Abstract: The X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray emitting device, an X-ray detection device, a fluoroscopic image generating unit, a calcified region detection unit and a display control unit. The fluoroscopic image generating unit generates a plurality of frames of fluoroscopic images of an object on a basis of detected X-rays in sequence. The calcified region detection unit detects a calcified region on each of the fluoroscopic images in sequence. The display control unit superimposes a calcified region image on a position of the calcified region on each of the fluoroscopic images in sequence, the calcified region image including a calcified region on a pre-acquired CT image or MR image of the object, and displays resulting images on a display device in sequence.

Abstract: Provided is a bed positioning system for a radiation therapy system capable of capturing X-ray transparent images and CT images by rotating an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector around a subject on a bed, comprising: a transparent image registration system which generates a subtraction image from a first X-ray transparent image captured by the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector and a digitally reconstructed radiograph generated from a treatment plan CT image, corrects the first X-ray transparent image by use of a correction image generated by processing the subtraction image in a previously specified direction, and compares the first X-ray transparent image after the correction and the digitally reconstructed radiograph to determine a movement amount of the bed.

Abstract: An apparatus (A) and a method for controlling collimation operation of a collimator (COL) in an x-ray imager (100) during an intervention carried out by an operator (R). A first medical device (GW) is made to progress through a patient (PAT) in an exploratory phase of the intervention. A path is recorded in a scout image (CI; CI1-CI4) formed from footprints (GWF) of the first device (GW) as recorded in a sequence of projection images (F; FI-F4) acquired by imager (100) during the exploratory phase. Apparatus (A) uses the path in the scout image (CI; CI1-CI4) to control collimation of the x-ray beam during a subsequent delivery phase where a second medical device (BC) is made to progress through patient (PAT), said second device (BC) following the first device (GW) substantially along the same path.

Abstract: A computer tomograph, a method, and a computer program product are disclosed. A computer tomograph is disclosed for scanning an image of at least one examination region of a patient, including a scanning unit which can be rotated about a longitudinal axis. The scanning unit includes an X-ray detector and an X-ray emitter. The extension of an X-ray beam emitted by the X-ray emitter is controlled for scanning purposes along the longitudinal axis using at least one patient-dependent control signal. By controlling the extension of the X-ray beam, the dose applied to the patient is also controlled such that the dose can be used as efficiently as possible. The control further allows the pitch to be matched to the patient-dependent control signal while scanning in the spiral mode.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray generator that generates X rays, an X-ray detector that detects the X rays generated by the X-ray generator and having passed through a subject, an X-ray restrictor that restricts an irradiation range on a detection surface of the X-ray detector of the X rays generated by the X-ray generator, a signal input unit that inputs a biomedical signal related to the subject, a signal detector that detects a biomedical change from the biomedical signal and also outputs an extension switching signal, and an X-ray restrictor controller that controls the X-ray restrictor such that the irradiation range of the X rays is extended in response to output of the extension switching signal.

Abstract: An apparatus including a scintillator panel which absorbs X-rays radiated from an X-ray generator and converts the X-rays into visible light; an image detector including a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix array and charging the plurality of pixels with electric charges proportional to intensity of the visible light converted by the scintillator panel; a gate driver which selects a line in the image detector and applies a drive signal to pixels in the selected line; an automatic exposure request signal generator which generates an automatic exposure request signal as a trigger signal informing of X-ray radiation through detection of X-rays radiated from the X-ray generator; and a controller which controls a time point of performing an exposure operation depending on a state of the drive signal applied to the pixels of the selected line in response to the automatic exposure request signal is disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a mammographic tomography test object (hereinafter referred to as a phantom) and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a mammographic tomography test phantom for use in the verification of image reconstruction positions in digital breast tomosynthesis. The phantom includes a body made from an approximately tissue equivalent x-ray attenuating material; an upper spacer located on top of the body, and a lower spacer located below the body, the spacers being made from a substantially non-compressible material; and a plurality of x-ray opaque granules located at predetermined positions within the body.

