Patents by Inventor Constantinos Nikou

Constantinos Nikou has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20220151705
    Abstract: Computer-assisted surgical systems and methods for assisting with tool alignment using one or more mixed reality displays are disclosed. The system may provide for obtaining an existing surgical plan that may include specific patient information and data about the surgical procedure. The system may receive from a tracking system, locational information of a patient bone and determine, based on the surgical plan and the locational information, a preferred location and angle for use of a surgical device. Once determined, the system may display on a mixed reality display one or more visual indicators associated with the preferred location and the preferred angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2020
    Publication date: May 19, 2022
    Inventors: Constantinos NIKOU, Jason CIPRIANI
  • Publication number: 20220151704
    Abstract: Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to improved systems and methods for performing computer-aided surgical navigation using augmented reality. A tracking device having one or more optically detectable points is mounted to a patient via surgical hardware. The detectable points are identified by a sensor. One or more augmented reality marker assemblies that each have an augmented reality fiducial marker or symbol are also attached to the tracking device,. A computer system generates augmented reality information and transmits it to a display screen, such as a near-eye augmented reality device, for display thereon. The near-eye augmented reality device also has an image capture device capable of capturing the augmented reality symbols, and thereby determining a three-dimensional orientation associated with the tracking device, augmented reality markers, and a user wearing the near-eye reality device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2020
    Publication date: May 19, 2022
    Inventor: Constantinos NIKOU
  • Publication number: 20220125535
    Abstract: A surgical robotic arm (520) for use with an external vision system (512) includes onboard control and at least four degrees of articulation. The robotic arm (520) can position various tools (534) in the surgical theatre responsive to positional feedback from the vision system (512). Exemplary tools (534) include a handpiece (519) that includes a motorized burr or saw, a cutting guide (542) for a handheld saw, and a laser to actively define a resection area for a surgeon. The tool (534) or a reference point on the arm (520) relative to the tool (534) includes fiducial marks to register the position of the tool (534) with the vision system (512). Exemplary tools (534) are especially suited for knee and hip arthroplasty and can be moved under processor or manual control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2020
    Publication date: April 28, 2022
    Inventors: Sied JANNA, Alisha BERGIN, David DAVIDSON, Dinendra RAMACHANDRAN, Kavya SURESH, Rishii Nandhan KONGANAPURAM, Constantinos NIKOU, Manogna GHALI, Riddhit MITRA, Brian W. MCKINNON, Branislav JARAMAZ
  • Publication number: 20220117669
    Abstract: An augmented reality system and method for assisting surgical staff during an arthroplasty procedure includes a camera system configured to capture images of a surgical scene and a processor configured to determine from the images location and orientation information about one or more patient anatomical features and to maintain a three-dimensional model of these anatomical features within the surgical scene. The system models the field-of-view of augmented reality headsets worn by surgical staff, and maps this to the anatomical model, allowing the system to overlay relevant information to the user about particular anatomical features in the surgical plan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2020
    Publication date: April 21, 2022
    Inventors: Constantinos NIKOU, Branislav JARAMAZ, Cedric CORPA DE LA FUENTE, Daniel FARLEY
  • Patent number: 11298197
    Abstract: Methods and systems of placing a medical fastener at a predetermined depth in a bone are described. A surgical tool can include an attachment assembly configured to interchangeably engage a medical fastener and a cutting element or bone removal tool and a drive assembly coupled to the attachment assembly. The attachment assembly can be configured to automatically release the medical fastener in response to the drive assembly reaching its end or distal-most position to place the medical fastener at a predetermined depth within the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignees: Smith & Nephew, Inc., Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG, Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific Pte, Limited
    Inventors: Samuel C. Dumpe, Brett J. Bell, Constantinos Nikou, Gene Edward Austin
  • Patent number: 11284951
    Abstract: Systems and methods for navigation and control of an implant positioning device are discussed. For example, a method can include operations for accessing an implant plan, establishing a 3-D coordinate system, receiving tracking information, generating control signals, and sending the control signals to the implant positioning device. The implant plan can include location and orientation data describing an ideal implant location and orientation in reference to an implant host. The 3-D coordinate system can provide spatial orientation for the implant positioning device and the implant host. The tracking information can identify current location and orientation data within the 3-D coordinate system for the implant positioning device and implant host during a procedure. The control signals can control operation of the implant positioning device to assist a surgeon in positioning the implant according to the implant plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Constantinos Nikou, Branislav Jaramaz, Benjamin Oliver McCandless
  • Publication number: 20220079678
    Abstract: A method for creating a patient-specific surgical plan includes receiving one or more pre-operative images of a patient having one or more infirmities affecting one or more anatomical joints. three-dimensional anatomical model of the one or more anatomical joints is created based on the one or more pre-operative images. One or more transfer functions and the three-dimensional anatomical model are used to identify a patient-specific implantation geometry that corrects the one or more infirmities. The transfer functions model performance of the one or more anatomical joints as a function of anatomical geometry and anatomical implantation features. surgical plan comprising the patient-specific implantation geometry may then be displayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2020
