Medtronic, Inc.

Brett R Vegoe

Patrick T Cahalan

Darrel F Untereker

Allan H Jevne

Randall V Sparer

Carlos M Duran

Richard L Molacek

Scott Robertson

Carolann M Holmblad

Hong S Shim

Richard Francis

Thomas P Grailer

Dhiraj Catoor

Elizabeth A Ebner

Curtis Goreham-Voss

Methods for controlling properties of structural elements of implantable medical devices, where the structural elements contain shape memory alloys (SMAs) include promoting or inhibiting in vivo formation of R-phase crystal structure or converging or separating the R-phase from the austenite phase.

Shape memory articles and methods for controlling properties

A band-shaped annuloplasty device (e.g., C- or D-shaped ring) that is relatively rigid during handling and implantation and becomes relatively complaint after implantation. Preferably, the device includes a core material that softens after implantation.

Rigid annuloplasty device that becomes compliant after implantation

An improved placement catheter of the type having a longitudinal line of weakness whereby the catheter may be split longitudinally. The improved catheter is made with radiation cross-linked tubing to provide better splittability.

Splittable catheter and method

A method for making biomedical devices employing thermoplastic hydrogels on an operant surface thereof is described. The method generally involves heating a thermoplastic hydrogel to a temperature in the range of 50.degree. C. to about 95.degree. C. to a fluid flowable state, dispensing the fluid hydrogel onto the biomedical device and cooling the hydrogel to a substantially solid state. Microwave heating is preferred.

Process for making biomedical devices utilizing thermoplastic

Novel, hydrophilic, skin-compatible, pressure sensitive, solid, adhesive gel hydrogel composition comprising 25 to 50 weight percent polyvinyl pyrolidone (PVP) preferably having a molecular weight in the range of about 100,000 to 600,000, 2 to 5 weight percent polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) preferably having a molecular weight in the range of about 150,000 to 300,000, about 5 to about 40 weight percent humectant, about 3 to about 50 weight percent water, about 0 to about 50 weight percent of an ionic species. In a preferred aspect, the composition of the invention is utilized in an iontophoresis device to provide a hydrophilic gel matrix from which a drug is iontophoretically delivered.

Hydrophilic pressure sensitive biomedical adhesive composition

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Mound, MN, United States of America

Brett R Vegoe