Abstract: Described herein are implantable systems and devices, and methods for use therewith, that can be used to monitor and treat heart failure (HF). Such implantable systems preferably includes a lead having at least two electrodes implantable in a patient's left ventricular (LV) chamber. A plurality of different sensing vectors are used to obtain a plurality of IEGMs each of which is indicative of an evoked response at a corresponding different region of the LV chamber. For each of the IEGMs, there is a determination of one or more evoked response metrics indicative of a localized cardiac function at the corresponding region of the LV chamber. The evoke response metrics can be, e.g., paced depolarization integral (PDI) and/or maximum upward slope of an R-wave, but are not limited thereto.

Abstract: An exhaled breath temperature (EBT) monitor that has a synchronized two-door shutter with movable individual doors coupled with a timer in order that only a pre-determined portion of the exhalation gas stream is selected for temperature monitoring. The doors can be either in a first position, whereby the shutter passes the portion of exhaled gas direct to atmosphere with no measurement of temperature, or in a second position, whereby the shutter passes the portion of exhaled gas to a chamber for measurement of temperature by a thermal core with a temperature sensor/reader.

Abstract: Method, apparatus and computer program product for monitoring seizure activity in brain are disclosed. At least one parameter set time series is derived from brain wave signal data obtained from a subject, wherein each parameter set sequence comprises sequential parameter sets and each parameter set comprises values for at least two signal parameters, the values being derived from the brain wave signal data. In order to reduce susceptibility to inter-subject variations and to enhance adaptability to each recording, past EEG signal data of the subject is used to determine an envelope object that encompasses the parameter points that sequential parameter sets derived from the past signal data form in a parameter space. A reference point is also determined, whose location in the parameter space depends on the past signal data. At least one new parameter point is then obtained from the subject and an evolution indicator set is determined.

Abstract: Single injection systems and methods to obtain parallel tissue conductances within luminal organs. In at least one embodiment of a single solution injection method to obtain a parallel tissue conductance within a luminal organ of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of introducing at least part of a detection device into a luminal organ at a first location, the detection device having a detector, applying current to the detection device using a stimulator, introducing a first signal having a first frequency and a second signal having a second frequency through the detection device, and injecting a solution having a known conductivity into the luminal organ at or near the detector of the detection device.

Abstract: Methods and systems for use in cardiac monitoring may periodically measure intrathoracic impedance using one or more pairs of electrodes and analyze measured impedance values to identify changes in the patient's thoracic fluid content for use in cardiac monitoring. The intrathoracic impedance is measured using at least one spinal cord stimulation electrode.

Abstract: A system for detecting skin contact comprises a signal generator (9) for generating an electric trigger signal; a reference circuit (10) comprising a capacitance (CREF) and a resistance (RPREF) for generating a reference signal in dependence on the trigger signal; a probe (11) touchable by a skin for measuring a skin response signal in dependence on the trigger signal; and a comparator (4) for comparing the skin response signal with the reference signal. The capacitance (CREF) of the reference circuit (10) represents a lower bound of skin capacitance, and the resistance (RPREF) of the reference circuit represents an upper bound of skin resistance.

Abstract: A system of monitoring and recording signals generated by ear functions is disclosed. The system may comprise; an electrode having an active portion shaped to fit the concha; a support structure for the electrode for locating the active portion within the concha: and a processing system in electrical communication with the electrode. In a particular embodiment, the support structure comprises a clamp having a first arm and a second arm. in another embodiment, the electrode is on the first arm and a portion of the first arm adjacent the electrode is shaped to fit within the concha, and a second electrode on the second arm serves either as an active electrode combined with the electrode placed on the concha.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tissue collection system. The system includes an outer housing, a first cylindrical fenestrated member within and immovable relative to the outer housing, a second cylindrical fenestrated member defining an inner tissue collection chamber and being positioned within and rotatable relative to the first cylindrical fenestrated member, a plunger axially movable within the second fenestrated member, an elongate rod being connected to the plunger, and one or more stop units attached to the outer housing. The present invention also relates to methods for separating components of a tissue sample using a system according to the present invention.

