Cutter Having Vibratory Drive Means Patents (Class 606/169)
  • Publication number: 20140128685
    Abstract: Embodiments of dermalogical cell treatment are described generally herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: Jongju Na
  • Patent number: 8715306
    Abstract: An ultrasonic clamp coagulator assembly that is configured to permit selective cutting, coagulation and clamping of tissue during surgical procedures. An elongated portion of the instrument can be configured for endoscopic applications and has an outside diameter of less than 6 mm. The construction includes a clamping mechanism, including a clamp arm pivotally mounted at the distal portion of the instrument, which is specifically configured to create a desired level of tissue clamping forces, exceeding 4 pounds when the trigger is fully closed. The clamping mechanism includes a two-piece pad design and pad material that enables the higher tissue clamping forces and a force-limiting mechanism that effectively smooths out abusive tissue forces. The assembly also features hand activation configured to provide an ergonomical grip and operation for the surgeon. Hand switches are placed in the range of the natural swing of the surgeon's thumb, whether gripping the surgical instrument right-handed or left handed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery Inc.
    Inventors: Craig N. Faller, Karen Kowalski Isaacs, Kevin L. Houser
  • Publication number: 20140121508
    Abstract: Surgical devices and methods for utilizing optical coherence tomography (OCT) to monitor and control tissue sealing are disclosed. The surgical device includes an end effector assembly that includes first and second jaw members that are movable between a first, spaced-apart position and a second proximate position. An OCT system, at least a portion of which is incorporated into the end effector assembly, is configured to sense properties of the tissue, e.g., the structural density of the tissue, disposed between the first and second jaw members. A tissue-sealing energy source may be disposed within at least one of the jaw members and may provide tissue-sealing energy to tissue disposed between the jaw members. A controller, which is coupled to the OCT system and the tissue-sealing energy source, controls the tissue-sealing energy generated by the tissue-sealing energy source based on the properties of the tissue sensed by the OCT system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Cassandra LATIMER, William H. NAU, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140121631
    Abstract: A method for providing localized heating of the dermal layers of skin of a patient, using energy in the form of a group of pulses having defined parameters in a controlled manner. This method preferably uses an optical delivery system to deliver pulsed energy to a specific spot of skin so that targeted layers of the affected skin are heated to a desired temperature range. The temperature range is optimally selected to maximize treatment efficacy while minimizing pain to the patient. Example applications include reducing wrinkles, acne, hair, scar tissue, warts, and promoting wound healing. In this method, the temperature of the selected locus rises quickly to the desired temperature range, then is maintained within a controlled range with a relatively flat temperature profile. The method maintains the temperature by controlling one or more of a pulse energy intensity, pulse width, and pulse frequency or time delay between pulses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: David M. Bean, Matthew Hamerstrom, Alyssa Bean
  • Patent number: 8709031
    Abstract: Methods for driving a surgical instrument are disclosed. The surgical instrument includes a transducer configured to produce vibrations along a longitudinal axis at a predetermined frequency. An end effector is adapted to couple to the transducer and extends along the longitudinal axis. The end effector includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is movable relative to the longitudinal axis by the vibrations produced by the transducer. A drive module is coupled to the transducer to generate a modulated drive signal. The distal end of the end effector is movable in response to the vibrations produced by the transducer in response to the modulated drive signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Foster B. Stulen
  • Publication number: 20140114335
    Abstract: A surgical hand piece has a source of ultrasonic energy provided to a connecting body having a first passage with one end to receive fluid from a first source and the other end at the connecting body distal end. A work tip has first and second tubes each having at least one opening at its distal end and the proximal end of one or both of the tubes connected to the connecting body distal end to receive the ultrasonic energy and to selectively receive or discharge fluid from either the first or second source as controlled by a valve. A cannula is provided which is adapted to be placed in an opening in the cornea through which the work tip extends during the removal of cataracts from the eye by phacoemulsification. The cannula may be equipped with channels that permit additional infusion of fluid into the eye during the procedure, which infusion also cools the surrounding corneal tissue to protect against heat generated by the ultrasonic vibration of the work tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Surgical Design Corporation
    Inventor: William Banko
  • Publication number: 20140114334
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a surgical instrument comprises an articulable harmonic waveguide. The articulable harmonic waveguide comprises a first drive section comprising a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the first drive section may be configured to connect to an ultrasonic transducer. The articulable harmonic waveguide further comprises a first flexible waveguide coupled to the distal end of the first drive section. An end effector extends distally from the first flexible waveguide. The surgical instrument further comprises an articulation actuator to flex the first flexible waveguide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC.
