Abstract: A liquid injector registers the data of a variable pattern in which an injection rate of a contrast medium varies with time. The injection rate of the contrast medium varies with time according to the variable pattern for maintaining a state in which the image contrast achieved by the contrast medium approximates an optimum level.

Abstract: Embodiments of an injector, syringe, syringe interface, syringe adapter, and piston/plunger assembly for an injector (of contrast medium, for example) are described. Preferably, the syringe is adapted to engage a syringe interface mechanism such that the syringe may be connected to an injector without regard to any particular orientation of the syringe to the injector or to the piston/plunger assembly. The injector piston or drive member includes a sensing pin positioned at a forward end thereof to sense contact with the syringe plunger during advancement of the piston or drive member to contact the plunger. The piston can be advanced automatically upon connection of, for example, the syringe to the injector, or piston advance can be automated to occur after operator initiation. The injector may include or be adapted to accommodate two syringes, which for example provide for simultaneous injection of fluid into separate injection sites on a patient.

Abstract: A catheter having one or more radio-opaque bands near the distal end is designed to be inserted into the renal artery so that the distal end of the catheter is adjacent to the origin of the renal artery. An X-ray image of the bands is used to position the X-ray head relative to the aorta and renal artery so that a useful, unobstructed radiological image perpendicular to the axis of the renal artery at its origin is obtained. This facilitates the positioning of a stent in the renal artery so that the stent encompasses the origin and extends no more than about three millimeters into the aorta. Two radio-opaque bands placed close to one another define a narrow radio-translucent band such that when the X-ray head is rotated to a position where parallax is reduced and the radio-translucent band can be imaged, the renal artery can be appropriately imaged without being obscured by the aorta.

Abstract: A system and method for ultrasonic harmonic imaging. The ultrasonic harmonic imaging system comprises a wideband phased-array transducer, a transmitter for transmitting waves into the tissue, a portion of which is at a fundamental frequency and a portion of which is at a harmonic of the fundamental frequency, a receiver for receiving ultrasonic responses from the tissue, a control system electrically coupled to the transmitter and the receiver for controlling operation of the transmitter and receiver, a video processor, and a monitor.

Abstract: A beamformer for an ultrasound imaging system is provided, the ultrasound imaging system having a probe having a transducer array for transmitting and receiving analog signals, and a personal computer. The beamformer includes a beamformer software application module configured for execution by the computing device for performing at least partial beamforming processing on digital data transmitted between the transducer array and the computing device, and means for exchanging signals and data between the transducer array and the computing device and performing at least one of A/D and D/A conversions on the exchanged signals and data. In the preferred embodiment, the beamformer further includes a module integrated within architecture of the computing device, wherein the integrated module is preferably Random Access Memory (RAM) included in storage means of the computing device.

Abstract: A device for use in placing a non-sterile sensor probe such as an ultrasound scanning transducer in a desired position within a patient. A flexible probe-receiving tube has a closed distal end so that a probe inserted within the tube through an open end located outside the patient is isolated from contact with the interior of the patient's body. The probe-receiving tube is attached to and extends alongside a chest drain tube which supports the probe-receiving tube in a location proximate an organ to be observed. An attached sterile sensor may be attached directly to an interior blood vessel, and sensors such as an ultrasonic sensor, a light emitting sensor, or a multi-function combination sensor may be used in the probe-receiving tube.

Abstract: A breast tomography scanner including a stationary chamber configured to hold fluid, a movable chamber within the stationary chamber configured to hold fluid, and breast scanning apparatus. Various configurations for housing the ultrasonic transducers are disclosed, along with filling and draining apparatus, leakage protections turbulence-reduction configurations and control systems.

Abstract: A process for optimizing the excitation waveform that is delivered to a transmitter that, together with a receiver, form part of a nonlinear transmission and reception system. The process may include delivering a transmission test signal to the transmitter, generating a receive test signal from the receiver that is a nonlinear function of the transmission test signal, developing a nonlinear model of the nonlinear function, and determining an optimum excitation signal based on the model. An application to ultrasonic imaging for breast mammography is also disclosed.