Abstract: A radiographic apparatus includes a radiation source that emits radiation, a radiation detection unit that detects the radiation emitted from the radiation source, and having transmitted the object of a subject to be examined, a holding unit that holds the object to be examined between the radiation source and the radiation detection unit, and a control unit that performs control for determining an imaging condition, based on information related to the posture of the subject.

Abstract: Methods and systems for acoustically treating material using a continuous process in which material may be caused to flow in a continuous or intermittent fashion into/out of an acoustic treatment chamber where the material is exposed to focused acoustic energy. The methods and systems may be arranged to permit continuous processing for extended periods while an acoustic energy source operates at a relatively high power output. Treatment chambers may include features such as an acoustic window and/or a chamber wall which may comprise an acoustically reflective material or a gas/wall interface that serves to reflect acoustic energy to form one or more secondary focal zones. Treatment system configurations relating to arrangements of a treatment chamber relative to an acoustic source and coupling medium, material flow paths, and others are provided.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are configured to assess the severity of a blockage in a vessel and, in particular, a stenosis in a blood vessel. In some particular embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure are configured to assess the severity of a stenosis in the coronary arteries by monitoring fluid flow. In some embodiments, the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure include a flow-sensing element within a distal portion of an intravascular device that is mounted at an oblique angle with respect to a central longitudinal axis of the intravascular device. The angled flow-sensing element can be oriented away from a vessel wall and towards the center of the vessel lumen through rotation of the intravascular device.

Abstract: To measure the content percentage of fat in a liver without increasing hardware size, provided is a measurement apparatus that supplies an ultrasonic signal to a body part and receives a response signal that has passed through an inner portion of the body part, the measurement apparatus including an ultrasonic signal generating section that generates the ultrasonic signal according to a control signal; a loop control section that supplies the control signal to the ultrasonic signal generating section in response to receiving the response signal that has passed through the body part; and a frequency measuring section that measures a repeating frequency of the control signal repeatedly supplied by the loop control section.

Abstract: To measure the content percentage of fat in a liver without increasing hardware size, provided is a measurement method and a measurement apparatus including a touching unit that supplies an ultrasonic signal to a body part and receives a response signal that has passed through an inner portion of the body part; a measuring unit that is connected to the touching unit and measures a characteristic of the body part based on the response signal received by the touching unit; and a switching section that switches between connecting the touching unit to the measuring unit and connecting the touching unit to an image generation apparatus that generates an image of a region including the body part in response to the touching unit scanning the region.

Abstract: A set of feature points including three feature points in a B-mode image acquired by an ultrasonic measurement are evaluated on a criterion as to whether a position of a circle passing through the three feature points is regarded as a position of a vessel wall. As evaluation items, there are the number of feature points located on a contour of the circle passing through the three feature points, position changes of the feature points with time, luminance of the feature points, the number of feature points inside the circle, etc. As a result of the evaluation, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the position of the vessel wall is determined to be in the position of the circle passing through the selected three feature points, and the vessel position is detected.

Abstract: A medical device system includes an introducer tube defining a lumen and an opening at a distal end. A medical device is disposed within the lumen of the introducer tube in a first position. The medical device is movable within the introducer tube between the first position and a second position. In the second position, the medical device extends at least partially beyond the distal end. The medical device defines at least one echogenic feature thereon for allowing visualization of the medical device upon insertion of the medical device in the patient's anatomy. In one form, a surgical electrode for insertion into a patient's anatomy is provided. The surgical electrode, which is configured to apply a current to a tissue, includes a coil defining a plurality of helical turns and at least one echogenic feature for allowing visualization of the coil when the coil is inserted into the patient's anatomy.

Abstract: Disclosed are an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and an operating method thereof. The operating method includes setting a region of interest (ROI) intended to be enlarged in an ultrasound image of an object, acquiring ultrasound data corresponding to a candidate region including the ROI, generating a candidate image corresponding to the candidate region, based on the acquired ultrasound data, detecting shaking of a probe, and displaying a portion of a candidate image corresponding to the ROI, based on the detected shaking of the probe.

