Patents Issued in January 14, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160007970
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ultrasound imaging system (10) for inspecting an object (33) in a volume (32). The ultra-sound imaging system comprises an ultrasound image acquisition probe (14) for acquiring three-dimensional ultrasound images and providing three-dimensional ultrasound image data, comprising a tracking device (25, 27) for tracking a position of the ultrasound image acquisition probe (14) and providing a viewpoint position (128, 130) of the three-dimensional ultrasound images. By this, an improved initialization and improved co-registration and co-segmentation is enabled by providing a plurality of three-dimensional ultrasound images and their respective viewpoint positions (128, 130), and to conduct a segmentation (80) of the object (33) simultaneously out of the plurality of three-dimensional ultrasound images and taking into account the viewpoint positions (128, 130).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: CECILE DUFOUR, RAPHAEL MANUA MICHEL PREVOST, BENOIT JEAN-DOMINIQUE BERTRAND MAURICE MORY, ROBERTO JOSE ARDON
  • Publication number: 20160007971
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, a signal processing method, and a recording medium capable of appropriately superimposing data and obtaining high quality images when correcting data by superimposing a plurality of data. A transmission frequency of an ultrasonic beam is set according to a processing condition in a data processor, and second element data is generated using a plurality of first element data obtained by transmitting the ultrasonic beam at the transmission frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicant: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroaki YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20160007972
    Abstract: To provide an ultrasonic imaging apparatus and an ultrasound image display method capable of preventing a three-dimensional ultrasound image from flickering due to an inappropriate ROI being calculated and improving the image quality of the ultrasound image. An ultrasonic imaging apparatus of the present invention is provided with: an ROI calculating section configured to calculate an ROI from ultrasound image data; a judgment section configured to judge whether the calculation of the ROI is successful or not on the basis of at least one of a position with a predetermined brightness difference and the number of positions with the brightness difference in the ultrasound image data; and a compensation section configured to compensate a failed ultrasound image based on the ROI judged to be failed by the judgment section with a successful ultrasound image based on the ROI judged to be successful by the judgment section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Tomofumi NISHIURA
  • Publication number: 20160007973
    Abstract: Sensor coupled to the ultrasound probe provides position information related to an ultrasound imaging position in the object. A processor performs first registration between the medical image and the ultrasound image based on the anatomical feature in the ultrasound image and a medical image of the object acquired by imaging modality different from the ultrasound apparatus, obtains first registration information which provides a relationship between a coordinate system of the medical image and a coordinate system of the ultrasound image based on the first registration, performs second registration between the sensor and the medical image based on the position information and the first registration information, and obtains second registration information based on the second registration. A display may display a portion of the medical image corresponding to the ultrasound imaging position based on the second registration information. The medical image includes one of SPECT, PET, MR, PET-CT, and PET-MR image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicants: KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dong-gyu HYUN, Jong-bum RA, Duhgoon LEE, Woo-hyun NAM, Won-chul BANG
  • Publication number: 20160007974
    Abstract: Sensor coupled to the ultrasound probe provides position information related to an ultrasound imaging position in the object. A processor performs first registration between the medical image and the ultrasound image based on the anatomical feature in the ultrasound image and a medical image of the object acquired by imaging modality different from the ultrasound apparatus, obtains first registration information which provides a relationship between a coordinate system of the medical image and a coordinate system of the ultrasound image based on the first registration, performs second registration between the sensor and the medical image based on the position information and the first registration information, and obtains second registration information based on the second registration. A display may display a portion of the medical image corresponding to the ultrasound imaging position based on the second registration information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicants: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD., KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Dong-gyu HYUN, Jong-bum RA, Duhgoon LEE, Woo-hyun NAM, Won-chul BANG
  • Publication number: 20160007975
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a biological tissue biopsy device including a body extending in a longitudinal direction, an outer needle installed to be connected to one side of the body and be extended in a longitudinal direction and including a first tube having a hollow portion formed therein and a second tube disposed in a direction parallel to the first tube to guide a hemostatic substance, an inner needle provided inside the first tube and extending in a longitudinal direction, and a sliding means provided in the body and installed to be connected to one end of the inner needle so as to enable the inner needle to move forward and backward. Here, the sliding means causes the inner needle to move a predetermined distance from the hollow portion of the first tube and be inserted into a target site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Sung Min KIM, In Chul Yang, In Sung Moon, Ji Il Kim, Sun Cheol Park, Jeong Kye Hwang