Abstract: An ultrasonic imaging method and apparatus are described for electronically scanning a volumetric region by means of a two dimensional array of transducer elements coupled to a beamformer, comprising:

Abstract: A flow probe has been described which includes a sensor housing and a coupling member. The sensor housing with one or more sensors mated together with the coupling member form the flow probe. The sensor housing accepts a variety of different sized coupling members to form flow probes of different sizes. The sensor housing is adapted to house one or more transducers. Additionally, a version of the flow probe includes strategically located positioning elements for ease in placement and retrieval of the flow probe.

Abstract: A system and method for screening tissue is provided. The system provides a computer-based system for distinguishing between normal and potentially abnormal tissue. The system includes computer components for generating and receiving ultrasonic waves, for storing a tissue model, and for analyzing received ultrasonic waves in the context of the tissue model.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided which includes a substantially flat base defining a pocket insert configured and dimensioned for receiving the treatment head module and a hydrogel in alignment with the treatment head module for preventing the attenuation of the ultrasonic waves propagated from the treatment head module during ultrasonic treatment. A portion of the apparatus which comes into contact with the patient is provided with an adhesive covered by a peel-off backing. During use, the peel-off backing is removed to expose the adhesive and the apparatus is affixed to the patient. The treatment head module is then inserted within the pocket insert. The pocket insert securely maintains the treatment head module in position without over compressing soft or injured tissue. In another embodiment thereof, the apparatus includes a hydrogel having an adhesive on opposing sides and peel-off backings covering each adhesive. During use, the peel-off backings are removed to expose each adhesive.

Abstract: An optical method and system for in vivo, non-invasive imaging of biological tissue includes a stimulator and a spectrophotometer. The stimulator is constructed and arranged to stimulate cognition in a subject. The spectrophotometer is co-operatively arranged with the stimulator. The spectrophotometer is coupled to an optical module constructed to provide a multiplicity of arrayed source-detector pairs constructed for direct engagement with the subject. The system includes a light source constructed to introduce electromagnetic radiation of a visible or infra-red wavelength into biological tissue and a light detector constructed to detect optical radiation that has migrated in the tissue.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for improved diagnostic fluorescence and reflectance. A method of detecting tissue abnormality in a tissue sample in vivo detects a set of reflectance spectra emitted from a tissue sample as a result of illumination with an excitation light from a fiber optic probe that has at least one collection fiber positioned at a source-detector separation, and determining if the tissue sample is normal or abnormal based on the resulting reflectance spectra. Another method of detecting tissue abnormality in a tissue sample in vivo includes illuminating the tissue sample in vivo with at least one electromagnetic radiation wavelength selected to cause the tissue sample to produce a set of fluorescence intensity spectra indicative of tissue abnormality, detecting the resulting fluorescence intensity spectra, and determining if the tissue sample is normal or abnormal based on the resulting fluorescence intensity spectra.

Abstract: Apparatus and techniques are provided for precise measuring and monitoring of certain vital signs of patients that have been difficult to measure especially in emergency situations. Sensor may be used for detecting contraction and expansion in the vascular bed of the lining tissue of the external auditory canal during a cardiac cycle to obtain a better indication of certain physiological parameters. Such a signal generally may be superimposed with an additional signal that is primarily due to breathing activity of the patient. Based on various scenarios different sensors may be used to determine the signal due to breathing activity and thus the physiological parameter of interest may be derived. The signal corresponding to the physiological parameter of interest, for example, blood pressure may then be used to monitor the vital signs or control other medical equipment.

Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating a degree of arteriosclerosis of a living subject, including: a pulse-wave detecting device adapted to be worn on a first portion of the living subject; a pressing device adapted to be worn on a second portion of the subject located on a distal side of the first portion, for pressing the second portion so as to restrict a flow of blood at the second portion; and an arteriosclerosis-related information obtaining device which obtains arteriosclerosis-related information used for evaluating said degree of arteriosclerosis of the subject, based on a peak point of an incident-wave component, and a peak point of a reflected-wave component, of a pulse of a pulse wave that is detected by the pulse-wave detecting device in a state in which the flow of blood is restricted by the pressing device.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a heart sound of a living subject, including a pressure-pulse-wave sensor which is adapted to be worn on a body portion of the subject that is distant from a chest of the subject, detects a pressure pulse wave produced by an artery of the body portion, and generates a pressure-pulse-wave signal representing the detected pressure pulse wave; and a heart-sound extracting device for extracting, from the pressure-pulse-wave signal generated by the pressure-pulse-wave sensor, a heart-sound component representing the heart sound of the subject.

Abstract: This invention relates to a system, method and apparatus for assessing a patient's risk of cardiovascular collapse by measuring circulating blood volume through transpupillary measurement of retinal vasculature. The system is useful for predicting patients at risk of suffering hypovolemic shock, cardiogenic shock, anaphylactic shock, or septic shock. The system includes a light source, an optical assembly, an imaging device, a processor, and an output device. Images of the eye are obtained and analyzed using a software package. The measurements obtained are compared to a database to determine if the patient is at risk of suffering vascular collapse.

Abstract: Methods, instruments, and kits for treating spinal pseudoarthrosis are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes delivering to a location of spinal pseudoarthrosis an effective amount of an osteoinductive composition that includes an injectible osteoinductive composition that includes an injectible osteoinductive composition in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In other embodiments, cannulated drills 10, 10′, 10″ and surgical instrument assemblies, 50, 50′ including a drill and a syringe 60 and 60′ wherein the syringe has a distal end that is matingly engaged to a proximal end of the drill are provided The drill and other instruments, instrument assemblies, and kits formed therefrom may advantageously be used in a method for treating pseudoarthrosis.

Abstract: A system and method for acquiring and processing an EGM signal during a pacing event, wherein a unique converter code is generated upon digitizing of the EGM signal and encrypted in the EGM signal to demarcate a transient event. The system further provides dynamic filtering of the EGM signal and subsequent detection of an intrinsic event signal during the pacing event, from which rhythm events may be diagnosed and classified.

Abstract: Degradation of the efficiency of data transmission using a radio wave is to be suppressed. A communication circuit transmits heart beat information detected by electrodes and to a master apparatus through an antenna using a radio wave. An inductor provided between the electrodes and and an input section of the communication circuit suppresses input of the radio wave output by the antenna to the communication circuit through the electrode and waste of the same.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for estimating a stress level dependent parameter on a person, comprising means for measuring a person's heart rate, means for calculating a derivate of the measured heart rate, and means for estimating a value for a stress level dependent parameter by using the calculated heart rate derivate.

Abstract: An implantable medical device and associated method are provided for detecting non-sustained arrhythmias and determining a metric of non-sustained arrhythmias. The metric may be used for predicting the occurrence of a sustained arrhythmia or for automatically adjusting the parameters used for detecting a sustained arrhythmia.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for monitoring the fluid status of a patient with kidney failure. In case of renal failure all forms of ingested fluid accumulate in body tissues causing increased stress on the circulatory system. This surplus fluid has to be removed during a dialysis treatment by ultrafiltration of the blood. The amount of this surplus fluid or the weight corrected for this surplus fluid, i.e. the dry weight, is an important parameter for managing the fluid status of a dialysis patient.

Abstract: A system for the in vivo detection of the effects of AD in the interior of an eye. A scanning polarimeter, including a residual retardance canceling system and an improved anterior segment retardance compensator, produces an optical analysis signal representing the birefringence of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) structures of the eye. The birefringence data is more accurate because of compensation for anterior segment birefringence and residual birefringence of optical components, such as, for example, the beam splitters, lenses, scanners and retarders. An electrical analysis signal representing a large (20 by 40 degrees) retardance map is produced and evaluated by an artificial neural network to produce an analysis classification signal representing the contribution of Alzheimer's disease to the birefringence of the retinal layer corresponding to the relationship of the electrical analysis signal to an analysis signal database.

