axially and circumferentially between discrete stable positions. With each actuation of the ratchet mechanism, the electrode moves to a new stable position. At each stable position, RF energy is delivered by the ablation electrode to create a controlled region of injury. The combined effect of separate injury regions causes ablation of the perivascular renal nerves with beneficial effect on hypertension, with limited areas of renal artery injury. With this approach, a predetermined number of discrete ablation sites can be obtained at predetermined axial and circumferential locations. Any one spot in the renal artery would have minor or small areas of injury, and any subsequent healing response or stenosis would be insignificant.
Cooling can be incorporated into the ablation catheter design to further reduce renal artery injury. For example, the ablation catheter can be implemented as an infusion catheter, in which a biocompatible cooling fluid is transported from a proximal end of the catheter to the distal end of the catheter. Provision of cooling at the electrode-tissue interface can reduce the risk of thermal injury to the renal artery wall. Various other cooling approaches are contemplated.
In apparatuses of the present disclosure, the support member to which the ablation electrode is mounted can be coupled to the rotating ratcheting element so that it rotates 60 or 90 degrees (or other predetermined angles), for example, at each actuation of the ratchet mechanism. When the actuation member is pushed or pulled at its proximal and to overcome a spring force, a rotating ratchet mechanism is actuated which rotates the support member and electrode to the next stable circumferential position.
In other embodiments, combined axial and circumferential positioning is provided. In configurations where the rotation feature of the ratchet mechanism is combined with the axial displacement feature (like the pen retracting), the support member and electrode move both axially and circumferentially between discrete positions. Rather than pushing or pulling on the RF electrode wire to activate the ratchet mechanism, a separate control wire or tube can be provided.
Referring now to
Typically, the ratcheting arrangement 204 incorporates a multiplicity of keyways 210, although a single keyway 210 may be appropriate in some applications. The keyways 210 are configured to receive a key component 207 provided on the distal end of the actuation member 206. Each of the keyways 210 has opposing end locations, each of which can define a predetermined stable circumferential and/or axial position for orienting the support member 205 and the electrode 208. A multiplicity of circumferentially spaced keyways 210 having an axial aspect may be incorporated in the ratcheting arrangement 204. Depending on the configuration of the ratcheting arrangement 204, a desired number of discrete ablation sites can be obtained, such as between two and eight discrete ablation sites, at predetermined axial and circumferential locations. Various additional components including gear or spring elements can be incorporated into the ratcheting arrangement 204 in accordance with various embodiments.
The ablation procedure preferably begins by advancing the support member 205 and electrode 208 to its distal-most position, which is shown as stable position #1 in
According to various embodiments, and with reference to
The keyway arrangement 221 includes a multiplicity of axial space-apart keyways 210 each comprising a tapered entrance 222 configured to guide the key component 208 into alignment with each of the keyways 210. The tapered entrance 222 of each keyway 210 can be configured to guide the key component 208 into the keyway 210 if the relative orientation is within +/−45, 60 or 90 degrees (or some other angle range), for example.
In some embodiments, the keyway arrangement 221 includes a multiplicity of space-apart keyways 210, with alternate keyways 210 of the keyway arrangement 221 having differing lengths. In other embodiments, the keyway arrangement 221 includes a multiplicity of circumferentially and axially spaced-apart keyways 210. The keyways arrangement 221 may be formed with keyways 210 having varying geometries. For example, as with reference to
In some embodiments, and with reference to
In some configurations, pushing or pulling on the actuation member 206 relative to the guiding catheter or sheath 202 moves the keyed components between the stable locations.
Maintaining good contact with the artery wall during ablation of perivascular renal nerves for hypertension control has been difficult. If contact is variable, the tissue temperatures are not well controlled, and an ablative temperature may not be achieved in the target tissue, while temperature in other areas, such as portions of the artery wall, may deviate enough to cause unwanted arterial tissue injury. For ideal anatomy, good vessel apposition can be achieved more easily. However, especially with tortuous or diseased renal arteries, there can be very poor contact to effectively and predictably transfer heat, electrical current, or other energy from an ablation device to the tissue. Conventional RF electrode wires have not provided the required balance of pushability, torque control, and flexibility along the length to provide for reliable contact of the electrode with the vessel wall.
Apparatuses and methods of the disclosure provide for improved directability of intra-arterial RF electrode wires for better apposition to the artery wall during renal nerve ablation. According to various embodiments, and with reference to
The slotted tube 230, according to various embodiments, comprises a multiplicity of regions defined along its length. Each of the slotted tube regions has disparate slot patterns associated with disparate mechanical properties, such as torque transmission and bending flexibility. An electrical conductor arrangement 232 extends along the length of the slotted tube 230. An electrode arrangement 208 is provided at a distal end of the slotted tube 230 and is coupled to the conductor arrangement 232. Electrode arrangement 208 is configured to deliver high-frequency AC energy sufficient to ablate perivascular renal nerve tissue proximate the renal artery.
According to various ablation methods, a guiding catheter or sheath 100 is directed to a renal artery and placed at a desired location and orientation within the artery. The slotted tube 230 is advanced within the lumen of the shaft 202 of the guiding catheter and positioned in contact with the renal artery wall at the treatment location. The RF electrode 208 is energized to cause ablation of perivascular renal nerves. After completing ablation at this site, the guiding catheter or sheath 100 is moved to another location within the renal artery, and the RF electrode 208 is energized to cause ablation of perivascular renal nerves adjacent this site. This process is repeated for the current renal artery and then the contra-lateral renal artery until all desired renal artery sites have been subject to ablation. The ablation catheter arrangement is that removed from the patient's body.
As is shown in
In some embodiments, the slotted to 230 is lined with a thin polymeric tube 234 that surrounds the slotted tube 230 other than at one or more perfusion locations at the distal end of the slotted tube 230. For example, short portions of the slotted tube 230 near the distal end may be purposefully devoid of the polymeric tube 234. Alternatively, the polymeric tube 230 can extend as far as the electrode 208, and include perforations or apertures to define a perfusion region. The polymeric tube 234 forms a fluid-type lumen around the slotted tube 230 through which a liquid can be transported between the proximal and distal ends of the slotted to 230. For example, a cooling fluid may be transported from a fluid source at the proximal end of the slotted to 230 and transported to the distal perfusion region of the slotted tube 230 proximate the electrode 208. A biocompatible cooling fluid may be used to provide cooling at the electrode-tissue interface. The fluid-tight lumen surrounding the slotted tube 230 may also be used for flushing without leakage through the slots in the tube 230.
In some configurations, the slotted tube 230 is used to conduct electric current to a unipolar electrode 208, with the return path to a remote pad in contact with the patient's skin. In other configurations, the slotted tube 230 includes multiple electrodes 208 situated near the distal end, with insulated electrical conductor wires used to power the multiple electrodes. In still other configurations, one or more bipolar RF electrode pairs may be situated at the distal end of the slotted tube 230, with insulated electrical conductor wires as required.
One or more sensors near the distal end, such as temperature sensors, can be included, with insulated electrical conductor wires used for power or signal transfer for the sensors. For example, a temperature sensor may be situated at or near the electrode 208. The temperature sensor provides sensing of a temperature at the electrode-tissue interface during ablation. Signals generated by the temperature sensor can be transmitted to the distal end of the catheter 100 using conductor wires that extend through the slotted tube 230. Temperature signals can be used by an external power and control system to automatically or semi-automatically control power delivery (and cooling fluid if desired) to the electrode 208 during an ablation procedure.
The slot pattern of the slotted tube 230 can be configured to obtain desired mechanical properties. For example, the slot pattern can vary, to provide tuned properties in different regions, and with transition zones to avoid abrupt property changes which could result in kinking or other problems. In general, the entire length of the slotted tube 230 is typically configured for good torque transmission so that the clinician can control the circumferential orientation of the electrode 208, with a moderate amount of bending flexibility to allow advancement through sheaths and the vasculature. In a tip region of the slotted tube 230, a short region of increased bending stiffness can be incorporated so that a tip curve is maintained to aid in directing the electrode 208 to contact the artery wall. The tip curve can be maintained by spring-like elasticity in this region. In an intermediate region of the slotted tube 230 near the tip region, enhanced bending stiffness can be incorporated so that the slotted tube 230 can easily bend at the renal artery ostium to minimize arterial trauma, even though the tip curve is maintained, and the enhanced torque transmission is used to control electrode orientation within the renal artery.
To further control mechanical properties at the tip region, the slot pattern of the slotted tube 230 can be tuned to provide a biased flexibility, such as to allow the tip curve to bend the electrode 208 outwardly towards the vessel wall in one plane, but to resist bending in an orthogonal plane, so that the circumferential positioning of the electrode 208 is well controlled. In some embodiments, a curve portion near the distal end of the slotted tube 230 can have a different slotted tube structure, or no slots, and provides an orientation curve so that the electrode 208 can be pressed towards the artery wall. The curved tip can have a preset curved shape which is maintained by forming or treating this region to a permanent curve, or a shape-memory material can be used to achieve the curve using thermal or other control. Alternatively, an active-curve mechanism can be provided, such as by using a biased tube structure and a tension wire 238 to actively flex the curve portion when desired. Other mechanisms can be used to control the curved tip portion, such as torsional bias, external sheath constraint, and a push-wire, for example.
A distinctive aspect of a slotted tube 230 in accordance with various embodiments is that its construction effectively decouples flexural and torsional stiffness of this structure. This provides for the “tuning” (e.g., optimizing or customization) of various mechanical properties of the slotted tube 230 at different axial locations along its length. Moreover, flexural stiffness can be non-linear due to interference between adjacent ribs of the slotted tube 230. The slotted tube 230 can be customized to incorporate different slot patterns at different axial locations along its length to achieve desired mechanical properties that may have at least some of the following attributes:
The preferred distribution of properties along the slotted tube 230 is typically dependent on the desired electrode configuration. Consider an electrode of a slotted tube 230 arranged tangent to the surface with an S-curve. The portion of the slotted tube 230 with the S-curve may have the following attributes:
It is noted that for acute tip contact angles, the primary curve can be eliminated. Also, multi-plane symmetry in the tertiary curve provides a rotary detent effect. The effect is exaggerated if bending is concentrated in a short section of the slotted tube 230.
In accordance with an associated method, the slotted tube 230 can be guided to a treatment location in a renal artery using a guiding catheter or sheath, utilizing the enhanced torque control of the slotted tube 230 to orient the electrode 208 to a desired position in good contact with the artery wall. With the electrode 208 positioned against the artery wall at a desired site, RF energy is used to ablate perivascular renal nerves. An external control unit is used to energize the electrode 208, which can be configured for operation in either a unipolar mode (using an external pad return electrode) or a bipolar mode.
In accordance with various embodiments, and with reference to
The turn region (3) preferably has a slot pattern configured to provide enhanced bending flexibility relative to torque transmission to facilitate bending of the slotted tube 230 around an aortorenal junction 21 at the ostium of the renal artery 12. The tip region (1) is defined between a distal tip of the slotted tube 230 and the turn region (3). The tip region (1) is configured to support the electrode(s) 208 and preferably has a curved shape. The tip region (1) preferably has a slot pattern configured to provide enhanced bending stiffness sufficient to maintain contact between the electrode(s) 208 and the wall 15 of the renal artery 12. In some embodiments, the multiplicity of regions defined along the length of the slotted tube 230 further includes an intermediate region (2) defined between the tip region (1) and the turn region (3). The slot pattern in the intermediate region (2) is preferably configured to provide a balance between torque transmission and bending flexibility. Not shown are transition regions between each of the distinct regions (1)-(4), which provide for a gradual change in slotted tube properties between regions.
The RF generator of the external electrode activation circuitry 320 may include a return pad electrode 330 that is configured to comfortably engage the patient's back or other portion of the body near the kidneys. Radiofrequency energy produced by the RF generator is coupled to the electrode 208 of the slotted tube 230 by conductor wires that extend between the electrode 208 and the proximal end of the catheter 100.
Renal denervation therapy using the apparatus shown in
In general, when renal artery tissue temperatures rise above about 113° F. (50° C.), protein is permanently damaged (including those of renal nerve fibers). If heated over about 65° C., collagen denatures and tissue shrinks. If heated over about 65° C. and up to 100° C., cell walls break and oil separates from water. Above about 100° C., tissue desiccates. According to some embodiments, the electrode activation circuitry 320 is configured to control activation and deactivation of the electrode(s) 208 in accordance with a predetermined energy delivery protocol and in response to signals received from temperature measuring circuitry 328. The electrode activation circuitry 320 preferably controls radiofrequency energy delivered to the electrode(s) 208 so as to maintain the current densities at a level sufficient to cause heating of the target tissue to at least a temperature of 55° C.