  • Publication number: 20160007976
    Abstract: A reusable surgical implement is provided that is formed of a core positioned within an enclosure. The core is formed of a suitable rigid, and optionally flexible material to enable the implant to conform to the desired use for the implement in a surgical procedure. The material forming the enclosure is also stretchable and flexible to accommodate the configuration and/or any flexing of the core, and is biologically inert to enable the implant to be sterilized after use for use in subsequent surgical procedures while protecting the material forming the core. The enclosure can be molded around the core in separate portions or components using multiple molding steps to form an enclosure with the desired attributes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Michael T. Gauthier, Kenneth A. Roggow
  • Publication number: 20160007977
    Abstract: A closure device system for sealing a percutaneous puncture in a vessel wall can comprise a toggle configured to engage an interior surface of the vessel wall, a plug configured to engage an exterior surface of the vessel wall, and a suture that extends through the plug and through the toggle along at least a first direction so as to couple the toggle to the plug. The system can further comprise a tube that extends through the plug and through the toggle along the first direction such that a distal end of the tube is disposed distally to the toggle. The tube can define a guidewire lumen that extends therethrough along the first direction. And the guidewire lumen can be configured to receive a guidewire that protrudes from the vessel wall such that the plug, toggle, and tube are slidable along the guidewire toward the vessel wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Greg WALTERS
  • Publication number: 20160007978
    Abstract: Described are medical graft products, systems, and methods useful for treating fistulae, particularly enterocutaneous fistulae. Certain products of the invention are configured to have portions residing in and around a primary fistula opening in a wall of the alimentary canal. One such product includes a biocompatible graft body which is configured to block at least the primary opening. The graft body includes a capping member connected to an elongate plug member. The capping member is configured to contact portions of the alimentary canal wall adjacent to the primary opening, and the elongate plug member is configured to extend into at least a portion of the fistula. A graft product of this sort may be particularly adapted to allow a portion of the capping member to be positioned alongside an exterior, lateral surface of the plug member, e.g., when placed in a delivery device lumen. Such a capping member may be hingedly or non-hingedly coupled to the elongate plug member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: F. Joseph Obermiller, Steve Chen
  • Publication number: 20160007979
    Abstract: An instrument fixation device includes a retaining ring, a ball joint disposed within and movable relative to the retaining ring, and a locking mechanism. The ball joint defines a channel configured to receive an instrument therethrough. The locking mechanism includes a locking sleeve and a lock. The locking sleeve is at least partially disposed within the retaining ring and engages the outer surface of the ball joint. When the locking mechanism is in an unlocked position, the ball joint is free to move within the retaining ring and when the locking mechanism is in a first locked position, the locking sleeve engages the outer surface of the ball joint to fix the ball joint relative to the retaining ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: SIMRANJEET BHAGAT, JEETENDRA BHARADWAJ
  • Publication number: 20160007980
    Abstract: A die-cuttable retractor/stabilizer comprising a top layer having an adhesive applied one side thereof and a backing layer which covers the adhesive and which is removable from the top. The retractor/stabilizer includes a dividing cut in the backing layer which extends the width of the backing layer to separate the backing layer into an upper panel and a lower panel. A first lower panel back cut in the backing layer lower panel extends from the bottom edge of the backing layer to a point proximate the dividing cut to divide the lower panel in to at least a lower panel positioning portion and a lower panel second portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas R. Galbierz, Michael A. Galbierz, Gregory A. Gapp
  • Publication number: 20160007981
    Abstract: A method of using a retractor for holding open an opening includes the steps of providing a retractor, wherein the retractor includes a shape memory support including a brace portion connecting opposed sides and a plurality of bracing ribs extending from the shape memory support at the opposed sides, forming a surgical opening, pinching the opposed sides of the shape memory support in an inward direction, inserting the pinched retractor of said step of pinching into the surgical opening, and thereafter allowing the opposed sides of the shape memory position to substantially revert to their original positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Sudhanva Govindarajan, Ashley Wilkinson, Orit Itzhak-Yasu, Eric Espinal MD
  • Publication number: 20160007982
    Abstract: An endoscopic portal protective shield assembly has an elongate portal shaft and an elongated protective shield. The elongate portal shaft has a viewing portal. The shaft has a slotted tubular body with interior surfaces. The shaft has a distal end and a proximal end and a slotted opening at the distal end extending partially along the slotted tubular body toward the proximal end. The elongated protective shield has a longitudinal shield body, a proximal end and a distal end. The protective shield is configured to be slid into the slotted opening of the tubular body with an interior portion of the longitudinal shield body being inserted inside the tubular body while maintaining the viewing portal open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicant: Amendia, Inc.