Abstract: The optical layout of the invention is designed to asymmetrically stimulate at least the magnocellular and parvocellular pathways of the two eyes during binocular fusion. Furthermore, the optical layout of the invention may be adjusted to adapt to individual visual processing needs. The present invention describes a system of optics useful in furthering studies of the primate visual processing system and finding clinical applications. For the majority of the population applications of the optical system could serve instructional purposes as well as a form of entertainment. The elicited illusions are dependent on the specific individual and therefore the system distinctly allows for customization.

Abstract: This patent relates to an apparatus and method for assessing a subject's hearing by recording steady-state auditory evoked responses. The apparatus generates a steady-state auditory evoked potential stimulus, presents the stimulus to the subject, senses potentials while simultaneously presenting the stimulus and determines whether the sensed potentials contain responses to the stimulus. The stimulus may include an test signals having a number of different components and modulations. The apparatus may further perform a number of objective audiological tests. The apparatus is further adapted to perform multi-modality testing in which more than one sensory modality of the subject is tested simultaneously.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for actuating a minimally invasive medical device using fluid pressure. The invention involves a medical device that includes a fluid source, such as a compressible bladder that may apply positive fluid pressure into a sheath to controllably deploy an end-effector from a distal end of the sheath. In some embodiments, the fluid source may apply negative fluid pressure into the sheath to controllably retract the end-effector into the distal end of the sheath. Typical end-effectors for use with the medical device of the invention include biopsy devices and retrieval devices, including basket-type retrieval devices and grasper retrieval devices. Generally, the fluid that is used to actuate the device may be a liquid or a gas, including air.

Abstract: A lancing device integrated with a sensing strip and method of making and using the same are provided. A lance and analyte sensing strip are combined in a single, preferably disposable, device. In a preferred embodiment, a slot is provided in a support member so the lance can be engaged by a lance driver and driven into the skin producing a bodily fluid sample from a wound. The sensing area of the sensing strip is adjacent to the wound location reducing dexterity requirements for patients.

Abstract: A medical device having a support member disposed between an elongate shaft and a coil. The support member is adapted and configured to provide structural support to the coil so as to help maintain the position of the coil relative to the shaft.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for manufacturing a guidewire having a plurality of radiopaque markers are disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a guidewire having a tapered distal section comprising a plurality of gold markers that are deposited on the guidewire at predetermined intervals, so that the outer surface of the guidewire is substantially smooth. The gold markers provide a fluoroscopic reference for positioning the guidewire and enable accurate sizing of vessel features, such as the length of a lesion.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for judgment of physical constitution and physical strength for a person under test are described. The apparatus comprises a first input unit, a second input unit, and an arithmetic unit. According to the present invention the first input unit enters fat mass in a trunk of the person under test. The second input unit enters fat mass in lower limbs of the person under test. The arithmetic unit calculates Proportion Age based on the data entered from said first and second input units.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the position of an individual. According to one aspect of the disclosure, one or more position detectors are associated with an individual, so that movement of the individual results in a corresponding movement of the position detector(s). The position detector(s) are monitored to identify such movements. The movements of an individual may be tracked, so that notification may be provided if an individual remains stationary for longer than a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A modified system for assessing tension intraoperatively during joint arthroplasty includes a discrete sensor array, protector and trial. The protector is mechanically connected to the joint trial and covers the sensor array to protect it from wear. The sensor array can be positively located to prevent it from moving during use. In assembly of the modified system, the sensor array and protector are sterilized as discrete elements. After sterilization, the protector is removably attached to one of the trials with the sensor array substantially covered by the protector to protect the sensor from wear.

Abstract: A massage device for creating a massaging action using at least one oscillating device. The massage device may be formed from a handle and a head pivotably coupled to the handle. The head may include a first chamber for containing the oscillating device and a second chamber for containing an impeller for driving the oscillating device. The oscillating device may be fluid driven. The massaging device may also include one or more controls in the handle for controlling the action of the massage device.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a massage device that includes a plurality of flexible fingers that are splayed outward. Each finger is resilient and provides stimulation pressure to a body area or part.

