Abstract: Disclosed is a method for replacing a process instrument in a processing apparatus, in which a target object is loaded by a transfer mechanism into a processing unit and is subjected to a process by use of the process instrument. The method includes confirming that a process on the target object is finished in a processing unit designated as a process instrument replacement target, and providing information that a process instrument replacing operation is permitted to start. The method further includes, when a shutter of the processing unit designated as the process instrument replacement target is closed to perform a process instrument replacing operation and an operation prohibition state is thereby applied to the transfer mechanism, canceling the operation prohibition state to allow the transfer mechanism to perform a load/unload operation relative to a processing unit not designated as a process instrument replacement target.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for forming a stackable container from a container blank. The apparatus generally includes a blank feeder configured to place the blank on a conveyor, an index folder configured to pre-fold a plurality of inner fold-down flaps and an index flap over each of two opposing sidewall flaps of the blank, and a pressure former configured to attach a first leading extension to a leading wall of the blank and a first trailing extension to a trailing wall of the blank, wherein the first leading extension and the first trailing extension are foldably attached at an angle of about 90 degrees to one of the inner fold-down flaps or one of the sidewall flaps. Embodiments of the present the present invention can advantageously provide a reliable approach for forming a container from a blank with relatively fewer folding defects.

Abstract: A centrifuge includes a frame, a door, a restricting part, a first spring member, and a second spring member. The frame has an opening on top thereof, when the frame is disposed in an orientation in which the frame is intended to be placed. The door is movably supported on the frame to be capable of opening and closing the opening. The restricting part is provided on the frame and defines a prescribed region. The first spring member has one end pivotally supported on the door, and another end pivotally supported on the frame. The second spring member has one end pivotally supported on the door, and another end that is movable within the prescribed region.

Abstract: A breast brachytherapy applicator providing a stable semi permanent/permanent in dwelling platform that is configured to replicate anatomically the excised cancer bed and allows for a more precise anatomically correct delivery of limited field radiation treatment. This device may be used to reconstitute a resected tissue space to its pre-operative size and shape to 1) facilitate the accurate and precise delivery of adjunctive breast brachytherapy following breast cancer surgery and 2) prevent/decrease post-operative deformity as a result of surgical resection, whether for benign or malignant disease, and in particular after radiation treatment of malignant disease in the post lumpectomy patient.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to surgically implantable supportive slings. More specifically, in various embodiments, the invention is directed to systems, devices and methods relating to a surgically implantable supportive sling having an adjustable shape.

Abstract: A detecting system of the position and the posture of a capsule medical device includes a main body of the capsule medical device that is inserted in a living body, a coil in a capsule that is arranged to the main body of the capsule medical device and forms a resonant circuit, a magnetic field generating device that is arranged around the living body and generates the Alternating magnetic field for generating an induced magnetic field in the coil in the capsule, and a plurality of magnetic field detecting devices that detect the strength of the induced magnetic field generated by the coil in the capsule by the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a medical device for accessing a patient's body portion and used for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Embodiments of the invention may include a particular endoscopic positioning mechanism for placing an endoscope and an additional treatment device within desired body portions in order to assist in diagnosis and treatment of anatomical diseases and disorders. In particular, a medical device according to an embodiment of the invention includes a positioning mechanism configured for movement through at least two degrees of freedom.

Abstract: A guide system for use with an endoscope, and a method of use is disclosed. The guide system can include a track, in the form of a rail, and a mating member for engaging the rail. The guide system can also include an accessory, such as an accessory guide tube through which a medical instrument can be carried external of the endoscope. An end cap can be provided to support the track relative to the distal end of the endoscope.

Abstract: Methods for stabilizing and positioning an endoscope using various braided devices and suture techniques. Related endoscopic surgical procedures are also disclosed. A surgical method comprises introducing an endoscope into a patient's natural orifice. The endoscope is guided in a patient's alimentary tract lumen, the alimentary tract lumen being defined by the alimentary tract wall. One or more sutures are anchored at the target site of the surgical procedure. The sutures are tensioned to position the endoscope while the sutures pass through a working channel of the endoscope.

