Patents Examined by David C. Comstock
  • Patent number: 11903573
    Abstract: A trocar-cannula insertion tool for ophthalmic procedures may include a cap with a body having a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end. A marking element extends in a distal direction from the distal end of the body and includes at least one marking tip for forming one or more indentations on a patient's eye during an ophthalmic procedure. A manipulation element extends from the body in a direction different from the marking element and includes at least one manipulation tip for gripping a tissue of the patient's eye during the ophthalmic procedure. The cap may further include at least one window for exposing a photoluminescent cannula of the trocar-cannula insertion tool to light, enabling the cannula to absorb photons prior to insertion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: Alcon Inc.
    Inventors: James Y. Chon, Joel Cicchella, Russell Finlay, Grace Chuang Liao, Ashish Sinha
  • Patent number: 11896209
    Abstract: An ophthalmic speculum includes arms, a locking mechanism, and an air-flow system. The arms include a first arm and a second arm. Each arm has a retractor shaped to conform to an eyelid of a pair of eyelids of an eye. The retractors are substantially symmetrical about a lateral axis. The locking mechanism is coupled to the arms. The locking mechanism moves the arms to allow the retractors to retract the pair of eyelids, and fixes the arms into place to maintain retraction of the pair of eyelids. The air-flow system is coupled to at least one arm, and moves air in a region disposed outwardly from a surface of the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Alcon Inc.
    Inventors: Mario Abraham, Michael Wittnebel
  • Patent number: 11896269
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a body, a securement arm, a clamp lock, and a tensioning assembly. The body defines a longitudinal axis and has proximal and distal portions. The distal portion defines a recess. The securement arm is coupled to the body and translatable along the body in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis between first and second position. The clamp lock is pivotally coupled to the distal portion of the body. The clamp lock is pivotable between secured and unsecured configurations. The tensioning assembly translatable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis between proximal and distal position. The tensioning assembly configured to draw a flexible band to tension the flexible band about a bony element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: K2M, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Hsu, Greg Mundis, Jr., Burt Yaszay, Suken Shah, Behrooz Akbarnia, Catherine Ross, Brian Kunes, Brandon Moore
  • Patent number: 11896267
    Abstract: An external fixation system may include first and second fixation rings and a plurality of adjustable length struts. Each adjustable length strut may have two joints, a rod, a tube, and an actuator configured to drive the rod axially relative to the tube to change an effective length of the strut. The system may include a plurality of controller modules each configured to couple to a corresponding strut. The external fixation system may have a manual mode of operation in which the controller modules are not coupled to the struts, and manual actuation of the actuators changes the effective lengths of the struts in discrete length increments. The external fixation system may have an automated mode of operation in which the controller modules are coupled to the struts, and automated actuation of the actuators changes the effective lengths of the struts in infinitesimally small length increments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Stryker European Operations Limited
    Inventors: Chulho Pak, Subash K. Mannanal, Peter Sterrantino, Noah Roberson, Anup Kumar, Andrew J. Nelson
  • Patent number: 11890033
    Abstract: A spinal implant includes a receiver having a first arm connected to a first extension and a second arm connected to a second extension. The arms are connected to the extensions via a break away surface. The arms include a proximal most end surface and the receiver includes an implant receiving surface. The proximal most end surface and the implant receiving surface defining an implant cavity. The break away surface is disposed within the implant cavity. In some embodiments, systems, spinal constructs and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry T. McBride, Rex W. Armstrong, Domagoj Coric, Robert M. Loke
  • Patent number: 11883113
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a first member including a drive engageable with a first mating surface of a bone fastener. A second member is rotatable relative to the first member and includes an engagement element connectable with a second mating surface of the bone fastener. A part is disposed with the first member and being alternately connectable with an actuator and an adaptor attachable with an image guide. Systems, surgical adaptors, spinal implants and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Elliott, Julien J. Prevost, Daniel Paxton Wall, Mark R. Grizzard
  • Patent number: 11883075
    Abstract: A correction clamp assembly that permits a physician to surgically correct a bunion or similar deformity is provided. The assembly includes an elongate bridge, as well as first and second blocks slidably or rotatably connected to the elongate bridge. More specifically, first block is configured to slide along a slot formed in the elongate bridge, as well as rotate relative thereto. Additionally, the second block is configured to rotate relative to the elongate bridge. First and second pins may be configured to extend through the first and second block, and then into various pieces of bone. Once a cut is made in a portion of joint or bone, the pins can thereafter be moved towards and away from one another to position the respective pieces of bone in a desired location. Locking screws may also be provided to releasably secure the blocks relative to the bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: RELJA Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Robby A. Amiot, Jacob Flagle