    Inventors: William A. Olson, Daniel W. Price, Kevin L. Houser, Jeffrey D. Messerly, Foster B. Stulen
  • Patent number: 8702623
    Abstract: A biopsy device includes a probe, a holster, and a tissue sample holder for collecting tissue samples. The probe includes a needle and a hollow cutter. The tissue sample holder includes a housing having a plurality of chambers that are respectively configured to receive a tray. The housing is releasably engageable with the probe. Each tray is configured to receive a tissue sample communicated through the cutter lumen. Each tray is removable from the housing, such as along an axial direction. The tissue sample holder is rotatable to successively index each chamber to the cutter lumen. A tray retainer is operable to selectively secure the trays relative to the housing. The trays may be flexible, resilient, or rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Shailendra K. Parihar, John A. Hibner, Michael R. Ludzack
  • Patent number: 8704425
    Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to an apparatus, system, and method for driving an end effector coupled to an ultrasonic transducer. The method comprises generating a first ultrasonic drive signal by a generator coupled to an ultrasonic drive system, actuating the ultrasonic transducer with the first ultrasonic drive signal, generating a second ultrasonic drive signal by the generator, and actuating the ultrasonic transducer with the second ultrasonic drive signal. The first drive signal is different from the second drive signal. The first and second drive signals define a step function waveform. The apparatus comprises a generator configured to couple to an ultrasonic instrument. The system comprises a generator coupled to an ultrasonic instrument. The ultrasonic instrument comprises an ultrasonic drive system comprising an ultrasonic transducer coupled to a waveguide and an end effector coupled to the waveguide, and wherein the ultrasonic drive system resonates at a resonant frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Giordano, Robert J. Beetel, III, Eitan T. Wiener, Jeffrey D. Messerly, Brian DiNardo, Daniel J. Abbott
  • Publication number: 20140107683
    Abstract: A fluid-surgical instrument includes a nozzle (20) to which a vibration can be applied. This concept can be used for changing the direction of the jet during the operation of the nozzle to generate an artificial wiping motion or to impart the nozzle with only micromovements that inject into the fluid jet a transverse pulse and thus lead to a change of the jet image. It is possible to combine both effects with each other. In this manner, the surgeon can retrieve, on command, e.g., different jet shapes made available by software technology and generate such jet shapes with one and the same instrument. In doing so, the surgeon can achieve varying effects without having to change the instrument and the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: ERBE Elektromedizin GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Kühner, Lothar Mitzlaff
  • Publication number: 20140107684
    Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided. The surgical instrument includes a housing having a shaft operably supported thereon and a jaw member supported at a distal end of the shaft. The jaw member is movable between open and clamping configurations. The surgical instrument also includes a probe that has proximal and distal ends. The distal end has an active blade thereon that is configured to treat tissue when the jaw member is in a clamping configuration. The proximal end of the probe is configured to selectively engage a generator that is configured to selectively couple to the housing. An adjusting assembly is operably supported on the housing and is configured to selectively rotate the probe to engage the proximal end of the probe to the generator to secure the generator to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventor: JASON L. CRAIG
  • Publication number: 20140107560
    Abstract: Solubilizing compositions are provided. The compositions comprise at least one zwitterionic surfactant and at least one nonionic surfactant. In one embodiment, the compositions may be useful for solubilizing and remodeling and/or removing tissue on or beneath a patient's skin, optionally in conjunction with the application of energy to a region of interest on the skin. In one embodiment at least one analyte may be collected and analyzed from the solubilized tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Samir Mitragotri, Russell M. Lebovitz, Byeong Hee Hwang
  • Patent number: 8696666
    Abstract: A medical apparatus includes: a main body apparatus switchable to a mode for outputting ultrasound vibration, mode for outputting high-frequency current, and mode for simultaneously outputting the ultrasound vibration and the high-frequency current; a probe for performing a first treatment with a first treatment portion; a first attaching and detaching portion including a first electric armature; an insertion portion including a second treatment portion, and configured to perform a second treatment, with a living tissue held between the first treatment portion and the second treatment portion; a second attaching and detaching portion including a second electric armature; a switch control section which switches the output of the high-frequency current to a monopolar output or a bipolar output according to a connection state between the first electric armature and the second electric armature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corp.