Abstract: An incrementally adjustable wound retractor, which provides access to a body cavity, includes an inner ring having a diameter greater than the desired diameter of the wound incision, an outer ring having an annular axis and a diameter greater than the desired diameter of the wound incision, and a flexible sleeve disposed in a generally cylindrical form between the inner and outer rings. The outer ring includes first and second circular tubes spaced apart axially with each including a lumen having a rigid, noncompliant split hoop placed therein. The outer ring may be rolled over itself and around the annular axis to retract the sleeve with sufficient force to stretch the incision to the desired diameter. A gel cap seal may be coupled to the outer ring outside of the biological body to seal the opening produced by the wound retractor between the body cavity and outside the body cavity.

Abstract: A plurality of co-operative and complementary software programs are implemented in a web-enabled high speed computer system to remotely monitor, manage and modify the operational and functional parameters of a plurality of implanted medical devices (IMDs). The system utilizes virtual electrophysiologist module (VEM), chronic monitoring module (CMM) and prescription program module (PPM) programs to effect specific therapeutic and diagnostic methods for managing the IMDs, remotely on a conditions and real-time basis. The modules enable remote and continuous monitoring, management and maintenance of the IMDs by identifying critical medical events, determining optimal clinical settings and upgrading performance parameters based on prescriptive data. The modules are implemented in a data center having high-speed computers operating in a web-enabled environment. The modules and the IMDs communicate through wireless communications system via a programmer or an interface medical unit (IMD).

Abstract: Continuous Glucose Error-Grid Analysis (CG-EGA) method, system or computer program product designed for evaluation of continuous glucose sensors providing frequent BG readings. The CG-EGA estimates the precision of such sensors/devices in terms of both BG values and temporal characteristics of BG fluctuation. The CG-EPA may account for, among other things, specifics of process characterization (location, speed and direction), and for biological limitations of the observed processes (time lags associated with interstitial sensors).

Abstract: A methodology and system for lysing adipose tissue including directing ultrasonic energy at a multiplicity of target volumes within the region, which target volumes contain adipose tissue, thereby to selectively lyse the adipose tissue in the target volumes and generally not lyse non-adipose tissue in the target volumes and computerized tracking of the multiplicity of target volumes notwithstanding movement of the body.

Abstract: A delivery system includes a rigid shaft, an imaging core, and an interventional core. The rigid delivery shaft has a proximal end, an angled distal tip, and an axial passage therethrough. The imaging core comprises an ultrasound imaging insert disposed within the axial passage. The imaging insert has an ultrasound array within a distal portion thereof, wherein the ultrasound array is tilted relative to a shaft axis. The interventional core comprises a curved ablation needle coupled to the rigid shaft. An angle of needle curvature may be inversely proportional to the ultrasound array tilt and tip angle.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system and method are described by which a user can delineate a region of interest (122, 128) in a colorflow Doppler image. The ultrasound system processes the Doppler pixel information of the region of interest (122, 128) to produce a spectrogram illustrating motion at the region of interest (122, 128) as a function of time. In a preferred embodiment the Doppler pixel information is processed by histograms to produce the spectrogram data.

Abstract: A description is given of a method of spectral analysis of a radio frequency ultrasonic signal reflected by a structure subjected to echographic examination, comprising the steps of: a) transmitting an ultrasonic excitation signal into a portion of said structure under examination; b) receiving a radio frequency response signal from said structure; c) applying a time-frequency transform to said radio frequency response signal, dividing the radio frequency response signal into a plurality of frequency bands; d) calculating a local spectral parameter from the values of the time-frequency transform.

Abstract: Systems and methods for noninvasive assessment of cardiac tissue properties and cardiac parameters using ultrasound techniques are disclosed. Determinations of myocardial tissue stiffness, tension, strain, strain rate, and the like, may be used to assess myocardial contractility, myocardial ischemia and infarction, ventricular filling and atrial pressures, and diastolic functions. Non-invasive systems in which acoustic techniques, such as ultrasound, are employed to acquire data relating to intrinsic tissue displacements are disclosed. Non-invasive systems in which ultrasound techniques are used to acoustically stimulate or palpate target cardiac tissue, or induce a response at a cardiac tissue site that relates to cardiac tissue properties and/or cardiac parameters are also disclosed.

