Patents Issued in April 26, 2016
  • Patent number: 9320575
    Abstract: An apparatus and method define a fit of a set of upper and lower teeth of a patient by generating a computer representation of the teeth; and determining an occlusion from the computer representation of the teeth using one or more keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Align Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Muhammad Ziaullah Khan Chishti, Andrew C. Beers
  • Patent number: 9320576
    Abstract: Described is an orthodontic aligner implement that can ensure the accuracy and efficiency of clear aligner orthodontic therapies as well as increase patient compliance by reducing discomfort and combining functionality into a breath-freshening medium. The implement includes a consumable mass having at least two channels disposed on opposite sides of the mass and traversing the width of the mass. The channels are adapted to seat between opposing anterior or incisor teeth. Also described is a method of positioning an orthodontic aligner into a prescribed position that includes placing the aligner approximately in the prescribed position in one's mouth, placing the aligner implement described above into the mouth, and applying the implement in contact with the aligner in one's mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: David A. Pechersky
  • Patent number: 9320577
    Abstract: The joint assembly for dental implant abutment includes an abutment section adapted for attachment to a dental implant and a ball section selectively mounted to the abutment section at a user-selectable angle. The abutment section includes a base member having a recessed socket. A plurality of threaded bores radiate into the base member from the socket. The ball section includes a spherical head having a threaded post extending therefrom for mounting the ball joint into a user-selectable threaded bore in the socket to properly orient an integral locator mounting cap retained on the spherical head for attachment of a denture to the joint assembly. The angular orientation of the threaded bores allows a restorative dentist to adjust the joint assembly for effective mounting of the denture or other dental appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: KING SAUD UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Hanan Nejer Sahil Alotaibi, Sulieman Saleem B. Al-Johany
  • Patent number: 9320578
    Abstract: An articulator can more simply configure a coupling mechanism between a lower jaw support portion and an upper jaw support portion at a joint portion. An articulator includes a first support portion; a second support portion; and a joint portion that couples the first support portion and the second support portion. The joint portion includes: a pair of projecting portions; and an engaging support portion. The projecting portion and the engaging support portion are attractable to each other by way of magnetic force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: NISSIN DENTAL PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Kuwamura
  • Patent number: 9320579
    Abstract: Dental molded product for milling having excellent aesthetic quality, compatibility for machine and moldability from the moldable composition is provided. The dental molded product for milling is obtained by curing the moldable composition which includes a polymerizable monomer, a polymerization initiator, a first spherical inorganic filler and a second spherical inorganic filler. An average particle size of the first spherical inorganic filler is in the range of 0.2 to 10 ?m. A content of the first spherical inorganic filler is in the range of 50 to 85 mass %. An average particle size of the second spherical inorganic filler is in the range of 0.005 to 0.1 ?m. A content of the second spherical inorganic filler is in the range of 1 to 18 mass %.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: PANASONIC HEALTHCARE HOLDINGS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Masaya Tsujimoto
  • Patent number: 9320580
    Abstract: A hand-held, ergonomic instrument with an LED that emits actinic light in visible wavelengths mounts a replaceable applicator cup with a reservoir for a tooth whitening composition held in place against a user's tooth during a whitening procedure. Actinic light is directed onto the tooth surface through a window in the cup and the tooth whitening composition substantially without attenuation, delivering at least about 100 milliwatts per square centimeter of light energy to the tooth surface. The cup includes a rigid body for mounting the cup to the instrument and an opaque flexible sleeve molded in place over the outside of the body to form a seal with the tooth surface and prevent exposure of soft mouth surfaces to the actinic radiation during a whitening procedure. A safety switch disables the LED when the applicator cup is not in contact with a tooth surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Oraceutical LLC
    Inventor: R. Eric Montgomery
  • Patent number: 9320581