    Inventors: Kaixuan Liu, Zsolt Csernatoni
  • Publication number: 20160007983
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a surgical device, such as a surgical implant, which may be used in several types of procedures. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to implants for use in an anterior, posterior, posterior lateral or direct lateral approach to the disc space. The surgical device may be manipulated in various manners to accommodate delivery through a minimally invasive portal in one configuration and adjusted to a second configuration once placed in the intervertebral space. A delivery system for placing the surgical device in a body is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: George Frey, Caleb Voelkel, Greg Kana, Geoff Lai
  • Publication number: 20160007984
    Abstract: Medical devices that have a releasable intermediate member and tubular member are described. Methods of using medical devices that have a releasable intermediate member and tubular member are also described. An example of a medical device comprises an elongate member, an intermediate member, and a tubular member. Each of the intermediate member and tubular member is releasably disposed on the elongate member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Darin Schaeffer
  • Publication number: 20160007985
    Abstract: An inflatable assistive surgical instrument for transanal minimal invasive surgery, having a sheath that expands after inflation, is disclosed. The inflated sheath is cylindrical-shaped, and a notch is formed on the wall of the cylindrical sheath to expose the tissue of the colon wall for surgical operation. The inflatable sheath has an inflation nozzle for connecting with an inflating tube. The inflatable sheath disclosed in the present invention can fully achieve the expected effects and requirements and shows an extraordinary efficiency of the surgical operation, in comparison with the prior arts where the present invention is not adopted. The present invention also improves the quality and the success rate of surgical operation, and is highly appraised by the colorectal surgeons reduces the cost for single use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Heiying JIN, Yifu JIN
  • Publication number: 20160007986
    Abstract: An instrument for crimping a suture fastener to a surgical suture is disclosed. The instrument has a shaft and an expanded receiving face configured to receive the suture fastener and to provide a smoothing radius for a distal end of the shaft. The instrument also has an anvil in the distal end of the shaft. The instrument further has a hammer in the distal end of the shaft and moveable relative to the anvil for crimping the suture fastener therebetween and received in the expanded receiving face. The instrument also has a pusher moveable in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the shaft and configured to engage at least one of the hammer and the anvil for urging the hammer and the anvil together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Jude S. Sauer
  • Publication number: 20160007987
    Abstract: Integrated systems and associated method for manipulating tissues and anatomical or other structures in medical applications for the purpose of treating diseases or disorders or other purposes. In one aspect, the system includes a delivery device configured to deploy and implant anchoring devices for such purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Joseph Catanese, III, Theodore C. Lamson, Joshua Makower, Amik Nagpurkar, Daniel Merrick, Jaqueline Nerney Welch, Richard G. Vecchiotti, Scott H. West, Claude Vidal, Russell J. Redmond, Michael Collinson
  • Publication number: 20160007988
    Abstract: A surgical device includes a generally elongated shaft having a cannulated interior dimensioned for slidably receiving an anchor. A distal end of the shaft includes a cutaway portion and a window. The window may be positioned within the cutaway portion or overlie at least a portion of the distal end of the shaft including the cutaway portion. The window may be transparent or partially-transparent, allowing the window to provide lateral support as well as visualization of an anchor sliding through and/or emerging from the distal end of the shaft. The cutaway portion may be open on at least one side (e.g., a distal-facing side).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicant: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Wei Li Fan, Timothy Young
  • Publication number: 20160007989
    Abstract: An anchor assembly can include at least one anchor member, such as a pair of anchor members that are configured to be implanted in a target anatomical location in a first configuration, and can subsequently be actuated to an expanded configuration that secures the anchor members in the target anatomy. The anchor assembly can further include a connector member that attaches the pair of anchor members together across a gap so as to approximate the anatomical defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Tom Overes, Daniel Vennard, Jamie Manos, Kevin Henrichsen, Wamis Singhatat, Scott Larsen, James Talbot
  • Publication number: 20160007990
    Abstract: Provided herewith is a needle for delivering dermal filler thread to a wrinkle in a patient. The needle can also be used to deliver the thread to a patient for the purposes of facial contouring. The needle comprises a coupler for attaching the thread to the needle and a blunt distal end to ease delivery through the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Nowell Solish, Kenneth N. Horne, Tony Gipson
  • Publication number: 20160007991
