Abstract: A centrifuge includes a frame, a damper connected to and supported on the frame for isolating vibrations, a drive unit connected to and supported by the damper, a swing-bucket rotor rotated by the drive unit, an accelerometer for detecting when part of the drive unit contacts part of the frame due to vibrations of the drive unit exceeding a predetermined amplitude, and a control unit for controlling the drive unit based on output from the accelerometer. When amplitude of vibrations in the drive unit exceeds a predetermined value, a portion of the drive unit contacts a portion of the frame. The accelerometer detects an impact caused by the contact between the drive unit and the frame. The drive unit is halted when output detected from the accelerometer exceeds a threshold value for detecting imbalances.

Abstract: A three-phase decanting centrifuge is provided. Solids are removed from a slurry in the centrifuge in the conventional manner, as described above. The liquid separated from the slurry moves into a fluids reservoir. Centrifugal action classifies the fluids, with lighter fluids (typically oil) radially closer to the axis of rotation of the machine, while the heavier fluids are radially farther from the axis, i.e. at the bottom of the reservoir. Lighter fluids flow out a plurality of overflow tubes. Heavier fluids flow through a plurality of ports into a heavy fluids reservoir to be skimmed out by a pair of radially actuatable skimmer tubes. The skimmer tubes are preferably automatically operated based on the light transmissivity of the lighter and heavier fluids discharged from the machine.

Abstract: A patient care apparatus comprises a portable patient support module having a first mattress, a first platform carrying the first mattress, and a first canopy positioned on the first platform to enclose an infant positioned on the first mattress in a first isolation chamber. The portable patient support module is configured to be carried by hand when the infant is positioned on the first mattress. The patient care apparatus further comprises a second patient support module having a second mattress, a second platform carrying the second mattress, and a second canopy positioned on the second platform. The second platform and the second canopy cooperate to enclose the portable patient support module positioned on the second mattress in a second isolation chamber.

Abstract: The invention consists of a broad method of presenting audible and visual cues for synchronizing the breathing cycle with an external timing reference for purposes of synchronizing the heart rate variability cycle with the breathing cycle, thereby achieving coherence of the heart rate variability cycle. A family of audible and visual indicators is specified for purposes of communicating breathing phase, change of breathing phase, progression of time within a phase, and progression of the phase relative to the internal perception of the practitioner.

Abstract: A method is provided for assessing urinary function including removably coupling a first test module to a portable control device, selecting from a plurality of different tests a first test to assess urinary function, the selection being made based on first module identification information obtained by the control device from the test module, and performing the first test. The method may also include one or more of the steps of inserting an insert member coupled to the first test module at least partially into a patient's urinary tract, infusing fluid through the insert member into the urinary tract, and measuring pressure within the urinary tract as fluid is infused therein.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a cardiac reinforcement device (CRD) and method for the treatment of cardiomyopathy. The CRD provides for reinforcement of the walls of the heart by constraining cardiac expansion, beyond a predetermined limit, during diastolic expansion of the heart. A CRD of the invention can be applied to the epicardium of the heart to locally constrain expansion of the cardiac wall or to circumferentially constrain the cardiac wall during cardiac expansion.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for implantation into the walls of an organ such as the stomach. Deformable or inflatable anchors with a connector between are used to pull the walls of the organ together, or to implant devices in the wall of the organ. Also disclosed are surgical instruments useful in practicing the disclosed methods.

Abstract: An electronic endoscope apparatus which records image data of an object under observation on a recording medium has an image storage memory capable of storing current image data for at least one examination in response to an image capture command and transfers the image data from the image storage memory to the recording medium and erases the image data stored in the image storage memory at the time of the first image capture during the next examination after an electronic scope is turned on. The image data stored in the image storage memory may also be erased at the time of the first image capture after new patient data is inputted or after the number of recorded images is reset.

Abstract: Methods and devices for rapid diagnosis and monitoring a patient for disease or effectiveness of treatment in real time. In preferred embodiments, the methods and devices comprise contacting an array of sensors with a sample from a mammal suspected of having a disease to generate a sensor array profile, measuring a clinical diagnostic marker for the suspected disease, and then developing a diagnosis using the sensor array profile in combination with the clinical diagnostic marker.

