Abstract: In an endoscope, a flexible device of an elongated tube has a variable stiffness device. The variable stiffness device includes a movable control wire and a coil spring, to which compression force is applied to change stiffness. There occur changes in stiffness of the flexible device in plural radial directions of the coil spring at an equal point in an axial direction. The variable stiffness device is so constructed that a difference between maximum and minimum levels of stiffness of the variable stiffness device is set at most 0.2 time as much as stiffness of the flexible device with internal structures other than the variable stiffness device. Thus, unexpected grip feeling in manipulation of an operator at the time of advance can be removed in relation to undulating motion of the coil spring.

Abstract: A removable, resilient atraumatic sheath for arthroscopic instruments. The sheath covers sharp edges on the arthroscopic instrument, particularly the distal tip of the rigid cannula, and thereby protects tissue and objects near a surgical site from accidental trauma. The sheath may be provided in the form of an inflow/outflow sheath that allows a surgeon to irrigate and drain a surgical field without the use of a separate irrigation instrument. The distal tip of the sheath may comprise a dissimilar material of a higher modulus of elasticity than the material comprising the remainder of the tube.

Abstract: An endoscope sheath comprising: a proximal end; a distal end having a distal end region; a surface extending between and connecting the proximal end and the distal end; and a plurality of positioning devices located along the surface; wherein the sheath is configured to (1) receive all or a portion of an endoscope having a cylindrical end and (2) provide a conduit for communicating fluid between the proximal end of the sheath and the distal end of the sheath when the endoscope is inserted inside the sheath; and wherein the distal end region of the sheath includes the plurality of positioning devices that secure the cylindrical end of the endoscope against a portion of an inner wall of the surface extending between the proximal end and the distal end so that a fluid barrier is created between the cylindrical end of the endoscope and the inner wall.

Abstract: An endoscope sheath comprising: (a) a tube configured to receive all or a portion of a shaft of an endoscope, the endoscope including a light post in a proximal end region of the endoscope; and (b) an arm attached to and extending from a proximal end region of the sheath; wherein the arm has one or more features that are in communication with the light post to orient the sheath axially and rotationally with respect to the endoscope.

Abstract: A system comprising: (a) a sheath configured to receive all or a portion of an endoscope; (b) an irrigation line connecting the sheath to an irrigation source; (c) a suction line connecting the sheath to a suction source; and (d) a control module located between the sheath, and the irrigation source and the suction source and controls flow of irrigation fluid from the irrigation source to the sheath and movement of suction between the suction source and the sheath; wherein the irrigation source is connected to a resilient reservoir that is located within the control module and movement of the control module compresses the resilient reservoir moving irrigation fluid from the resilient reservoir to the sheath so that the irrigation fluid assists in cleaning the endoscope, and wherein the control module includes a valve and compression of the resilient reservoir initiates movement of the valve so that the valve opens and suction from the suction line is applied to the sheath.

Abstract: An endoscope includes an insertion portion, a first bending portion, a second bending portion, a bending operation wire, a first coil sheath, a switching mechanism, a guide, a first region of the guide, a second region of the guide, and a central part formed between the first region and the second region on an inner surface of the guide, protruding inside more than the first region and the second region and formed to be longer than a coil elemental wire making up the first coil sheath.

Abstract: An endoscope sheath comprising: a tube having: a proximal end having a proximal end region and a distal end; and a conduit that extends through a portion of the endoscope sheath so that the proximal end region of the endoscope sheath and the distal end of the endoscope sheath are in fluid communication when an endoscope is inserted inside the endoscope sheath; and wherein the endoscope sheath is configured to receive all or a portion of the endoscope; wherein the distal end of the endoscope sheath has a flow director configured to direct irrigation fluid across a lens on the distal end of the endoscope; and wherein the flow director is a flexible flap.

Abstract: An endoscope includes a window component made of a transparent material at the distal end of the endoscope, wherein the window component is not rotationally symmetric in relation to the direction of view, and an optical correction apparatus for correcting the aberration of the window component.

Abstract: Embodiments of a natural orifice access device that is adapted for being coupled to a cap and that may be adjusted in length to accommodate variations in patient body types and variations in the location of surgical sites within the natural orifices of patients are described.