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods utilize an intraluminal fastener applier having a guide body with a longitudinal axis. The guide body is sized and configured for intraluminal deployment in a hollow body organ. An actuated assembly is carried by the guide body that is selectively operable to generate an implantation force to implant at least one fastener into tissue within the hollow body organ. The actuated assembly includes a driven member extending generally along the longitudinal axis, which is sized and configured to engage a selected fastener. The actuated assembly also includes a drive member coupled to the driven member to impart the implantation force to the driven element in a direction that is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the guide body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Lee Bolduc
  • Publication number: 20160007992
    Abstract: A surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The instrument comprises a handle and an end effector connected to the handle. The end effector comprises upper and lower opposing jaw members, wherein the upper jaw member comprises a plurality of co-linear, separately actuatable, RF electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: David C. Yates, Thomas W. Huitema, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20160007993
    Abstract: A device for treating tissue includes a helical needle extending about a longitudinal axis thereof from a distal tip to a proximal end and a control member extending longitudinally between a distal end releasably coupled to the proximal end of the helical needle and a proximal end which, when the helical needle is inserted into a body, remains outside the body, the control member configured such that rotation of the control member about the longitudinal axis rotates the helical needle to screw the helical needle distally into a target tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Paul SMITH, Samuel Raybin, Naroun Suon, Michelle Fater, Dylan Murphy, Robert B. DeVries
  • Publication number: 20160007994
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for affixing soft tissue to bone is provided. The apparatus comprises first and second arms including first and second jaws on distal ends. The second arm is mated to the first arm at a hinge located between the proximal ends of the first and second arms and distal ends of the first and second arms. To enter into an engaged position, the first and second arms pivot around the hinge such that the distal ends of the first and second arms close towards one another, and the proximal ends of the first and second arms move apart from one another. The engaged position causes the first jaw on the distal end of the first arm and the second jaw on the distal end of the second arm to compress and hold soft tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Maxwell Choongwon Park
  • Publication number: 20160007995
    Abstract: A compression ring to grip and compress body structure such as diverticulum, hemorrhoids, and tissue adjacent a hole. A resilient ring-shaped body defines a compression channel, and one or more axially rigid elongated spikes extend from the body into the channel. The body defines a first axial segment surrounding the compression channel and a second axial segment surrounding the compression channel, with the spike being engaged only with the second axial segment. The first axial segment more tightly compresses the body structure than the second axial segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicant: Insightra Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne A. Noda, Stephen Graham Bell
  • Publication number: 20160007996
    Abstract: A method of attaching a prosthesis to soft tissue is provided and includes providing a handheld fastener applier having a drive mechanism; and a fastener disposed at a distal end of the applier. The fastener includes a continuous helical coil, wherein the helical coil is constructed from a first material; and a cap secured to a proximal end of the helical coil, wherein the cap is constructed from a second material, and wherein the cap is non-rotatably and selectively connected to the drive mechanism. The fastener applier further includes a fastener driver coupled to the drive mechanism and engaging the cap, wherein the fastener driver rotates the fastener when the drive mechanism is actuated. The method further includes placing the distal end of the applier against a prosthesis; and manually powering the drive mechanism to actuate the fastener driver, and in turn, to rotate the fastener connected thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Lee Bolduc
  • Publication number: 20160007997
    Abstract: A bridge vessels-proximal anastomosis supporting device for coronary artery bypass grafting and a manufacturing method thereof. The bridge vessels-proximal anastomosis supporting device for the coronary artery bypass grafting comprises an arc-shaped body, an elliptical bottom edge is arranged at the lower part of the arc-shaped body, a circular port is arranged at the right side of the arc-shaped body, a notch is formed between the rightmost end of the bottom edge and the lowermost end of the port, the diameter R of the circular port is 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm or 8 mm, the major axis a of the elliptical bottom edge is 13 mm, and the minor axis of the elliptical bottom edge is the same as R. The arc-shaped body is formed by weaving titanium-nickel alloy wires. The bottom edge and the port are provided with a supporting edge made of a heavy metal material, and the supporting edge is fixed with the wires through medical non-absorbable sutures in a wrapping manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Chengxiong GU, Lei LI, Yang Yu
  • Publication number: 20160007998
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of devices and methods for forming a seal covering an incision in tissue. In some embodiments, a deformable member can be loaded into a catheter and inserted into the tissue incision. The deformable member can unfold into a cup-shape which can form a seal around the incision during a procedure. Once the procedure is finished, the deformable member can be drawn back into the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Anthony A. Nobles, Benjamin G. Brosch