One or more temperature sensors situated at the distal end of the slotted tube 230 provide for continuous monitoring of renal artery tissue temperatures, and RF generator power is automatically adjusted so that the target temperatures are achieved and maintained. An impedance sensor arrangement 326 may be used to measure and monitor electrical impedance during RF denervation therapy, and the power and timing of the RF generator 320 may be moderated based on the impedance measurements or a combination of impedance and temperature measurements.
Marker bands 314 can be placed on one or multiple parts of the slotted tube 230 and the catheter's shaft 202 to enable visualization during the procedure. Other portions of the catheter's shaft 202, such as a hinge mechanism 356, may include a marker band 314. The marker bands 314 may be solid or split bands of platinum or other radiopaque metal, for example. Radiopaque materials are understood to be materials capable of producing a relatively bright image on a fluoroscopy screen or another imaging technique during a medical procedure. This relatively bright image aids the user in determining specific portions of the catheter 100 and slotted tube 230, such as the electrode 208, for example.
Various aspects of the disclosure embodiments can be applied to other directed energy mechanisms for renal nerve ablation, such as for directing laser or microwave or ultrasound or cryothermal energy or ionizing radiation to selected locations within the renal artery. “Back-up” support curves can be provided, akin to coronary guiding catheter curves, to use the opposite wall of the renal artery for additional support to ensure adequate contact between the electrode and the artery wall. These and other features disclosed in the following commonly owned patents and published applications can be selectively incorporated into the various embodiments disclosed herein:
U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011-0257523, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/086,116 on Apr. 13, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/324,164 filed Apr. 14, 2010; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011-0257641, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/086,121 on Apr. 13, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/324,163 filed Apr. 14, 2010; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012-0029496, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/193,437 on Jul. 28, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/369,460 filed Jul. 30, 2010; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011-0270238, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/980,952 on Dec. 29, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/291,476 filed Dec. 31, 2009; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011-0263921, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/980,972 on Dec. 29, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/291,480 filed Dec. 31, 2009; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011-0307034, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/157,844 on Jun. 10, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/353,853 filed Jun. 11, 2010; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011-0264086, filed as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/087,163 on Oct. 14, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/324,165 filed Apr. 14, 2010, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Although many of the embodiments disclosed herein are directed to ablation of body tissue, it is to be understood that various embodiments are directed to control mechanisms situated at a distal end of an elongated flexible member that provide for precision movement of a component coupled to a distal end or other portion of the control mechanism, where the component need not include an ablation device. Embodiments of the disclosure are also directed to control mechanisms situated at a distal end of an elongated flexible member dimensioned for deployment within a vessel of the body that provide for precision movement of a component coupled to a distal end or other portion of the control mechanism. It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics of various embodiments have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of various embodiments, this detailed description is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of structure and arrangements of parts illustrated by the various embodiments to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.
This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/369,463 filed Jul. 30, 2010, to which priority is claimed pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119(e) and which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Number | Name | Date | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
164184 | Kiddee | Jun 1875 | A |
1167014 | O'Brien | Jan 1916 | A |
2505358 | Gusberg et al. | Apr 1950 | A |
2701559 | Cooper | Feb 1955 | A |
3108593 | Glassman | Oct 1963 | A |
3108594 | Glassman | Oct 1963 | A |
3540431 | Mobin | Nov 1970 | A |
3847001 | Thamasett | Nov 1974 | A |
3952747 | Kimmell | Apr 1976 | A |
3996938 | Clark, III | Dec 1976 | A |
4046150 | Schwartz et al. | Sep 1977 | A |
4290427 | Chin | Sep 1981 | A |
4402686 | Medel | Sep 1983 | A |
4483341 | Witteles et al. | Nov 1984 | A |
4574804 | Kurwa | Mar 1986 | A |
4587975 | Salo et al. | May 1986 | A |
4649936 | Ungar et al. | Mar 1987 | A |
4682596 | Bales et al. | Jul 1987 | A |
4709698 | Johnston et al. | Dec 1987 | A |
4765331 | Petruzzi et al. | Aug 1988 | A |
4770653 | Shturman | Sep 1988 | A |
4784132 | Fox et al. | Nov 1988 | A |
4784162 | Ricks et al. | Nov 1988 | A |
4785806 | Deckelbaum et al. | Nov 1988 | A |
4788975 | Shturman et al. | Dec 1988 | A |
4790310 | Ginsburg et al. | Dec 1988 | A |
4799479 | Spears | Jan 1989 | A |
4823791 | D'Amelio et al. | Apr 1989 | A |
4830003 | Wolff et al. | May 1989 | A |
4849484 | Heard | Jul 1989 | A |
4862886 | Clarke et al. | Sep 1989 | A |
4887605 | Angelsen et al. | Dec 1989 | A |
4920979 | Bullara et al. | May 1990 | A |
4938766 | Jarvik | Jul 1990 | A |
4955377 | Lennox et al. | Sep 1990 | A |
4976711 | Parins et al. | Dec 1990 | A |
5034010 | Kittrell et al. | Jul 1991 | A |
5052402 | Bencini et al. | Oct 1991 | A |
5053033 | Clarke et al. | Oct 1991 | A |
5071424 | Reger et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
5074871 | Groshong et al. | Dec 1991 | A |
5098429 | Sterzer et al. | Mar 1992 | A |
5098431 | Rydell | Mar 1992 | A |
5109859 | Jenkins | May 1992 | A |
5125928 | Parins et al. | Jun 1992 | A |
5129396 | Rosen et al. | Jul 1992 | A |
5139496 | Hed | Aug 1992 | A |
5143836 | Hartman et al. | Sep 1992 | A |
5156610 | Reger et al. | Oct 1992 | A |
5158564 | Schnepp-Pesch | Oct 1992 | A |
5170802 | Mehra | Dec 1992 | A |
5178620 | Eggers et al. | Jan 1993 | A |
5178625 | Groshong et al. | Jan 1993 | A |
5190540 | Lee | Mar 1993 | A |
5211651 | Reger et al. | May 1993 | A |
5234407 | Teirstein et al. | Aug 1993 | A |
5242441 | Avitall | Sep 1993 | A |
5251634 | Weinberg et al. | Oct 1993 | A |
5255679 | Imran | Oct 1993 | A |
5263493 | Avitall | Nov 1993 | A |
5267954 | Nita et al. | Dec 1993 | A |
5277201 | Stern et al. | Jan 1994 | A |
5282484 | Reger et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
5286254 | Shapland et al. | Feb 1994 | A |
5295484 | Marcus | Mar 1994 | A |
5297564 | Love et al. | Mar 1994 | A |
5300068 | Rosar et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
5301683 | Durkan | Apr 1994 | A |
5304115 | Pflueger et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
5304121 | Sahatjian | Apr 1994 | A |
5304171 | Gregory et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
5304173 | Kittrell et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
5306250 | March et al. | Apr 1994 | A |
5312328 | Nita et al. | May 1994 | A |
5314466 | Stern et al. | May 1994 | A |
5322064 | Lundquist | Jun 1994 | A |
5324255 | Passafaro et al. | Jun 1994 | A |
5326341 | Lew et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
5326342 | Pflueger et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
5330518 | Neilson et al. | Jul 1994 | A |
5333614 | Feiring | Aug 1994 | A |
5342292 | Nita et al. | Aug 1994 | A |
5344395 | Whalen et al. | Sep 1994 | A |
5364392 | Warner et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
5365172 | Hrovat et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
5368557 | Nita et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
5368558 | Nita et al. | Nov 1994 | A |
5380274 | Nita et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
5380319 | Saito et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
5382228 | Nita et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
5383874 | Jackson et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
5383917 | Desai et al. | Jan 1995 | A |
5397301 | Pflueger et al. | Mar 1995 | A |
5397339 | Desai | Mar 1995 | A |
5401272 | Perkins et al. | Mar 1995 | A |
5403311 | Abele et al. | Apr 1995 | A |
5405318 | Nita et al. | Apr 1995 | A |
5405346 | Grundy et al. | Apr 1995 | A |
5409000 | Imran | Apr 1995 | A |
5417672 | Nita et al. | May 1995 | A |
5419767 | Eggers et al. | May 1995 | A |
5427118 | Nita et al. | Jun 1995 | A |
5432876 | Appeldorn et al. | Jul 1995 | A |
5441498 | Perkins et al. | Aug 1995 | A |
5447509 | Mills et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
5451207 | Yock et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
5453091 | Taylor et al. | Sep 1995 | A |
5454788 | Walker et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
5454809 | Janssen | Oct 1995 | A |
5455029 | Hartman et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
5456682 | Edwards et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
5457042 | Hartman et al. | Oct 1995 | A |
5471982 | Edwards et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
5474530 | Passafaro et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
5478351 | Meade et al. | Dec 1995 | A |
5496311 | Abele et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
5496312 | Klicek et al. | Mar 1996 | A |
5498261 | Strul | Mar 1996 | A |
5505201 | Grill et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
5505730 | Edwards | Apr 1996 | A |
5507744 | Tay et al. | Apr 1996 | A |
5522873 | Jackman et al. | Jun 1996 | A |
5531520 | Grimson et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
5540656 | Pflueger et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
5540679 | Fram et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
5540681 | Strul et al. | Jul 1996 | A |
5542917 | Nita et al. | Aug 1996 | A |
5545161 | Imran | Aug 1996 | A |
5562100 | Kittrell et al. | Oct 1996 | A |
5571122 | Kelly et al. | Nov 1996 | A |
5571151 | Gregory | Nov 1996 | A |
5573531 | Gregory | Nov 1996 | A |
5573533 | Strul | Nov 1996 | A |
5584831 | McKay | Dec 1996 | A |
5584872 | Lafontaine et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
5588962 | Nicholas et al. | Dec 1996 | A |
5599346 | Edwards et al. | Feb 1997 | A |
5601526 | Chapelon et al. | Feb 1997 | A |
5609606 | O'Boyle et al. | Mar 1997 | A |
5626576 | Janssen | May 1997 | A |
5630837 | Crowley | May 1997 | A |
5637090 | McGee et al. | Jun 1997 | A |
5643255 | Organ | Jul 1997 | A |
5643297 | Nordgren et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
5647847 | Lafontaine et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
5649923 | Gregory et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
5651780 | Jackson et al. | Jul 1997 | A |
5653684 | Laptewicz et al. | Aug 1997 | A |
5662671 | Barbut et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
5665062 | Houser | Sep 1997 | A |
5665098 | Kelly et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
5666964 | Meilus | Sep 1997 | A |
5667490 | Keith et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
5672174 | Gough et al. | Sep 1997 | A |
5676693 | Lafontaine | Oct 1997 | A |
5678296 | Fleischhacker et al. | Oct 1997 | A |
5681282 | Eggers et al. | Oct 1997 | A |
RE35656 | Feinberg | Nov 1997 | E |
5688266 | Edwards et al. | Nov 1997 | A |
5693015 | Walker et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5693029 | Leonhardt et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5693043 | Kittrell et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5693082 | Warner et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5695504 | Gifford et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5697369 | Long, Jr. et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5697909 | Eggers et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5702386 | Stern et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5702433 | Taylor et al. | Dec 1997 | A |
5706809 | Littmann et al. | Jan 1998 | A |
5713942 | Stern et al. | Feb 1998 | A |
5715819 | Svenson et al. | Feb 1998 | A |
5735846 | Panescu et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
5741214 | Ouchi et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
5741248 | Stern et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
5741249 | Moss et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
5743903 | Stern et al. | Apr 1998 | A |
5748347 | Erickson | May 1998 | A |
5749914 | Janssen | May 1998 | A |
5755682 | Knudson et al. | May 1998 | A |
5755715 | Stern et al. | May 1998 | A |
5755753 | Knowlton et al. | May 1998 | A |
5769847 | Panescu et al. | Jun 1998 | A |
5769880 | Truckai et al. | Jun 1998 | A |
5775338 | Hastings | Jul 1998 | A |
5776174 | Van Tassel | Jul 1998 | A |
5779698 | Clayman et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
5782760 | Schaer | Jul 1998 | A |
5785702 | Murphy-Chutorian et al. | Jul 1998 | A |
5797849 | Vesely et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
5797903 | Swanson et al. | Aug 1998 | A |
5800484 | Gough et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