Abstract: Massaging and compressing the lungs of a patient has been proven effective in loosening mucus buildup. Devices and methods for this purpose have been designed for patients older than infants and toddlers. A method for massaging and compressing the lungs of infants and toddlers has been developed using a device similar to those used for older patients. Such devices use pulsating air to inflate and deflate bladders that are in contact with the patient and apply pressure to the upper torso of the patient. For older patients, the devices are typically made into a vest and fitted on the patient. For infants and toddlers the device, herein called a J-blanket, having the same bladder arrangement is spread flat on a suitable surface and the patient placed on the J-blanket. This reduces the physical trauma to these very young patients. The J-blanket™ can be fitted with sensors to provide important feedback related to the patient's well-being.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for enhancing blood circulation are used to apply external pressure to a patient's extremity to improve blood circulation. The apparatus includes a rigid enclosure and an inflatable flexible enclosure that extends around the patient's extremity. A source of compressed gas discharges gas into the flexible enclosure to apply external pressure to the extremity. A monitor and pilot control valve regulate the flow of compressed gas into the flexible enclosure. A pressure sensor, servomechanism and adjustable control valve adjust the flow of gas to maintain preset pressure peaks in the flexible enclosure. A pressure storage tank is connected with the source of compressed gas to provide a reserve of compressed gas at a desired operating pressure.

Abstract: The present invention provides a foot harness assembly to be worn about the foot and ankle of the user, and which comprises an ankle securing means, and a foot securing means, both of which provide a convenient hand-hold and/or foot-hold for a user during exercise, and/or any physical act or exertion and which are connected to each other by at least one member which also provides a convenient hand-hold and/or foot hold for a user during exercise motions and stretching; optionally, the connecting member and/or any of the ankle or foot securing means further comprises one or more hand holding and/or foot holding means as desired for virtually unlimited variability of use in any contemplated physical stretching or exertion exercise or act.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a vascular access device for hemodialysis, particularly, a transcutaneous access device. The transcutaneous access is optionally connected to one or more subcutaneous blood tubing and one or more sterile connectors which attach to the device and keeps the device sterile from external contamination when not in use. Advantages of the transcutaneous access include the elimination of the need to apply local anesthetic to the patient in order locate the access, the unnecessary bleeding or bruising of the patient and the reduction of total time of the dialysis procedure.

Abstract: The present invention provides a dialysis machine that is readily moved by a patient, nurse or other operator. A display is provided on the front of the machine, which displays and controls various dialysis functions. The display is robust, mounted directly to the body and includes an open area that can be grasped by a person to move the entire machine. The combination display/handle enables the person to move the machine from the front of same and from odd angles with respect to the machine.

Abstract: The invention provides arteriovenous grafts and methods for implanting the same. In one aspect of the invention, there are provided arteriovenous grafts that have a stepped down venous end. In another aspect, the invention provides arteriovenous grafts having cuffs for attachment to a target vein. The invention also provides methods for implanting arteriovenous grafts that include inserting the venous end of a graft into the target vein for positioning downstream of the venotomy site.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon applicator having a plunger and a barrel with a tapered insertion, which provides enhanced insertion comfort to a user. The taper of the insertion tip is defined by a ratio of the length of the taper projection along a longitudinal axis of the barrel to the length of the taper projection along a radius of the barrel at a base region of the insertion tip. The insertion end of the barrel preferably has two or more petals for enhanced user comfort. Preferably, the petals have a substantially uniform thickness. The barrel may also have a fingergrip for ease of use of the applicator during insertion, expulsion of the pledget, and removal from the vagina.