  • Publication number: 20160007999
    Abstract: A circular stapler is disclosed. The circular stapler includes a handle assembly, an elongate body, a cartridge assembly, a trocar, and a light source. The elongate body extends from the handle assembly and defines a longitudinal axis. The cartridge assembly is disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongate body and includes a pusher assembly. The pusher assembly is movable to cause staples to be ejected from the cartridge assembly. The trocar is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the cartridge assembly and is longitudinally advanceable to puncture tissue. The light source is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the trocar, and is configured to project a light beam distally of the trocar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Cassandra Latimer, Arlen Ward
  • Publication number: 20160008000
    Abstract: A curved-head hemorrhoid banding device may include an inner cylinder curved at one end for sucking the hemorrhoid tissue into the device for banding. The device also may include a curved outer cylinder for releasing a rubber band, a straight barrel for pushing the curved outer cylinder to release the rubber band, an airtight plunger (or operator handle), and a handle for generating negative pressure. The banding device may provide tighter contact with hemorrhoid tissues and thus may provide better suction of hemorrhoid feeding vessels and adjacent rectal mucosal tissue. When being manipulated into contact with the internal hemorrhoid feeding vessel position, the device may maximally fit the anatomic configuration of the rectum, causing less discomfort to the patient during banding and after the procedure. The banding device may be disposable and designed for single-handed use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Weijia Su, Qinghua Yang, Xiaotuan Zhao
  • Publication number: 20160008001
    Abstract: An occlusion clip comprising: (a) a spring; (b) a first runner including a first open top and a first open end adjacent the first open top, the first runner including a first interior camming surface partially delineating a first interior cavity that is open by way of the first open top and the first open end; (c) a second runner including a second open top and a second open end adjacent the second open top, the second runner including a second interior camming surface partially delineating a second interior cavity that is open by way of the second open top and the second open end, where the spring is configured to be coupled to the first runner and the second runner, where the first interior cavity is configured to receive a first portion of the spring, where the second interior cavity is configured to receive a second portion of the spring, where the first camming surface is configured to engage a first cam of the spring, and where the second camming surface is configured to engage a second cam of the sprin
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Matthew J. Winkler, Kenneth Lance Miller, Matthew Monti, Todd Frangolis, Nicholas Bailey, Robert M. Trusty
  • Publication number: 20160008002
    Abstract: An intra-bronchial device placed and anchored in an air passageway of a patient to collapse a lung portion associated with the air passageway. The device includes a support structure, an obstructing member carried by the support structure that reduces ventilation to the lung portion by preventing air from being inhaled into the lung portion, and at least one anchor carried by the support structure that anchors the obstruction device within the air passageway. The anchor may engage the air passageway wall by piercing or friction, include a stop dimensioned for limiting the piercing of the air passageway wall, and may be releasable from the air passageway for removal of the intra-bronchial device. The anchors may be carried by a peripheral portion of the support structure, or by a central portion of the support structure. The obstructing member may be a one-way valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: David H. Dillard, Hugo X. Gonzalez, Seung Yi, Lauri J. DeVore, Mia Park, Dean T. Corcoran, Jenni Rimbaugh, Clifton A. Alferness
  • Publication number: 20160008003
    Abstract: Vascular delivery systems configured to deliver an implant to a location within a vasculature can include one or more control wires controllable by a user to detach the implant from the delivery system. Control wires can cause a feature of the delivery system to mechanically engage a hub at a proximal end of an implant. Proximal or distal movement of the control wire can allow the feature to disengage from the hub, thereby allowing release of the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Stephen J. KLESHINSKI, Karl S. HALDEN
  • Publication number: 20160008004
    Abstract: A first embodiment can be a device comprising a means to reduce SLOSH energy absorption in a fluid containing organism by reducing the flow of one or more outflow vessels of the cranium by compressing said vessels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: David W. Smith, Joseph A. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20160008005