  • Patent number: 11871918
    Abstract: A camera and expandable bladed retractor system. The system includes a camera, with a distal-most optical element disposed over the proximal end of the lumen or surgical channel established by the retractor blades. The camera may be fixed to the retractor, either to the proximal end of a blade or to a frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Rebound Therapeutics Corporation
    Inventors: Ravut Chhit, Peter G. Davis, Ross Tsukashima, Todd D McIntyre, Jeffrey J. Valko, Michael R. Henson
  • Patent number: 11871908
    Abstract: A disposable speculum for an otoscope provides a sheath adapted to cover an elongate otoscope probe and providing inwardly extending tabs that are adapted to flex outward when the speculum is inserted over the otoscope to engage corresponding grooves of the otoscope. The inwardly extending tabs provide precise alignment of the speculum with the elongate otoscope probe along an insertion axis to protect a length of the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: James Berbee, Greg Rebella, Azita Hamedani, Patrick Ayerle, Thomas Hutcheson, IV, Ralph Paul
  • Patent number: 11872140
    Abstract: Pedicle-based intradiscal fixation devices, systems, instruments, and methods thereof. A pedicle-based intradiscal implant for stabilizing an inferior vertebra and a superior vertebra may include a bendable rod configured to engage bone, a bone fastener defining a channel for receiving the bendable rod, and a locking cap for securing the bone fastener and the bendable rod. The implant may be positioned through a pedicle of an inferior vertebra and the bendable rod may be deployable into the vertebral body of the inferior vertebra, through the disc space, and into the vertebral body of the superior vertebra to stabilize the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Weiman, Myles Sullivan, Carly Taubenkraut, Chad Glerum, Corbett McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 11871964
    Abstract: Pedicle-based intradiscal fixation devices, systems, instruments, and methods thereof. A pedicle-based intradiscal implant for stabilizing an inferior vertebra and a superior vertebra may include a bendable rod configured to engage bone, a bone fastener defining a channel for receiving the bendable rod, and a locking cap for securing the bone fastener and the bendable rod. The implant may be positioned through a pedicle of an inferior vertebra and the bendable rod may be deployable into the vertebral body of the inferior vertebra, through the disc space, and into the vertebral body of the superior vertebra to stabilize the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Weiman, Myles Sullivan, Carly Taubenkraut, Chad Glerum, Corbett McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 11864798
    Abstract: In an embodiment of the invention, a fixator for fixating bone fractures includes a Y-frame having superior, anterior and posterior arms. The arms may be slotted and may accept mounting hardware for supporting fixation pins or transfixion pins. Various components of mounting hardware may be able to be adjusted either in discrete steps or in continuous manner, for various degrees of either translation or rotation. The Y-frame may be rigid, or may have joints that allow either angulation or arm-twisting adjustment. Arms may be provided joinable interchangeably to a hub. A kit of such parts may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: Gitlin LLC
    Inventors: David Gitlin, Lev Gitlin
  • Patent number: 11857236
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and kits include an orthopedic screw that is configured to be at least partially withdrawn from bone segment(s) and has, in part, a shaft extending from a distal end to a proximal end, screw threads with a first threaded alignment formed on the distal end, an unthreaded shank, a head positioned on the proximal end, and an enlarged terminal end segment of the head that includes (1) a socket for receiving a tool adapted for rotating the screw into the bone segment(s), and (2) a threaded cannula portion centrally located at a focus point of the enlarged terminal end and extending along a cannula for at least a portion of a length of the head comprising a second threaded alignment opposite the first threaded alignment and configured to receive an instrument head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: RETROFIX SCREWS, LLC
    Inventor: Hugh Boyd Watts
  • Patent number: 11857173
    Abstract: Retractors for surgical procedures such as spinal surgical procedures includes a pair of pivotable armatures and a translatable armature. A body for supporting the armatures is provided, with a handle connected thereto. The handle includes a first rotary actuator, wherein a rotation of the first rotary actuator moves the pair of pivotable armatures in opposite arcuate directions, and a second rotary actuator, wherein a rotation of the second rotary actuator translates the translatable armature in a linear direction. Methods of use for the retractors during surgical procedures are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall G. Mast, Alan R. Burkholder, Andrew Schifle, Adam Kanter, David O. Okonkwo
  • Patent number: 11857272