5800494 | Campbell et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
5810802 | Panescu et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
5810803 | Moss et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
5810810 | Tay et al. | Sep 1998 | A |
5817092 | Behl | Oct 1998 | A |
5817113 | Gifford et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
5817144 | Gregory et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
5823956 | Roth et al. | Oct 1998 | A |
5827203 | Nita | Oct 1998 | A |
5827268 | Laufer | Oct 1998 | A |
5829447 | Stevens et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
5830213 | Panescu et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
5830222 | Makower | Nov 1998 | A |
5832228 | Holden et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
5833593 | Liprie | Nov 1998 | A |
5836874 | Swanson et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
5840076 | Swanson et al. | Nov 1998 | A |
5843016 | Lugnani et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
5846238 | Jackson et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
5846239 | Swanson et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
5846245 | McCarthy et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
5848969 | Panescu et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
5853411 | Whayne et al. | Dec 1998 | A |
5855614 | Stevens et al. | Jan 1999 | A |
5860974 | Abele | Jan 1999 | A |
5865801 | Houser | Feb 1999 | A |
5868735 | Lafontaine et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
5868736 | Swanson et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
5871483 | Jackson et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
5871524 | Knowlton et al. | Feb 1999 | A |
5875782 | Ferrari et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
5876369 | Houser | Mar 1999 | A |
5876374 | Alba et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
5876397 | Edelman et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
5879348 | Owens et al. | Mar 1999 | A |
5891114 | Chien et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
5891135 | Jackson et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
5891136 | McGee et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
5891138 | Tu et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
5895378 | Nita | Apr 1999 | A |
5897552 | Edwards et al. | Apr 1999 | A |
5902328 | LaFontaine et al. | May 1999 | A |
5904651 | Swanson et al. | May 1999 | A |
5904667 | Falwell | May 1999 | A |
5904697 | Gifford et al. | May 1999 | A |
5904709 | Arndt et al. | May 1999 | A |
5906614 | Stern et al. | May 1999 | A |
5906623 | Peterson | May 1999 | A |
5906636 | Casscells, III et al. | May 1999 | A |
5916192 | Nita et al. | Jun 1999 | A |
5916227 | Keith et al. | Jun 1999 | A |
5916239 | Geddes et al. | Jun 1999 | A |
5919219 | Knowlton | Jul 1999 | A |
5924424 | Stevens et al. | Jul 1999 | A |
5925038 | Panescu et al. | Jul 1999 | A |
5934284 | Plaia et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
5935063 | Nguyen | Aug 1999 | A |
5938670 | Keith et al. | Aug 1999 | A |
5947977 | Slepian et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5948011 | Knowlton et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5951494 | Wang et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5951539 | Nita et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5954717 | Behl et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5957882 | Nita et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5957941 | Ream et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5957969 | Warner et al. | Sep 1999 | A |
5961513 | Swanson et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5964757 | Ponzi et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5967976 | Larsen et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5967978 | Littmann et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5967984 | Chu et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5971975 | Mills et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5972026 | Laufer et al. | Oct 1999 | A |
5980563 | Tu et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
5989208 | Nita et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
5989284 | Laufer | Nov 1999 | A |
5993462 | Pomeranz et al. | Nov 1999 | A |
5997497 | Nita et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
5999678 | Murphy-Chutorian et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
6004269 | Crowley et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
6004316 | Laufer et al. | Dec 1999 | A |
6007514 | Nita | Dec 1999 | A |
6010522 | Barbut et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
6013033 | Berger et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
6014590 | Whayne et al. | Jan 2000 | A |
6022309 | Celliers et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
6024740 | Lesh | Feb 2000 | A |
6030611 | Gorecki et al. | Feb 2000 | A |
6032675 | Rubinsky et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
6033397 | Laufer et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
6033398 | Farley et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
6036687 | Laufer et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
6036689 | Tu et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
6041260 | Stern et al. | Mar 2000 | A |
6050994 | Sherman | Apr 2000 | A |
6056744 | Edwards | May 2000 | A |
6056746 | Goble et al. | May 2000 | A |
6063085 | Tay et al. | May 2000 | A |
6066096 | Smith et al. | May 2000 | A |
6066139 | Ryan et al. | May 2000 | A |
6068638 | Makower | May 2000 | A |
6068653 | Lafontaine | May 2000 | A |
6071277 | Farley et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
6071278 | Panescu et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
6078839 | Carson | Jun 2000 | A |
6079414 | Roth | Jun 2000 | A |
6080171 | Keith et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
6081749 | Ingle et al. | Jun 2000 | A |
6086581 | Reynolds et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
6093166 | Knudson et al. | Jul 2000 | A |
6096021 | Helm et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
6099526 | Whayne et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
6102908 | Tu et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
6106477 | Miesel et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
6110187 | Donlon et al. | Aug 2000 | A |
6114311 | Parmacek et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6117101 | Diederich et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6117128 | Gregory | Sep 2000 | A |
6120476 | Fung et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6120516 | Selmon et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6121775 | Pearlman | Sep 2000 | A |
6123679 | Lafaut et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6123682 | Knudson et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6123702 | Swanson et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6123703 | Tu et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6123718 | Tu et al. | Sep 2000 | A |
6129725 | Tu et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
6135997 | Laufer et al. | Oct 2000 | A |
6142991 | Schatzberger et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
6142993 | Whayne et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
6149647 | Tu et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
6152899 | Farley et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
6152912 | Jansen et al. | Nov 2000 | A |
6156046 | Passafaro et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6158250 | Tibbals et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6159187 | Park et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6159225 | Makower | Dec 2000 | A |
6161048 | Sluijter et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6162184 | Swanson et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6165163 | Chien et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6165172 | Farley et al. | Dec 2000 | A |
6165187 | Reger | Dec 2000 | A |
6168594 | LaFontaine et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
6171321 | Gifford, III et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
6179832 | Jones et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
6179835 | Panescu et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
6179859 | Bates et al. | Jan 2001 | B1 |
6183468 | Swanson et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
6183486 | Snow et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
6190379 | Heuser et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
6191862 | Swanson et al. | Feb 2001 | B1 |
6197021 | Panescu et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
6200266 | Shokrollahi et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
6203537 | Adrian | Mar 2001 | B1 |
6203561 | Ramee et al. | Mar 2001 | B1 |
6210406 | Webster | Apr 2001 | B1 |
6211247 | Goodman | Apr 2001 | B1 |
6217576 | Tu et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
6219577 | Brown, III et al. | Apr 2001 | B1 |
6228076 | Winston et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6228109 | Tu et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6231516 | Keilman et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6231587 | Makower | May 2001 | B1 |
6235044 | Root et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6236883 | Ciaccio et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6237605 | Vaska et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6238389 | Paddock et al. | May 2001 | B1 |
6238392 | Long | May 2001 | B1 |
6241666 | Pomeranz et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
6241753 | Knowlton | Jun 2001 | B1 |
6245020 | Moore et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
6245045 | Stratienko | Jun 2001 | B1 |
6248126 | Lesser et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
6251128 | Knopp et al. | Jun 2001 | B1 |
6258087 | Edwards et al. | Jul 2001 | B1 |
6273886 | Edwards et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
6280466 | Kugler et al. | Aug 2001 | B1 |
6283935 | Laufer et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6283959 | Lalonde et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6284743 | Parmacek et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6287323 | Hammerslag | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6290696 | Lafontaine | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6292695 | Webster, Jr. et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6293942 | Goble et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6293943 | Panescu et al. | Sep 2001 | B1 |
6296619 | Brisken et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6298256 | Meyer | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6299379 | Lewis | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6299623 | Wulfman | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6309379 | Willard et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6309399 | Barbut et al. | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6311090 | Knowlton | Oct 2001 | B1 |
6317615 | KenKnight et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
6319242 | Patterson et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
6319251 | Tu et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
6322559 | Daulton et al. | Nov 2001 | B1 |
6325797 | Stewart et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
6325799 | Goble | Dec 2001 | B1 |
6328699 | Eigler et al. | Dec 2001 | B1 |
6346074 | Roth | Feb 2002 | B1 |
6346104 | Daly et al. | Feb 2002 | B2 |
6350248 | Knudson et al. | Feb 2002 | B1 |
6350276 | Knowlton | Feb 2002 | B1 |
6353751 | Swanson et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
6355029 | Joye et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
6357447 | Swanson et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
6361519 | Knudson et al. | Mar 2002 | B1 |
6364840 | Crowley | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6371965 | Gifford, III et al. | Apr 2002 | B2 |
6375668 | Gifford et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6377854 | Knowlton | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6377855 | Knowlton | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6379352 | Reynolds et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6379373 | Sawhney et al. | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6381497 | Knowlton | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6381498 | Knowlton | Apr 2002 | B1 |
6383151 | Diederich et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
6387105 | Gifford, III et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
6387380 | Knowlton | May 2002 | B1 |
6389311 | Whayne et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
6389314 | Feiring | May 2002 | B2 |
6391024 | Sun et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
6394096 | Constantz | May 2002 | B1 |
6394956 | Chandrasekaran et al. | May 2002 | B1 |
6398780 | Farley et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6398782 | Pecor et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6398792 | O'Connor | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6401720 | Stevens et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6402719 | Ponzi et al. | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6405090 | Knowlton | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6409723 | Edwards | Jun 2002 | B1 |
6413255 | Stern | Jul 2002 | B1 |
6421559 | Pearlman | Jul 2002 | B1 |
6423057 | He et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
6425867 | Vaezy et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
6425912 | Knowlton | Jul 2002 | B1 |
6427118 | Suzuki | Jul 2002 | B1 |
6428534 | Joye et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
6428536 | Panescu et al. | Aug 2002 | B2 |
6430446 | Knowlton | Aug 2002 | B1 |
6432102 | Joye et al. | Aug 2002 | B2 |
6436056 | Wang et al. | Aug 2002 | B1 |