    Inventors: Hideo Sanai, Ryu Onuma
  • Publication number: 20140100515
    Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical instrument comprises a multi-diameter shaft, a horn fixedly threaded into the shaft, a surgical tip for ophthalmic surgery including a tip end and threadably engaging the horn opposite the shaft, and a plug on the shaft. Weld material holds the plug on the shaft in a selected angular and longitudinal position with an angle-locating recess on the plug's circumference having a predetermined angular clocked relation to a face direction of the tip end. The plug's recess engages an irrigation tube on a subassembled handle with shell and irrigation tube, such that the subassembled handle has a known clocked position relative to the tip end of the tip, thus facilitating use by a surgeon. A related method is also disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: AUTOCAM MEDICAL DEVICES, LLC
    Inventors: Neal Robert DeTurk, Wayne Frederick Schatz, Richard Lawrence Lucia, Andrew Robert Butron, Frank Tamayo Plascencia, Jr., Terry Martin Yerka, Jose Eduardo Ameral
  • Publication number: 20140088629
    Abstract: Systems for nerve and tissue modulation are disclosed. An example system may include a first elongate element having a distal end and a proximal end and having at least one nerve modulation element disposed adjacent the distal end. The nerve modulation element may be positioned or moveable to target a particular target region. The nerve modulation element may be an ultrasound transducer. The nerve modulation element may be configured to be operated at a low intensity to provide a thermal nerve block or a high intensity to effect tissue modulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: ROGER N. HASTINGS, MARK L. JENSON
  • Publication number: 20140088630
    Abstract: Systems for nerve and tissue modulation are disclosed. An example system may include an intravascular nerve modulation system including an elongated shaft having a proximal end region and a distal end region. The system may further include a bar element extending distally from the distal end region of the elongated shaft and one or more ablation transducers affixed to the bar element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: BINH C. TRAN, MARK L. JENSON
  • Patent number: 8679098
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a housing having a shaft extending therefrom. The housing includes a nose having a neck and a base that defines a diameter greater than that of the neck. A rotation knob has a distal end defining a first aperture and a proximal end defining a second aperture, the apertures cooperating to define a lumen extending through the rotation knob that is configured to receive the shaft. The first aperture defines a diameter that generally approximates a diameter of the shaft. The rotation knob is transitionable between an at-rest position and a flexed position. In the flexed position, the second aperture is expanded to permit passage of the base of the nose into an interior of the rotation knob. In the at-rest position, the second aperture generally approximates the diameter of the neck to rotatably engage the rotation knob about the nose with the shaft extending therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Keir Hart
  • Publication number: 20140081299
    Abstract: An ultrasonic core including a longitudinally elongated, generally planar waveguide defining an aperture extending from a first side of the waveguide toward a medial plane of the waveguide, and having a transducer element sized and shaped so as to substantially conform to the size and shape of the aperture and to be at least partially embedded within the waveguide. In other aspects, an ultrasonic core including a longitudinally elongated, generally planar silicon waveguide having at least one transducer element secured thereto and a wedge-shaped acoustic horn including an inclined side surface, characterized in that the inclined side surface is oriented along the {1,1,1} crystallographic plane of the silicon material. Also, methods of manufacturing the respective ultrasonic cores and ultrasonic handpieces for an ultrasonic surgical instruments incorporating such cores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy G. Dietz, Yanik Tardy, Juergen Burger, Philippe Margairaz, Toralf Bork
  • Publication number: 20140081300
    Abstract: The invention relates to a therapeutic probe comprising a transducer (2) for focusing the ultrasonic waves into a first focal area (Z1), the emission surface (8) of which has, within a profile plane (Pp), two concave curve segments (s1) which have a finite length and which are symmetrical relative to a plane of symmetry (A1) or to an axis of symmetry (S). According to the invention: within the profile plane (Pp), both concave curve segments (s1) extend along arcs of first and second non-coincident circles that intersect each other. each curve segment (s1) has an acoustic axis (a) intersecting the axis of symmetry (S) or the plane of symmetry (A1) between the first focal area (Z1) and the emission surface (8), the acoustic axes (a) being spaced apart from each other such that the beams from the emission surface (8) intersect each other so as to create a second focal area (Z2) located in situated between the first focal area (Z1) and the emission surface (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: David Melodelima, Jeremy Vincenot, Emmanuel Blanc, Jean-Yves Chapelon