    Abstract: A dental tray with a hydrophobic tooth whitening formulation where the tooth whitening formulation is substantially non-water soluble, and a method of using this dental tray to whiten the teeth. The tooth whitening formulation is primarily comprised of a hydrophobic polymer and a peroxide or a peroxide yielding compound. Preferably the hydrophobic polymer is the condensation product of a silicone resin and an organosiloxane. The dental tray is formed to encompass the front and the rear surfaces of the teeth. The dental tray is comprised of a thermoplastic or thermoset polymer. The teeth whitening formulation is placed into the dental tray and the tray placed against the teeth to be whitened. This is for a sufficient period of time to at least partially whiten teeth. This can be a period of time from about 0.5 hour to 2 hours or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Michael Prencipe, Suman K. Chopra, Michael Collins
  • Patent number: 9320582
    Abstract: A primate restraint device capable of restricting the movement of a monkey and, particularly, capable of facilitating injection or blood collection. A primate restraint device comprising: a containing body having both side surfaces, a top surface, and a bottom surface; a door provided to the rear surface side of the containing body and capable of opening and closing the rear surface side of the containing body by sliding up and down; and a partition wall which is formed so as to close the inside of the containing body from the front surface side and to be movable forward and backward within the containing body and which is configured to be able to be affixed at a desired position within the containing body. The partition wall has provided therein hind-limb protrusion openings from which the hind limbs of the contained primate are caused to protrude to the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SHIN NIPPON BIOMEDICAL LABORATORIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Ryoichi Nagata
  • Patent number: 9320583
    Abstract: Accordingly, embodiments of the presently described system and method include an equine dentistry burr with a head having a first end and a second end. Some embodiments also include a shank fixably connected to the first end of the head, and wherein the shank is configured to connect the equine dentistry burr to a handpiece assembly. Further embodiments also include a floating guard coupled to at least one of the cylindrical head and the shank, and configured to rotate independently of the cylindrical head and the shank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: Louis Dale Jeffrey, Patrick Benhower
  • Patent number: 9320584
    Abstract: A feeding tube placement device comprising a shaft and a functional tip which can be removably attached to a feeding tube, and which is used by insertion into a small animal's mouth then through the wall of the esophagus where a feeding tube is attached and then drawn back into the esophagus and positioned for use in feeding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Munson Labs, LLC
    Inventor: Roland Munson
  • Patent number: 9320585
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and apparatus for supplying a fluid, including but not limited to oxygen and/or medications to a non-human animal in a configuration that does not require a human to hold a component on the animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Extra Air, LLC
    Inventor: Charles Harrison
  • Patent number: 9320586
    Abstract: An implant including a vaginal portion having a length, width, first and second ends with a central region positioned therebetween, and a sacral portion having a length, width, first end and second end. The first end of the sacral portion is coupled to the central region of the vaginal portion so that the width of the first end extends substantially perpendicularly to the length of the vaginal portion. The implant is made of the same substantially flat, planar mesh having an anisotropic knitted or woven structure that has a greater stiffness in a first direction than a second direction. The mesh is aligned such that the first direction is aligned in a longitudinal direction of the sacral portion and the mesh of the vaginal portion is aligned such that the stiffness in a longitudinal direction of the vaginal portion is less than that of the sacral portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Chanaka Amarasinghe, Marc E. Feinberg
  • Patent number: 9320587
    Abstract: A method for treating rectal prolapse, the method comprising: inserting a rectum-gripping and advancement apparatus into a prolapsed rectum via the anus; maneuvering the rectum-gripping and advancement apparatus so that the rectum-gripping and advancement apparatus securely engages the rectum; advancing the rectum-gripping and advancement apparatus distally so as to return the prolapsed rectum to its normal, non-prolapsed state; and securing the rectum to supporting tissue whereby to retain the rectum in its normal, non-prolapsed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Cornell University
    Inventors: Jeffrey Milsom, Howard Riina, J. Frederick Cornhill
  • Patent number: 9320588
    Abstract: A method for treating fecal incontinence in a body of a mammal having a rectum formed by a rectal wall extending to an anus wherein the rectal wall includes a sphincter muscle surrounding the anus. At least one nonaqueous solution is introduced into the rectal wall in the vicinity of the anus. A nonbiodegradable solid is formed in the rectal wall from the at least one nonaqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Silverman, Alan J. Stein