Abstract: A system for producing an ultrasound image comprises a scan head having a transducer capable of generating ultrasound energy at a frequency of at least 20 megahertz (MHz), and a processor for receiving ultrasound energy and for generating an ultrasound image at a frame rate of at least 15 frames per second (fps).

Abstract: A shoulder brace including a shoulder member mountable to a patient's shoulder, and a positioning device that increases pressure to the shoulder in accordance with the position of the patient's arm. In one embodiment, the shoulder brace includes a shoulder member with an open portion forming substantially rigid first and second arms and a positioning device that varies the spacing of the first and second arms according to the position of the patient's arm. In another embodiment, the positioning device includes a tensioning ring and first and second tension triggering straps that provide anterior and posterior compression of the shoulder joint when the arm is moved into a danger zone. In another embodiment, the shoulder brace includes a first mounting member mountable to the pectoral area, a second mounting member mountable to the upper arm, and a connecting member that connects the first and second mounting members.

Abstract: A fluid delivery system includes a first fluid container having infusion fluid for a patient. The first fluid container has an outlet and a conduit attached to the outlet. A second fluid container applies pressure to the first fluid container to force fluid out of the first container and into the conduit at a desired flow rate. A pressure sensor is coupled to the second fluid container and a flow sensor is coupled to the conduit. The processor monitors the flow rate and controls the duty cycle of a downstream flow control actuator to maintain the desired flow rate. The processor determines the downstream resistance of the system by varying the flow rate about the selected flow rate, receiving pressure signals from the pressure sensor and flow signals from the flow sensor, and calculating the change in pressure over the change in flow rate to produce the fluid resistance measurement.

Abstract: A motorized pump is disclosed that includes a flexible diaphragm fitting within a rigid member, a motor drive mechanism for drawing a puller member attached to the diaphragm away from the rigid member to create a space between the diaphragm and the rigid member and form a negative pressure region within that space, and an outlet communicating with the negative pressure region. In one embodiment, the pump provides a negative pressure in a single chamber which can be used to operate one or two breast shield assembles. In another embodiment, the pump is particularly adapted for double-pumping and provides two chambers which generate vacuum.

Abstract: A locator device precisely identifies a predetermined spot which is hidden by a skin. The device is an outer washer and an inner washer with both washers being magnetized. The inner washer is positioned underneath the skin to mark the location of the predetermined spot therein. The outer washer aligns with the inner washer when proximate thereto to thereby locate said predetermined spot.

Abstract: A system and method for determining whether the pressure in a fluid line upstream of an infusion pump is becoming lower as pumping draws fluid from the fluid line and fluid container due to a lack of proper venting. An initial pressure is sensed by an upstream pressure sensor at the start of an infusion. After a period of time, which may be determined either by monitoring infusion time or the number of pump cycles completed, a second pressure is sampled and compared to the initial pressure. Various analytical methods may be applied to the sensed pressures to determine upstream pressures or trends. Where an upstream pressure reading indicates a lack of proper venting, an alert signal is provided. Continuous monitoring may occur in which succeeding samples are compared to preceding samples to determine upstream pressures or trends.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the storage and transfer of medical material includes a syringe having a rodless piston magnetically coupled to an actuator that is positioned along the syringe independent of the rodless piston. The syringe may also include a medical material stored in a cartridge.

Abstract: An intravenous catheter placement device having a hollow body and a nose on one end of the hollow body. A needle hub fits within the nose and contains a needle embedded therein. A catheter is free to slide along the needle and substantially covers the shaft of the needle. Winged beams on the needle hub include catches and release tabs that cooperate with slots in the nose to retain the needle hub in the nose. A magnified transparent verification cavity in the needle hub provides for viewing blood flash in the cavity to verify that the intravenous catheter is inserted into the correct location. An energy storage device in contact with the needle hub releasably retains the needle hub to prevent premature projection of the needle hub into the hollow body. Upon insertion of the intravenous catheter and introducer needle into a patient, depressing the release tabs triggers the needle hub and blunts the needle within the catheter and projects the needle hub and embedded needle into the hollow body.