  • Publication number: 20140081302
    Abstract: A cardiac ablation method including the following steps: inserting a treatment catheter into an atrium of a heart, the treatment catheter including an ultrasound emitter; positioning the ultrasound emitter to face heart tissue within the left atrium outside of a pulmonary vein; emitting ultrasound energy from the ultrasound emitter while rotating the ultrasound emitter about a rotation axis; and ablating heart tissue with the ultrasound energy to form a lesion outside of a pulmonary vein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: VYTRONUS, INC.
    Inventors: Hira V. Thapliyal, David A. Gallup, James W. Arenson
  • Publication number: 20140081301
    Abstract: Systems for nerve and tissue modulation are disclosed. An example system may include a first elongate element having a distal end and a proximal end and having at least one nerve modulation element disposed adjacent the distal end. The nerve modulation element may be positioned or moveable to target a particular tissue region. The nerve modulation element may be an ultrasound transducer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: BINH C. TRAN, ROGER N. HASTINGS, MARK L. JENSON, LEONARD B. RICHARDSON, MICHAEL J. PIKUS
  • Patent number: 8672959
    Abstract: The present invention relates to ultrasonic surgical clamping instruments and, more particularly, to a curved clamp arm for use with ultrasonic surgical instruments that have an ultrasonically actuated blade that, in one case, is ultrasonically actuated to have motion in substantially a single plane. The curved clamp arm opens and closes with respect to the blade and also has a plane of curvature that is parallel to the plane of motion of the blade when the clamp arm is in the closed position, and not parallel to the plane of motion of the blade when the clamp arm is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Witt, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 8672834
    Abstract: A reciprocating surgical file system for precisely removing bone and/or other tissue is described. The system allows a user to maneuver the system and navigate into hard-to-access sites. The tool may be used to perform a spinal decompression by removing tissue that impinges a spinal nerve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Surgitech, LLC
    Inventor: Richard J. Harp
  • Publication number: 20140074076
    Abstract: A system for applying energy to nerves surrounding blood vessel can include a piezoelectric array comprising a plurality of ultrasound elements, a controller configured to individually control a phasing of each of the ultrasound elements, a platform on which the ultrasound elements are coupled, wherein the platform is configured to support at least a part of the patient, a programmable generator configured to generate an output power for at least one of the ultrasound elements, and a programmable processor configured to process a signal transmitted from one of the ultrasound elements and reflected back from tissue, and determine a tissue characteristic based on the reflected signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Kona Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael GERTNER
  • Patent number: 8668709
    Abstract: Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Ultrasound catheter devices generally include an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and a distal head coupled with the transmission member and positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body for disrupting occlusions. Improved features of ultrasound catheters include catheter bodies and ultrasound transmission members with increasing distal flexibility, guidewire tubes allowing contact between a guidewire and an ultrasound transmission member, distal heads with improved guidewire lumens, and torquable proximal housings for enhancing disruption of blood vessel occlusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Flowcardia, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Nita, Jeff Sarge
  • Publication number: 20140066962
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical instrument for operation in an aqueous environment is provided. In at least one embodiment, the surgical instrument may include a hollow sheath, a blade disposed at least partially within the hollow sheath and extending through an opening in the sheath, and at least one ultrasonic transducer operably coupled to the blade. The blade may include a polygonal cross-sectional shape and the tip may project away from the sheath's longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, the surgical instrument may include a blade with suction disposed therethrough and at least one ultrasonic transducer operably coupled to the blade. The blade may include a cutting edge that is positioned over a blade opening. Also, the cutting edge may project away from the blade's longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen C. Robertson, Matthew C. Miller, Prasanna Malaviya