  • Patent number: 9320589
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for implanting radially expandable prostheses in the body lumens rely on tacking or anchoring of the prostheses with separately introduced fasteners. The prostheses may be self-expanding or balloon expandable. After initial placement, a fastener applier system is introduced within the expanded prostheses to deploy a plurality of fasteners at least one prosthesis end, usually as each end of the prosthesis. The fasteners are usually helical fasteners which are delivered from a helical track in the fastener applier by rotation with a rotator wire. The fasteners will be applied singly, typically in circumferentially spaced-apart patterns about the interior of each end of the prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee Bolduc
  • Patent number: 9320590
    Abstract: A stent including a mesh made of strands. The mesh has at least one radiopaque strand and at least one non-radiopaque strand, and the at least one radiopaque strand and the at least one non-radiopaque strand each have different diameters. Each strand has an index of wire stiffness EI, where EI is the mathematical product of the Young's modulus (E) and the second moment of area (I). The EI of all strands in the mesh is no more than five times the EI of the strand having the smallest EI of any of the strands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Steven G. Zaver, Brian S. Carion, Richard S. Kusleika
  • Patent number: 9320591
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for implanting radially expandable prostheses in the body lumens rely on tacking or anchoring the prostheses with separately introduced fasteners. The prostheses may be self-expanding or balloon expandable, and may include a single lumen or more than one lumen. After initial placement, a fastener applier system is introduced within the expanded prostheses to deploy a plurality of fasteners to at least one prosthesis end. The fasteners are usually helical fasteners which are releasably restrained on the fastener driver, and are delivered by rotation of the fastener driver. The fasteners may be applied singly, typically in circumferentially spaced-apart patterns about the interior of at least one end of the prosthesis. A lumen extension or lumens may be coupled to the prosthesis to extend the reach of the prosthesis within the implantation site. Fasteners may also be applied to the lumen extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee Bolduc
  • Patent number: 9320592
    Abstract: Coating methods and related devices are provided. Such devices can include stents. For example, the device can comprise a sidewall and a plurality of pores in the sidewall that are sized to inhibit flow of blood through the sidewall into an aneurysm to a degree sufficient to lead to thrombosis and healing of the aneurysm when the tubular member is positioned in a blood vessel and adjacent to the aneurysm. The device can also comprise an anti-thrombogenic coating distributed over at least a portion of the device such that the pores are substantially free of webs formed by the coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: John Wainwright, Todd Mendelson, Kurt Haggstrom, Masoud Molaei, Victoria Schuman, Min-Shyan Sheu
  • Patent number: 9320593
    Abstract: Systems and methods for creating a treatment plan for cosmetic procedures, for example, a hair transplantation procedure, are provided. The treatment plan automatically modifies or generates one or more proposed harvesting or implantation sites within a first hair element based on one or more parameters in one or more second hair elements. Various techniques and methods described in the application provide for improved planning of a natural looking hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Restoration Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: Hui Zhang, Mohan Bodduluri, Gabriele Zingaretti, Theodore Thuong Nguyen
  • Patent number: 9320594
    Abstract: A diffractive multifocal lens is disclosed, comprising an optical element having at least one diffractive surface, the surface profile comprising a plurality of annular concentric zones. The optical thickness of the surface profile changes monotonically with radius within each zone, while a distinct step in optical thickness at the junction between adjacent zones defines a step height. The step heights for respective zones may differ from one zone to another periodically so as to tailor diffraction order efficiencies of the optical element. In one example of a trifocal lens, step heights alternate between two values, the even-numbered step heights being lower than the odd-numbered step heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: The Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of the University of Arizona
    Inventor: James T. Schwiegerling
  • Patent number: 9320595