Abstract: A catheter assembly for intracranial treatment of a patient is provided having both outer and inner catheters. The outer catheter has at least one element and defines a lumen in communication with at least one aperture and an opening. The inner catheter is sized to be received within the lumen and includes a passageway in communication with at least one port. The element can be in the form of a contact or sensor. The outer catheter can include an inflatable balloon distal to an element. The balloon is adapted to seal upon inflation the tract created by the outer catheter when inserted into the brain. The outer catheter may have a flexible channel extending outward from the body of the catheter that permits the inner catheter to be inserted into the body through the channel. The inner catheter is preferably configured for removable engagement to a tapered fitting on the outer catheter.

Abstract: A luminal access system comprises an evertable, lubricious sleeve, a pusher tube, and optionally a lumen tube. The evertable, lubricious sleeve is attached to a non-evertable sheath which is coaxially received over the pusher tube. A distal portion of the evertable sleeve folds or everts into an axial passage of the pusher tube where it is connected to a lumen tube. A distal portion of the pusher tube may be bendable, typically comprising a relatively soft polymer which is circumferentially reinforced to enhance hoop strength.

Abstract: A pull-on disposable wearing article has a first waist region and a second waist region. The first waist region is elastically stretch- and contractible in the transverse direction. The second waist region is formed with a pair of finger-grip zones which are non-stretchable in the transverse direction and an elastically stretch- and contractible middle zone. The finger-grip zones respectively have a dimension in a range of 10 to 100 mm as measured in the transverse direction and extend from a peripheral edge of the waist-hole to peripheral edges of the respective leg-holes, along a pair of bonded zones where transversely opposite side edges of the waist regions are bonded together. The middle zone extends between the finger-grip zones is elastically stretch- and contractible in the transverse direction.

Abstract: A needle guard for a syringe including tabs and preferably springboards disposed on the needle guard configured to engage a luer lock to prevent rotation of the luer lock during needle exchange. The body of the needle guard preferably includes springboards which are in communication with tabs disposed on the shield when the shield is in a first, retracted position. Inward or radial depression of the tabs forces the springboards to contact the luer lock and prevent rotation of the luer lock. The needle guard further comprises a slot disposed near the proximal end of the shield which is configured to engage an end tab disposed near the distal end of the body. When the needle guard is activated, the shield slides to a second, extended position and the end tab enters into the slot to lock the shield in the extended position.

Abstract: A piston-type drive mechanism in combination with a positive pressure reservoir for delivery of infusion medium. A coil capable of being electrically activated to provide an electromagnetic field. The coil surrounds a piston channel extending in an axial direction. The piston channel provides a passage for communication of infusion medium from the positive pressure reservoir to an outlet chamber. A piston is located within the piston channel and is moveable axially within the channel to a forward position. The piston is moved toward a retracted position, when the coil is not energized. As the piston is moved to its forward position, pressure moves a valve member into an open position. When the valve member is in the open position, medium from the piston chamber is discharged into the outlet chamber. An outlet is provided in flow communication with the outlet chamber, for discharging infusion medium from the outlet chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a devices and methods for killing and/or debilitating pathogenic microorganisms in or on a patient's body, such as light-sensitive bacteria including helicobacter pylori and/or propionibacterium acnes. A chemiluminescent light source provides electromagnetic radiation having predetermined wavelengths in the visible spectrum. The light wavelengths are selected for absorption by naturally-occurring photosensitive chemicals produced by the patient's body.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cryosurgical catheter which is heated in order to prevent its freezing within the lumen of an endoscope. The catheter is to be used with an endoscope to perform cryoablation on an internal tissue; e.g., the esophagus. Electric conductivity to produce heat employs an electrical conductive coating on the catheter. Also, disclosed is a fitting for use with a catheter comprising both a connection for receiving gas and an electrical connection.