Abstract: A needle biopsy device is disclosed. The biopsy device includes a housing, a needle set and an actuator assembly. The needle set includes a needle having a tissue receiving opening and a cutting element adapted to pass over or through the tissue receiving opening to sever tissue extending therein. The actuator assembly includes a first magnetic member fixed in a stationary position in the housing and a second magnetic member arranged in the housing so that the second magnetic member is either magnetically attracted toward or repelled from the first magnetic member. The second member is coupled to a respective one of the needle and cutting member so that movement of the second magnetic member effectuates movement of one of the needle and cutting element.

Abstract: Processes of preventing tumor cell mestastases induced by surgical procedures such as resection or biopsy are provided. Some embodiments include applying a tissue adhesive to a structure that is then adhered to tissue providing a tensioning surface for exposing normal tissue for cutting thereby preventing contact of a surgical instrument with tumor tissue. Methods of preventing tumor cell metastasis during or following biopsy are also provided whereby an adhesive alone or optionally along with a structure occupy a track left by a biopsy needle and provide a physical barrier between tumor tissue and normal tissue. The inventive processes improve patient outcome by reducing surgically induced tumor cell metastases.

Abstract: According to the present invention, an amniotic fluid collector is configured so as to be inserted and positioned inside the vagina of a birthing mother in order to collect amniotic fluid from the womb of the birthing mother. In particular, the amniotic fluid collector of the present invention comprises: a receiving member, in the side of which an opening is defined, which is inserted into the vagina of the birthing mother and which has a receptacle defined therein for receiving the amniotic fluid; and a positioning portion for positioning the receiving member inside the vagina. Thus, the effects of alleviating pain and psychological anxiety of a birthing mother and eliminating the danger of the occurrence of complications can be achieved, as well as those of easily and smoothly collecting amniotic fluid from the womb of the birthing mother.

Abstract: The compression measurement and feedback system measures the magnitude and the angle of manual CPR force applied to a patient and provides the measured magnitude and direction information as compression data feedback to the person applying CPR to the patient. Any variation in the magnitude or direction of the compression force applied may be calculated from the compression data measured by the compression sensor. A monitor receives the compression data and processes the compression data to generate feedback data to the CPR provider indicating the magnitude and direction of the applied CPR compression along with ideal CPR compression characteristics for comparison.

Abstract: This patent describes an 8+2 degrees of freedom (DOF) intelligent rehabilitation robot capable of controlling the shoulder, elbow, wrist and fingers individually and allowing functional arm movements with accompanying trunk and scapular motions.

Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical system is provided. The ultrasonic surgical system includes an ultrasonic instrument that is configured to ultrasonically treat tissue. An ultrasonic generator configured to provide ultrasonic energy to the ultrasonic instrument provides an indication to a user that a specific outcome has been achieved. The indication is output via a device selected from an audio activation end-tone device, a visual activation end-tone device or a tactile activation end-tone device. The ultrasonic generator includes an end-tone outcome indicator module that includes memory having one or more data look up tables that is accessible by a microprocessor associated with the ultrasonic generator.

Abstract: An apparatus, system and methods thereof for generating an acoustic lubrication effect along a surface of an in-dwelling medical device that is in contact with a vital tissue in a subject are provided. The vibrations comprise: Hz range cylindrical surface vibrations; or kHz range surface acoustic wave (SAW) vibrations; or a combination thereof. The vibrations create an acoustic lubrication effect that may reduce pain or discomfort in a subject when the apparatus is used with an indwelling medical device. The vibrations may enhance tactile sensation when the medical device is a shoe pad.

Abstract: A sensory data integration system for integrating sensory data generated by a first sensory substitution device and sensory data generated by a second sensory substitution device. The system includes a processor configured to generate an orientation signal indicative of a difference between a subject's orientation and an acceptable orientation. The orientation signal is based on the sensory data generated by the first sensory substitution device and the sensory data generated by the second sensory substitution device.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a therapy system. The therapy system includes a control unit and a therapy cuff. The therapy cuff is constructed to be wrapped around an appendage of a patient. The therapy cuff includes a resistive-heating element electrically coupled to the control unit and a compression bladder fluidly coupled to the control unit via a tube. The compression bladder is disposed outwardly of the resistive-heating element. A first compression chamber and a second compression chamber are formed in the compression bladder. The resistive-heating element dilates a plurality of vessels within the appendage facilitating removal of accumulated fluid from the appendage.