  • Publication number: 20140066923
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a method of treating a subject having diabetes or symptoms associated with diabetes is provided. The method includes delivering a neuromodulation catheter within a vessel (e.g., hepatic artery) having surrounding nerves that innervate the liver (e.g., sympathetic nerves of the hepatic plexus). The method may also include modulating (e.g., disrupting, ablating, stimulating) the nerves by mechanical compression, energy delivery, or fluid delivery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: METAVENTION, INC.
    Inventors: Bobak Robert Azamian, Jonathan Allen Coe, Scott Bradley Vafai
  • Publication number: 20140066883
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a method of treating a subject having diabetes or symptoms associated with diabetes is provided. The method includes delivering a neuromodulation catheter within a vessel (e.g., hepatic artery) having surrounding nerves that innervate the liver (e.g., sympathetic nerves of the hepatic plexus). The method may also include modulating (e.g., disrupting, ablating, stimulating) the nerves by mechanical compression, energy delivery, or fluid delivery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: METAVENTION, INC.
    Inventors: Bobak Robert Azamian, Jonathan Allen Coe, Scott Bradley Vafai
  • Patent number: 8663220
    Abstract: In one general aspect, various embodiments are directed to a surgical instrument that can supply mechanical energy and electrical energy to an end effector of the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument may be operated in a first operating mode in which a transducer of the surgical instrument produces mechanical energy, or vibrations, that are transmitted to the end effector and a second operating mode in which electrical energy, or current, can flow through the end effector to perform electrosurgery. In another general aspect, the surgical instrument may comprise a clamp, or jaw, which can be moved into a closed position to hold tissue against a waveguide, or blade, of the end effector. In the second operating mode of the surgical instrument, current can flow from a power source, through the waveguide, and return to the power source through a path comprising the jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Eitan T. Wiener, Shan Wan, Daniel W. Price, David K. Norvell, James R. Giordano
  • Patent number: 8662745
    Abstract: A method of measuring conditions of an ultrasonic instrument includes providing an ultrasonic instrument that includes an end effector and a waveguide operably coupled to a generator and the end effector. The method involves generating one or more pulses with the generator, transmitting the one or more pulses to one or both of the waveguide and the end effector, generating one or more waves that scatter in an interferential pattern in response to the transmission of the one or more pulses, registering a signal indicative of the interferential pattern, generating an actual interferential pattern based upon the signal, and identifying one or more conditions of the end effector based upon the actual interferential pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Igoris Misuchenko, Georgy Martsinovskiy
  • Patent number: 8663223
    Abstract: A surgical treatment apparatus includes a receptacle which is configured to abut onto a treatment section so that a predetermined clearance is formed between an electrode section and the treatment section when a grip member is closed relative to the treatment section. The surgical treatment apparatus includes a regulating section which is provided in the grip member so that a closing-direction end located on a closing-direction side of the grip member does not protrude from the receptacle toward the closing direction, the regulating section being made of a material harder than the receptacle, and a handle unit configured to operate the grip member so that the regulating section is closed up to a position where the regulating section contacts the treatment section except when the receptacle contacts the treatment section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Shinya Masuda, Hideo Sanai, Takeshi Onaga, Norikiyo Shibata
  • Patent number: 8665031