Abstract: An electrosurgical generator is disclosed capable of controlling the output crest factor, as well as the output power of the electrosurgical generator across a range of tissue impedances during electrosurgery. The control occurs automatically, in real time and continuously during the duration of electrosurgical activation of the electrosurgical generator by varying both the output crest factor and output power based on the changing impedance of the tissue. The electrosurgical generator also includes controls for allowing a surgeon to manually select the appropriate crest factor value and power output value for a particular surgical procedure. By automatically adjusting the output crest factor and by giving the surgeon the ability to manually “tailor” the output crest factor across a range of tissue impedance, the electrosurgical generator enhances the ultimate surgical effect and desirable surgical results.

Abstract: An electrophysiology catheter and method of use for mapping and ablation procedures. The catheter includes a braided conductive member at its distal end that can be radially expanded.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for an electrosurgical instrument, comprises a bipolar cutting blade, and fluid supply lines for directing a cooling fluid to the cutting blade, the cutting blade comprising first, second and third electrodes, and electrical insulators spacing apart the electrodes, the fluid supply lines being such that cooling fluid enters the cutting blade via the first electrode, passes through an aperture in the second electrode, and exits the cutting blade via the third electrode.

Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes an elongated shaft having opposing jaw members at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable relative to one another from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. The forceps also includes a source of electrical energy connected to each jaw member such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal. A generally tube-like cutter is included which is slidably engaged about the elongated shaft and which is selectively movable about the elongated shaft to engage and cut tissue on at least one side of the jaw members while the tissue is engaged between jaw members.

Abstract: A spinal fixation device for stabilizing one or more segments of the human spine and for preventing the dislodgement of intervertebral spinal fusion implants, which remains permanently fixated once applied. The spinal fixation device of the present invention comprises of a staple member made of material appropriate for human surgical implantation which is of sufficient length to span the disc space between two adjacent vertebrae and to engage, via essentially perpendicular extending projections, the vertebrae adjacent to that disc space. A portion of the staple of the spinal fixation device interdigitates with an already implanted intervertebral spinal fusion implant which itself spans the disc space to engage the adjacent vertebrae, and the spinal fixation deice is bound to the spinal fusion implant by a locking means.

Abstract: Spinal plate assembly, and methods of use, wherein a retaining element such as a retaining band, optionally a resiliently flexible band, mounted to a spinal plate, activates a blocking feature of the spinal plate assembly to thereby prevent the bone fastener from withdrawing out of the spinal plate assembly and past the blocking member. The apertures are typically, but not necessarily, elongate slots, elongate axes of all such slots being commonly oriented. The band can be fabricated from a variety of bio-stable, bio-compatible medical grade materials, including metals or implantable plastics. The retaining element or elements can be disposed in intermittently-located channel elements in the plate.

Abstract: A device and method for fastening one or more graft strands to a bone. The device may include a first member having a first opening and a second member having a second opening. The first member may include a plurality of radial projections defining recesses, wherein each graft is separately received in a corresponding recess. The device may also include a fastener passing through the first and second openings. The fastener may have a first portion engaging the first member and a second portion received into the bone, such that tightening the fastener against the first member compresses the graft strands between opposing faces of the first and second members.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for clamping and reclamping an orthopedic surgical cable used in conjunction with an orthopedic implant device, a bone, and/or bone implant or structure. A sequence for a method in accordance with various embodiments the invention includes providing a surgical cable clamp and an orthopedic surgical cable. Next, mounting a portion of the surgical cable to the surgical cable clamp. Next, applying a force to the portion of the surgical cable so that the surgical cable is restrained or secured relative to the surgical cable clamp with a first tension in the surgical cable. Then releasing the force on the extended portion of the surgical cable so that the surgical cable can be repositioned relative to the surgical cable clamp. Finally, applying another force to the extended portion of the surgical cable so that the surgical cable is again restrained or secured relative to the surgical cable clamp.