    Abstract: An implanted article physical referencing apparatus comprises a guide body, a first guide shaft and a second guide shaft. The guide body includes a plurality of guide shaft receptacles therein. A longitudinal axis of each of the guide shaft receptacles extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal reference axis of the guide body. The first and second guide shafts each have a proximate end portion and a distal end portion. The proximate end portion of the first guide shaft includes an exterior surface adapted for being engaged with a corresponding interior surface of a selected one of the guide shaft receptacles to constrain unrestricted relative movement between the first guide shaft and the guide body. The proximate end portion of the second guide shaft is attached to the guide body. A longitudinal axis of the second guide shaft extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal reference axis of the guide body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: SI-RESTORE LLC
    Inventors: Michael Hoomani Moghimi, Daniel Brian Lanois
  • Patent number: 11849931
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods suitable for use with procedures performed at least partially percutaneously are provided. In some procedures, two or more access devices for providing access to adjacent surgical locations within a patient are used. Certain embodiments of the access device comprise an elongate body having a distal end with one or more cutouts. The cutouts on adjacent access devices are generally aligned with each other to permit passage of a portion of a fixation element from one access device to the other access device. A fastener with an elongated removable head may be delivered to the surgical site through the access device. After a distal end of the fastener is secured to the surgical site, a portion of the elongated housing is detached from the remainder of the fastener and removed from the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Gene P Dipoto, Stephen J Anderson, Alan E. Shluzas
  • Patent number: 11849959
    Abstract: A medical screw surgical device includes: a surgical device main body shaped like a bar and internally formed with an insertion passage; an extension member provided in a lower portion of the surgical device main body and internally formed with a guide hole; a guide member movably provided in the guide hole of the extension member; and a firing member provided in the insertion passage of the surgical device main body and controlling the guide member to move up and down. A surgical robot having a robot arm with the medical screw surgical device includes: a support arm provided in the robot arm; a surgical device holding member provided in the support arm; and the medical screw surgical device provided in the surgical device holding member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignees: CUREXO, INC., INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION, YONSEI UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Yong Yeob Cha, Hong Ho Kim, Seong Yi
  • Patent number: 11849979
    Abstract: A spinal construct includes a bone fastener including a post and a shaft portion engageable with vertebral tissue. The post being movable in one or more axes relative to the shaft portion. A receiver defines a first cavity configured for disposal of the bone fastener and a second open cavity configured for disposal of a spinal rod. A band is disposable in the first cavity. The band being contractible and defining an inner surface that is directly engageable with the post. A nut includes an inner surface being slidably engageable over the post and an end surface engageable with the band such that the band contracts to engage the post. Systems, surgical instruments, implants and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: William Alan Rezach
  • Patent number: 11844553
    Abstract: An intramedullary bone fixation device that includes a shaft with a flexible region. The flexible region may be configured to flex from a first shape to a second shape as the shaft moves along a curved medullary canal. For example, the bone fixation device may include a distal bone screw that is configured to move along the curved medullary canal of first and second segments of a fractured bone (e.g., two segments of a broken rib) and fasten to the segment bone segment. The bone fixation device may include a locking member (e.g., a proximal bone screw) that is configured to lock the shaft to the first bone segment. For example, the shaft may be fixed to the distal bone screw and ratchetably coupled to the shaft such that the first and second bone segments can be compressed together by urging together the distal bone screw and the locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Noon, Christopher Keegan, Christian Peta, Albert Montello
  • Patent number: 11839412
    Abstract: A multi-plane cortical bone screw includes a screw tail and a ball screw. A ball head portion is arranged at one end of the ball screw, and a thread portion is arranged at the other end thereof. The ball head portion and the screw tail are in universal connection, so that the ball screw can rotate along a conical surface relative to the screw tail. A lower end face of the screw tail close to the ball head portion is relatively rotatably connected with a side face of the screw tail. The present disclosure further discloses a bone positioning device, which includes a plurality of connection rods and a plurality of the multi-plane cortical bone screws. The screw tails are arranged in a spatial three-dimensional radial manner along side edges of a multi-edge platform, and the connection rods used for positioning a bone are connected between the screw tails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: THE THIRD HOSPITAL OF CHANGSHA
    Inventors: Qing Lei, Lei Fan, Minghui Jiang, Lihong Cai