Abstract: The invention relates to an ultrasonic palpator (1), a measurement system (20) and a kit comprising a palpator (1), a method (40) for determing a propery of an object (4), a method (40) for operating and a method (50) for calibrating a palpator (1). In order to facilitate an easy and precise measurement of the property, the invention provides that a coupler (3) of the palpator (1) is elastically deformable by a pressure (p), which acts between object (4) and coupler (3) during the measurement of the property, and that travel times of ultrasonic sound through the coupler (3) are used for determining the pressure (p).

Abstract: An ultrasonic measuring device includes a mounting member, a support unit, a plurality of ultrasonic element array units, a plurality of actuators, and a control unit. The mounting member is configured and arranged to be mounted on a test subject. The support unit is fixed on the mounting member. The ultrasonic element array units are supported on the support unit. The actuators are operatively coupled respectively to the ultrasonic element array units. Each of the actuators is configured and arranged to individually displace a corresponding one of the ultrasonic element array units with respect to the support unit. The control unit is configured to control the ultrasonic element array units to transmit and receive ultrasonic waves, the control unit being further configured to control the actuators.

Abstract: An ultrasound medical imaging method includes: displaying an ultrasound image on a screen; determining a view plane, on which the displayed ultrasound image is captured, among view planes; and setting a region of interest corresponding to the determined view plane on the ultrasound image.

Abstract: Acquisition settings for elasticity imaging are controlled based on detected motion. Rather than rely solely on user settings, one or more acquisition parameters are automatically set based on the detected motion. For example, the settings provide for a more rapid frame rate with less resolution in elasticity imaging for times associated with greater motion and for less rapid frame rate with greater resolution for times associated with lesser motion.

Abstract: Volume scanning along different planes is provided using angling of the elements. Rather than orthogonal dicing of the slab, kerfs are formed at non-parallel and non-perpendicular angles to the azimuth axis of the array or longitudinal axis of the slab. Apertures formed from selected groups of the angled elements and/or parts of angled elements may be used to steer along planes that extend at an angle of 5 degrees or more away from the azimuth or longitudinal axis. By walking the aperture, different parallel planes are scanned with a one-dimensional array of elements.

Abstract: An ultrasound imaging system and method includes identifying, with a processor, a subset of the ultrasound channel data with a specular reflector signature, and implementing, with the processor, a specular reflector processing technique on the subset of the ultrasound channel data to calculate at least one of a position and an orientation of a specular reflector. The system and method includes performing an action based on at least one of the position and the orientation of the specular reflector.

Abstract: Provided is a method of adjusting brightness of an ultrasound image including : generating at least one first image representing a region of interest (ROI) by using echo signals corresponding to ultrasound waves irradiated toward the ROI; adjusting brightness of the at least one first image based on an external signal for selecting at least one selected from a plurality of prestored gradation data and a plurality of prestored image data; and generating a second image representing the ROI based on the adjusted brightness.

Abstract: Disclosed are a module for processing an ultrasonic signal based on spatial coherence and a method for processing an ultrasonic signal, and more particularly, to a module for processing an ultrasonic signal based on spatial coherence and a method for processing an ultrasonic signal that is configured to obtain an enhanced ultrasonic image by processing a reflected ultrasonic signal based on characteristics of a reflector or a medium. A module for processing an ultrasonic signal receives an ultrasonic signal reflected from the inside of a human body and forms an image based on the ultrasonic signal.

Abstract: In order to acquire high resolution ultrasound images while maintaining an appropriate frame rate in ultrasound diagnostic devices, the disclosed method generates high resolution ultrasound images by performing image reconstruction on the basis of multiple ultrasound frame images captured along a time series and the magnitudes of positional shifts, or forms high resolution ultrasound images by performing image reconstruction on the basis of multiple ultrasound frame images acquired by controlling the ultrasound probe and varying scan orientation or scan focal length frame by frame.