Abstract: Features of guides and surgical implements, which may be utilized together in various assemblies, are disclosed. Surgical implements or other devices within the scope of this disclosure may include a circumferentially grooved knob. The knob may be configured to receive a portion of a guide. Further, a clip may be configured to releasably secure the guide to the surgical implement. The clip may be coupled to the knob, for example, by a strap rotatably coupled to the knob. The knob may also define a stop-ledge configured as an abutment for the guide. The knob may also define a central passageway, which may also be surrounded by a hollow hub, for receiving an additional surgical implement or device.

Abstract: A cannula assembly includes a cannula adapted for insertion within tissue and having a longitudinal passage extending along a longitudinal axis of the cannula for passage of a surgical instrument. An expandable member is mounted to the cannula and longitudinally spaced from a distal end of the cannula. The expandable member is adapted to expand, upon introduction of fluids therein, in a radially outward direction relative to the longitudinal axis whereby the expandable member engages the tissue to facilitate anchoring of the cannula relative to the tissue, and also to expand in a radially inward direction relative to the longitudinal axis and within the longitudinal passage to engage the surgical instrument positioned within the longitudinal passage to facilitate formation of a seal about the surgical instrument.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and devices for obtaining percutaneous access, maintaining hemostasis, and providing closure of openings in tissues of the body. In particular, the present invention provides methods and devices for maintaining hemostasis and providing closure surgical incisions of the left ventricular apex of the heart.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus for positioning within a tissue tract accessing an underlying body cavity is adapted to tissues having different thicknesses. The surgical apparatus is configured to have different lengths. In one embodiment, the surgical includes a seal anchor member having two ends, and one of which is adapted to fold resulting in a plurality of folded states. Each folded state corresponds to a different length of the seal anchor member. The seal anchor member includes a slot to facilitate transition within the plurality of folded states. The seal anchor member further includes an aperture and a pin configured to further facilitate transition within the plurality of folded states.

Abstract: A multiple piece tongue blade is described. The multiple piece tongue blade is provided with a step and a tip. The stem is adapted to be inserted into a handle of a surgical retractor. The tip is adapted to be selectively attached to the stem. The tip is insertable into a mouth of a patient such that the tip applies pressure onto a tongue of the patient.

Abstract: Systems and methods related to the field of cardiac resuscitation, and in particular to devices for assisting rescuers in performing cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), are described herein. In one aspect, a method for managing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) treatment to a person in need of emergency assistance includes monitoring a parameter that indicates a fatigue level of a rescuer and providing an indication that a different person should perform the CPR component if the rescuer is exhibiting fatigue.

Abstract: This document relates to receiving and processing signals during cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) treatment. This document further relates to establishing a localized, patient-specific network for communication of information from one or more sensors to a computing device.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. The wearable monitor can interoperate wirelessly with other physiology and activity sensors and mobile communications devices, to download monitoring data either in real-time or in batches. The monitor recorder can provide data or other information to, or receive data or information from, an interfacing physiology or activity sensor, or mobile communications devices for relay to a further device, such as a server, analysis, or other purpose.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally (in the midline) on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. Instead, the patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. Power is provided through a battery provided on the electrode patch, which avoids having to open the monitor recorder's housing for battery replacement. The monitor further includes sensors for monitoring patient's air flow and respiratory measures contemporaneously with the ECG monitoring.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through an actigraphy sensor imbedded into an electrocardiography monitor, which correlates movement and electrocardiographic data. Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally on the patient's chest along the sternum. The patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. The occurrence of actigraphy events are monitored by the monitor recorder through an actigraphy sensor. Actigraphy becomes a recordable actigraphy event occurrence when the movement of the wearable monitor and, therefore, the patient, exceeds a certain criteria threshold of acceleration or deceleration as detected by the actigraphy sensor.

Abstract: A head mounted system includes a physiological signal sensor, a signal processing circuit, a memory, an application processor, and an eyeglass frame. The physiological signal sensor monitors a physiological state to output a physiological signal. The signal processing circuit determines whether the physiological state is abnormal according to the physiological signal. When it is not abnormal, the signal processing circuit controls the physiological signal sensor to monitor the physiological state at a first monitoring frequency. When it is abnormal, the signal processing circuit outputs a warning signal, and controls the physiological signal sensor to monitor the physiological state at a second monitoring frequency greater than the first monitoring frequency. The application processor receives the warning signal and stores physiological data corresponding to the physiological signal in the memory.