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for regulating tourniquet cuff pressure based on a personalized tourniquet pressure (PTP) to facilitate safe performance of a surgical procedure. The apparatus includes a dual-purpose tourniquet cuff adapted to encircle a region of a patient limb to provide both a sensor during a pre-surgical time period and an effector during a surgical time period. An effector module communicates pneumatically with an inflatable bladder of the cuff for maintaining pressure in the bladder near a PTP during the surgical time period to safely stop penetration of arterial blood past the cuff. A pulsation sensor that communicates pneumatically with the inflatable bladder during the pre-surgical time period senses and characterizes pressure pulsations that are indicative of penetration of arterial blood into the region of the limb encircled by the cuff.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: James A. McEwen, Michael Jameson, Jeswin Jeyasurya, Kenneth L. Glinz
  • Publication number: 20160008006
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for regulating tourniquet cuff pressure based on a personalized tourniquet pressure (PTP) to facilitate safe performance of surgical and medical procedures. The apparatus includes a dual-purpose tourniquet cuff adapted to encircle a region of a patient to provide both a sensor during a first time period and an effector during a second time period. An effector module communicates pneumatically with an inflatable bladder of the cuff for maintaining pressure in the bladder near a PTP during the second time period to safely stop penetration of arterial blood past the cuff. A pulsation sensor that communicates pneumatically with the inflatable bladder during the first time period senses and characterizes pressure pulsations that are indicative of penetration of arterial blood into the region of a patient encircled by the cuff.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicant: Western Clinical Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: James A. McEwen, Michael Jameson, Jeswin Jeyasurya, Kenneth L. Glinz
  • Publication number: 20160008007
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for enhanced percutaneous epidural access for performing spine surgery, epidural procedures and medical device placement that includes a first percutaneous needle having a first lumen, a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is configured for placement in an epidural space at a first location, the first location being at least one level removed from a target lamina, a second percutaneous needle having a second lumen, a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end of the second percutaneous needle is configured for placement in an epidural space at a second location, the second location being at least one level removed from a target lamina and opposite the first location, a light seeking tool that is coaxially movable within one of the first and second lumens, and a grasper tool that is coaxially movable within the other one of the first and second lumens and is configured to emit light so as to draw the light seeking tool and temporarily couple within the epid
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Applicant: Truminim, LLC
    Inventor: Ashraf Taha
  • Publication number: 20160008008
    Abstract: An orthopedic device for cutting or resurfacing an outer bone surface of a bone of a patient includes first and second guides. Each guide has a patient-specific surface preoperatively configured as a negative surface of a portion of the outer bone surface of the bone and a plurality of elongated slots. The elongated slots of the second guide are offset relative to the elongated slots of the first guide and configured for guiding a tool to resurface the outer bone surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Robert Metzger, Troy W. Hershberger
  • Publication number: 20160008009
    Abstract: Customized patient-specific orthopaedic surgical instruments are disclosed. Methods for fabricating and using such instruments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Luke J. Aram, Michael C. Jones
  • Publication number: 20160008010
    Abstract: A method for performing an orthopaedic surgical procedure on a femur includes attaching a proximal end of an intramedullary adaptor to an intramedullary orthopaedic surgical instrument, securing a distal end of an intramedullary adaptor to a base cutting block, inserting the intramedullary orthopaedic surgical instrument into a medullary canal using the base cutting block, and positioning the base cutting block on a distal end of the femur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Benjamin J. Sordelet, Chad E. Derf, Rebecca L. Chaney, Craig S. Tsukayama, Carl F. Livorsi, Phillip G. Withee
  • Publication number: 20160008011
    Abstract: Described herein is an anti-skid surgical instrument for use in preparing holes in bone tissue. The disclosed surgical instrument provides the ability to prepare a precise hole in bone tissue during surgery (e.g., spinal surgeries and pedicle screw placement, intramedullary screw placement). The disclosed surgical instrument accomplishes precise hole placement regardless of whether the angle between the drill axis and surface of the bone tissue is perpendicular. The disclosed technology includes a flat drilling surface which is perpendicular to the surface of the body of the surgical instrument. This reduces the likelihood of the surgical instrument skidding on the surface of the bone tissue and thereby increases the precision of the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Szymon Kostrzewski
  • Publication number: 20160008012
    Abstract: A medical tool system for providing a trapezoidal recess in a joint surface of a bone, including a milling tool rotatable about a tool axis and having milling edges active on the circumferential side and milling edges that are active at an axial end with respect to the tool axis, and a template part fixable to the joint surface for guiding the milling too. A stop limits a penetration depth of the milling tool. The template part has a base element with a slide guide and a slide which can be moved in the slide guide between two end stops along a guide path lying on a guide plane. A guide channel which runs diagonally to the guide plane and leads to a milling tool receiving area directed transversely to the tool axis is formed in the slide such that the milling tool can rotate freely about the tool axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Amos Balzarini
