80 results about "Vaginal tissue" patented technology

Systems and methods analyzing body fluids contain cells including blood, bone marrow, urine, vaginal tissue, epithelial tissue, tumors, semen, and spittle are disclosed. The systems and methods utilize an improved technique for applying a monolayer of cells to a slide and generating a substantially uniform distribution of cells on the slide. Additionally aspects of the invention also relate to systems and method for utilizing multi-color microscopy for improving the quality of images captured by a light receiving device.

A speculum sheath which covers a speculum and methods for using the sheath are described herein. A variety of different types of specula may be covered with the sheath, including anal, vaginal, ear, and nasal specula. The sheath is made of a compliant or partially compliant material, including latex, vinyl, natural and synthetic rubbers, silicone, nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, and non-degradable or degradable elastomers. The material may be transparent or opaque. In the preferred embodiment, the material is transparent. The sheath may contain one or two openings. Optionally, the sheath contains an affixing means on the inside of or at least one of the openings on the sheath to prevent slippage when in contact with the speculum. Optionally, the sheath contains an active agent, such as hemostatic agents, anti-infectives, antibiotics, antimitotics anti-inflammatory, or other chemotherapeutic agents. In the preferred embodiment, the sheath is placed on a vaginal speculum and supports loose vaginal tissue when inserted into a patient. In the most preferred embodiment, the material is transparent so that medical provider may view the lumen.

Disclosed is a cervico-vaginal tissue equivalent comprised of vaginal epithelial cells and immune cells, cultured at the air-liquid interface. The tissue equivalent is capable of being infected with a sexually transmitted pathogen such as a virus (e.g., HIV), a bacteria, a helminthic parasite, or a fungus. The tissue equivalent is also capable of undergoing an allergic-type reaction or an irritant-type reaction. The tissue equivalent is characterized as having nucleated basal layer cells and nucleated suprabasal layer cells, and further as having cell layers external to the suprabasal layer progressively increasing in glycogen content and progressively decreasing in nuclei content. Immune cells of the tissue equivalent are primarily located in the basal and suprabasal layers. Also disclosed are methods for producing the tissue equivalent. The methods involve providing vaginal epithelial cells and immune cells, seeding the cells onto a porous support, and co culturing the seeded cells at the air-liquid interface under conditions appropriate for differentiation. One such method disclosed is for generation of the tissue equivalent in serum free medium. Specific cells from which the tissue equivalent is generated, and also specific preferred components of the medium in which the tissue equivalent is generated are provided. Also disclosed is a cervico-vaginal tissue equivalent produced by the methods disclosed herein.

A vaginal dilation device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it is configured to dilate vaginal tissue during labor to prevent tissue damage. Another feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it can be manually controlled to dilate vaginal tissue, or can be automatically controlled to dilate vaginal tissue. In some embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to measure a force applied by the device to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to apply a constant force to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to expand at a constant rate. Methods associated with use of the vaginal dilation device are also provided.

Transvaginal probes equipped with tactile sensors are configured for placement into vagina to record tactile response during insertion, acquire static tactile pattern from vaginal wall after the insertion is complete, and acquire dynamic tactile patterns during probe motion as well as recording dynamic tactile response during contraction of vaginal muscle. The acquired and recorded tactile data are transmitted to a data processor for composing tactile profile of vagina and visually presenting thereof on a display. Elasticity profile of vaginal tissue is calculated from the tactile response recorded from different parts of the probe during its insertion, from the static pressure pattern and from the dynamic tactile pattern. Pelvic floor muscle strength is defined as a contact pressure increase detected on fixed probe surface under the muscle contraction. Tactile profile of vagina is determined using the static tactile pattern, the elasticity profile and pelvic floor muscle strength. The data processor provides a comparative analysis of the tactile profile with a variety of vaginal tactile profiles recorded for a given population with known clinical conditions so as to assist in diagnosing a disease.