Abstract: A contact sensor and system for incorporation within clothing and other wearable items to monitor activity at a body surface. The sensor includes a contact membrane having a body surface contacting area and one or more base layers of knitted fabric. The base layer(s) is thicker over an area congruent with the body surface contacting area of the contact membrane. As a result, the contact membrane is urged into the forming of a raised outer surface for projection against a body surface.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and system for facilitating a remote preliminary medical diagnosis of patients. An examination apparatus is provided comprising a single jacket attached to a smartphone and enabling a set of necessary examinations for preliminary medical diagnosis. In another aspect of the present invention the apparatus consists of a single attachment connected to the smart phone. The invention further discloses methods for remotely performing a set of necessary examinations by which a physician makes a remote diagnosis of the patient and if required issues a digital prescription or summons the patient for further examination. The medical information can be recorded, filed and shared by the patient, by the physician and by the pharmacy.

Abstract: A voxel tagging system (100) includes a sensing enabled device (104) having an optical fiber (126) configured to sense induced strain within the device (Bragg grating sensor). An interpretation module (112) is configured to receive signals from the optical fiber interacting with an internal organ, e.g. heart, and to interpret the signals to determine positions visited by the at least one optical fiber within the internal organ. A data source (152, 154) is configured to generate data associated with an event or status, e.g. respiration, ECG phase, time stamp, etc.. A storage device (116) is configured to store a history (136) of the positions visited in the internal organ and associate the positions with the data generated by the data source (152, 154).

Abstract: Implementations disclosed herein provide a hydration monitoring technology. In one implementation, a hydration monitoring device measures whole body hydration levels by analysis of changes in vascular volume caused by pulsatile pressure waves and in tissue volume in response to the pulsatile pressure. The hydration monitoring device uses a light-based measurement technique to transmits light, reflectively or transmissively, through tissue. Based on wavelength measurements of the detected light, the hydration monitoring device produces a PPG waveform representing characteristic effects of hydration. The hydration monitoring device monitors operating condition signals associated with the hydration monitoring device. By monitoring operating condition signals, the hydration monitoring device determines whether the operating condition signals satisfy an analysis condition, and modifies the optical sensing operations.

Abstract: A computerized method for determining maximal oxygen uptake for a user with incomplete data with data collected from a plurality of other users with complete data. The maximal oxygen uptake can be determined by computing similarity metrics between an incomplete data set of self-reported and measured data and complete user data sets, and using a weighted sum of the similarity metrics. The results of the maximal oxygen update calculation can be cross-validated with known user data sets.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring a first bio-signal from a user in an unrestrictive manner are provided. The method includes extracting a second bio-signal including a motion signal and a respiration signal, based on the first bio-signal; determining an apnea measurement reference signal including a respiration measurement signal and a motion measurement signal, based on the second bio-signal; dividing the apnea measurement reference signal by a first time interval to generate a first evaluation signal, and dividing the first evaluation signal by a second time interval, that is smaller than the first time interval, to generate second evaluation signals; calculating standard deviation information based on the second evaluation signals; and determining a sleeping pattern for the second time intervals corresponding to the second evaluation signals, based on the standard deviation information.

Abstract: System and method for non-contact acquisition of current physiological data representing a subject. A first electromagnetic wave representing current physiological status of a first subject is modified by a second electromagnetic wave representing current physiological status of a second subject in proximity to the first subject. A parameter of the first electromagnetic wave representing a first physiological status of a first subject is measured with electronic circuitry to extract a parameter of the second electromagnetic wave. Historical physiological data associated with the second subject is acquired. The current physiological data representing current physiological status of the second subject is then derived based on historical physiological data of the second subject and a comparison between the first and second parameters.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described, included a method for detecting uterine contractions in a pregnant woman. The method includes sensing motion of the woman without contacting the woman, generating a signal corresponding to the sensed motion, and analyzing the signal to detect presence of labor contractions. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A multi-parametric vital signs monitoring device configured for use as an ambulatory and a bedside monitor wherein the device can be patient-wearable and is battery powered. The monitoring device can be used with a charging cradle to provide power to the device in lieu of the battery as a power source for bedside applications, in which the cradle further serves as an intermediary device to enable a data link with a PC or other peripheral device. The monitoring device can include a wireless radio to enable bi-directional transfer of patient-related data to a separate remote station.