Abstract: An ultrasonic monitor implemented on a PCB includes a transmission medium. The transmission medium may be biocompatible and implemented as an oil-based transmission medium, a gel pad, or a combination thereof. Ultrasonic signals are transmitted between the ultrasonic monitor and a living subject through the transmission medium. An air gap is formed in the PCB underneath transducer elements to provide for more efficient signal transmission. The entire ultrasonic monitor may be encapsulated in plastic, a transmission medium, or both to provide water resistant properties.

Abstract: A method for determining haemodynamic parameters from patient pressure signals includes receiving patient pressure signals from a measurement receiver to which vessel pressures measured in the body of a patient are supplied, selecting and determining a patient pressure signal as reference pressure signal from the patient pressure signals sent from the measurement receiver, dividing the patient pressure signals and reference pressure signal into segments, and examining these segments for artifacts with methods in the time range by using the first derivative with respect to time of the pressure signals wherein artifact afflicted segments are discarded. The method further includes determining the start and end of a heart beat by the reference pressure signal and using the non-discarded segments of the patient pressure signals for calculating haemodynamic parameters.

Abstract: A method of locating the fossa ovalis in a patient by locating the His bundle, plane of the interatrial septum, and coronary sinus ostium in a patient, and thereafter locating the fossa ovalis on the basis of one or more predetermined distances between the fossa ovalis and the His bundle and the coronary sinus ostium. An apparatus for locating the fossa ovalis and performing a transseptal puncture is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for determining a dynamical property of the systemic or pulmonary arterial tree using long time scale information, i.e., information obtained from measurements over time scales greater than a single cardiac cycle. In one aspect, the invention provides a method and apparatus for monitoring cardiac output (CO) from a single blood pressure signal measurement obtained at any site in the systemic or pulmonary arterial tree or from any related measurement including, for example, fingertip photoplethysmography. According to the method the time constant of the arterial tree, defined to be the product of the total peripheral resistance (TPR) and the nearly constant arterial compliance, is determined by analyzing the long time scale variations (greater than a single cardiac cycle) in any of these blood pressure signals.

Abstract: An integrated lancing test strip includes a test strip and a lancet packet coupled to the test strip. The lancet packet includes a sterility sheet enclosing a lancet to maintain the sterility of the lancet and prevent cross-contamination between the test strip and the lancet. The sterility sheet allows the lancet to be sterilized separately from the test strip. The sterility sheet gives the integrated strip a low profile, which is attractive for packaging multiple integrated strips in cassettes, drums, magazines or the like. In one form, the integrated strip is loaded in a meter that includes an adjustment mechanism that adjusts the position of the test strip relative to the skin being sampled. This allows the user to adjust the position of the test strip so as to not apply excessive pressure against skin, which could hamper bleeding from the incision in the skin.

Abstract: The invented guidewire relates to improvements in a magnetically navigable medical guidewire to enable passage through an occluded or partially occluded vessel. The guidewire comprises an elongate wire having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end further comprises a magnetically responsive element and a helical thread formed on the tip. The distal end of the guidewire may be preferably aligned substantially in the direction of an applied magnetic field, after which the proximal end of the guidewire may be torqued to rotate the threaded tip while remaining aligned with the applied magnetic field and cause the tip to screw through the blockage in the occluded vessel.

Abstract: A method for exercising cells within a body is provided, including selecting a portion of the body to receive cellular exercise, enclosing the portion of the body with a covering to form an essentially watertight space in contact with the portion of the body, introducing into the watertight space a liquid, such that the liquid is in contact with the portion of the body, and introducing sound waves into the liquid. Various embodiments of the present invention include pressurizing the essentially watertight space.

Abstract: A massager (12) includes an inductively chargeable battery (48), avoiding the need to deal with batteries and cords while providing a pleasant exothermic warmth. Different embodiments of sealing and skinning (13) make the massager (12) hygienically safe and fluid- and water-resistant. Sophisticated controls (50) provide the massager with the ability to respond to direct-mounted user controls (20, 22), wireless communication controls such as remote controls (30) and a plethora of other protocol-compatible devices, systems and media. A mating base (14) supports the massager (12) for inductive charging in a stable, aesthetically pleasant and safe relationship.