Abstract: A hot stone therapy and acupressure apparatus comprising a rod having an outer diameter, a first end, a second end and a middle section, at least one stone removably mounted on the rod, wherein each stone is shaped as a hollow cylinder defining an interior surface and an exterior surface, with the interior surface having a diameter that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the rod wherein each stone is independently axially movable and positionable along the middle section of the rod, the first end and said second end portions of the rod extending beyond the at least one stone thereby forming a pair of handles for facilitating gripping the rod and positioning the apparatus across a person's body, and at least one acupressure pin removably mounted to the rod for positioning, removing and replacing the at least one stone and for applying acupressure to said person's body.

Abstract: A manual CPR apparatus for increasing the flow of blood in a patient suffering cardiac arrest. A force multiplier mounts to a base contoured to seat near a central region of the patient's chest. The force multiplier connects to a manual actuator and belt connectors which, in turn, connect to opposite ends of a substantially inelastic belt wrapped around the patient's chest. The force multiplier doubles the force manually applied to the actuator and directs it through the base toward the chest. The force multiplier includes two assemblies. The first has a pair of arms rigidly connected in the same plane to a trolley assembly and two grippable handles extending perpendicularly from either side of the trolley assembly. The second assembly has a pair of vertical struts that attach to opposite sides of the base on either side of the pair of arms of the first assembly.

Abstract: Provided is a vibrating pull-up bar configured to allow a user to perform a conventional pull-up, while at the same time imparting a vibratory force to the individual which resonates throughout the individual's body to exercise muscle groups at various locations of the user's body.

Abstract: A compression device can treat edema with a number of curved shells, each having an internal pad. A ligature network employing tensioners is routed across the shells for compressing them. Tensioners on at least some of the shells can separately adjust tension in different portions of the ligature network. The ligature network is (a) releasably mounted on the shells, and (b) repositionable to allow spatial adjustment of compression forces produced by the compression device. By adjusting the routing of the ligature network across the shells, tailored compression forces are provided. With a body part embraced by the padded shells, tension is separately adjusted in different portions of the ligature network to provide different compression forces at spaced positions along the plurality of padded shells.

Abstract: A massage device comprises an outer housing, an inner housing, a drive motor, a gear assembly, an one-way bearing, a drive gear wheel, at least one massage member, and a linear motion device. The massage member can perform massage through rotary motion and linear motion, and can massage by repeatedly moving forwards and backwards with respect to the user or at fixed positions. Furthermore, the gear wheels of the gear assembly are vertically disposed in the inner housing, while the drive motor is arranged in an oblique manner, therefore, the inner housing doesn't need a large space to accommodate the gear assembly, and consequently, the outer housing is also reduced in width.

Abstract: A belt comprising an elastic band having a central portion and two end portions, wherein a cushion is fastened on the inner surface of the central portion of the band, centered relative to the transverse median axis. The cushion is in the shape of a V whereby the tip is oriented downward when the belt is worn, and has two flanges connected by a joining area. The cushion is designed and positioned so that, when the belt is worn, the free end portion of each flange bears on the corresponding iliac crest of the person, and the joining area is in contact with the area comprising the upper portion of the sacrum and the lower portion of the lumbar vertebrae.

Abstract: A lumbo-sacral orthosis having a main body member sized to wrap substantially around a body of a wearer at the wearer's lumbar and sacral region. An outer holds the main body member at the wearer's lumbar and sacral region. An inner belt is cinched to compresses the wearer's body at the waist groove. A lumbar panel with an independently movable flexible element may be supported by the main body member. Side panels may also be supported by the main body member along with an abdominal panel which may include an independently movable lower element.