Abstract: A balloon catheter for treatment of a patient's lacrimal system is applied transnasally without the use of a guide wire or a curve retention member. The catheter is formed of a stainless steel hypotube and is of sufficient stiffness and column strength to enable the deflated catheter to be pushed from the patent's nasal cavity through a prepared small-tight opening, which is formed through the lateral nasal wall and lacrimal fossa, into the lacrimal sac. The catheter has a proximal shaft and a distal segment positioned by a bend at an angle of 70° to 115°, preferably 90°, to the proximal shaft. An inflatable member is mounted about the distal segment and is adhesively bonded to the distal end of the proximal shaft, the bend, and the proximal end of the distal segment and to the distal portion of the distal segment.

Abstract: An iontophoresis system comprises a power supply apparatus having a chargeable battery, a positive output terminal, a negative output terminal and a positive charge terminal, and a preparation having input terminals connected to output terminals of the power supply apparatus. The negative output terminal of the power supply apparatus also serves as a negative charge terminal for charging the battery. During charging, the preparation is removed, and terminals of a charger are connected to terminals of the power supply apparatus, respectively. The power supply apparatus comprises a power supply monitoring portion which gives a warning when a battery voltage becomes a predetermined value or lower and a control portion for controlling a power supply state from the output terminal.

Abstract: An aspiration flow resistor 10 includes an inlet 12 and an outlet 14. A housing 16 is connected to the inlet 12 and outlet 14. A series of spaced walls 18 are disposed between the inlet 12 and the outlet 14. The walls 18 and the inlet 12 and the outlet 14 together with the housing 16 define a plurality of aspiration flow chambers 22. As aspirant flows from the inlet 12 to the outlet 14, a pressure decrease in the aspirant flow occurs at each wall 18 to provide resistance to aspirant flow.

Abstract: A multilumen catheter having tubings extending into lumens within the catheter. The lumens may be used for blood, drugs or other medicants. The lumens may also be used for sensors. The junction element, external to the patient, connects the tubings to the lumens. The tubings, also external to the patient, connect to infusion members, to which one or more infusion systems may be connected to deliver blood, drugs and other medicants to the patient. A sensor having a sensing element may extend through the sensor lumen and be positioned internal to the patient for physiological parameter sensing. An external portion of the sensor may be connected to associated electronics to provide automatic monitoring of the physiological parameters and automatic delivery and control of the infusants.

Abstract: An abrader device for delivering a substance into skin via an abrasion process includes a housing adapted to be pressed against the skin at a desired delivery site, an applicator head disposed in an upper opening of the housing and movable across a lower opening of the housing to abrade the delivery site in at least one furrow, and an abrader surface attached to the applicator head whereby the housing remains firm and stationary at the delivery site and structure of the housing and the applicator head controls parameters of the abrasion process. In particular, the amount of force or pressure applied to the abrader surface, the speed at which the abrader surface moves across the skin and the number of lateral passes of the abrader surface across the skin are controlled so that the abrader device provides a furrow with a length of substantially the same depth thereby providing reproducible results, even though different technicians are applying the abrader device against a patient's skin.

Abstract: A device for delivering fluid to a patient including an exit port assembly, a reservoir including a side wall extending towards an outlet connected to the exit port assembly, a threaded lead screw received at least partly in the reservoir and longitudinally extending towards the outlet, and a plunger secured to the lead screw and having an outer periphery linearly slideable along the side wall of the reservoir. A tube is coaxially received on the lead screw and includes a longitudinal slot, a pin extending through the lead screw and the slot of the tube, and a gear is secured to the tube for rotation therewith.

Abstract: A catheter for delivering a therapeutic or diagnostic agent to a branch blood vessel of a major blood vessel, generally comprising an elongated shaft having at least one lumen in fluid communication with an agent delivery port in a distal section of the shaft, an expandable tubular member on the distal section of the shaft, and a radially expandable member on the tubular member. The tubular member is configured to extend within the blood vessel up-stream and down-stream of a branch vessel, and has an interior passageway which is radially expandable within the blood vessel to separate blood flow through the blood vessel into an outer blood flow stream exterior to the tubular member and an inner blood flow stream within the interior passageway of the tubular member. The radially expandable member is located down-stream of the shaft agent delivery port, and has an expanded configuration with an outer diameter larger than an outer diameter of the tubular member.