Abstract: An implantable neurostimulator system adapted to provide therapy for various neurological disorders is capable of varying therapy delivery strategies based on the context, physiological or otherwise, into which the therapy is to be delivered. Responsive and scheduled therapies can be varied depending on various sensor measurements, calculations, inferences, and device states (including elapsed times and times of day) to deliver an appropriate course of therapy under the circumstances.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for real-time detection and annunciation of blood associated with menstruation and surgical wounds. The system comprises blood detection means, communication means for relay of blood detection information, and annunciation means to inform the user of the emanation of blood. Various system embodiments include local and remote as well as covert and non-covert annunciation to users or medical personnel, various forms of real-time blood detection sensors, blood analysis capability, and smart bandage telemetry.

Abstract: A physiological parameter system has one or more parameter inputs responsive to one or more physiological sensors. The physiological parameter system may also have quality indicators relating to confidence in the parameter inputs. A processor is adapted to combine the parameter inputs, quality indicators and predetermined limits for the parameters inputs and quality indicators so as to generate alarm outputs or control outputs or both.

Abstract: The present invention provides curcumin-derived near infrared (NIR) imaging probes. Upon interacting with amyloid ? aggregates, these probes undergo a range of changes, qualifying them as “smart” probes. The inventors have demonstrated that probes of the invention have the capacity to monitor the progression of Alzheimer's disease in an in vivo animal model. In addition, the present invention encompasses probes useful as PET imaging agents, MRI imaging agents and multimodal imaging agents, as well as related methods of detecting and imaging amyloid ? aggregates and plaques.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a handheld multi-parameter patient monitor capable of determining multiple physiological parameters from the output of a light sensitive detector capable of detecting light attenuated by body tissue. For example, in an embodiment, the monitor is capable of advantageously and accurately displaying one or more of pulse rate, plethysmograph data, perfusion quality, signal confidence, and values of blood constituents in body tissue, including for example, arterial carbon monoxide saturation (“HbCO”), methemoglobin saturation (“HbMet”), total hemoglobin (“Hbt”), arterial oxygen saturation (“SpO2”), fractional arterial oxygen saturation (“SpaO2”), or the like. In an embodiment, the monitor displays a line associated with a patient wellness level.

Abstract: There is provided a system and method for canceling shunted light. The method includes transmitting electromagnetic radiation at tissue of interest and generating a signal representative of detected electromagnetic radiation. A portion of the generated signal representing shunted light is canceled from the generated signal and the remaining portion of the generated signal is used to compute physiological parameters.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a biological information measurement device and a biological information measurement method using the same, and is intended to allow appropriate measurement to be carried out. In the biological information measurement device of the present invention, a control unit 18 is allowed to execute a pre-processing voltage application mode A and a biological information measurement mode C. Furthermore, in the biological information measurement device of the present invention, the hematocrit value of blood is calculated in either the pre-processing voltage application mode A or the biological information measurement mode C, and according to the hematocrit value thus calculated, the duration for applying a measuring voltage upon and after the calculation of the hematocrit value is modified.

Abstract: A monitoring device which measures numerical value information on a subject substance in a body fluid has an electrochemical sensor including a sensor unit for detecting the subject substance which is used in the way of being embedded subcutaneously and generating an electric signal correlating to the numerical value information on the subject substance, and a temperature control unit which adjusts the detected ambient temperature as a temperature ambient to a sensor unit when detecting the subject substance so as to reach a target setting temperature when measuring the subject substance.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host.

Abstract: Devices and methods for determining analyte levels are described. The devices and methods allow for the implantation of analyte-monitoring devices, such as glucose monitoring devices that result in the delivery of a dependable flow of blood to deliver sample to the implanted device. The devices include unique architectural arrangement in the sensor region that allows accurate data to be obtained over long periods of time.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to devices and techniques associated with diagnostics, therapies, and other applications, including skin-associated applications, for example, devices for delivering and/or withdrawing fluid from subjects, e.g., through the skin. In some embodiments, the device includes a system for accessing an extractable medium from and/or through the skin of the subject at an access site, and a pressure regulator supported by a support structure, able to create a pressure differential across the skin at at least a portion of the access site. The device may also include, in some cases, a sensor supported by the support structure for determining at least one condition of the extractable medium from the subject, and optionally a signal generator supported by the support structure for generating a signal relating to the condition of the medium determined by the sensor.