6438424 | Knowlton | Aug 2002 | B1 |
6440125 | Rentrop | Aug 2002 | B1 |
6442413 | Silver | Aug 2002 | B1 |
6443965 | Gifford, III et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6445939 | Swanson et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6447505 | McGovern et al. | Sep 2002 | B2 |
6447509 | Bonnet et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6451034 | Gifford, III et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6451044 | Naghavi et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6453202 | Knowlton | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6454737 | Nita et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6454757 | Nita et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6454775 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2002 | B1 |
6458098 | Kanesaka | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6461378 | Knowlton | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6468276 | McKay | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6468297 | Williams et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6470216 | Knowlton | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6470219 | Edwards et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6471696 | Berube et al. | Oct 2002 | B1 |
6475213 | Whayne et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6475215 | Tanrisever | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6475238 | Fedida et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6477426 | Fenn et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6480745 | Nelson et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
6481704 | Koster et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6482202 | Goble et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6484052 | Visuri et al. | Nov 2002 | B1 |
6485489 | Teirstein et al. | Nov 2002 | B2 |
6488679 | Swanson et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
6489307 | Phillips et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
6491705 | Gifford, III et al. | Dec 2002 | B2 |
6494891 | Cornish et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
6497711 | Plaia et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
6500172 | Panescu et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
6500174 | Maguire et al. | Dec 2002 | B1 |
6508765 | Suorsa et al. | Jan 2003 | B2 |
6508804 | Sarge et al. | Jan 2003 | B2 |
6508815 | Strul et al. | Jan 2003 | B1 |
6511478 | Burnside et al. | Jan 2003 | B1 |
6511496 | Huter et al. | Jan 2003 | B1 |
6511500 | Rahme | Jan 2003 | B1 |
6514236 | Stratienko | Feb 2003 | B1 |
6514245 | Williams et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
6514248 | Eggers et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
6517534 | McGovern et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
6517572 | Kugler et al. | Feb 2003 | B2 |
6522913 | Swanson et al. | Feb 2003 | B2 |
6522926 | Kieval et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
6524299 | Tran et al. | Feb 2003 | B1 |
6527765 | Kelman et al. | Mar 2003 | B2 |
6527769 | Langberg et al. | Mar 2003 | B2 |
6540761 | Houser | Apr 2003 | B2 |
6542781 | Koblish et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
6544780 | Wang | Apr 2003 | B1 |
6546272 | MacKinnon et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
6547788 | Maguire et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
6549800 | Atalar et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
6552796 | Magnin et al. | Apr 2003 | B2 |
6554780 | Sampson et al. | Apr 2003 | B1 |
6558381 | Ingle et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
6558382 | Jahns et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
6564096 | Mest | May 2003 | B2 |
6565582 | Gifford, III et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
6569109 | Sakurai et al. | May 2003 | B2 |
6569177 | Dillard et al. | May 2003 | B1 |
6570659 | Schmitt | May 2003 | B2 |
6572551 | Smith et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
6572612 | Stewart et al. | Jun 2003 | B2 |
6577902 | Laufer et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
6579308 | Jansen et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
6579311 | Makower | Jun 2003 | B1 |
6582423 | Thapliyal et al. | Jun 2003 | B1 |
6589238 | Edwards et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
6592526 | Lenker | Jul 2003 | B1 |
6592567 | Levin et al. | Jul 2003 | B1 |
6595959 | Stratienko | Jul 2003 | B1 |
6600956 | Maschino et al. | Jul 2003 | B2 |
6602242 | Fung | Aug 2003 | B1 |
6602246 | Joye et al. | Aug 2003 | B1 |
6605084 | Acker et al. | Aug 2003 | B2 |
6623452 | Chien et al. | Sep 2003 | B2 |
6623453 | Guibert et al. | Sep 2003 | B1 |
6632193 | Davison et al. | Oct 2003 | B1 |
6632196 | Houser | Oct 2003 | B1 |
6645223 | Boyle et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
6648854 | Patterson et al. | Nov 2003 | B1 |
6648878 | Lafontaine | Nov 2003 | B2 |
6648879 | Joye et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
6651672 | Roth | Nov 2003 | B2 |
6652513 | Panescu et al. | Nov 2003 | B2 |
6652515 | Maguire et al. | Nov 2003 | B1 |
6656136 | Weng et al. | Dec 2003 | B1 |
6658279 | Swanson et al. | Dec 2003 | B2 |
6659981 | Stewart et al. | Dec 2003 | B2 |
6666858 | Lafontaine | Dec 2003 | B2 |
6666863 | Wentzel et al. | Dec 2003 | B2 |
6669655 | Acker et al. | Dec 2003 | B1 |
6669692 | Nelson et al. | Dec 2003 | B1 |
6673040 | Samson et al. | Jan 2004 | B1 |
6673064 | Rentrop | Jan 2004 | B1 |
6673066 | Werneth | Jan 2004 | B2 |
6673090 | Root et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
6673101 | Fitzgerald et al. | Jan 2004 | B1 |
6673290 | Whayne et al. | Jan 2004 | B1 |
6676678 | Gifford, III et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
6679268 | Stevens et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
6681773 | Murphy et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
6682541 | Gifford, III et al. | Jan 2004 | B1 |
6684098 | Oshio et al. | Jan 2004 | B2 |
6685732 | Kramer | Feb 2004 | B2 |
6685733 | Dae et al. | Feb 2004 | B1 |
6689086 | Nita et al. | Feb 2004 | B1 |
6689148 | Sawhney et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
6690181 | Dowdeswell et al. | Feb 2004 | B1 |
6692490 | Edwards | Feb 2004 | B1 |
6695830 | Vigil et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
6695857 | Gifford, III et al. | Feb 2004 | B2 |
6699241 | Rappaport et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6699257 | Gifford, III et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6702748 | Nita et al. | Mar 2004 | B1 |
6702811 | Stewart et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6706010 | Miki et al. | Mar 2004 | B1 |
6706011 | Murphy-Chutorian et al. | Mar 2004 | B1 |
6706037 | Zvuloni et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6709431 | Lafontaine | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6711429 | Gilboa et al. | Mar 2004 | B1 |
6712815 | Sampson et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6714822 | King et al. | Mar 2004 | B2 |
6716184 | Vaezy et al. | Apr 2004 | B2 |
6720350 | Kunz et al. | Apr 2004 | B2 |
6723043 | Kleeman et al. | Apr 2004 | B2 |
6723064 | Babaev | Apr 2004 | B2 |
6736811 | Panescu et al. | May 2004 | B2 |
6743184 | Sampson et al. | Jun 2004 | B2 |
6746401 | Panescu | Jun 2004 | B2 |
6746464 | Makower | Jun 2004 | B1 |
6746474 | Saadat | Jun 2004 | B2 |
6748953 | Sherry et al. | Jun 2004 | B2 |
6749607 | Edwards et al. | Jun 2004 | B2 |
6752805 | Maguire et al. | Jun 2004 | B2 |
6760616 | Hoey et al. | Jul 2004 | B2 |
6763261 | Casscells, III et al. | Jul 2004 | B2 |
6764501 | Ganz | Jul 2004 | B2 |
6769433 | Zikorus et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
6770070 | Balbierz | Aug 2004 | B1 |
6771996 | Bowe et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
6773433 | Stewart et al. | Aug 2004 | B2 |
6786900 | Joye et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6786901 | Joye et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6786904 | Döscher et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6788977 | Fenn et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6790206 | Panescu | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6790222 | Kugler et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6796981 | Wham et al. | Sep 2004 | B2 |
6797933 | Mendis et al. | Sep 2004 | B1 |
6797960 | Spartiotis et al. | Sep 2004 | B1 |
6800075 | Mische et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
6802857 | Walsh et al. | Oct 2004 | B1 |
6807444 | Tu et al. | Oct 2004 | B2 |
6811550 | Holland et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
6813520 | Truckai et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
6814730 | Li | Nov 2004 | B2 |
6814733 | Schwartz et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
6823205 | Jara | Nov 2004 | B1 |
6824516 | Batten et al. | Nov 2004 | B2 |
6827726 | Parodi | Dec 2004 | B2 |
6827926 | Robinson et al. | Dec 2004 | B2 |
6829497 | Mogul | Dec 2004 | B2 |
6830568 | Kesten et al. | Dec 2004 | B1 |
6837886 | Collins et al. | Jan 2005 | B2 |
6837888 | Ciarrocca et al. | Jan 2005 | B2 |
6845267 | Harrison et al. | Jan 2005 | B2 |
6847848 | Sterzer | Jan 2005 | B2 |
6849073 | Hoey et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
6849075 | Bertolero et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
6853425 | Kim et al. | Feb 2005 | B2 |
6855123 | Nita | Feb 2005 | B2 |
6855143 | Davison | Feb 2005 | B2 |
6869431 | Maguire et al. | Mar 2005 | B2 |
6872183 | Sampson et al. | Mar 2005 | B2 |
6884260 | Kugler et al. | Apr 2005 | B2 |
6889694 | Hooven | May 2005 | B2 |
6893436 | Woodard et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
6895077 | Karellas et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
6895265 | Silver | May 2005 | B2 |
6898454 | Atalar et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
6899711 | Stewart et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
6899718 | Gifford, III et al. | May 2005 | B2 |
6905494 | Yon et al. | Jun 2005 | B2 |
6908462 | Joye et al. | Jun 2005 | B2 |
6909009 | Koridze | Jun 2005 | B2 |
6911026 | Hall et al. | Jun 2005 | B1 |
6915806 | Pacek et al. | Jul 2005 | B2 |
6923805 | LaFontaine et al. | Aug 2005 | B1 |
6926246 | Ginggen | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6926713 | Rioux et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6926716 | Baker et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6929009 | Makower et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6929632 | Nita et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6929639 | Lafontaine | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6932776 | Carr | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6936047 | Nasab et al. | Aug 2005 | B2 |
6942620 | Nita et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
6942657 | Sinofsky et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
6942677 | Nita et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
6942692 | Landau et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
6949097 | Stewart et al. | Sep 2005 | B2 |
6949121 | Laguna | Sep 2005 | B1 |
6952615 | Satake | Oct 2005 | B2 |
6953425 | Brister | Oct 2005 | B2 |
6955174 | Joye et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
6955175 | Stevens et al. | Oct 2005 | B2 |
6959711 | Murphy et al. | Nov 2005 | B2 |
6960207 | Vanney et al. | Nov 2005 | B2 |
6962584 | Stone et al. | Nov 2005 | B1 |
6964660 | Maguire et al. | Nov 2005 | B2 |
6966908 | Maguire et al. | Nov 2005 | B2 |
6972015 | Joye et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
6972024 | Kilpatrick et al. | Dec 2005 | B1 |
6974456 | Edwards et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
6978174 | Gelfand | Dec 2005 | B2 |
6979329 | Burnside et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
6979420 | Weber | Dec 2005 | B2 |
6984238 | Gifford, III et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
6985774 | Kieval et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
6986739 | Warren et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
6989009 | Lafontaine | Jan 2006 | B2 |
6989010 | Francischelli et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
6991617 | Hektner et al. | Jan 2006 | B2 |
7001378 | Yon et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
7006858 | Silver et al. | Feb 2006 | B2 |
7022105 | Edwards | Apr 2006 | B1 |
7022120 | Lafontaine | Apr 2006 | B2 |
7025767 | Schaefer et al. | Apr 2006 | B2 |
7033322 | Silver | Apr 2006 | B2 |
7033372 | Cahalan | Apr 2006 | B1 |
7041098 | Farley et al. | May 2006 | B2 |
7050848 | Hoey et al. | May 2006 | B2 |
7063670 | Sampson et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
7063679 | Maguire et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
7063719 | Jansen et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
7066895 | Podany | Jun 2006 | B2 |
7066900 | Botto et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
7066904 | Rosenthal et al. | Jun 2006 | B2 |
7072720 | Puskas | Jul 2006 | B2 |
7074217 | Strul et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
7081112 | Joye et al. | Jul 2006 | B2 |
7081114 | Rashidi | Jul 2006 | B2 |
7083614 | Fjield et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7084276 | Vu et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7087026 | Callister et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7087051 | Bourne et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7087052 | Sampson et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7087053 | Vanney | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7089065 | Westlund et al. | Aug 2006 | B2 |
7097641 | Arless et al. | Aug 2006 | B1 |