    Abstract: An oscillating circuit for determining a resonant frequency of an electro-mechanical oscillating device and for driving the electro-mechanical oscillating device at the determined resonant frequency includes a driving circuit and a start-up, impetus injection circuit. The driving circuit is configured to receive one or more reference signals and further configured to provide a driving signal related to the reference signals to the electro-mechanical oscillating device. The start-up, impetus injection circuit is operably coupled to the electro-mechanical oscillating device and configured to selectively provide a start-up excitation signal to the electro-mechanical oscillation device. The start-up, impetus injection circuit is activated upon start-up of the oscillating circuit to drive the electro-mechanical oscillation device and the driving circuit determines a resonant frequency by measuring a parameter related to the resonant frequency of the electro-mechanical oscillating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: James A. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8663262
    Abstract: A battery assembly is used in battery-powered surgical instruments with handles having a battery chamber and different handle types. The battery assembly includes a housing having an exterior shape formed to removably connect with the battery chamber of the handles and a voltage-control circuit. The housing has at least one energy storage cell operable to power a signal generation assembly of the surgical instruments and a battery/handle interface having a plurality of connectors shaped to mate with a plurality of corresponding connectors within the battery chamber of the handles. The voltage-control circuit is operable to communicatively couple with and provide power to the signal generation assembly, detect which one of the handle types is connected to the housing, provide a first output in response to a detection of a first handle type, and provide at least a second output in response to a detection of a second handle type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Kevin W. Smith, Thomas O. Bales, Jr., Matthew A. Palmer, Derek Dee Deville
  • Publication number: 20140058188
    Abstract: In some examples, nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some examples, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some examples, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents or the agents are enhanced by the energy sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Gertner
  • Publication number: 20140052121
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, a method of treating a subject having diabetes or symptoms associated with diabetes is provided. The method includes delivering a neuromodulation catheter within a vessel (e.g., hepatic artery) having surrounding nerves that innervate the liver (e.g., sympathetic nerves of the hepatic plexus). The method may also include modulating (e.g., disrupting, ablating, stimulating) the nerves by mechanical compression, energy delivery, or fluid delivery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: METAVENTION, INC.
    Inventors: Bobak Robert Azamian, Scott Bradley Vafai, Jonathan Allen Coe
  • Patent number: 8652155
    Abstract: A surgical device. The surgical device may comprise a transducer configured to provide vibrations along a longitudinal axis and an end effector coupled to the transducer and extending from the transducer along the longitudinal axis. The surgical device also may comprise a lower jaw extending parallel to the end effector. The lower jaw may comprise a clamp face extending toward the longitudinal axis. Also, the lower jaw may be slidable relative to the end effector to bring the clamp face toward a distal end of the end effector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Houser, Stephanie J. Muir, Louis T. DeLuca, Daniel W. Price, William D. Boyd, Michael J. O'Neil
  • Patent number: 8650728
    Abstract: In one general aspect, various embodiments are directed to an ultrasonic surgical instrument that comprises a transducer configured to produce a standing wave of vibrations along a longitudinal axis having a node and an anti-node at a predetermined frequency. In various embodiments, an ultrasonic blade extends along the longitudinal axis and is coupled to the transducer. In various embodiments, the ultrasonic blade includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is movable relative to the longitudinal axis by the vibrations produced by the transducer. In one general aspect, various embodiments are directed to a method of assembling the transducer for the ultrasonic surgical instrument. In various embodiments, the method comprises selecting piezoelectric elements and arranging the piezoelectric elements relative to the node to minimize the difference in magnitude between the currents drawn by the piezoelectric elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Shan Wan, Scott A. Nield, Shawn D. Bialczak, Ashvani K. Madan
  • Patent number: 8647362
    Abstract: A deflecting method and deflecting apparatus allows the distal end of device, for example an endoscopic medical device, to be remotely and adjustably deflected from a straight configuration to a deflected configuration. Manipulating a proximal handle causes the deflection, controls actuation of an end effector assembly on the distal end, and straightens the deflecting apparatus back to its original configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Griego