Abstract: A device for applying treatment, or therapy, to a body part directs air efficiently and effectively to the body part by using an air diverter. In particular, a device for treating a body part, such as a massager, has one or more treatment areas positioned to deliver treatment to the body part and an air blower having an air outlet that creates a flow of air in an outward direction from the air outlet. The air diverter is positioned to divert the flow of air to the one or more treatment areas.

Abstract: An adjustable device is described for applying pressure to an area of a person while substantially eliminating pressure from a prescribed area. The device includes a panel, a first elastic belt, a second elastic belt, a first elastic strap, and a second elastic strap. These elements are connected to one another such that the panel is flanked on one side by the first panel and the first elastic belt and, on the other side, by the second panel and the second belt. Alternate embodiments include several panels disposed side-by-side or on top of one another.

Abstract: A lower back orthosis bandage includes a middle piece having a first flat end and a second flat end, a first end piece having a mouth-like end and a second end piece having a mouth-like end. The first end piece is releasably connected to the first flat end of the middle piece by the mouth-like end of the first end piece. The second end piece is releasably connected to the second flat end of the middle piece by the mouth-like end of the second end piece. The first end piece and the second end piece are connectable to each other to close the bandage.

Abstract: Adjustable restraint includes a plantar plate surrounded by a peripheral element about which a plurality of supports can be positioned; a support system attachable to that plate or element for providing vertical and horizontal support; and a lower leg securing housing. The housing is attachable to the support system through adjustable fastener(s) such it can be adjusted vertically and secured in position with respect to the plantar plate. A sole portion of the plantar plate may be removable. The support system can include first support(s) and second support(s) attachable to the plate or element, and, through first adjustable fastener(s) and second adjustable fastener(s), respectively, the first adjustable fastener(s) and second adjustable fastener(s) be attachable to the housing.

Abstract: A below-knee orthosis with fastening devices for fastening the orthosis to the foot and to the lower leg includes an L-shaped support spring made of a resilient material. The L-shaped support spring has an upright branch that defines a contact plane, and is intended to bear on the dorsal aspect of the lower leg. The lower end of the upright branch is adjoined by a horizontal branch designed to engage under the foot. The below-knee orthosis allows for an improved heel-to-toe behavior in the material of the support spring which takes into account the natural outward position of the foot by the upright branch being twisted in the lower area in such a way that the horizontal branch continuing the lower end is turned outward by an angle ? from the plane lying perpendicular to the contact plane of the upright branch above the twisted lower area.

Abstract: A device and method for selectively controlling the direction of blood flow to and from the patient during hemodialysis is provided. Specifically, the device and method reverse flow between four fluid lines without changing connections between a patient and a hemodialysis machine. Advantageously, the blood is subjected to minimal stresses as it passes through the switching device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an anchor configured for minimally-invasive implantation and sized to remain securely positioned within at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract of an animal. The anchor includes a radial spring formed from an elongated resilient member shaped into an annular wave pattern about a central axis. The anchor defines a central lumen and provides an outward radial force, while allowing for substantial flexure about its perimeter. The anchor is generally removable, but can include fasteners, such as barbs, to further secure it to the surrounding anatomy. In some embodiments, the anchor includes a connector coupling a fixed portion to a removable portion. Further, the anchor can be used to secure a medical device within the body, such as a flexible sleeve within the intestine.

Abstract: Devices and methods for altering gaseous flow within a lung to improve the expiration cycle of an individual, particularly individuals having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The methods and devices create channels in lung tissue and maintain the patency of these surgically created channels in tissue. Maintaining the patency of the channels allows air to pass directly out of the lung tissue which facilitates the exchange of oxygen ultimately into the blood and/or decompresses hyper-inflated lungs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and articles for anchoring within a natural bodily lumen. An anchor is adapted to provide differing radially-outward forces along its length, a securing force and a transitional force. Production of these forces can be controlled by varying a physical property of the anchor, such as its stiffness, thickness, or shape. For example, the stiffness of an elongated anchor can be varied from a relatively soft value at its proximal and distal ends to a relatively stiff value at its center by varying the diameter of wire forming the anchor, thereby tailoring it to an intended application. Such force tailoring can be combined with external barbs and used to reliably anchor other instruments, such as feeding tubes and intestinal sleeves.

