November 6, 2003 - Dialysis-related patents granted this week:

• 6,641,731 - Filter device
  
  
  
• 6,641,576 - Devices for creating vascular grafts by vessel distension using rotatable elements
  
  
  
• 6,641,564 - Safety introducer apparatus and method therefor
  
  
  
• 6,640,611 - Method and apparatus for checking sensors

Dialysis-related patent applications filed this week:

• 20030208165 - Needless luer access connector (?!?)
  
  
  
• 20030206906 - Catheter composition and uses thereof
  
  
  
• 20030208229 - Embolic protection device having an expandable trap
  

[This message has been edited by Gary Peterson (edited 11-06-2003).]