Abstract: Gauze assembly for reinforcing a stoma, comprising a reinforcing gauze with an ingrowth side and an intestinal side so that the reinforcing gauze can grow into a tissue on one side, which reinforcing gauze comprises a stoma opening with flaps which extend substantially towards the centre point of the stoma opening, which reinforcing gauze furthermore comprises a stoma access path, wherein the gauze assembly furthermore comprises a handling gauze connected with the intestinal side of said flaps so that said handling gauze can be positioned in a substantially tubular form through said stoma opening and hence said flaps can be folded at least partly towards the ingrowth side.

Abstract: Nonwoven fibrous webs including a multiplicity of randomly oriented discrete fibers and a multiplicity of chemically active particulates secured to the web, and methods of making and using same. In some embodiments, more than 0% and less than 10% wt. of the nonwoven fibrous web is made of multi-component fibers having at least a first region exhibiting a first melting temperature and a second region exhibiting a second melting temperature greater than the first melting temperature. In other embodiments, the discrete fibers include a first population of monocomponent thermoplastic fibers having a first melting temperature, and a second population of monocomponent fibers having a second melting temperature greater than the first melting temperature. In certain embodiments, at least some of the particulates are bonded to the fibers. In other embodiments, at least some of the particulates are secured within interstices of the fibrous web, without substantial bonding to the fibers.

Abstract: The inventive disclosure contained herein is generally directed to a class of medical bandages that in many embodiments are effective in the treatment of various types of tissue burns, whether be burns due to thermal burns, sun exposure, or rashes. Such products can include a plurality of specialized bandages and wraps that incorporate an extremely thin layer of thermally conductive metal (often aluminum) at the base of a substrate adapted to be in direct contact with a burn wound, while manufacturing the top side of the aluminum substrate to have a heat-dissipation-enhancing topography to help cool burns faster by enhancing thermal-convection properties. The bandage can also feature a thermochromic indicator for users to realize the thermal-cooling status of a burn to which a bandage has been applied.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods for a wound valve assembly provide an annular space extending radially around a central portion of a valve, which valve acts to substantially relieve pressure build up in a thoracic cavity when applied to a thoracic wound. In an illustrative example, the valve assembly may form an annular space that extends radially in all directions around a check valve. In some examples, gasses and exudates may flow substantially radially and/or parallel to the patient's local body. Various embodiments may advantageously provide open fluid communication for the gasses and exudates escaping from the wound when the valve assembly is partially covered (e.g., body armor, clothing, blankets), or when the patient may be lying down on the side of the body with the wound, for example.

Abstract: A wound barrier pad is provided having a housing with a housing opening. The housing has a truncated conical shape. A base plate with an opening is disposed in the housing, and the housing is filled with a fluid or padding. The wound barrier pad may also be embodied to have a cylindrical shape, a rectangular shape or other shape. The wound barrier pad may be incorporated into a garment. In another embodiment the wound barrier pad includes a ring and an adhesive such that the wound barrier pad may be directly adhered to the patient, thus eliminating the need for the garment. In another embodiment there is a wound barrier device having a pad assembly and an anti-sheer member. The anti-shear member reduces frictional forces on the skin of a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for removing gas accumulations from a component of an extracorporeal blood circuit, a control device for executing a method according to the present invention, a medical treatment apparatus which comprises at least one control device and/or stands in signal transmission or is connected for signal transmission with it, a digital storage medium, a computer program product as well as a computer program.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting a permeability or patency of a section of an extracorporeal tube which is inserted in a tube pump, a detection device for executing a method according to the present invention, a medical treatment apparatus which comprises at least one detection device and/or is in signal transmission with it or is connected for signal transmission with it, a digital storage medium, a computer program product as well as a computer program.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for removing blood from an extracorporeal blood circuit and/or a functional device, each connectable or connected with a blood treatment apparatus for the purpose of blood treatment of a patient. The blood treatment apparatus of the method comprises or is connected with at least one extracorporeal blood circuit with a line having interior portions, the extracorporeal blood circuit comprising at least one arterial line section and at least one venous line section, wherein a first section of the arterial line section is configured to be connected with a second section of the venous line section, and further comprises at least one blood pump for conveying blood within the line interior portions. The method includes the step of operating the blood pump in a second conveying direction which is opposite to a first customary conveying direction. It further relates to corresponding apparatuses.