7100614 | Stevens et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7101368 | Lafontaine | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7104983 | Grasso, III et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7104987 | Biggs et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7108715 | Lawrence-Brown et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7112196 | Brosch et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7112198 | Satake | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7112211 | Gifford, III et al. | Sep 2006 | B2 |
7122019 | Kesten et al. | Oct 2006 | B1 |
7122033 | Wood | Oct 2006 | B2 |
7134438 | Makower et al. | Nov 2006 | B2 |
7137963 | Nita et al. | Nov 2006 | B2 |
7137980 | Buysse et al. | Nov 2006 | B2 |
7153315 | Miller | Dec 2006 | B2 |
7155271 | Halperin et al. | Dec 2006 | B2 |
7157491 | Mewshaw et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7157492 | Mewshaw et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7158832 | Kieval et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7160296 | Pearson et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7162303 | Levin | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7165551 | Edwards et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7169144 | Hoey et al. | Jan 2007 | B2 |
7172589 | Lafontaine | Feb 2007 | B2 |
7172610 | Heitzmann et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
7181261 | Silver et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
7184811 | Phan et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
7184827 | Edwards | Feb 2007 | B1 |
7189227 | Lafontaine | Mar 2007 | B2 |
7192427 | Chapelon et al. | Mar 2007 | B2 |
7192586 | Bander | Mar 2007 | B2 |
7197354 | Sobe | Mar 2007 | B2 |
7198632 | Lim et al. | Apr 2007 | B2 |
7200445 | Dalbec et al. | Apr 2007 | B1 |
7201749 | Govari et al. | Apr 2007 | B2 |
7203537 | Mower | Apr 2007 | B2 |
7214234 | Rapacki et al. | May 2007 | B2 |
7220233 | Nita et al. | May 2007 | B2 |
7220239 | Wilson et al. | May 2007 | B2 |
7220257 | Lafontaine | May 2007 | B1 |
7220270 | Sawhney et al. | May 2007 | B2 |
7232458 | Saadat | Jun 2007 | B2 |
7232459 | Greenberg et al. | Jun 2007 | B2 |
7238184 | Megerman et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
7241273 | Maguire et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
7241736 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
7247141 | Makin et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
7250041 | Chiu et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
7250440 | Mewshaw et al. | Jul 2007 | B2 |
7252664 | Nasab et al. | Aug 2007 | B2 |
7252679 | Fischell et al. | Aug 2007 | B2 |
7264619 | Venturelli | Sep 2007 | B2 |
7279600 | Mewshaw et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7280863 | Shachar | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7282213 | Schroeder et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7285119 | Stewart et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7285120 | Im et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7288089 | Yon et al. | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7288096 | Chin | Oct 2007 | B2 |
7291146 | Steinke et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7293562 | Malecki et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7294125 | Phalen et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7294126 | Sampson et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7294127 | Leung et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7297131 | Nita | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7297475 | Koiwai et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7300433 | Lane et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7301108 | Egitto et al. | Nov 2007 | B2 |
7310150 | Guillermo et al. | Dec 2007 | B2 |
7313430 | Urquhart et al. | Dec 2007 | B2 |
7314483 | Landau et al. | Jan 2008 | B2 |
7317077 | Averback et al. | Jan 2008 | B2 |
7323006 | Andreas et al. | Jan 2008 | B2 |
7326206 | Paul et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7326226 | Root et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7326235 | Edwards | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7326237 | DePalma et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7329236 | Kesten et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7335180 | Nita et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7335192 | Keren et al. | Feb 2008 | B2 |
7338467 | Lutter | Mar 2008 | B2 |
7341570 | Keren et al. | Mar 2008 | B2 |
7343195 | Strommer et al. | Mar 2008 | B2 |
7347857 | Anderson et al. | Mar 2008 | B2 |
7348003 | Salcedo et al. | Mar 2008 | B2 |
7352593 | Zeng et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
7354927 | Vu | Apr 2008 | B2 |
7359732 | Kim et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
7361341 | Salcedo et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
7364566 | Elkins et al. | Apr 2008 | B2 |
7367970 | Govari et al. | May 2008 | B2 |
7367975 | Malecki et al. | May 2008 | B2 |
7371231 | Rioux et al. | May 2008 | B2 |
7387126 | Cox et al. | Jun 2008 | B2 |
7393338 | Nita | Jul 2008 | B2 |
7396355 | Goldman et al. | Jul 2008 | B2 |
7402151 | Rosenman et al. | Jul 2008 | B2 |
7402312 | Rosen et al. | Jul 2008 | B2 |
7404824 | Webler et al. | Jul 2008 | B1 |
7406970 | Zikorus et al. | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7407502 | Strul et al. | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7407506 | Makower | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7407671 | McBride et al. | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7408021 | Averback et al. | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7410486 | Fuimaono et al. | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7413556 | Zhang et al. | Aug 2008 | B2 |
7425212 | Danek et al. | Sep 2008 | B1 |
7426409 | Casscells, III et al. | Sep 2008 | B2 |
7435248 | Taimisto et al. | Oct 2008 | B2 |
7447453 | Kim et al. | Nov 2008 | B2 |
7449018 | Kramer | Nov 2008 | B2 |
7452538 | Ni et al. | Nov 2008 | B2 |
7473890 | Grier et al. | Jan 2009 | B2 |
7476384 | Ni et al. | Jan 2009 | B2 |
7479157 | Weber et al. | Jan 2009 | B2 |
7481803 | Kesten et al. | Jan 2009 | B2 |
7485104 | Kieval | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7486805 | Krattiger | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7487780 | Hooven | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7493154 | Bonner et al. | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7494485 | Beck et al. | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7494486 | Mische et al. | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7494488 | Weber | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7494661 | Sanders | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7495439 | Wiggins | Feb 2009 | B2 |
7497858 | Chapelon et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7499745 | Littrup et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7500985 | Saadat | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7505812 | Eggers et al. | Mar 2009 | B1 |
7505816 | Schmeling et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7507233 | Littrup et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7507235 | Keogh et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7511494 | Wedeen | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7512445 | Truckai et al. | Mar 2009 | B2 |
7527643 | Case et al. | May 2009 | B2 |
7529589 | Williams et al. | May 2009 | B2 |
7540852 | Nita et al. | Jun 2009 | B2 |
7540870 | Babaev | Jun 2009 | B2 |
RE40863 | Tay et al. | Jul 2009 | E |
7556624 | Laufer et al. | Jul 2009 | B2 |
7558625 | Levin et al. | Jul 2009 | B2 |
7563247 | Maguire et al. | Jul 2009 | B2 |
7566319 | McAuley et al. | Jul 2009 | B2 |
7569052 | Phan et al. | Aug 2009 | B2 |
7582111 | Krolik et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
7584004 | Caparso et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
7585835 | Hill et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
7591996 | Hwang et al. | Sep 2009 | B2 |
7597704 | Frazier et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
7598228 | Hattori et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
7599730 | Hunter et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
7603166 | Casscells, III et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
7604608 | Nita et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
7604633 | Truckai et al. | Oct 2009 | B2 |
7615015 | Coleman | Nov 2009 | B2 |
7615072 | Rust et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
7617005 | Demarais et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
7620451 | Demarais et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
7621902 | Nita et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
7621929 | Nita et al. | Nov 2009 | B2 |
7626015 | Feinstein et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
7626235 | Kinoshita | Dec 2009 | B2 |
7632268 | Edwards et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
7632845 | Vu et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
7635383 | Gumm | Dec 2009 | B2 |
7640046 | Pastore et al. | Dec 2009 | B2 |
7641633 | Laufer et al. | Jan 2010 | B2 |
7641679 | Joye et al. | Jan 2010 | B2 |
7646544 | Batchko et al. | Jan 2010 | B2 |
7647115 | Levin et al. | Jan 2010 | B2 |
7653438 | Deem et al. | Jan 2010 | B2 |
7655006 | Sauvageau et al. | Feb 2010 | B2 |
7662114 | Seip et al. | Feb 2010 | B2 |
7664548 | Amurthur et al. | Feb 2010 | B2 |
7670279 | Gertner | Mar 2010 | B2 |
7670335 | Keidar | Mar 2010 | B2 |
7671084 | Mewshaw et al. | Mar 2010 | B2 |
7678104 | Keidar | Mar 2010 | B2 |
7678106 | Lee | Mar 2010 | B2 |
7678108 | Chrisitian et al. | Mar 2010 | B2 |
7691080 | Seward et al. | Apr 2010 | B2 |
7699809 | Urmey | Apr 2010 | B2 |
7706882 | Francischelli et al. | Apr 2010 | B2 |
7715912 | Rezai et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
7717853 | Nita | May 2010 | B2 |
7717909 | Strul et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
7717948 | Demarais et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
7722539 | Carter et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
7725157 | Dumoulin et al. | May 2010 | B2 |
7727178 | Wilson et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7736317 | Stephens et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7736360 | Mody et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7736362 | Eberl et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7738952 | Yun et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7740629 | Anderson et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7741299 | Feinstein et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7742795 | Stone et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7744594 | Yamazaki et al. | Jun 2010 | B2 |
7753907 | DiMatteo et al. | Jul 2010 | B2 |
7756583 | Demarais et al. | Jul 2010 | B2 |
7758510 | Nita et al. | Jul 2010 | B2 |
7758520 | Griffin et al. | Jul 2010 | B2 |
7759315 | Cuzzocrea et al. | Jul 2010 | B2 |
7766833 | Lee et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7766878 | Tremaglio, Jr. et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7766892 | Keren et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7767844 | Lee et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7769427 | Shachar | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7771372 | Wilson | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7771421 | Stewart et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7776967 | Perry et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7777486 | Hargreaves et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7780660 | Bourne et al. | Aug 2010 | B2 |
7789876 | Zikorus et al. | Sep 2010 | B2 |
7792568 | Zhong et al. | Sep 2010 | B2 |
7799021 | Leung et al. | Sep 2010 | B2 |
7803168 | Gifford et al. | Sep 2010 | B2 |
7806871 | Li et al. | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7811265 | Hering et al. | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7811281 | Rentrop | Oct 2010 | B1 |
7811313 | Mon et al. | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7816511 | Kawashima et al. | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7818053 | Kassab | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7819866 | Bednarek | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7822460 | Halperin et al. | Oct 2010 | B2 |
7828837 | Khoury | Nov 2010 | B2 |
7832407 | Gertner | Nov 2010 | B2 |
7833220 | Mon et al. | Nov 2010 | B2 |
7837676 | Sinelnikov et al. | Nov 2010 | B2 |
7837720 | Mon | Nov 2010 | B2 |
7841978 | Gertner | Nov 2010 | B2 |
7846157 | Kozel | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7846160 | Payne et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7846172 | Makower | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7849860 | Makower et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7850685 | Kunis et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7853333 | Demarais et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7854734 | Biggs et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7857756 | Warren et al. | Dec 2010 | B2 |
7862565 | Eder et al. | Jan 2011 | B2 |
7863897 | Slocum, Jr. et al. | Jan 2011 | B2 |
7869854 | Shachar et al. | Jan 2011 | B2 |
7873417 | Demarais et al. | Jan 2011 | B2 |
7887538 | Bleich et al. | Feb 2011 | B2 |
7894905 | Pless et al. | Feb 2011 | B2 |
7896873 | Hiller et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
7901400 | Wham et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
7901402 | Jones et al. | Mar 2011 | B2 |
7901420 | Dunn | Mar 2011 | B2 |
7905862 | Sampson | Mar 2011 | B2 |
7918850 | Govari et al. | Apr 2011 | B2 |
7927370 | Webler et al. | Apr 2011 | B2 |
7937143 | Demarais et al. | May 2011 | B2 |
7938830 | Saadat et al. | May 2011 | B2 |
7942874 | Eder et al. | May 2011 | B2 |
7942928 | Webler et al. | May 2011 | B2 |
7946976 | Gertner | May 2011 | B2 |
7950397 | Thapliyal et al. | May 2011 | B2 |
7955293 | Nita et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
7956613 | Wald | Jun 2011 | B2 |