Abstract: A method of making a sensor includes depositing a layer of hydrogel over a substrate, the hydrogel configured to change thickness or volume in response to a selected condition and including a plurality of magnetic particles disposed in the hydrogel so that a magnetic property of the hydrogel changes with changes of thickness or volume of the hydrogel. The hydrogel is sacrificed in selected region(s) of the layer so that the hydrogel outside the selected region(s) forms a plurality of spaced-apart islands of the hydrogel. The islands of the hydrogel are enclosed in an enclosure at least partly permeable to a selected fluid. A sensor for detecting a condition includes the substrate, islands, and a device coil arranged with respect to the hydrogel so that changes in the magnetic property modulate an electrical property of the sensor. A system includes the substrate, islands, and a magnetic-field detector.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing therapy related data management are provided. The subject systems include one or more device components, and at least one memory storage unit and at least one data storage unit associated with such one or more device components. The device components may include one or more of an analyte monitoring system, a fluid delivery device and a remote terminal. The subject methods include use of the subject systems to optimize treatment of a patient.

Abstract: A device includes a housing; a core contained within the housing and disposed along at least a portion of the length of the housing, the core configured to rotate relative to the housing; a tab configured to connect to a port of a mobile device; and multiple electrocardiogram (ECG) cables wound around the core. A distal end of each ECG cable is connected to the tab and a proximal end of each ECG cable is connected to at least one of a corresponding ECG electrode and a corresponding pad.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally on the patient's chest along the sternum, which significantly improves the ability to sense cutaneously cardiac electric signals, particularly those generated by the atrium. The electrode patch is shaped to fit comfortably and conformal to the contours of the chest approximately centered on the sternal midline. To counter the dislodgment due to compressional and torsional forces, non-irritating adhesive is provided on the underside, or contact, surface of the electrode patch, but only on the distal and proximal ends.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally (in the midline) on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. Instead, the patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. Power is provided through a battery provided on the electrode patch, which avoids having to open the monitor recorder's housing for battery replacement.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally (in the midline) on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. Instead, the patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. Ensuring that the quality level of ECG recording remains constant over an extended period of time is provided through self-authentication of electrode patches. The monitor recorder implements a challenge response scheme upon being connected to an electrode patch. Failing self-authentication, the monitor recorder signals an error condition.

Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. A pair of flexile wires is interlaced or sewn into a flexible backing, serving as electrode signal pickup and electrode circuit traces. The wearable monitor sits centrally on the patient's chest along the sternum, which significantly improves the ability to sense cutaneously cardiac electric signals, particularly those generated by the atrium. The electrode patch is shaped to fit comfortably and conformal to the contours of the chest approximately centered on the sternal midline. To counter the dislodgment due to compressional and torsional forces, non-irritating adhesive is provided on the underside, or contact, surface of the electrode patch, but only on the distal and proximal ends. Interlacing the flexile wires into the flexile backing also provides structural support and malleability against compressional, tensile and torsional forces.

Abstract: A shield can inhibit transfer of microbes and bodily fluids from a first side to a second side of the shield, while allowing an ECG device adjacent the first side of the shield to sense separate electrical potentials on skin adjacent the second side. The shield comprises a flexible sheet with a first electrically conductive portion and a second electrically conductive portion; the first and second electrically conductive portions are separated from one another by an electrically insulating portion.

Abstract: A non-invasive intraocular pressure sensor adapted to be configured on an eyeball is provided. The non-invasive intraocular pressure sensor includes a sensing unit and a readout circuit. The sensing unit includes a plurality of electrode layers and a dielectric layer. The dielectric layer encloses the electrode layers and fills therebetween, and the electrode layers and the dielectric layer form a capacitor. A variation of capacitance of the capacitor varies with a variation of an intraocular pressure of the eyeball. The readout circuit is electrically connected to the sensing unit.

Abstract: An organ region extracting section that extracts at least one organ region from a three dimensional image of a subject; a directional data obtaining section that obtains directional data of the subject based on one of the position of the organ region within the body of the subject and the shape of the organ region; a stage region extracting section that extracts a region of a stage on which the subject is placed from the three dimensional image; and a posture data obtaining section that obtains posture data of the subject on the stage, based on the region of the stage and the directional data of the subject; are provided.