Abstract: A blood purification apparatus has a dialyzer (1), an arterial blood circuit (2) with a blood pump (4), a venous blood circuit (3), a dialysis fluid introduction line (L1), a dialysis fluid discharge line (L2), a dialysate infusing line (L8), and a dialysate infusing pump (13). A closed circuit is formed in the flow route of the dialysis fluid on the dialysis fluid introduction line (L1) side including a predetermined part where a collection port (11) is formed. A testing process is performed to confirm the connection of the dialysate infusing line (L8) to the collection port (11) by measuring fluid pressure within the closed circuit while driving the dialysate infusing pump (13).

Abstract: A medical port includes a main channel with a lumen to conduct a first fluid through the port, a secondary channel aperture of a secondary channel to add a second fluid in the main channel, at least one housing element and at least one actuation element arranged to be transferable relative to the housing element from a first position into a second position, a seal section, which is arranged to be rotatable between a first position of the seal section, in which the seal section does not close, seal or cover the secondary channel aperture and a second position of the seal section, in which the seal section closes, seals or covers the secondary channel aperture, when the actuation element is transferred from the first position to the second position. A blood hose including at least one port, and a medical treatment apparatus are also described.

Abstract: A device for inserting a flexible silicone intubation stent into the lacrimal drainage system of a patient. The device has an oblong hollow semi-rigid probe having the flexible stent releasably secured to its blunted distal end. The probe and stent are oriented in a side-by-side configuration for endwise insertion into the punctum. The stent can be temporarily secured to the distal end of the probe by engaging the probe's distal opening. The stent can be detached by injecting a pressurized fluid through the channel of the probe thereby forcing the distal end of the stent to pop off. The proximal extremity of the stent is secured in the patient by an integrated or separate punctal anchor.

Abstract: An endoluminal sleeve device for internally lining a section of the GI tract, comprises a sleeve configured for deployment inside a duodenum, the sleeve having walls of a flexible material defining a sleeve lumen, a proximal end defining a proximal lumen opening, and a distal end defining a distal lumen opening, an anchoring component having a slender transport configuration and a bulky deployed configuration, wherein the anchoring component is locatable at a distance from the proximal sleeve end and connected thereto by an elongated tether.

Abstract: Several gastrointestinal surgery procedures are effective as treatments for metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. Minimally invasive procedures including intra-luminal gastrointestinal implants have been proposed to mimic the anatomical, physiological and metabolic changes achieved by these procedures. Many of these designs include long sleeve like elements that prevent contact of food with the walls of the small intestine. It is desirable to have simple delivery systems that can place these implants under endoscopic guidance. However, in order to anchor these sleeve elements safely and reliably, the inventors have previously disclosed anchoring means that anchor the sleeves at the junctions of the stomach and the intestine or the stomach and esophagus.

Abstract: A neural interface array including an optical waveguide, a thin film electrode array associated with the optical waveguide, the thin film electrode array having a plurality of electrodes, and a fluid delivery channel attached to at least one of the optical waveguide and the thin film electrode array. Also disclosed are methods for optical stimulation and a neural interface system with active fluid delivery.

Abstract: An implantable optical electrode having a thin film electrode array including a plurality of electrodes, a light source associated with the thin film electrode array, and a passive bioactive agent delivery module associated with the thin film electrode array. Also disclosed are methods of manufacturing the array and a neural interface system with passive fluid delivery.

Abstract: MicroElectroMechanical System (MEMS) devices can be fabricated completely of hydrogel materials. Such hydrogels can include polyethylene glycol with diacrylate functional groups (e.g., PEGDA), which are photopolymerizable in the presence of crosslinkers and photoinitiators. By using PEGDA monomers of different molecular weights and at different percentages, the mechanical properties of the polymerized gels and their respective permeabilities can be tuned. This spatial variation in properties and permeabilities can lead to different functionalities between different portions of the hydrogel MEMS device. Portions of the hydrogel device may be remotely actuated by applying wave energy, for example, a magnetic field, high intensity focused ultrasound, and/or infrared radiation. The remote actuation can allow the device to be actuated in vivo, for example, to allow the device to deliver a drug or other substance at a desired time and/or desired location within a patient.