7959627 | Utley et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
7962854 | Vance et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
7967782 | Laufer et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
7967808 | Fitzgerald et al. | Jun 2011 | B2 |
7972327 | Eberl et al. | Jul 2011 | B2 |
7972330 | Alejandro et al. | Jul 2011 | B2 |
7983751 | Zdeblick et al. | Jul 2011 | B2 |
8001976 | Gertner | Aug 2011 | B2 |
8007440 | Magnin et al. | Aug 2011 | B2 |
8012147 | Lafontaine | Sep 2011 | B2 |
8019435 | Hastings et al. | Sep 2011 | B2 |
8021362 | Deem et al. | Sep 2011 | B2 |
8021413 | Dierking et al. | Sep 2011 | B2 |
8025661 | Arnold et al. | Sep 2011 | B2 |
8027718 | Spinner et al. | Sep 2011 | B2 |
8031927 | Karl et al. | Oct 2011 | B2 |
8033284 | Porter et al. | Oct 2011 | B2 |
8048144 | Thistle et al. | Nov 2011 | B2 |
8052636 | Moll et al. | Nov 2011 | B2 |
8052700 | Dunn | Nov 2011 | B2 |
8062289 | Babaev | Nov 2011 | B2 |
8075580 | Makower | Dec 2011 | B2 |
8080006 | Lafontaine et al. | Dec 2011 | B2 |
8088127 | Mayse et al. | Jan 2012 | B2 |
8116883 | Williams et al. | Feb 2012 | B2 |
8119183 | O'Donoghue et al. | Feb 2012 | B2 |
8120518 | Jang et al. | Feb 2012 | B2 |
8123741 | Marrouche et al. | Feb 2012 | B2 |
8128617 | Bencini et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8131371 | Demarals et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8131372 | Levin et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8131382 | Asada | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8137274 | Weng et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8140170 | Rezai et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8143316 | Ueno | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8145316 | Deem et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8145317 | Demarais et al. | Mar 2012 | B2 |
8150518 | Levin et al. | Apr 2012 | B2 |
8150519 | Demarais et al. | Apr 2012 | B2 |
8150520 | Demarais et al. | Apr 2012 | B2 |
8152830 | Gumm | Apr 2012 | B2 |
8162933 | Francischelli et al. | Apr 2012 | B2 |
8175711 | Demarais et al. | May 2012 | B2 |
8187261 | Watson | May 2012 | B2 |
8190238 | Moll et al. | May 2012 | B2 |
8192053 | Owen et al. | Jun 2012 | B2 |
8198611 | LaFontaine et al. | Jun 2012 | B2 |
8214056 | Hoffer et al. | Jul 2012 | B2 |
8221407 | Phan et al. | Jul 2012 | B2 |
8226637 | Satake | Jul 2012 | B2 |
8231617 | Satake | Jul 2012 | B2 |
8241217 | Chiang et al. | Aug 2012 | B2 |
8257724 | Cromack et al. | Sep 2012 | B2 |
8257725 | Cromack et al. | Sep 2012 | B2 |
8260397 | Ruff et al. | Sep 2012 | B2 |
8263104 | Ho et al. | Sep 2012 | B2 |
8273023 | Razavi | Sep 2012 | B2 |
8277379 | Lau et al. | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8287524 | Siegel | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8287532 | Carroll et al. | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8292881 | Brannan et al. | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8293703 | Averback et al. | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8295902 | Salahieh et al. | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8295912 | Gertner | Oct 2012 | B2 |
8308722 | Ormsby et al. | Nov 2012 | B2 |
8317776 | Ferren et al. | Nov 2012 | B2 |
8317810 | Stangenes et al. | Nov 2012 | B2 |
8329179 | Ni et al. | Dec 2012 | B2 |
8336705 | Okahisa | Dec 2012 | B2 |
8343031 | Gertner | Jan 2013 | B2 |
8343145 | Brannan | Jan 2013 | B2 |
8347891 | Demarais et al. | Jan 2013 | B2 |
8353945 | Andreas et al. | Jan 2013 | B2 |
8364237 | Stone et al. | Jan 2013 | B2 |
8366615 | Razavi | Feb 2013 | B2 |
8382697 | Brenneman et al. | Feb 2013 | B2 |
8388680 | Starksen et al. | Mar 2013 | B2 |
8396548 | Perry et al. | Mar 2013 | B2 |
8398629 | Thistle | Mar 2013 | B2 |
8401667 | Gustus et al. | Mar 2013 | B2 |
8403881 | Ferren et al. | Mar 2013 | B2 |
8406877 | Smith et al. | Mar 2013 | B2 |
8409172 | Moll et al. | Apr 2013 | B2 |
8409193 | Young et al. | Apr 2013 | B2 |
8409195 | Young | Apr 2013 | B2 |
8418362 | Zerfas et al. | Apr 2013 | B2 |
8452988 | Wang | May 2013 | B2 |
8454594 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2013 | B2 |
8460358 | Andreas et al. | Jun 2013 | B2 |
8465452 | Kassab | Jun 2013 | B2 |
8469919 | Ingle et al. | Jun 2013 | B2 |
8473067 | Hastings et al. | Jun 2013 | B2 |
8480663 | Ingle et al. | Jul 2013 | B2 |
8485992 | Griffin et al. | Jul 2013 | B2 |
8486060 | Kotmel et al. | Jul 2013 | B2 |
8486063 | Werneth et al. | Jul 2013 | B2 |
8488591 | Miali et al. | Jul 2013 | B2 |
8758339 | Bee et al. | Jun 2014 | B2 |
20010007070 | Stewart et al. | Jul 2001 | A1 |
20010039419 | Francischelli et al. | Nov 2001 | A1 |
20020022864 | Mahvi et al. | Feb 2002 | A1 |
20020042639 | Murphy-Chutorian et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
20020045811 | Kittrell et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
20020045890 | Celliers et al. | Apr 2002 | A1 |
20020062146 | Makower et al. | May 2002 | A1 |
20020065542 | Lax et al. | May 2002 | A1 |
20020087151 | Mody et al. | Jul 2002 | A1 |
20020095197 | Lardo et al. | Jul 2002 | A1 |
20020107536 | Hussein | Aug 2002 | A1 |
20020147480 | Mamayek | Oct 2002 | A1 |
20020169444 | Mest et al. | Nov 2002 | A1 |
20020198520 | Coen et al. | Dec 2002 | A1 |
20030065317 | Rudie et al. | Apr 2003 | A1 |
20030092995 | Thompson | May 2003 | A1 |
20030139689 | Shturman et al. | Jul 2003 | A1 |
20030195501 | Sherman et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
20030199747 | Michlitsch et al. | Oct 2003 | A1 |
20040010118 | Zerhusen et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
20040019348 | Stevens et al. | Jan 2004 | A1 |
20040024371 | Plicchi et al. | Feb 2004 | A1 |
20040043030 | Griffiths et al. | Mar 2004 | A1 |
20040064090 | Keren et al. | Apr 2004 | A1 |
20040073206 | Foley et al. | Apr 2004 | A1 |
20040088002 | Boyle et al. | May 2004 | A1 |
20040093055 | Bartorelli et al. | May 2004 | A1 |
20040106871 | Hunyor et al. | Jun 2004 | A1 |
20040117032 | Roth | Jun 2004 | A1 |
20040147915 | Hasebe | Jul 2004 | A1 |
20040162555 | Farley et al. | Aug 2004 | A1 |
20040167506 | Chen | Aug 2004 | A1 |
20040186356 | O'Malley et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
20040187875 | He et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
20040193211 | Voegele et al. | Sep 2004 | A1 |
20040220556 | Cooper et al. | Nov 2004 | A1 |
20040243022 | Carney et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
20040253304 | Gross et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
20040267250 | Yon et al. | Dec 2004 | A1 |
20050010095 | Stewart et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
20050015125 | Mioduski et al. | Jan 2005 | A1 |
20050080374 | Esch et al. | Apr 2005 | A1 |
20050129616 | Salcedo et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
20050137180 | Robinson et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
20050143817 | Hunter et al. | Jun 2005 | A1 |
20050148842 | Wang et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050149069 | Bertolero et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050149080 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050149158 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050149173 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050149175 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050154277 | Tang et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050154445 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050154453 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050154454 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050165389 | Swain et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050165391 | Maguire et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050165467 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050165488 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2005 | A1 |
20050175661 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050175662 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050175663 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050177103 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050177225 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050181004 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050181008 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050181011 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050181977 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050182479 | Bonsignore et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050183728 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050186242 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050186243 | Hunter et al. | Aug 2005 | A1 |
20050191331 | Hunter et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050203410 | Jenkins | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050209587 | Joye et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050214205 | Salcedo et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050214207 | Salcedo et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050214208 | Salcedo et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050214209 | Salcedo et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050214210 | Salcedo et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050214268 | Cavanagh et al. | Sep 2005 | A1 |
20050228286 | Messerly et al. | Oct 2005 | A1 |
20050228415 | Gertner | Oct 2005 | A1 |
20050228460 | Levin et al. | Oct 2005 | A1 |
20050232921 | Rosen et al. | Oct 2005 | A1 |
20050234312 | Suzuki et al. | Oct 2005 | A1 |
20050245862 | Seward et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
20050251116 | Steinke et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
20050252553 | Ginggen | Nov 2005 | A1 |
20050256398 | Hastings et al. | Nov 2005 | A1 |
20050267556 | Shuros et al. | Dec 2005 | A1 |
20060004323 | Chang et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
20060018949 | Ammon et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
20060024564 | Manclaw | Feb 2006 | A1 |
20060025765 | Landman et al. | Feb 2006 | A1 |
20060062786 | Salcedo et al. | Mar 2006 | A1 |
20060083194 | Dhrimaj et al. | Apr 2006 | A1 |
20060089637 | Werneth et al. | Apr 2006 | A1 |
20060089638 | Carmel et al. | Apr 2006 | A1 |
20060095096 | DeBenedictis et al. | May 2006 | A1 |
20060106375 | Werneth et al. | May 2006 | A1 |
20060142790 | Gertner | Jun 2006 | A1 |
20060142801 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2006 | A1 |
20060147492 | Hunter et al. | Jul 2006 | A1 |
20060167106 | Zhang et al. | Jul 2006 | A1 |
20060167498 | DiLorenzo | Jul 2006 | A1 |
20060171895 | Bucay-Couto | Aug 2006 | A1 |
20060184221 | Stewart et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
20060189896 | Davis et al. | Aug 2006 | A1 |
20060195139 | Gertner | Aug 2006 | A1 |
20060206150 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
20060212076 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
20060212078 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2006 | A1 |
20060224153 | Fischell et al. | Oct 2006 | A1 |
20060239921 | Mangat et al. | Oct 2006 | A1 |
20060240070 | Cromack et al. | Oct 2006 | A1 |
20060247266 | Yamada et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060247760 | Ganesan et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060263393 | Demopulos et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060265014 | Demarais et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060265015 | Demarais et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060269555 | Salcedo et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060271111 | Demarais et al. | Nov 2006 | A1 |
20060276852 | Demarais et al. | Dec 2006 | A1 |
20060287644 | Inganas et al. | Dec 2006 | A1 |
20070016184 | Cropper et al. | Jan 2007 | A1 |
20070016274 | Boveja et al. | Jan 2007 | A1 |
20070027390 | Maschke et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
20070043077 | Mewshaw et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
20070043409 | Brian et al. | Feb 2007 | A1 |
20070049924 | Rahn | Mar 2007 | A1 |
20070066957 | Demarais et al. | Mar 2007 | A1 |
20070066972 | Ormsby et al. | Mar 2007 | A1 |
20070073151 | Lee | Mar 2007 | A1 |
20070093710 | Maschke | Apr 2007 | A1 |
20070100405 | Thompson et al. | May 2007 | A1 |
20070106247 | Burnett et al. | May 2007 | A1 |
20070112327 | Yun et al. | May 2007 | A1 |
20070118107 | Francischelli et al. | May 2007 | A1 |
20070129720 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
20070129760 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
20070129761 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
20070135875 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
20070149963 | Matsukuma et al. | Jun 2007 | A1 |
20070162109 | Davila et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
20070173805 | Weinberg et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
20070173899 | Levin et al. | Jul 2007 | A1 |
20070179496 | Swoyer et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
20070203480 | Mody et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
20070203549 | Demarais et al. | Aug 2007 | A1 |
20070207186 | Scanlon et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070208134 | Hunter et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070208210 | Gelfand et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070208256 | Marilla | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070208301 | Evard et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070219576 | Cangialosi | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070225781 | Saadat et al. | Sep 2007 | A1 |
20070233170 | Gertner | Oct 2007 | A1 |
20070239062 | Chopra et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
20070248639 | Demopulos et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
20070249703 | Mewshaw et al. | Oct 2007 | A1 |
20070254833 | Hunter et al. | Nov 2007 | A1 |
20070265687 | Deem et al. | Nov 2007 | A1 |
20070278103 | Hoerr et al. | Dec 2007 | A1 |