A method and technique to measure vaginal skin biomechanical properties in vivo by applying a temporary deforming force to the vaginal skin while using sensors to monitor and record the vaginal skins response to the deforming force as well as how it responds after the deforming force is removed. By placing a female participant in the correct anatomical position and employing a vaginal biomechanical evaluation tool to temporarily distort and measure the vaginal skin an examiner is able to obtain measurements for biomechanical properties of the vaginal skin. These measurements may allow clinicians and medical researchers to understand a woman's vaginal tissue quality, response to treatment, and risk for future pelvic floor disorders more completely in order to take appropriate prophylactic or corrective action.

An intravaginal device has an insertion end, a withdrawal end, a longitudinal axis, and a device interior, and it includes a first structural material formed into a device frame and a second cushioning material having a thickness surrounding portions of the device frame. The first structural material includes a working portion disposed proximate the withdrawal end and an anchoring portion extending therefrom disposed proximate the insertion end. The device frame includes interconnected elongate elements having a maximum cross-section of less than about 5 mm and a longitudinal axis. The device frame has a plurality of primary bearing surfaces arranged and configured to bear on vaginal tissue during insertion and use, and the thickness of the cushioning material on the device frame is greater on the primary bearing surfaces than on surfaces of the device frame disposed toward the device interior. The device further includes a withdrawal element operatively connected to the working portion. Preferably, the first structural material is a high modulus polymer and the second material is a thermoplastic elastomer. The intravaginal device may be included in a device delivery system including a delivery applicator.

Provided are uterine manipulators comprising in combination: a vaginal occlusion portion comprising a resilient deformable member (e.g., bulb, cone, cylinder, etc.) having a channel therethrough having a proximal opening sized to fit, during use of the device, snuggly against a manipulation rod or tube, and a relatively larger distal opening suitable to provide for angular and / or rotational movement of the rod or tube passing through the member via the distal and proximal openings while minimizing movement of the vaginal occlusion member when the tube is subjected to manipulation, and wherein the member is suitably configured to fit snugly against the contours of an inner vaginal tissue surface; and a cervical fitting portion which is securable to the cervix. Also provided are surgical methods using said elements to provide for a snug fit with the cervix while sealing the vagina, wherein maintaining abdominal insufflation during surgery is afforded.

Vaginal pharmaceutical compositions are described. These compositions contain (i) an active pharmaceutical ingredient selected from the group consisting of antimicrobial imidazoles and mixtures thereof, and (ii) a polysaccharide, wherein the pH of the composition is greater than 4.25 and less than about 8. In particularly preferred compositions, the active pharmaceutical ingredient includes metronidazole and the polysaccharide includes hypromellose. These compositions can be applied to vaginal tissue for treatment of various diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis, or for prophylaxis.

A pair of lateral structures is removably attached to a vaginal speculum after the speculum is inserted and opened to retract anterior and posterior vaginal tissue. Each of the lateral structures includes a blade extending along a side of a space provided between the opposed blades of the vaginal speculum to retract lateral vaginal tissue.

Described are methods and devices useful for supporting posterior vaginal tissue for various purposes such as treating or preventing vaginal prolapse or enterocele, especially in a patient not having a uterus, the devices including implants designed to contact the vaginal cuff and connect to sacral anatomy such as the sacrum or the uterosacral ligaments.

Methods for characterizing elasticity of vaginal tissue are provided. A transvaginal probe is used to deform vaginal tissue during examination. The probe is equipped with pressure sensors and a motion tracking sensor. Stress and strain data is recorded during examination. Elasticity of vaginal tissue is then characterized by calculating a stress gradient defined as a ratio of stress over strain for each point of measurement. Vaginal tactile image may also be compiled to include a family of surfaces representing locations of measurement points at predefined constant levels of stress. Pelvic organ abnormality condition may be detected if the stress gradient is below either a predetermined threshold or a normal stress gradient obtained from clinical data.

Vaginal pharmaceutical compositions are described. These compositions contain (i) an active pharmaceutical ingredient selected from the group consisting of antimicrobial imidazoles and mixtures thereof, and (ii) a polysaccharide, wherein the pH of the composition is greater than 4.25 and less than about 8. In particularly preferred compositions, the active pharmaceutical ingredient includes metronidazole and the polysaccharide includes hypromellose. These compositions can be applied to vaginal tissue for treatment of various diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis, or for prophylaxis.