Abstract: This invention comprises a flexible ocular device for implantation into the eye formed of a biocompatible elastomeric material, foldable to a diameter of 1.5 mm or less, comprising a fluid drainage tube having at one end a foldable plate adapted to locate the device on the inner surface of the sclera in a suprachoroidal space formed by cyclodialysis, said drainage tube opening onto the disc at one end and opening to the anterior chamber when implanted into the eye at its other end, so as to provide aqueous pressure regulation. Also provided are methods for the treatment of glaucoma utilizing the flexible ocular device, and an ocular pressure spike shunt.

Abstract: A device for introducing an object into a vagina includes finger mounting means whereby the device is mountable on a user's finger, and a holder which protrudes from the finger mounting means and which is insertable into a user's vagina, the holder being configured to hold an object whilst being inserted into the user's vagina and then release the object once positioned inside the vagina.

Abstract: Provided is a tampon applicator having one or more insertion indicators to gauge and/or control the insertion depth of a tampon. The one or more insertion indicators may be located on the tampon applicator barrel, plunger, tampon, removal string, or any combinations thereof. As a result of the one or more insertion indicators, a woman can adjust the insertion depth of the tampon to her body's requirements ensuring leakage protection, comfort, or both.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis system includes: (i) a hardware unit, the hardware unit including a pump actuator; (ii) a disposable unit received by the hardware unit, the disposable unit having a moveable membrane operable with the pump actuator, the pump actuator moveable towards and away from the disposable unit; and (iii) the hardware unit and disposable unit configured to hold a negative pressure between the pump actuator and the moveable membrane of the disposable unit, the negative pressure causing the moveable membrane to follow the pump actuator as the actuator is moved away from the disposable unit, the pump actuator and membrane positioned relative to each other such that the membrane moves with the pump actuator as the actuator is moved into the disposable unit.

Abstract: Fluid delivery devices having a porous applicator, as well as methods for using the same in the highly localized delivery of fluid to a target site, are provided. The subject devices have a porous applicator through which fluid must flow in order to contact the target delivery site. The subject devices find use in a variety of fluid delivery applications in which the localized delivery of a fluid to a target site is desired. Also provided are systems and kits that include the subject fluid delivery devices.

Abstract: Stuttering-treatment techniques using neural stimulation and/or drug delivery. One or more electrodes and/or a catheter are implanted adjacent to sites in the brain. A signal generator and the electrode deliver stimulation to a first site. A pump and the catheter deliver one or more therapeutic drugs to a second site. The first and second sites could be: the supplementary motor area, the centromedian circuit, the dorsomedial nuclei, the lateral prefrontal circuit, or other paramedian thalamic and midbrain nuclei. The stuttering treatment could be performed via periodic transcranial magnetic stimulation. A sensor, located near the patient's vocal folds, can be used for generating a signal responsive to activity of the patient's speech-producing muscles. A controller adjusts one or more stimulation parameters in response to the signal from the sensor.

Abstract: An injection device for use with a two-chamber ampoule, wherein the device includes a front casing part with which the two-chamber ampoule can be associated, a rear casing part, a threaded drive accommodated by the rear casing part, a piston rod which, during a blending movement, is moved by the threaded drive toward a dispensing end of the device and slaves at least a closing piston of the two-chamber ampoule in the process, wherein a spring element presses the piston rod toward the dispensing end during a delivery movement.

Abstract: An intravascular balloon catheter having an ultra soft tip. The catheter includes a braided reinforcement member extending substantially the length of the elongate shaft. A balloon is disposed at the distal end of the elongate shaft. An ultra soft tip is formed from a distal portion of balloon material extending distal of the distal end of the elongate shaft.