Abstract: The method of the invention is directed at the injection of nitrogen gas into a tumor or fatty tissue mass previously made hypoxic/anoxic by obtunding its blood supply in order to facilitate the uptake of said nitrogen into the mitochondria of said tissues, where it becomes trapped and blocks oxygen re-uptake leading to mitochondrial apoptosis and death of local cells and tissue.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing dialysis therapies are provided. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for dialysis treatment comprising first and second fluid flow pathways in a parallel arrangement. The first fluid flow pathway contains a first cation exchange resin, wherein greater than 90% of exchange sites of the first cation exchange resin are populated with hydrogen ions. The second fluid flow pathway contains a second cation exchange resin, wherein greater than 90% of exchange sites of the second cation exchange resin are populated with sodium ions. The apparatus can be used to maintain a constant and safe level of sodium in a constantly regenerated dialysis fluid over an extended period of time.

Abstract: A dialysis system includes: a dialysis machine; and at least one of a blood pressure sensor and a weight sensor in wireless communication with the dialysis machine, wherein the dialysis machine is so positioned and arranged relative to the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor that the dialysis machine is discoverable by the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor when the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor, respectively, is powered, and such that the at least one blood pressure sensor or weight sensor becomes paired automatically with the dialysis machine for secure wireless communication.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods are presented in the subject disclosure for recommending an insulin dose adapted for use with an insulin delivery device. In some embodiments, the method may include receiving blood glucose (BG) data, determining one or more insulin sensitivity (IS) values associated with the BG data, and determining an insulin dose based on the determined one or more IS values. A system for carrying out such a method is also presented.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a prodrug or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, comprising a drug linker conjugate D-L, wherein D being a biologically active moiety containing an aromatic amine group is conjugated to one or more polymeric carriers via dipeptide-containing linkers. Such carrier-linked prodrugs achieve drug releases with therapeutically useful half-lives. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising said prodrugs and their use as medicaments.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to implantable medical devices which include at least one mesh and at least one film pivotably attached to the mesh.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a coated medical implant wherein the coating comprises an amorphous Me oxide layer or an (Al, Me) oxide layer deposited by physical vapor deposition, and wherein Me can be one or more of the elements of Ti, Si, Cr, Hf, Zr, Ta or Nb. The PVD layer does not have any bioactive/osseointegrating properties at temperatures below 45° C. This makes it easy to remove the implant after it has being inserted in an animal or human body, e.g. when used for fixating fractures. The coating may further comprise a calcium phosphate layer, preferably a hydroxyapatite layer, which is grown on the PVD layer using a biomimetic process. The coating may be loaded with a releasable agent such as a pharmaceutical agent, an ion or a bio molecule. The present invention also relates to a method for forming the coated medical implant.

Abstract: Guidewires, actuators and methods of using the guidewires and actuators are described. These tools and methods allow a user to select and maintain different guidewire stiffness characteristics such that a single guidewire can address a range of access capabilities.

Abstract: Systems and methods that utilize shape sensing fibers are described herein. In certain variations, a fiber may include a service loop or other length that allows for sliding or displacing of a fiber within the lumen of an elongate instrument when the distal portion of the elongate instrument is articulated. Systems and methods for registering a shape sensing fiber, including registration fixtures and registration techniques are also described herein.

Abstract: A single use syringe with plunger arm safety cover comprising a plunger arm, plunger tip, syringe body, and tip retaining sleeve is disclosed. The tip retaining sleeve surrounds tip retaining arms of the plunger tip allowing the tip retaining arms to grasp the plunger arm. After the plunger arm is pulled backwards, sleeve ribs prevent the tip retaining sleeve from moving in a forward direction. As the plunger arm is pushed forward, the tip retaining arms are no longer surrounded by the tip retaining sleeve and the tip retaining arms move outwards and release the plunger tip. After the plunger tip has been released from the plunger arm, the plunger tip and the plunger arm cannot be reconnected and the single use syringe cannot be reused. The plunger arm is removed from the syringe body and locked onto a guide lock and covers the needle tip.