The present disclosure relates to a vaginal speculum comprising a vaginal assembly comprising at least two longitudinal separating elements connected at a distal end for insertion into the vagina of a subject. The vaginal speculum is configured for holding the vaginal walls of the subject apart, thereby permitting examination and / or suturing of at least the posterior part of the vaginal tissue. The present disclosure further relates to a set of vaginal specula comprising a number of specula according to the fist aspect of the invention, wherein said specula are provided in predefined sizes such that the specula suitably fit a range of anatomies. The present disclosure also relates to a method for providing an unobstructed view of at least the posterior part of the vaginal wall during suturing of a subject after said subject has given birth.

A fluid collection device for collecting fluid leaking from the uterus of a patient during endometrial ablation includes a collar which is mounted on a catheter of an endometrial ablation device. The collar defines with the catheter of the ablation device an interior fluid collection area. The collar has a first open end which allows leaking fluid to pass therethrough into the collection area, and is dimensioned so as to be closely contactable with the cervix of the patient undergoing treatment. Any fluid leaking from the uterus of the patient during the ablation process will be captured by the collection area of the collar. A drain tube connected to the collar removes any fluid collected by the collar. The fluid collection device removes any fluid passing from the uterus to the cervix before it may enter the vagina of the patient to cause burns or damage to the vaginal tissue lining.

A vaginal dilation device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it is configured to dilate vaginal tissue during labor to prevent tissue damage. Another feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it can be manually controlled to dilate vaginal tissue, or can be automatically controlled to dilate vaginal tissue. In some embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to measure a force applied by the device to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to apply a constant force to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to expand at a constant rate. Methods associated with use of the vaginal dilation device are also provided.

An implantable medical device and a surgical instrument for using the device in a procedure for the treatment of vaginal vault prolapse are disclosed. In one form of the device, one attachment part attaches to the anterior and posterior parts of the vaginal apex, and the other attachment part attaches to anterior part of the sacrum. The two attachment parts are capable of being attached together during the procedure in a manner which permits appropriate adjustment of tension. The invention also includes an instrument which allows the pieces of the suspension material to be attached to each other and enables the appropriate suspension of the vaginal apex from the anterior part of the sacrum. In another form of the device, one attachment part attaches to the anterior part of the vaginal apex, another separate attachment part attaches to the posterior part of the vaginal apex, and another separate attachment part attaches to anterior part of the sacrum. The device and method permit the performance of a sacrocolpopexy by accessing the sacrum and vaginal tissues via the vaginal orifice, thus avoiding the abdominal cavity completely.

A hollow shaft has a Y-shaped handle at one end and an inflatable bladder at the other end. The bladder is shaped and sized to simulate a presenting part of a fetus at birth based on ultrasound or other fetal examination. Air or water or both inflate the bladder using a pump controlled by buttons and a pressure gauge adjacent to the handle. The bladder stretches vaginal tissue and surrounding tissue to the size and shape of the presenting parts of the fetus during birth.

Methods and formulations for the regeneration of vaginal tissue and vaginal cell health resulting from vaginal cell hypoxia in a human female. A pharmaceutical composition for topical non-systemic administration is formulated containing a hormonal agent administered to the vagina, vulvar area of the individual undergoing treatment.

A vaginal dilation device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it is configured to dilate vaginal tissue during labor to prevent tissue damage. Another feature of the vaginal dilation device is that it can be manually controlled to dilate vaginal tissue, or can be automatically controlled to dilate vaginal tissue. In some embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to measure a force applied by the device to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to apply a constant force to tissue. In other embodiments, the vaginal dilation device is configured to expand at a constant rate. Methods associated with use of the vaginal dilation device are also provided.