    Publication date: March 17, 2022
    Inventors: Brian W. MCKINNON, Ruxandra Cristiana MARINESCU TANASOCA, Randy C. WINEBARGER, William L. BOWERS, Jr., James Bennett WIEBE, III, Nathaniel Milton LENZ, Sean M. HADDOCK, Ryan Lloyd LANDON, Shawn P. MCGUAN, Constantinos NIKOU, Elizabeth DUXBURY
  • Patent number: 11272989
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for an improved minimally invasive surgical tracking system. As disclosed herein, a computer assisted surgical system (CASS) may include an internal tracking device that obtains relative locational data of one or more surgical tools not trackable via a global tracking system. The internal tracking device having an external portion that is trackable global tracking system. Based on the known characteristics and location of the internal tracking device the CASS determines the location of the one or more surgical tools relative to the patient and other objects in the operating room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignees: Smith & Nephew, Inc., Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG, Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific Pte. Limited
    Inventors: Branislav Jaramaz, Constantinos Nikou
  • Publication number: 20220061856
    Abstract: A system, method, and device for drilling holes (420, 422) in a target bone (414) are described. For example, the system includes a cutting tool (330), a navigation system (310) configured to track a position of the cutting tool, and a computer-assisted surgical (CAS) system (340) operably connected to the cutting tool and the navigation system. The CAS system can be configured to determine an implant component (100) to be implanted on the target bone (414), determine a cutting block position for preparing the target bone to receive the implant component, determine a plurality of pin locations (420, 422) for securing the cutting block (416) based upon the determined cutting block position, and selectively provide instructions to the cutting tool to cut a hole when the cutting tool is in a position adjacent to at least one of the determined plurality of pin locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2021
    Publication date: March 3, 2022
    Inventors: Branislav JARAMAZ, Constantinos NIKOU
  • Publication number: 20220050581
    Abstract: Systems and methods for virtual implant placement to implement joint gap planning are discussed. For example, a method can include operations for receiving a first implant parameter set based on a surgical plan that was generated while moving the joint through a range of motion. The method can include generating a first set of candidate implant parameter sets that are the result of an incremental change, relative to the first implant parameter set, to at least one parameter of the first parameter set. The method can include calculating a result for at least one candidate implant parameter set and providing a graphical representation of the result according to at least one candidate implant parameter set. The result can be color-coded to correlate to a candidate implant parameter set. The display can include color-coded user interface controls to allow a user to execute incremental changes corresponding to candidate implant parameter sets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2021
    Publication date: February 17, 2022
    Inventors: Constantinos NIKOU, Branislav JARAMAZ
  • Publication number: 20220039886
    Abstract: Methods and systems of placing a medical fastener at a predetermined depth in a bone are described. A surgical tool can include an attachment assembly configured to interchangeably engage a medical fastener and a cutting element or bone removal tool and a drive assembly coupled to the attachment assembly. The attachment assembly can be configured to automatically release the medical fastener in response to the drive assembly reaching its end or distal-most position to place the medical fastener at a predetermined depth within the bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2021
    Publication date: February 10, 2022
    Inventors: Samuel C. DUMPE, Brett J. BELL, Constantinos NIKOU, Gene Edward AUSTIN
  • Patent number: 11229491
    Abstract: An implant positioning device and a method of using the device are described. The positioning device includes an end effector configured to contact an implant component during a surgical procedure, the end effector connected to an actuator for imparting an impact force to the implant component during the surgical procedure, a motor mechanically connected to the actuator and configured to move the actuator to produce one or more impacts on the end effector, thereby imparting the impact force to the implant component, and a control circuit coupled to the motor. The control circuit is configured to generate at least one motor control signal, transfer the at least one motor control signal to the motor, and, as a result of the at least one motor control signal, cause the motor to move the actuator to produce one or more impacts on the end effector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Constantinos Nikou, Branislav Jaramaz, Benjamin Oliver McCandless
  • Patent number: 11197679
    Abstract: A system, method, and device for drilling holes (420, 422) in a target bone (414) are described. For example, the system includes a cutting tool (330), a navigation system (310) configured to track a position of the cutting tool, and a computer-assisted surgical (CAS) system (340) operably connected to the cutting tool and the navigation system. The CAS system can be configured to determine an implant component (100) to be implanted on the target bone (414), determine a cutting block position for preparing the target bone to receive the implant component, determine a plurality of pin locations (420, 422) for securing the cutting block (416) based upon the determined cutting block position, and selectively provide instructions to the cutting tool to cut a hole when the cutting tool is in a position adjacent to at least one of the determined plurality of pin locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Branislav Jaramaz, Constantinos Nikou
  • Publication number: 20210369353