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for coating an implantable lens. The apparatus, system and method may include at least one coating layer applied to at least one surface of the optic of the implantable lens, wherein the coating layer at least partially protects the optic at least during the implantation, and wherein the coating layer is removable following implantation. The coating layer may include a lubricant and/or medication and may be in the form of a biodegradable polymer and/or a film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventor: Rakhi Jain
  • Patent number: 9320596
    Abstract: A dilator may include a substantially conical body having a tip portion at a proximal end and a base portion at a distal end thereof. A wire lock portion may be configured to lock a guide wire to the dilator. A voice prosthesis holding portion may be connected to the substantially conical body by a connecting portion. The holding portion may have a central passage configured to have a tubular body of a voice prosthesis positioned therethrough, wherein at least one flange of the prosthesis is substantially unfolded proximally of the central passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Atos Medical AB
    Inventors: Gregori Margolin, Jonas Karling, Ronny Magnusson
  • Patent number: 9320597
    Abstract: A delivery system for percutaneously deploying a stented prosthetic heart valve. The system includes a delivery capsule and a recapture assembly. The capsule is configured to compressively retain the prosthesis. The recapture assembly includes a frame and sleeve attached to the frame. The recapture assembly is transitionable from a compressed arrangement to an expanded arrangement with a distally increasing diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Padraig J. Savage, Gianfranco M. Pellegrini, Finn O. Rinne, Matthew J. Rust
  • Patent number: 9320598
    Abstract: A method of implanting a collapsible prosthetic heart valve is disclosed. The prosthetic heart valve includes three biological leaflets mounted within a self-expanding tubular leaflet frame formed of nitinol. The method comprises loading a collapsed prosthetic heart valve into a distal end of a delivery tube. The distal end of the delivery tube is inserted into a vasculature of a patient and positioned proximal to an aortic valve. The prosthetic heart valve is expelled into an annulus of the aortic valve and allowed to self-expand to a first diameter. A balloon is then inflated within the prosthetic heart valve for expanding the prosthetic heart valve to a second diameter, wherein the second diameter is larger than the first diameter, thereby securely implanting the prosthetic heart valve within the annulus of the aortic valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventor: Mario Iobbi
  • Patent number: 9320599
    Abstract: The invention includes methods of and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a heart valve of a patient. One aspect of the invention provides a method including the steps of endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve in an unexpanded configuration; and applying an external non-hydraulically expanding or non-pneumatically expanding actuation force on the anchor to change the shape of the anchor, such as by applying proximally and/or distally directed force on the anchor using a releasable deployment tool to expand and contract the anchor or parts of the anchor. Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus including a replacement valve; an anchor; and a deployment tool comprising a plurality of anchor actuation elements adapted to apply a non-hydraulically expanding or non-pneumatically expanding actuation force on the anchor to reshape the anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Amr Salahieh, Jean-Pierre Dueri, Hans F. Valencia, Daniel K. Hildebrand, Brian D. Brandt, Dwight P. Morejohn, Claudio Argento, Tom Saul, Ulrich R. Haug
  • Patent number: 9320600
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a tissue shaping device adapted to be disposed in a vessel near a patient's heart to reshape the patient's heart. Such tissue shaping device can include an expandable proximal anchor; a proximal anchor lock adapted to lock the proximal anchor in an expanded configuration; an expandable distal anchor; a distal anchor lock adapted to lock the distal anchor in an expanded configuration; and a connector disposed between the proximal anchor and the distal anchor, the connector having a substantially non-circular cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Cardiac Dimensions Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Gregory Nieminen, Nathan Aronson
  • Patent number: 9320601
    Abstract: A composite implant comprising an injectable matrix material which is flowable and settable, and at least one reinforcing element for integration with the injectable matrix material, the at least one reinforcing element adding sufficient strength to the injectable matrix material such that when the composite implant is disposed in a cavity in a bone, the composite implant supports the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: 206 ORTHO, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. D'Agostino, Andrew J. Carter, Arthur Watterson, Joseph P. Lane
  • Patent number: 9320602