  • Publication number: 20160008013
    Abstract: A patient-specific guiding system for guiding an instrument relative to a portion of an anatomical feature of a patient. The patient-specific guiding system includes a patient-specific guide. The guide includes a first portion having a first patient-specific inner surface that conforms to a first surface of the anatomical feature and an outer surface opposite the first patient-specific inner surface. The first portion also includes a guide surface for use in guiding the instrument relative to the anatomical feature. The guide also includes a second portion having a second patient-specific inner surface that conforms to a second surface of the anatomical feature and an outer surface opposite the second patient-specific inner surface. The second portion is removably connected to the first portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Robert Metzger, Ryan John Schoenefeld, Nathan Emick Belcher, Brian Uthgenannt
  • Publication number: 20160008014
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a clot in the blood vessel of a patient, and particularly the treatment of a pulmonary embolism is disclosed. The treatment includes restoring flow through the clot followed by clot removal, either partially or substantially completely. The clot treatment device is expandable into the blood vessel and may contain radial extensions that assist in restoring flow as well as in removing clot material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Robert F. Rosenbluth, Brian J. Cox, Paul Lubock
  • Publication number: 20160008015
    Abstract: A device may include a distal assembly including a first plurality of legs, a second plurality of legs, and a distal tip, and further include a first driver and a second driver, a proximal end of at least one leg of the first plurality of legs may be coupled to the first driver, and a proximal end of at least one leg of the second plurality of legs may be coupled to the second driver. The medical device may include a first longitudinally extending hollow member movably positioned along the first driver and a second longitudinally extending hollow member movably positioned along the second driver. Movement of the first longitudinally extending hollow member relative to the first driver may converge legs of the first plurality of legs, and movement of the second longitudinally extending hollow member relative to the second driver may converge legs of the second plurality of legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventor: Man Minh NGUYEN
  • Publication number: 20160008016
    Abstract: A shock wave device to provide treatment within a blood vessel includes a shock wave reflector that directs shock waves laterally to blood vessel walls in a direction perpendicular to a central axis of symmetry of a catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Iulian Cioanta, Christopher M. Cashman
  • Publication number: 20160008017
    Abstract: Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Devices and methods for visually confirming the positioning of a distal end portion of an illuminating device placed within a patient include inserting a distal end portion of an illuminating device internally into a patient, emitting light from the distal end portion of the illuminating device, observing transillumination resulting from the light emitted from the distal end portion of the illuminating device that occurs on an external surface of the patient, and correlating the location of the observed transillumination on the external surface of the patient with an internal location of the patient that underlies the location of observed transillumination, to confirm positioning of the distal end portion of the illuminating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Joshua Makower, John Y. Chang, Eric Goldfarb, John H. Morriss, William M. Facteau
  • Publication number: 20160008018
    Abstract: Endoscopic instrument having a shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal direction, wherein a working section on the distal end and an actuating element on the proximal end are operatively connected by a thrust element extending along the longitudinal direction, wherein the working section has a jaw piece with first and second jaw parts, which jaw piece is arranged pivotably on a jaw part holder, which is arranged in the shaft so as to be displaceable along the longitudinal direction and rotatable about the longitudinal direction and the thrust element is coupled to the jaw piece, wherein the jaw piece, in the closed state, can be retracted into the shaft, and a blocking device is provided in the instrument which is configured to block a retraction of the jaw piece into the shaft in a predefined angle range about the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Bastian Blase, Sebastian Röthig, Sebastian Schlegel
  • Publication number: 20160008019
    Abstract: A surgical device with a shaft having a distal end to which a surgical instrument is mountable and a proximal end equipped for handling the instrument, wherein the shaft is hollow and the surgical instrument is mountable on inserts that are longitudinally movable in the shaft parallel to the longitudinal axis and that are diametrically opposed to each other. The shaft comprises outer and inner tubes rotatable in opposite directions with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the inserts are coupled to the outer and inner tubes to convert rotational movement of the tubes into longitudinal movement of the inserts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 14, 2016
    Inventors: Gabrielle Josephine Maria Tuijthof, Tim Horeman