Abstract: A system for automated management of data entry for a patient in an ultrasound device is disclosed. The system includes an ultrasound probe having a wireless reader capable of reading data including one or more of patient information and patient health history from an electronically readable card associated with the patient. Then a controller is present to configure the ultrasound probe for performing the ultrasound scanning based on set-up information and transmit the data to a remote location. A central server is present in the remote location for receiving the data from the controller and communicating the set-up information to the controller based on the data.

Abstract: A cytological cell sample collection, storage, and transport device is disclosed. The device comprises a sheath, a collection assembly, a base, and a containment vial. The collection assembly is slideably coupled to the base to expose a swab head comprising the collection assembly. The containment vial may be configured to enclose the sheath and collection assembly within the internal volume defined by the containment vial and the base.

Abstract: In an embodiment of the invention, a frictional tissue sampling device with a head designed to be rotated without rotating off the designated site can be used to obtain tissue biopsy samples. A frictional tissue sampling device with a head designed to be rotated without rotating off the designated site can be used to obtain an epithelial tissue biopsy sample from lesions. The device can be otherwise used to sample specific locations. In various embodiments, the head of the device is narrow and pointed with a hybrid pear shaped diamond facet. The facet contour can be concave, convex or flat. Abrasive material can be adhered to the facet contour.

Abstract: A biopsy assembly including a biopsy catheter having a proximal portion and a distal portion, a navigation catheter configured to receive the biopsy catheter for positioning the biopsy catheter adjacent target tissue, wherein the biopsy catheter is configured to be received within the navigation catheter, a coring component, and an anchoring component configured to anchor the biopsy catheter to target tissue. The coring component includes a proximal region and a distal region, the distal region formed of one or more distally extending blades and the proximal region being coupled to the distal portion of the biopsy catheter and the one or more blades are configured to penetrate target tissue and sever a tissue sample from the target tissue.

Abstract: A method for updating a component of a modular surgical instrument. The method can comprise comparing control modules and/or control systems of various modular components of a surgical system. For example, if corresponding control modules are different, at least one of the control modules can be updated and/or overwritten. If corresponding control modules have different effective dates, the outdated control module can be updated and/or overwritten, for example.

Abstract: The present disclosure pertain to methods of tissue approximation of a tissue opening in a tissue wall of a body lumen. The method comprises pushing a suitable device through the tissue wall near at least one edge of the opening and pulling opposing edges of the tissue opening nearer to one another or into contact with one another. Also described are devices and kits that are useful for approximation of a tissue opening in a tissue wall of a body lumen.

Abstract: A device, system, and method for providing access to, and sealing of, a body organ includes an implant device. An implant device has a main body having an internal access lumen, with a plurality of prongs extending from a distal end of the main body. The main body can include two lumens, one slidable within the other, to form a single continuous lumen with an adjustable length. The main body has an expanded configuration with an expanded diameter, and an unexpanded configuration with an unexpanded diameter. The prongs have a generally straight configuration where they extend distally of the distal end of the main body, and a bent configuration where the prongs bend around so that their tips extend proximally of the distal end of the main body. The device may include a hemostatic barrier to prevent fluid leakage therethrough when the main body is in the unexpanded configuration.

Abstract: Surgical tools for use during scarless or near scarless surgical procedures. At least some of the surgical tools can include a handle portion and a working end removably connected to the handle portion.

Abstract: Protective barrier for laparoscopy is provided and comprises bag with closed bottom, wall(s), and open end. Bag may comprise drawstring and/or optional flexible stay(s), in internal channel around periphery of open end of bag. Bag may optionally comprise self-sealing communication in closed bottom. Furthermore, bag may also include flexible ring or other shape positioned inside bag and tube passing through communication in closed bottom. Protective barrier is configured to be collapsed, rolled, and/or folded into a size that can pass through an opening, such as a trocar. Protective barrier, when deployed in the peritoneal cavity, may be used to collect tissue, tissue parts, blood and/or other fluid that may spray during Morcellation or other laparoscopic procedure. After completion of the procedure, protective barrier can be collapsed, rolled or folded at a size that can be easily removed from the peritoneal cavity.