    Abstract: A system for performing a computer-aided surgical procedure is disclosed. Using a computer program, optical sensors detect and record the location of one or more optical tracking devices. The computer program then generates navigational reference information regarding position and orientation information of one or more specific body parts of a patient. The tracking device is mounted to the patient using a tracking frame and a coupler base, wherein the coupler base has a plurality of surfaces to which the tracking frame is configured to be removably attached. Because the characteristics of the coupler base are known to the computer program, all potential locations of the tracking frame, when attached to the coupler base, are known. Thus, the tracking frame's axis and orientation may be altered to allow movement of the patient during the surgical procedure without compromising position and orientation information of the body parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Publication date: December 2, 2021
    Inventors: Constantinos NIKOU, Branislav JARAMAZ
  • Patent number: 11188204
    Abstract: Systems and methods for virtual implant placement to implement joint gap planning are discussed. For example, a method can include operations for receiving a first implant parameter set based on a surgical plan that was generated while moving the joint through a range of motion. The method can include generating a first set of candidate implant parameter sets that are the result of an incremental change, relative to the first implant parameter set, to at least one parameter of the first parameter set. The method can include calculating a result for at least one candidate implant parameter set and providing a graphical representation of the result according to at least one candidate implant parameter set. The result can be color-coded to correlate to a candidate implant parameter set. The display can include color-coded user interface controls to allow a user to execute incremental changes corresponding to candidate implant parameter sets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Constantinos Nikou, Branislav Jaramaz
  • Publication number: 20210346005
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing joint laxity measurement are disclosed. A retractor includes a plurality of spacers, such as plates, that are capable of being moved from a central portion of the retractor by a carriage mechanism. In some cases, the carriage mechanism may press against ramps connected to internal sides of the plates, thereby causing the plates to be displaced outwardly. In other cases, the carriage mechanism may include blades that rotate and press against the internal sides of the plates, thereby causing the plates to be displaced outwardly. The retractor is mounted on a surgical device configured to actuate the carriage mechanism. When the retractor is placed in a joint and the carriage mechanism is actuated, a measurement of the joint laxity may be determined based upon characteristics of the retractor and/or the surgical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2021
    Publication date: November 11, 2021
    Inventors: Cedric CORPA DE LA FUENTE, Constantinos NIKOU, Branislav JARAMAZ
  • Publication number: 20210330400
    Abstract: A system and method for tracking position and orientation of a surgical tool during a surgical procedure and providing feedback to a user are described. For example the system includes a surgical tool configured to perform at least a portion of the surgical procedure, a tracking system configured to monitor and record position information related to the surgical tool, a processing system, and a display. The processing system can be configured to receive the position information, determine optimal position information for the surgical tool during the surgical procedure, compare the received position information against the optimal position information to determine a conformance level for the user, and generate a user performance record. The display can be configured to receive and display the user performance record.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2021
    Publication date: October 28, 2021
    Inventor: Constantinos NIKOU
  • Patent number: 11147638
    Abstract: Systems and methods for navigation and control of an implant positioning device are discussed. For example, a method can include operations for accessing an implant plan, establishing a 3-D coordinate system, receiving tracking information, generating control signals, and sending the control signals to the implant positioning device. The implant plan can include location and orientation data describing an ideal implant location and orientation in reference to an implant host. The 3-D coordinate system can provide spatial orientation for the implant positioning device and the implant host. The tracking information can identify current location and orientation data within the 3-D coordinate system for the implant positioning device and implant host during a procedure. The control signals can control operation of the implant positioning device to assist a surgeon in positioning the implant according to the implant plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Constantinos Nikou, Branislav Jaramaz, Benjamin Oliver McCandless
  • Publication number: 20210315640
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method of improving a patello-femoral response is described. A computing system characterizes an anterior geometry of a patella and determines a position of a posterior apex of the patella in relation to one or more features of the anterior geometry of the patella. The computing system further receives location information related to the patella as a knee joint is moved through a range of motion. The computing system provides one or more recommendations to improve a patello-femoral response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2019
    Publication date: October 14, 2021
    Inventors: Roger Ryan DEES, Jr., Constantinos NIKOU, Branislav JARAMAZ
  • Publication number: 20210307833
    Abstract: A method of determining patient-specific implant parameters for an implant used in a surgical procedure is described. A surgical system receives one or more initial transfer functions and one or more preoperative input factors for a patient and generates a surgical plan comprising one or more patient-specific implant parameters based on the one or more initial transfer functions and the one or more preoperative input factors for the patient. The surgical system further receives one or more intraoperative input factors for the patient and updates the one or more patient-specific implant parameters based on the one or more intraoperative input factors for the patient. An implant for the patient is selected based on the one or more updated patient-specific implant parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2019
    Publication date: October 7, 2021
    Inventors: Daniel FARLEY, Shawn MCGUAN, Branislav JARAMAZ, Brian W. MCKINNON, Constantinos NIKOU, Elizabeth DUXBURY, Ruxandra C. MARINESCU TANASOCA, Ryan LANDON, Randy C. WINEBARGER, William L. Bowers, Jr.