  • Publication number: 20140039479
    Abstract: In some examples, nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some examples, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some examples, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents or the agents are enhanced by the energy sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Gertner
  • Patent number: 8641641
    Abstract: A tissue harvesting and processing apparatus comprises a body and a distally extending needle. The needle includes an aperture configured to receive tissue. A tissue cutting member is movable relative to the needle to sever a specimen from tissue protruding through the aperture. A tissue processor is operable to mince tissue severed by the tissue cutting member. The minced tissue may be mixed with a medical fluid component contained in a reservoir. The medical fluid mixture may be expelled through an applier tip coupled with the body. The tissue processor may comprise a mincing die such that tissue specimens are minced upon being extruded through the mincing die. The tissue processor may comprise a blade that cooperates with a sliding press. The tissue processor may comprise auger blade sections that cooperate with inwardly extending pins. A mixing piston may mix the minced tissue with the medical fluid component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Cronin, Patrick D. Dugan, Shelby L. Cook Kornbluth, Donna L. Korvick, Rebecca J. Mollere, Jerome R. Morgan, Shailendra K. Parihar, John B. Schulte, Richard W. Timm
  • Publication number: 20140031809
    Abstract: A jaw of the grasping treatment device includes an abutting portion being abutable on a probe treatment portion when the jaw is closed relative to the probe treatment portion, and a separated portion being disposed with a clearance between the separated portion and the probe treatment portion when the abutting portion is in abutment with the probe treatment portion. The jaw includes a distal-side wall portion provided to a distal direction side of the separated portion and protruding toward the probe treatment portion as compared with the separated portion, and a proximal-side wall portion provided to a proximal direction side of the separated portion and which protruding toward the probe treatment portion as compared with the separated portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventors: Junichi TAKABAYASHI, Shinya MASUDA, Eiji MURAKAMI
  • Publication number: 20140025098
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for treating an ocular pathology, including a ring (1) comprising a proximal end intended to be in contact with an eye of a patient, and a distal end intended to receive ultrasound generating means (2), wherein the device additionally includes at least one reflector (3) for reflecting and focusing ultrasound generated by the generation means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicants: INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA SANTE ET DE LA RECHERCHE MEDICALE (INSERM), EYE TECH CARE
    Inventors: Fabrizio Romano, Thomas Charrel, Cyril Lafon, Philippe Chapuis, Jean-Yves Chapelon
  • Patent number: 8632560
    Abstract: A system includes a generator with a grinder subgenerator and an ultrasonic subgenerator, a grinder handpiece, and an ultrasonic handpiece. The grinder handpiece is connected in electrical communication with the grinder subgenerator. The grinder handpiece includes a motor and a grinding tool connected mechanically to the motor. The rotational speed of the grinding tool is associated with electrical energy provided by the grinder subgenerator to the motor. The ultrasonic handpiece is connected in electrical communication with the ultrasonic subgenerator. The ultrasonic handpiece includes a transducer and a ball tip connected mechanically to the transducer. The amplitude of the vibrations at the ball tip is associated with electrical energy provide by the ultrasonic subgenerator to the transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Dharmendra Pal, Jeffry S. Melsheimer
  • Patent number: 8628534
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical cutting method and apparatus is provided wherein the method and apparatus allows for the cutting of bone from within a hollow pathway such that a cutter associated with the ultrasonic method and apparatus remains sufficiently cool to prevent necrosis of the bone being cut. Furthermore the ultrasonic device and method can be employed in the cutting of soft tissue, wherein a cooled cutter is used to prevent the sticking of soft tissue to the cutting blade of the device during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, LLC
    Inventors: Bryan S. Jones, Christopher Ramsay
  • Publication number: 20140012299
