Kathleen Corcoran

Title: Innovations in Soft Tissue Repair by Kathleen Corcoran

Introduction

Kathleen Corcoran is a notable inventor based in Brookline, MA, who has made significant contributions to the field of medical devices, particularly in soft tissue repair. With a total of three patents to her name, her work focuses on developing innovative solutions for anatomical defects, including hernias.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is an implantable prosthesis designed for soft tissue repair. This prosthesis is intended to repair or augment anatomical defects, such as inguinal hernias. It features a repair fabric with a body portion and a pocket on one side to facilitate deployment at the defect site. For reversible applications, a second pocket may be included on the opposite side. Each pocket is designed to accommodate the fingers of a surgeon for easier positioning of the prosthesis. Additionally, a support member is incorporated to assist in deploying the repair fabric and to prevent folding or buckling during surgery.

Another significant patent involves a fabric prosthesis for repairing tissue wall defects near tube-like structures. This implantable prosthesis is particularly useful for soft tissue repairs, such as those required for inguinal hernias. It consists of a patch made from two co-knit fabric layers, with a passageway designed to receive an anatomical cord. This passageway minimizes the risk of the cord contacting the second fabric layer, enhancing the prosthesis's effectiveness.

Career Highlights

Kathleen Corcoran is associated with C. R. Bard, Inc., a company renowned for its advancements in medical technology. Her work has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes in surgical procedures.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Kathleen has collaborated with talented professionals, including Tami L. Rathbun and Marianne Staudenmeier. These collaborations have contributed to the successful development of her patented technologies.

Conclusion

Kathleen Corcoran's contributions to the field of soft tissue repair through her innovative patents demonstrate her commitment to advancing medical technology. Her work continues to impact surgical practices positively, enhancing the quality of care for patients.