Abstract: A rapid-exchange balloon catheter or stent delivery system, for medically treating a patient, has a proximal hub, a balloon, and an improved shaft design. The catheter shaft has a tubular outer body that includes a hypotube extending from the catheter proximal end to a position at or near the proximal leg of the balloon. An inner tubular body defines a guidewire lumen and extends from a distal guidewire port at the catheter distal end to proximal guidewire port located between the balloon and the proximal hub. The hypotube has an aperture for accepting the inner body proximal end and a circumferential cut pattern. The cut pattern adds flexibility and may have any desired shape, including a spiral, a helical undulating path, or an overlapping serpentine path with inflection points, for example. The proximal guidewire port may be positioned on or in between the individual portions of the cut pattern.

Abstract: Methods of and devices for palliating gastrointestinal strictures using rapid exchange type enteral stent placement catheters. The catheter may include an inner member and an outer member, with the two members being slidable with respect to one another. In various device embodiments, a ramp for directing a guidewire out from within the catheter is provided using portions of the outer member or a shaped mandrel. The inner member may take a number of forms, including a tubular distal portion, a skived or integrally attached elongate midsection, and a proximal portion. A mandrel can be used in a portion proximal of the guidewire ramp, with the mandrel taking one of several disclosed forms.

Abstract: An infusion system for infusing a liquid into a body includes an external infusion device and a remote commander. The external infusion device includes a housing, a receiver, a processor and an indication device. The receiver is coupled to the housing and for receiving remotely generated commands. The processor is coupled to the housing and the receiver to receive remotely generated commands and to control the external infusion device in accordance with the commands. The indication device indicates when a command has been received and indicates when the command is being utilized to control the external infusion device so that the external infusion device is capable of being concealed from view when being remotely commanded. The remote commander includes a commander housing, a keypad for transmitting commands, and a transmitter for transmitting commands to the receiver of the external infusion device.

Abstract: A method of delivering a substance into an eye includes recognizing a connection between a tip segment and a limited reuse assembly; receiving dosage information from the tip segment; activating a temperature control device to alter a temperature of a substance to be delivered into an eye; receiving temperature information from a thermal sensor; using the temperature information to control the temperature control device; receiving an input indicating that the substance is to be delivered; and based on the dosage information, controlling an actuator to move a plunger to deliver the substance.

Abstract: A device and method for the infusion of medicinal fluid at a controlled flow rate to a wound site or the blood stream of a patient is disclosed. A pump delivers fluid under pressure from a fluid source through a continuous and substantially constant flow path and through a supplemental bolus dose flow path. A large volume bolus dose reservoir accumulates a large quantity of fluid from the bolus dose flow path and holds the fluid under pressure. A flow regulator controls the fill rate of the large volume bolus reservoir. The large volume supplemental bolus dose is released from the bolus reservoir upon patient activation of a valve. The release rate of the bolus dose is controlled by the decompression of an elastomeric sphere or spring chamber, by the pressure gradient at the valve and/or by optional flow control tubing.

Abstract: An emergency multi-medication pump injection system is designed for use in rapidly and automatically calculating and administering multiple medications in an emergency setting. The system includes a compact, portable housing comprising a plurality of medication ports, each port configured to receive a corresponding ampoule containing a corresponding medication. The system further includes at least one pump on or within the housing for dispensing a calculated dosage amount of one or more medications from the ampoules, at least one delivery tube for conveying the medication(s) from the system for delivery to the patient, and safety means for ensuring that each ampoule can only be installed in a port to which the particular ampoule corresponds. The pump injection system may include data inputs for inputting data relating to patient weight, medication concentration, medication dosage, and the like.

Abstract: A syringe adapter assembly comprises an adapter body and a ram extender. In one embodiment, the adapter body (12) is attached to an injector by a rear connector plate (50). In a second aspect, the adapter body (12, 122) may comprise a drain hole (130) and/or sealing ring (140). In another aspect, the invention comprises a cleaning member (200) having a body (204) and a plurality of cleaning members (210, 220, 230) extending therefrom.

Abstract: An insertion device for an infusion set, the device including a retention means by which the infusion set can be temporarily held on the device and drive means including a pretensionable spring for providing drive energy for an insertion movement of the infusion set, wherein the infusion set is secured by the retention means by clamping when the retention means is in an engage position and can then be moved, with simultaneous pretensioning of the spring, to an insertion movement starting position, wherein the infusion set is already separated from the retention means at the start of the insertion movement, and wherein the infusion set moves through at least part of the insertion movement free of the retention means.