Abstract: Provided herein are systems for preparing and delivering fibrin sealant to a surface and methods of use thereof. In one embodiment, the system comprises: a. a quantity of a liquid mixture disposed within a container, the mixture comprising: I. fibrin or II. fibrinogen and Factor II; and b. a resin bed disposed within a vessel, the vessel capable of being in fluid communication with the container, wherein when in fluid communication, passage of the mixture through the vessel results in modification of the concentration of small molecules inhibitor(s) and/or inducer(s) within the mixture, favoring fibrin clot formation.

Abstract: A retractor (101) for retracting the margins of a wound opening (103) comprises an inner anchoring O-ring (105) attached to a cylindrical sleeve (106) at a distal end and a reinforcing O-ring (109) attached to a proximal end of the sleeve (106). The sleeve (106) is led between an inner ring part (110) and a corresponding recess (116) in an outer ring part (111). The outer ring part (111) has anchor formations (120) over which the proximal end of the sleeve (106) is attached to anchor the sleeve (106). To retract the wound opening (103) the sleeve (106) is pulled while the guide rings (110, 111) are moved against the tissue surrounding the wound opening (103). This pulls the inner O-ring (105) against the inside of the tissue adjacent the wound opening (103), and retracts the wound opening (103). The sleeve (106) is manipulated locally for maximum retraction efficiency.

Abstract: Improved methods and devices for performing an endoscopic surgery including a system for performing minimally invasive procedures including a flexible catheter having a working space expanding system positioned at a distal portion, the working space expanding system movable from a non-expanded insertion position to an expanded position forming an expanded region to expand the working space within the body lumen. A tissue retractor having an inner member positioned within an outer member has a plurality of closed loops at a distal portion forming a petal-like structure. The loops are positioned in a collapsed position within the outer member and are movable to an expanded position when exposed from the outer member.

Abstract: Several methods to reduce surgical site infections include inserting a surgical access device into an incision, retracting tissue, and introducing fluid into the surgical access device such that the fluid exits the surgical access device and irrigates a surgical site. Other methods do not include introducing fluid into a surgical access device but include suctioning a fluid into the surgical access device and removing the fluid from the body.

Abstract: An apparatus including a flexible member with two terminal ends configured to form a single closable loop and at least two fixation members. The first fixation member and the second fixation member are slidably received on the single closable loop formed by the flexible member.

Abstract: A suture anchoring device for fixing a soft tissue to a bone tissue is disclosed that enables the exchange of sutures between anchors after implantation. The suture anchoring device may include a body that is inserted into the bone tissue, a suture exchange fitting situation within a passage formed within the body, and one or more pre-loaded sutures looped through the suture exchange fitting and projecting proximally from a proximal opening formed in the body. Surgical kits and surgical methods for performing various repair procedures using one or more suture anchoring device are also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for cutting a filament or suture having an extrudable inner core member are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a device includes a compression element to compress an inner core away from a knot disposed at a distal end of the suture, and a cutting element disposed within a portion of the compression element to cut the inner core after it has been compressed. As a result, an amount of extrudable inner core that extends distally beyond the knot is minimized without negatively impacting the integrity of the knot. In other embodiments, the compression and cutting elements are separately provided as two different devices. The actions of compressing and cutting can be performed using a variety of techniques, including those known to those skilled in the art. Methods for clamping the inner core and then cutting a portion of the inner core are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a surgical instrument including an end effector, a drive member movable to effectuate a motion in said end effector, a motor operable to move the drive member to effectuate the motion in the end effector and a bailout assembly operable to perform a mechanical bailout of the surgical instrument in response to a bailout error. The bailout assembly includes a bailout door, a bailout handle accessible through the bailout door. The bailout handle is operable to move the drive member to effectuate a bailout motion in the end effector. A controller includes a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to detect the bailout error. The processor is programmed to stop the motor in response to the detection of the bailout error.