20070282302 | Wachsman et al. | Dec 2007 | A1 |
20070292411 | Salcedo et al. | Dec 2007 | A1 |
20070293782 | Marino | Dec 2007 | A1 |
20070299043 | Hunter et al. | Dec 2007 | A1 |
20080004673 | Rossing et al. | Jan 2008 | A1 |
20080009927 | Vilims | Jan 2008 | A1 |
20080015501 | Gertner | Jan 2008 | A1 |
20080021408 | Jacobsen et al. | Jan 2008 | A1 |
20080033049 | Mewshaw | Feb 2008 | A1 |
20080039746 | Hissong et al. | Feb 2008 | A1 |
20080039830 | Munger et al. | Feb 2008 | A1 |
20080051454 | Wang | Feb 2008 | A1 |
20080064957 | Spence | Mar 2008 | A1 |
20080071269 | Hilario et al. | Mar 2008 | A1 |
20080071306 | Gertner | Mar 2008 | A1 |
20080082109 | Moll et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
20080086072 | Bonutti et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
20080091193 | Kauphusman et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
20080097251 | Babaev | Apr 2008 | A1 |
20080097426 | Root et al. | Apr 2008 | A1 |
20080108867 | Zhou | May 2008 | A1 |
20080119879 | Brenneman et al. | May 2008 | A1 |
20080125772 | Stone et al. | May 2008 | A1 |
20080132450 | Lee et al. | Jun 2008 | A1 |
20080140002 | Ramzipoor et al. | Jun 2008 | A1 |
20080147002 | Gertner | Jun 2008 | A1 |
20080161662 | Golijanin et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
20080161717 | Gertner | Jul 2008 | A1 |
20080161801 | Steinke et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
20080171974 | Lafontaine et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
20080172035 | Starksen et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
20080172104 | Kieval et al. | Jul 2008 | A1 |
20080188912 | Stone et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
20080188913 | Stone et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
20080208162 | Joshi | Aug 2008 | A1 |
20080208169 | Boyle et al. | Aug 2008 | A1 |
20080213331 | Gelfand et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
20080215117 | Gross | Sep 2008 | A1 |
20080221448 | Khuri-Yakub et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
20080234790 | Bayer et al. | Sep 2008 | A1 |
20080243091 | Humphreys et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080245371 | Gruber | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080249525 | Lee et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080249547 | Dunn | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080255550 | Bell | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080255642 | Zarins et al. | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080262489 | Steinke | Oct 2008 | A1 |
20080275484 | Gertner | Nov 2008 | A1 |
20080281312 | Werneth et al. | Nov 2008 | A1 |
20080281347 | Gertner | Nov 2008 | A1 |
20080287918 | Rosenman et al. | Nov 2008 | A1 |
20080294037 | Richter | Nov 2008 | A1 |
20080300618 | Gertner | Dec 2008 | A1 |
20080312644 | Fourkas et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
20080312673 | Viswanathan et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
20080317818 | Griffith et al. | Dec 2008 | A1 |
20090018486 | Goren et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
20090018566 | Escudero et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
20090018609 | DiLorenzo | Jan 2009 | A1 |
20090024194 | Arcot-Krishnamurthy et al. | Jan 2009 | A1 |
20090030312 | Hadjicostis | Jan 2009 | A1 |
20090036948 | Levin et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
20090043372 | Northrop et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
20090054082 | Kim et al. | Feb 2009 | A1 |
20090062873 | Wu et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
20090069671 | Anderson | Mar 2009 | A1 |
20090076409 | Wu et al. | Mar 2009 | A1 |
20090088735 | Abboud et al. | Apr 2009 | A1 |
20090105631 | Kieval | Apr 2009 | A1 |
20090112202 | Young | Apr 2009 | A1 |
20090118620 | Tgavalekos et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
20090118726 | Auth et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
20090125099 | Weber et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
20090131798 | Minar et al. | May 2009 | A1 |
20090143640 | Saadat et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
20090156988 | Ferren et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
20090157057 | Ferren et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
20090157161 | Desai et al. | Jun 2009 | A1 |
20090171333 | Hon | Jul 2009 | A1 |
20090192558 | Whitehurst et al. | Jul 2009 | A1 |
20090198223 | Thilwind et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
20090203962 | Miller et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
20090203993 | Mangat et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
20090204170 | Hastings et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
20090210953 | Moyer et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
20090216317 | Cromack et al. | Aug 2009 | A1 |
20090221939 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
20090221955 | Babaev | Sep 2009 | A1 |
20090226429 | Salcedo et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
20090240249 | Chan et al. | Sep 2009 | A1 |
20090247933 | Maor et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
20090247966 | Gunn et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
20090248012 | Maor et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
20090253974 | Rahme | Oct 2009 | A1 |
20090264755 | Chen et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
20090270850 | Zhou et al. | Oct 2009 | A1 |
20090281533 | Ingle et al. | Nov 2009 | A1 |
20090287137 | Crowley | Nov 2009 | A1 |
20090318749 | Stolen et al. | Dec 2009 | A1 |
20100009267 | Chase et al. | Jan 2010 | A1 |
20100030061 | Canfield et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100048983 | Ball et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100049099 | Thapliyal et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100049186 | Ingle et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100049188 | Nelson et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100049191 | Habib et al. | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100049283 | Johnson | Feb 2010 | A1 |
20100057150 | Demarais et al. | Mar 2010 | A1 |
20100069837 | Rassat et al. | Mar 2010 | A1 |
20100076299 | Gustus et al. | Mar 2010 | A1 |
20100076425 | Carroux | Mar 2010 | A1 |
20100087782 | Ghaffari et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
20100106005 | Karczmar et al. | Apr 2010 | A1 |
20100114244 | Manda et al. | May 2010 | A1 |
20100130836 | Malchano et al. | May 2010 | A1 |
20100137860 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2010 | A1 |
20100137952 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2010 | A1 |
20100160903 | Krespi | Jun 2010 | A1 |
20100160906 | Jarrard | Jun 2010 | A1 |
20100168624 | Sliwa | Jul 2010 | A1 |
20100168731 | Wu et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
20100168739 | Wu et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
20100174282 | Demarais et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
20100191112 | Demarais et al. | Jul 2010 | A1 |
20100191232 | Boveda | Jul 2010 | A1 |
20100217162 | Hissong et al. | Aug 2010 | A1 |
20100222786 | Kassab | Sep 2010 | A1 |
20100222851 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
20100222854 | Demarais et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
20100228122 | Keenan et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
20100249604 | Hastings et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
20100249773 | Clark et al. | Sep 2010 | A1 |
20100256616 | Katoh et al. | Oct 2010 | A1 |
20100268217 | Habib | Oct 2010 | A1 |
20100268307 | Demarais et al. | Oct 2010 | A1 |
20100284927 | Lu et al. | Nov 2010 | A1 |
20100286684 | Hata et al. | Nov 2010 | A1 |
20100298821 | Garbagnati | Nov 2010 | A1 |
20100305036 | Barnes et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
20100312141 | Keast et al. | Dec 2010 | A1 |
20100324472 | Wulfman | Dec 2010 | A1 |
20110009750 | Taylor et al. | Jan 2011 | A1 |
20110021976 | Li et al. | Jan 2011 | A1 |
20110034832 | Cioanta et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
20110040324 | McCarthy et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
20110044942 | Puri et al. | Feb 2011 | A1 |
20110060324 | Wu et al. | Mar 2011 | A1 |
20110071400 | Hastings et al. | Mar 2011 | A1 |
20110071401 | Hastings et al. | Mar 2011 | A1 |
20110077498 | McDaniel | Mar 2011 | A1 |
20110092781 | Gertner | Apr 2011 | A1 |
20110092880 | Gertner | Apr 2011 | A1 |
20110104061 | Seward | May 2011 | A1 |
20110112400 | Emery et al. | May 2011 | A1 |
20110118600 | Gertner | May 2011 | A1 |
20110118726 | De La Rama et al. | May 2011 | A1 |
20110130708 | Perry et al. | Jun 2011 | A1 |
20110137155 | Weber et al. | Jun 2011 | A1 |
20110144479 | Hastings et al. | Jun 2011 | A1 |
20110146673 | Keast et al. | Jun 2011 | A1 |
20110166499 | Demarais et al. | Jul 2011 | A1 |
20110178570 | Demarais et al. | Jul 2011 | A1 |
20110200171 | Beetel et al. | Aug 2011 | A1 |
20110202098 | Demarais et al. | Aug 2011 | A1 |
20110207758 | Sobotka et al. | Aug 2011 | A1 |
20110208096 | Demarais et al. | Aug 2011 | A1 |
20110257523 | Hastings et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110257564 | Demarais et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110257622 | Salahieh et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110257641 | Hastings et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110257642 | Griggs, III | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110263921 | Vrba et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110264011 | Wu et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110264075 | Leung | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110264086 | Ingle | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110264116 | Kocur et al. | Oct 2011 | A1 |
20110270238 | Rizq et al. | Nov 2011 | A1 |
20110306851 | Wang | Dec 2011 | A1 |
20110319809 | Smith | Dec 2011 | A1 |
20120029496 | Smith | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029500 | Jenson | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029505 | Jenson | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029509 | Smith | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029510 | Haverkost | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029511 | Smith et al. | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029512 | Willard et al. | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120029513 | Smith et al. | Feb 2012 | A1 |
20120059241 | Hastings et al. | Mar 2012 | A1 |
20120059286 | Hastings et al. | Mar 2012 | A1 |
20120065506 | Smith | Mar 2012 | A1 |
20120065554 | Pikus | Mar 2012 | A1 |
20120095461 | Herscher et al. | Apr 2012 | A1 |
20120101413 | Beetel et al. | Apr 2012 | A1 |
20120101490 | Smith | Apr 2012 | A1 |
20120101538 | Ballakur et al. | Apr 2012 | A1 |
20120109021 | Hastings et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120116382 | Ku et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120116383 | Mauch et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120116392 | Willard | May 2012 | A1 |
20120116438 | Salahieh et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120116486 | Naga et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120123243 | Hastings | May 2012 | A1 |
20120123258 | Willard | May 2012 | A1 |
20120123261 | Jenson et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120123303 | Sogard et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120123406 | Edmunds et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130289 | Demarais et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130345 | Levin et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130359 | Turovskiy | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130360 | Buckley et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130362 | Hastings et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130368 | Jenson | May 2012 | A1 |
20120130458 | Ryba et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120136344 | Buckley et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120136349 | Hastings | May 2012 | A1 |
20120136350 | Goshgarian et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120136417 | Buckley et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120136418 | Buckley et al. | May 2012 | A1 |
20120143181 | Demarais et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120143293 | Mauch et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120143294 | Clark et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120150267 | Buckley et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120157986 | Stone et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120157987 | Steinke et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120157988 | Stone et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120157989 | Stone et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120157992 | Smith et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120157993 | Jenson et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120158101 | Stone et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120158104 | Huynh et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
20120172837 | Demarais et al. | Jul 2012 | A1 |
20120172870 | Jenson et al. | Jul 2012 | A1 |
20120184952 | Jenson et al. | Jul 2012 | A1 |
20120197198 | Demarais et al. | Aug 2012 | A1 |
20120197252 | Deem et al. | Aug 2012 | A1 |
20120232409 | Stahmann et al. | Sep 2012 | A1 |
20120265066 | Crow et al. | Oct 2012 | A1 |
20120265198 | Crow et al. | Oct 2012 | A1 |
20130012844 | Demarais et al. | Jan 2013 | A1 |
20130012866 | Deem et al. | Jan 2013 | A1 |
20130012867 | Demarais et al. | Jan 2013 | A1 |
20130013024 | Levin et al. | Jan 2013 | A1 |
20130023865 | Steinke et al. | Jan 2013 | A1 |
20130035681 | Subramaniam et al. | Feb 2013 | A1 |
20130066316 | Steinke et al. | Mar 2013 | A1 |