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument is provided. The ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a housing having an elongated shaft extending therefrom. The shaft has a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. The jaw member is movable between an open configuration and a clamping configuration and includes a tissue contacting surface thereon. A cutting blade extends from a distal end of the shaft and operably couples to the housing and adjacent the jaw member to treat tissue. At least one sensor is configured to sense at least one operational parameter of the ultrasonic surgical instrument. At least one controller in operable communication with the at least one sensor is configured to terminate delivery of ultrasonic energy to the cutting blade when the at least one sensor senses the at least one operational parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Robert B. Stoddard, James S. Cunningham, William J. Dickhans, Russell D. Hempsetad, Eric R. Larson, Duane E. Kerr, William H. Nau, JR., Anthony B. Ross, John J. Kappus
  • Publication number: 20140012296
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus selectively attachable to an ultrasonic device to disrupt target cells from underlying tissue for treatment of an ocular condition, comprising a shaft, a coupling portion at an end of the shaft, and a cell disrupting end extending from a distal portion of the shaft. The shaft has a longitudinal axis and a first diameter. The coupling portion includes a connector portion and a hub configured to selectively couple to the ultrasonic device and impart ultrasonic vibration to the shaft. The cell disrupting end is solid and has a second diameter and a smooth, continuous, curved shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Glenn Robert Sussmen
  • Publication number: 20140012297
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument is provided. The ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a housing having an elongated shaft extending therefrom. The shaft defines a longitudinal axis therethrough and has at least one jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. The jaw member(s) is movable between open and clamping configurations. A probe extends through the shaft and operably couples to the housing, The probe includes a cutting blade at a distal end thereof adjacent the jaw member(s) to treat tissue of interest. The jaw member(s) and cutting blade are configured such that heat damage to tissue adjacent tissue of interest that has been treated by the cutting blade is reduced and/or eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Anthony B. Ross, Robert B. Stoddard, James S. Cunningham, William J. Dickhans, Russell D. Hempstead, Eric R. Larson, Duane E. Kerr, JR., William H. Nau, JR., Arlen K. Ward
  • Publication number: 20140012298
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument is provided. The ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a housing having an elongated shaft extending therefrom. The shaft defines a longitudinal axis therethrough and has a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. The jaw member is movable between an open configuration and a clamping configuration. The jaw member includes a tissue contacting surface having at least one laminate liner disposed thereon. A cutting blade extends from a distal end of the shaft and operably couples to the housing and adjacent the jaw member to treat tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Jams S. Cunningham, William J. Dickhans, Russel D. Hempstead, John J. Kappus, Duane E. Kerr, Eric R. Larson, William H. Nau, JR., Anthony B. Ross, Robert B. Stoddard
  • Publication number: 20140012300
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for generating an ultrasonic field having frequencies between 0.9 MHz and 4 MHz in an object, preferably in water or in human tissue, the device comprising a piezo element (1) affixed to a coupling plate (5), the coupling plate emitting the ultrasonic field (6) into the object, wherein the dimensions of the coupling plate are chosen such that the intensity of the ultrasonic field (6) emitted into the object is minimized in a depth deeper than 70 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: Switech Medical AG
    Inventors: Grob Nino, Axel Voss
  • Patent number: 8623040
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a phacoemulsification cutting tip with a straight shaft and an angled portion off of the straight shaft may include a hook on the angled portion to move an axis of rotation of the cutting tip closer to alignment with an extended centerline of the shaft. The cutting tip may be configured to torsionally rotate back and forth on an axis perpendicular to a centerline of the shaft (e.g., rotation around a y-axis). In some embodiments, lateral vibrations (e.g., side to side along an x-axis or z-axis perpendicular to the y-axis) that result from torsional rotation around the y-axis in a cutting tip without the hook may be reduced through use of the hook to balance the otherwise eccentrically weighted hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Alcon Research, Ltd.
    Inventors: Alexander N. Artsyukhovich, Ramon Carsola Dimalanta, Mikhail Boukhny, James Y. Chon