The invention discloses a compact-type water-soluble human lubricant, a preparation method of the lubricant, and a condom using the lubricant. The compact-type water-soluble human lubricant comprises the following components in percentage by weight: 30-47% of glycerol, 2-4% of tween-20, 0.05-0.15% of sodium hyaluronate, 0.1-0.3% of jasminum essential oil, 0.5-1.2% of aloe essential oil, and 48-66% of water. The compact-type water-soluble human lubricant has good compatibility with the naturally-selected body fluid of human body, is not greasy, has a pH value as same as the pH value of the normal physiological environment of female vagina, and has the effects of nourishing vaginal tissues, promoting cell growth, increasing muscle elasticity, and improving vaginal relaxation.

Methods for characterizing elasticity of vaginal tissue are provided. A transvaginal probe is used to deform vaginal tissue during examination. The probe is equipped with pressure sensors and a motion tracking sensor. Stress and strain data is recorded during examination. Elasticity of vaginal tissue is then characterized by calculating a stress gradient defined as a ratio of stress over strain for each point of measurement. Vaginal tactile image may also be compiled to include a family of surfaces representing locations of measurement points at predefined constant levels of stress. Pelvic organ abnormality condition may be detected if the stress gradient is below either a predetermined threshold or a normal stress gradient obtained from clinical data.

A female condom is provided that includes a pouch of resilient membranous material and a hydrophilic cling mechanism. According to an embodiment of the invention, the cling mechanism includes three or more foam cling elements attached to an outer surface of the pouch. Upon insertion, the foam cling elements cling lightly to vaginal walls proximate a transition zone between the vagina's introitus and its rugated internal tissue. The foam cling elements may be shaped to permit them to nestle into a user's rugated internal vaginal tissue. An inserter may be coupled to the pouch for facilitating insertion of the condom. The inserter may retain a distal portion of the pouch in a collapsed form. The cling mechanism may be contained within the dissolvable inserter. The inserter may be dissolvable in the presence of vaginal moisture. Methods are also provided for collapsing the pouch and compressing it into an insertion package.

A non-surgical method for improving both the external pubic appearance and the internal vaginal tightness of a female patient in a single procedure includes providing a cosmetic skin-tightening device having a wand having a tip that applies heating energy to skin collagen, where the wand is shaped such that the tip can be inserted into the patient's vagina. During the procedure, the wand is alternately passed over the external pubic skin and inserted into the patient's vagina, thereby tightening both the pubic and vaginal regions during a single procedure while preventing overheating of any one area. The heat energy can be conductively transmitted heat or a radiated energy such as infra-red, laser, or radio frequency energy. A disposable sleeve can be applied over the wand to facilitate cleaning and sterilization after use. A vaginal lubricant and / or ultrasound gel can be applied.

The method of treatment for vaginal tissue inflamed or damaged by complications from the use of a surgical mesh implant in the vagina of a patient is disclosed. The treatment has the steps of activating an acoustic shock wave generator or source to emit acoustic shock waves; and subjecting the vaginal tissue, pelvic region or the entire pelvic cavity region of the body to the acoustic shock waves stimulating said tissue wherein the tissue is positioned within a path of the emitted shock waves. The emitted shock waves can be convergent, divergent, planar or near planar.

An adjusting and cutting tool comprising a distal end engageable with an elongate portion of an implantable article to facilitate manipulation of the elongate portion relative to a support portion of the implantable article and to facilitate cutting of the elongate portion. Also included is method of treating vaginal prolapse, the method including the steps of providing a multi-piece implantable article having at least one extension portion piece and a support portion piece, placing the support portion piece in contact with vaginal tissue, placing at least one extension portion piece in contact with tissue of a component of sacral anatomy, adjusting a position of the at least one extension portion piece relative to the support portion piece using a adjusting and cutting tool, and cutting the at least one extension portion with the adjusting and cutting tool.

An improved absorbent tampon is disclosed which comprises a high surface energy outer surface that is more desirable to menses than the surface of vaginal tissue during menstruation. Thus, the surface energy of the outer surface of the tampon is greater than the surface energy of the vaginal cavity surface during menstruation. This makes the outer surface of the tampon of the present invention more desirable in a sense to the menses than the vaginal cavity surface, therefore reducing the occurrence of bypass leakage. This is accomplished without relying on body pressure and capillary absorption both of which have limited effectiveness and can cause negative comfort issues with the wearer.