20130085489 | Fain et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090563 | Weber | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090578 | Smith et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090647 | Smith | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090649 | Smith et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090650 | Jenson et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090651 | Smith | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130090652 | Jenson | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130096550 | Hill | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130096553 | Hill et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130096554 | Groff et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130096604 | Hanson et al. | Apr 2013 | A1 |
20130110106 | Richardson | May 2013 | A1 |
20130116687 | Willard | May 2013 | A1 |
20130165764 | Scheuermann et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165844 | Shuros et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165916 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165917 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165920 | Weber et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165923 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165924 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165925 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165926 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130165990 | Mathur et al. | Jun 2013 | A1 |
20130172815 | Perry et al. | Jul 2013 | A1 |
20130172872 | Subramaniam et al. | Jul 2013 | A1 |
20130172877 | Subramaniam et al. | Jul 2013 | A1 |
20130172878 | Smith | Jul 2013 | A1 |
20130172879 | Sutermeister | Jul 2013 | A1 |
20130172880 | Willard | Jul 2013 | A1 |
20130172881 | Hill et al. | Jul 2013 | A1 |
Number | Date | Country |
---|---|---|
10038737 | Feb 2002 | DE |
1053720 | Nov 2000 | EP |
1180004 | Feb 2002 | EP |
1335677 | Aug 2003 | EP |
1874211 | Jan 2008 | EP |
1906853 | Apr 2008 | EP |
1961394 | Aug 2008 | EP |
1620156 | Jul 2009 | EP |
2076193 | Jul 2009 | EP |
2091455 | Aug 2009 | EP |
2197533 | Jun 2010 | EP |
2208506 | Jul 2010 | EP |
1579889 | Aug 2010 | EP |
2092957 | Jan 2011 | EP |
2349044 | Aug 2011 | EP |
2027882 | Oct 2011 | EP |
2378956 | Oct 2011 | EP |
2037840 | Dec 2011 | EP |
2204134 | Apr 2012 | EP |
2320821 | Oct 2012 | EP |
2456301 | Jul 2009 | GB |
9858588 | Dec 1998 | WO |
9900060 | Jan 1999 | WO |
0047118 | Aug 2000 | WO |
03026525 | Apr 2003 | WO |
2004100813 | Nov 2004 | WO |
2004110258 | Dec 2004 | WO |
WO2006022790 | Mar 2006 | WO |
WO2006041881 | Apr 2006 | WO |
2006105121 | Oct 2006 | WO |
WO2007035537 | Mar 2007 | WO |
WO2007078997 | Jul 2007 | WO |
WO2007086965 | Aug 2007 | WO |
WO2007103879 | Sep 2007 | WO |
WO2007103881 | Sep 2007 | WO |
WO2007121309 | Oct 2007 | WO |
WO2007146834 | Dec 2007 | WO |
2008014465 | Jan 2008 | WO |
WO2008003058 | Jan 2008 | WO |
WO2008061150 | May 2008 | WO |
WO2008061152 | May 2008 | WO |
WO2008070413 | Jun 2008 | WO |
2009121017 | Oct 2009 | WO |
2010067360 | Jun 2010 | WO |
WO2010078175 | Jul 2010 | WO |
2010102310 | Sep 2010 | WO |
WO2010129661 | Nov 2010 | WO |
2011005901 | Jan 2011 | WO |
2011053757 | May 2011 | WO |
2011053772 | May 2011 | WO |
2011091069 | Jul 2011 | WO |
WO2011091069 | Jul 2011 | WO |
2011130534 | Oct 2011 | WO |
WO2011130005 | Oct 2011 | WO |
WO2011139589 | Nov 2011 | WO |
2012019156 | Feb 2012 | WO |
WO2012019156 | Feb 2012 | WO |
2013049601 | Apr 2013 | WO |
Entry |
---|
U.S. Appl. No. 12/980,952, filed Dec. 29, 2010, Rizq et al. |
U.S. Appl. No. 13/086,116, filed Apr. 13, 2011, Hastings et al. |
U.S. Appl. No. 12/980,972, filed Dec. 29, 2010, Vrba et al. |
U.S. Appl. No. 13/157,844, filed Jun. 10, 2011, Hastings et al. |
U.S. Appl. No. 13/087,163, filed Apr. 14, 2011, Ingle. |
U.S. Appl. No. 13/086,121, filed Apr. 13, 2011, Hastings et al. |
CardioVascular Technologies Inc., “Heated Balloon Device Technology,” 11 pages, 2008. |
Strategic Business Development, Inc., “Thermal and Disruptive Angioplasty: A Physician's Guide,” 8 pages, 1990. |
Zhang et al., “Non-contact Radio-Frequency Ablation for Obtaining Deeper Lesions,” IEEE Transaction on Biomedical Engineering, vol. 50, No. 2, 6 pages, Feb. 2003. |
Lazebnik et al., “Tissue Strain Analytics Virtual Touch Tissue Imaging and Qualification,” Siemens Whitepaper, Oct. 2008, 7 pages. |
Han et al., “Third-Generation Cryosurgery for Primary and Recurrent Prostate Caner,” BJU International, vol. 93, pp. 14-18. |
Zhou et al., “Mechanism Research of Cryoanalgesia,” Forefront Publishing Group, 1995. |
Florete, “Cryoblative Procedure for Back Pain,” Jacksonville Medicine, Oct. 1998, 10 pages. |
Stevenson, “Irrigated RF Ablation: Power Titration and Fluid Management for Optimal Safety Efficacy,” 2005, 4 pages. |
Giliatt et al., “The Cause of Nerve Damage in Acute Compression,” Trans Am Neurol Assoc, 1974: 99; 71-4. |
Omura et al., “A Mild Acute Compression Induces Neurapraxia in Rat Sciatic Nerve,” The International Journal of Neuroscience, vol. 114 (12), pp. 1561-1572. |
Baun, “Interaction with Soft Tissue,” Principles of General & Vascular Sonography, Chapter 2, pp. 23-24, Before Mar. 2012. |
Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicaly Policy, “Surgery Section—MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) for the Treatment of Uterine Fibroids and Other Tumors,” 2005, 5 pages. |
Gentry et al., “Combines 3D Intracardiac Echo and Ultrasound Ablation,” Medical Imaging 2003: Ultrasonic and Signal Processing, vol. 5035, 2003, pp. 166-173. |
Lafon et al., “Optmizing the Shape of Ultrasound Transducers for Interstitial Thermal Ablations,” MEd Phys. Mar. 2002; 29(3): 290-7 (abstract only). |
G. Ter Haar, “Ultrasound Focal Beam Surgery,” Ultrasound in Med. & Biol., 1995, vol. 21, No. 9, pp. 1089-1100. |
Seip et al., “Transurethral High Intensity Focused Ultrasound: Catheter Based Prototypes and Experimental Results,” IEEE Ultrasonics Symposium Proceeding, 2000, 4 pages. |
Toytman et al., “Tissue Dissection with Ultrafast Laser Using Extended and Multiple Foci,” SPIE Proceeding, Optical Interactions with Tissues and Cells XXI, vol. 7562, 2010, 10 pages. |
Zhoue et al., “Non-Thermal Ablation of Rabbit Liver VX2 Tumore by Pulsed High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Contrast Agent: Pathological Characteristics,” World Journal of Gastroenterology, vol. 14(43), Nov. 21, 2008, pp. 6743-6747. |
US 8,398,630, 3/2013, Demarais et al. (withdrawn). |
Van Den Berg, “Light echoes image the human body,” OLE, Oct. 2001, p. 35-37. |
“IntraLuminal: Products,” IntraLuminal Therapeutics, Inc., 2003, p. 1-9. |
“Laser Catheter to Aid Coronary Surgery,” TechTalk: MIT, Jan. 9, 1991, p. 1-4. |
“Optical Coherence Tomography: Advantages of OCT,” LightLab Imaging Technology. |
“Optical Coherence Tomography: Image Gallery Cardiovascular Procedures,” LightLab Imaging Technology. |
“Optical Coherence Tomography: LightLab Imaging Starts US Cardiology Clinical Investigations,” LightLab Imaging Technology, 2002. |
“Optical Coherence Tomography: LightLab Sees Bright Prospects for Cardiac Application of OCT Technology,” LightLab Imaging Technology, 2001, vol. 27, No. 35. |
“Optical Coherence Tomography: What is OCT?,” LightLab Imaging Technology. |
“Optical Coherence Tomography: Why Use OCT?,” LightLab Imaging Technology. |
“Products—Functional Measurement,” VOLCANO Functional Measurement Products US, Mar. 24, 2003, p. 1-2. |
Brown et al., “Radiofrequency capacitive heaters: the effect of coupling medium resistivity on power absorption along a mouse leg,” Physics in Medicine and Biology, 1993, p. 1-12, vol. 38. |
Carrington, “Future of CVI: It's all about plaque: Identification of vulnerable lesions, not ‘rusty pipes,’ could become cornerstone of preventive cardiology,” Diagnostic Imaging, 2001, p. 1-8. |
Chen et al., “Percutaneous pulmonary artery denervation completely abolishes experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension in vivo,” EuroIntervention, 2013, p. 1-8. |
Cimino, “Preventing plaque attack,” Mass High Tech, 2001, p. 1-2. |
Dahm et al., “Relation of Degree of Laser Debulking of In-Stent Restenosis as a Predictor of Restenosis Rate,” The American Journal of Cardiology, 2002, p. 68-70, vol. 90. |
De Korte et al., “Characterization of Plaque Components With Intravascular Ultrasound Elastography in Human Femoral and Coronary Arteries In Vitro,” Circulation, Aug. 8, 2000, p. 617-623. |
Durney et al., “Radiofrequency Radiation Dosimetry Handbook,” Oct. 1986, p. 1-2, Fourth Edition. |
Durney et al., “Radiofrequency Radiation Dosimetry Handbook: Contents,” Oct. 1986, p. 1-5, Fourth Edition. |
Fournier-Desseux et al., “Assessment of 1-lead and 2-lead electrode patterns in electrical impedance endotomography,” Physiological Measurement, 2005, p. 337-349. Vo. 26, Institute of Physics Publishing. |
Fram et al., “Feasibility of Radiofrequency Powered, Thermal Balloon Ablation of Atrioventricular Bypass Tracts Via the Coronary Sinus: In Vivo Canine Studies,” PACE, Aug. 1995, p. 1518-1530, vol. 18. |
Fram et al., “Low Pressure Radiofrequency Balloon Angioplasty: Evaluation in Porcine Peripheral Arteries,” JACC, 1993, p. 1512-1521, vol. 21, No. 6, American College of Cardiology. |
Fujimori et al., “Significant Prevention of In-Stent Restenosis by Evans Blue in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction,” American Heart Association, 2002. |
Fujita et al., “Sarpogrelate, An Antagonist of 5-HT(2A) Receptor, Treatment Reduces Restenosis After Coronary Stenting,” American Heart Association, 2002. |
Gabriel, “Appendix A: Experimental Data,” 1999, p. 1-21. |
Gabriel, “Appendix C: Modeling the frequency dependence of the dielectric properties to a 4 dispersions spectrum,” p. 1-6. |
Gregory et al., “Liquid Core Light Guide for Laser Angioplasty,” The Journal of Quantum Electronics, Dec. 1990, p. 2289-2296, vol. 26, No. 12. |
Kaplan et al., “Healing after Arterial Dilatation with Radiofrequency Thermal and Nonthermal Balloon Angioplasty Sytems,” Journal of Investigative Surgery, 1993, p. 33-52, vol. 6. |
Kolata, “New Studies Question Value of Opening Arteries,” The New York Times, Mar. 21, 2004, p. 1-5. |
Konings et al., “Development of an Intravascular Impedance Catheter for Detection of Fatty Lesions in Arteries,” IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging, Aug. 1997, p. 439-446, vol. 16, No. 4. |
Kurtz et al., “Lamellar Refractive Surgery with Scanned Intrastromal Picosecond and Femtosecond Laser Pulses in Animal Eyes,” Journal of Refractive Surgery, Sep./Oct. 1998, p. 541-548. |
Lee et al., “Thermal Compression and Molding of Atherosclerotic Vascular Tissue With Use of Radiofrequency Energy: Implications for Radiofrequency Balloon Angioplasty,” JACC, 1989, p. 1167-1175, vol. 13, No. 5, American College of Cardiology. |
Lima et al., “Efficacy and Safety of Oral Sirolimus to Treat and Prevent In-Stent Restenosis: A Pilot Study Results,” American Heart Association, 2002, p. 2929. |
Lima et al., “Systemic Immunosuppression Inhibits In-Stent Coronary Intimal Proliferation in Renal Transplant Patients,” American Heart Association, 2002, p. 2928. |
Morice et al., “A Randomized Comparison of a Sirolimus-Eluting Stent With a Standard Stent for Coronary Revascularization,” The New England Journal of Medicine, Jun. 6, 2012, p. 1773-1780, vol. 346, No. 23. |
Muller-Leisse et al., “Effectiveness and Safety of Ultrasonic Atherosclerotic Plaque Ablation: In Vitro Investigation,” CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology, 1993, p. 303-307, vol. 16. |
Nair et al., “Regularized Autoregressive Analysis of Intravascular Ultrasound Backscatter: Improvement in Spatial Accuracy of Tissue Maps,” IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Apr. 2004, p. 420-431, vol. 51, No. 4. |
Popma et al., “Percutaneous Coronary and Valvular Intervention,” p. 1364-1405. |
Resar et al., “Endoluminal Sealing of Vascular Wall Disruptions With Radiofrequency-Heated Balloon Angioplasty,” Catheterization and Cardiovascular Diagnosis, 1993, p. 161-167, vol. 29. |
Romer et al., “Histopathology of Human Coronary Atherosclerosis by Quantifying Its Chemical Composition With Raman Spectroscopy,” Circulation, 1998, p. 878-885, vol. 97. |
Schauerte et al., “Catheter Ablation of Cardiac Autonomic Nerves for Prevention of Vagal Atrial Fibrillation,” Circulation, 2000, p. 2774-2780, vol. 102. |
Scheller et al., “Intracoronary Paclitaxel Added to Contrast Media Inhibits In-Stent Restenosis of Porcine Coronary Arteries,” American Heart Association, 2002, p. 2227. |
Scheller et al., “Potential solutions to the current problem: coated balloon,” Eurolntervention, 2008, p. C63-C66, vol. 4 (Supplement C). |
Shaffer, “Scientific basis of laser energy,” Clinics in Sports Medicine, 2002, p. 585-598, vol. 21. |
Shmatukha et al., “MRI temperature mapping during thermal balloon angioplasty,” Physics in Medicine and Biology, 2006, p. N163-N171, vol. 51. |
Slager et al., “Vaporization of Atherosclerotic Plaques by Spark Erosion,” J Am Coll Cardiol, 1985, p. 21-25. |
Stiles et al., “Simulated Characterization of Atherosclerotic Lesions in the Coronary Arteries by Measurement of Bioimpedance,” IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, Jul. 2003, p. 916-921, vol. 50, No. 7. |
Suselbeck et al., “In vivo intravascular electric impedance spectroscopy using a new catheter with integrated microelectrodes,” Basic Res Cardiol, 2005, p. 28-34, vol. 100. |
Suselbeck et al., “Intravascular electric impedance spectroscopy of atherosclerotic lesions using a new impedance catheter system,” Basic Res Cardiol, 2005, p. 446-452, vol. 100. |
Tepe et al., “Local Delivery of Paclitaxel to Inhibit Restenosis during Angioplasty of the Leg,” The New England Journal of Medicine, 2008, p. 689-699, vol. 358. |
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
20120029513 A1 | Feb 2012 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
61369463 | Jul 2010 | US |