Abstract: A bone milling instrument is disclosed for creating a shaped cavity from an initial cavity in a bone, the bone milling instrument comprising a reference frame, a centering member at the distal end of the reference frame, a registration surface for engaging a portion of the initial cavity, and an attachment site provided proximally of the registration surface, a guidance support member, an attachment mechanism at the first end of the guidance support member, and a constrained pathway extending between the ends of the guidance support member; a shuttle having a first connection element configured for positionably attaching the shuttle to the guidance support member, and a second connection element configured to provide a rotational coupler; and a cutting device having a cutting portion configured at a distal end thereof, and an attachment portion provided at a proximal end.

Abstract: A surgical driver for use with an implant, having a shaft with proximal and distal ends and an attachment piece with proximal and distal ends. The surgical driver including a coupling arrangement that couples the shaft and the attachment piece relative to one another. The coupling arrangement includes a recess formed at the proximal end of the attachment piece and has at least one retaining member for reversibly engaging the shaft. The coupling arrangement is adapted to accommodate interaction between the surgical driver and an implant so that variable-axis torque on the implant is minimized.

Abstract: A skin exfoliating tool and kit is provided wherein the tool includes an applicator wand and a drying tray. The wand features a gripping handle, a platform projecting circumferentially outward from the handle and a pliable pad attached to the platform. The wand nests in the drying tray, the latter being formed with a cavity for receiving the pad, the cavity being defined by a floor and an open mouth. The tray has at least one drainage orifice adjacent the floor. The kit incorporates the exfoliating tool in combination with a skin exfoliating composition that is formulated with abrasive particles in a carrier vehicle.

Abstract: A device for dissecting an object, such as a cell colony includes a handle and an incision knife module that can dissociate the colony into several colony pieces. In accordance with features of the invention, users can use this dissecting device to cut an object into several pieces quickly and smoothly at a time.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting and removing a tissue is described, which includes a rotational axle device, at least one non-mechanical cutting device radially disposed from the rotational axle device, at least one device capable of protecting the heart ventricle, and a first collapsible plate. Also described is a method for cutting a tissue, such as a heart valve using the apparatus of the present invention and temporary placing a device capable of protecting the heart ventricle until a percutaneous heart valve is placed.

Abstract: The apparatus for deployment of a therapeutic device such as a micro-coil detachably mounts the therapeutic device to a distal portion of a pusher member. In one embodiment, the therapeutic device is detachably mounted to the distal portion of the pusher member by a connector fiber for securing the therapeutic device to the pusher member. The connector fiber passes through a cutter member such as a cutting ring within the distal portion of the pusher member, for cutting the connector fiber to release the therapeutic device when a desired placement of the therapeutic device within the vasculature is achieved.

Abstract: A medical chair has a cranium position regulating device and a pelvis-and-knee position regulating device for respectively regulating the positions of the cranium and pelvis of a subject who sits on a seat. The cranium position regulating device and the pelvis-and-knee position regulating device have structures in which they butt against both right and left sides of the cranium and the pelvis, respectively, to cause both planes centered in a right-and-left direction of the cranium and the pelvis to be in a same central plane which extends in the direction of gravity. An ideal condition of the body of the subject in which vertical and horizontal balances are achieved against the force of gravity can be achieved to ensure physiological curvature of vertebrae and the condition can be maintained.

Abstract: An indwelling heat exchange catheter with integrated temperature sensor includes a catheter tube. A closed loop heat exchanger extends from the catheter tube. A temperature sensor can be integrally formed with the catheter tube such that it is insulated from the closed loop heat exchanger. The indwelling heat exchange catheter can further include a guide-wire tube that extends from the catheter tube and in such a case, the temperature sensor can be affixed to the guide-wire tube. Alternatively, a wire can extend through the catheter tube and the temperature sensor can be affixed to the wire.