Abstract: In various instances, the surgical instrument can include a data storage protocol and/or at least one security feature. The surgical instrument can include a locking circuit, for example. In various instances, the surgical instrument can include sensors and/or magnets for detecting various characteristics of the surgical instrument, surgical operation, and/or surgical site. The surgical instrument can require a temporary access code for operating and/or can be selected for connection to an external display. A surgical system can include a first modular component, a second modular component, and a feedback system. The feedback system can include an engagement sensor, which can detect the engagement and/or degree of engagement of the first modular component and the second modular component.

Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a movable input, and an analog sensor configured to detect the position of the movable input, wherein the analog sensor is configured to produce an analog signal comprising analog data. The surgical instrument can further comprise a microcontroller comprising an input channel, wherein the analog sensor is in signal communication with the input channel, wherein the microcontroller is configured to compare the analog data to a reference value, and wherein the microcontroller is configured to produce a digital signal in response to the comparison.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use by an operator in a surgical procedure includes an elongate shaft, an end effector extending from the elongate shaft, and a control system. The end effector is articulatable relative to the elongate shaft between a home state position and an articulated position. The control system includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor to store program instructions. The processor can alert the operator when the end effector reaches the home state position from the articulated position.

Abstract: A device for attaching a sheet-like implant to a target tissue includes a pilot member and a staple push rod. In some embodiments, the pilot member has a distal end and at least a pair of prongs extending from the distal end. The prongs are configured to form pilot holes when the distal end of the pilot member is pressed against the target tissue. The staple push rod is disposed within at least a portion of the pilot member and slidable relative thereto. The staple push rod includes at least a pair of stakes. Each stake is dimensioned to engage a surface of a staple to apply pushing forces thereto. Each stake is positioned relative to a prong along an inner surface of the pilot member so that the stakes advance into the pilot holes when the stakes are moved in a distal direction. Methods for attaching a sheet-like implant to a target tissue are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a surgical instrument control circuit. The control circuit includes a primary processor, a safety processor in signal communication with the primary processor, and a segmented circuit. The segmented circuit includes a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor. The plurality of circuit segments includes a power segment. The safety processor is configured to transition the primary processor and at least one of the plurality of circuit segments from an active mode to a sleep mode and from the sleep mode to the active mode.

Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a shaft assembly, a first sensor configured to detect a condition of the surgical instrument, and a second sensor configured to detect the condition of the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument can further comprise a processor, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are in signal communication with the processor, wherein the processor receives a first signal from the first sensor, wherein the processor receives a second signal from the second sensor, wherein the processor is configured to utilize the first signal and the second signal to determine the condition, and wherein the processor is configured to communicate instructions to the surgical instrument in view of the condition.

Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus is provided which includes a first jaw supporting an anvil assembly and a second jaw supporting a cartridge assembly. The cartridge assembly supports a firing lockout assembly which includes a latch member having a blocking member. The latch member is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the blocking member of the latch member is aligned with the stop surface of the drive member to prevent advancement of the drive member within the tool assembly and in the second position, the blocking member is misaligned with the stop surface of the drive member to permit advancement of the drive member within the tool assembly. A biasing member is positioned to urge the latch member towards the first position. In the retracted position of the drive member, the latch member is in the first position.

Abstract: Adapter assemblies are provided for selectively interconnecting a surgical end effector that is configured to perform at least a pair of functions and a surgical device that is configured to actuate the end effector, wherein the end effector includes a first axially translatable drive member and a second axially translatable drive member, and wherein the surgical device includes a first rotatable drive shaft and a second rotatable drive shaft.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a surgical instrument control circuit. The control circuit includes a primary processor, a safety processor in signal communication with the primary processor, the safety processor, and a segmented circuit. The segmented circuit includes a plurality of circuit segments in signal communication with the primary processor. The plurality of circuit segments is configured to control one or more operations of the surgical instrument. The safety processor is configured to monitor one or more parameters of the plurality of circuit segments.