Abstract: A stent constructed using elements containing micro-mechanical latching mechanisms is disclosed. The micro-mechanical latching elements allow sliding motion between two surfaces in one direction, and restrict sliding motion in the opposite direction. The micro-mechanical latch surface features are formed using microelectronic mechanical systems (MEMS) manufacturing methods. The male surface of the latching components contains an array of ridges or protrusions, and the receiving surface contains a matching array of recesses. The array of ridges or protrusions and the corresponding recesses have uniformly dissimilar slopes that result in a substantially greater frictional force in one direction than in the opposite direction. The separation distance between the two surfaces is such that the male latch surface is engaged with the receiving surface recesses in the low stress “locked” state, preventing motion in the undesired direction.

Abstract: Percutaneous treatment of aortic aneurysms and like vascular anomalies by an apparatus and method wherein the apparatus is delivered via catheter and comprises a sleeve with at least one peripheral conduit which is caused to assume an expanded, rigid configuration by the introduction of a chemical or mechanical hardening means, whereby the sleeve is caused to assume an open cylindrical configuration for fluid flow therethrough.

Abstract: A stem-like bone implant includes longitudinal structural members and tension cables that provide curvature control and support, and rigidity against bending and buckling. The longitudinal structural members and tension cables may become an integral part of a composite regenerated bone having a substantially increased strength over natural bone. The flexibility of the implant is controlled by specifically varying the structural geometry of certain portions of the implant, and by adjusting the tension in the tension cables before, during and after the implantation operation to thereby adjust the stiffness of the implant. The tension cables may be adjusted to produce asymmetric or non-uniform levels of tension in the longitudinal structural members.

Abstract: Systems, bone screws, and methods for delivering a treatment agent into or near a bone, such as a vertebra are provided. The system include a hollow prosthetic vertebral body having one or more fenestrations and a liner containing a treatment agent disposed within the hollow prosthetic vertebral body. The liner is designed to provide for the controlled release of the treatment agent. Also provided are refillable cannulated bone screws having a resealable seal for delivering a treatment agent to a bone.

Abstract: Intervertebral disc prostheses are provided. More particularly, the invention provides disc prostheses that have adjustable disc heights, that are readily converted into fusion prostheses and that provide a range of motions that effectively mimic the natural range of motions of a spinal disc.

Abstract: An integrated prosthetic assembly for implanting a prosthetic joint between two bones and including at least one ligament graft. The assembly includes a plurality of joint components, a plurality of base components, and at least one drill guide keyed to one of the base components at a predetermined angle for forming a predetermined tunnel in one of the bones.

Abstract: An instrument is disclosed for inserting a modular implant, the instrument comprising a first end and a second end, the first end having engagement means for engaging a stem component of the modular implant, the engagement means comprising separation means for separating a body component of the modular implant and the stem component from one another so as to permit rotational positioning of the body component and the stem component relative to one another.

Abstract: Provided is a femoral head surface replacement system including a femoral head aspherical cup having a round cavity inside and a distal end having an open lower end, and a stem installed on the femoral head aspherical cup and extending to a lower side end thereof. In the femoral head aspherical cup, a cavity is formed so that a femoral head is inserted therein, a conic insertion protrusion protrudes from an upper side of the cavity, and the distal end is formed of a plurality of protruding portions and groove portions. In the stem, an insertion hole is formed corresponding to the insertion protrusion of the femoral head aspherical cup so that the stem is fixed to the femoral head aspherical cup as the insertion protrusion is forcibly inserted into the insertion hole.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for coloring keratin fibers and a method of use thereof. The coloring composition contains at least one phosphate-based tenside of a particular formula, at least one conditioning component, and at least one dye and/or dye precursor.

Abstract: A wafer rotating device 1 is provided with at least three rollers 2 rotatably provided about axes arranged at parallel intervals and which rotate over the circumferential surface of a disk-shaped wafer 5, a rotation drive mechanism 3 that rotates and drives at least one of the rollers 2, an interval adjustment mechanism 4 capable of adjusting the dimensions of the intervals of the rollers 2, a load control device 6 that controls the load applied from the rollers 2 to the wafer 5 in the radial direction of the wafer 5 when the wafer 5 is clamped between rollers 2. As a result, a silicon wafer can be rotated without contacting the top and bottom surfaces of the silicon wafer.