    Abstract: Provided is a method for easily producing a lamellar compressed fiber structural material which has mechanical characteristics close to those of in vivo bone and which is capable of easily increasing osteoblast even when a difference in strength exists. In order to solve the issues, the method for producing compressed fiber structural material 1, includes: a step of preparing biocompatible fiber 14 having an average diameter of 5 ?m-50 ?m and an aspect ratio of 20-500; and a step of molding compressed fiber structural material 1 by cold pressing/shearing biocompatible fiber 14, compressed fiber structural material 1 having an average pore diameter that is in the range of 60 ?m-100 ?m inclusive and a void fraction that is in the range of 25%-50% inclusive, both obtained by measurement in accordance with the mercury penetration method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SHINSHU UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Noboru Nakayama, Masaomi Horita, Naoki Izawa, Hiroto Tamai, Naoto Saito, Yuki Usui, Nobuhide Ogihara
  • Patent number: 9320603
    Abstract: An orthopaedic surgical instrument system includes a first broach including a first end configured to be separately secured to a handle and a tapered body having a plurality of cutting teeth defined therein, and a second broach including a first end configured to be separately secured to the handle in place of the first broach, a first tapered body extending distally from a second end positioned opposite the first end, and a second tapered body extending distally from the first tapered body. The tapered body of the first broach and the first tapered body of the second broach have a first outer geometry and the second tapered body has a second outer geometry different from the first outer geometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: DePuy (Ireland)
    Inventors: Jay R. Lieberman, Benjamin J. Sordelet, Richard Spencer Jones, Timothy G. Vendrely, Stephanie M. Wainscott, Rebecca L. Chaney, Joseph G. Wyss, Stephen A. Hazebrouck, Aaron J. Matyas
  • Patent number: 9320604
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for providing surgical parameter data. The method comprises the computer-implemented steps of being responsive to patient specific information data for deriving patient data, where the patient specific information data is indicative of one or more dynamic characteristics, and determining a set of possible surgical parameter data according to the patient data and patient acquired data, the patient acquired data being indicative of one or more desired post-surgery activities, the patient acquired data comprising post-surgery activities preference data; and a further step of selecting the surgical parameter data from the set of possible surgical parameter data according to the post-surgery activities preference data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: OPTIMIZED ORTHO PTY LTD
    Inventors: Brad Peter Miles, Peter Bede O'Connor, Justin Roe, Brett Fritsch, Len Walter, Ed Marel, Michael Solomon, Brian Cheung, Milton Scott Bergeon, James William Pierrepont
  • Patent number: 9320605
    Abstract: Knee prostheses featuring components that more faithfully replicate the structure and function of the human knee joint in order to provide, among other benefits: greater flexion of the knee in a more natural way by promoting or at least accommodating internal tibial rotation in a controlled way, replication of the natural screw home mechanism, and controlled articulation of the tibia and femur respective to each other in a more natural way. In a preferred embodiment, such prostheses include an insert component disposed between a femoral component and a tibial component, the insert component preferably featuring among other things a reversely contoured posterolateral bearing surface that helps impart internal rotation to the tibia as the knee flexes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignees: Smith & Nephew, Inc., The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania
    Inventors: Jason K. Otto, Brian William McKinnon, Michael Dean Hughes, Michael D. Ries, Jan Victor, Johan Bellemans, Jonathan Garino, Timothy Wilton
  • Patent number: 9320606
    Abstract: A prosthetic device that may be utilized as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device can restore shock absorption, stability, and function to the knee after the damaged natural meniscus is removed and replaced with the prosthetic device. In some embodiments, the meniscus includes an integral fixation anchor and additional features that minimize the requirement for modification of the implant for proper fit during surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Active Implants LLC
    Inventor: Howard Fox
  • Patent number: 9320607
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to a joint replacement device, including a fixed socket including an inner surface and an outer surface supporting a ball, an articulating socket including an inner surface and an outer surface the inner surface in contact with the ball and a stem component attached to the outer surface of the articulating socket. The inner surface of the articulating socket articulates with the ball and the outer surface of the articulating socket can articulate with the inner surface of the fixed socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Brian Ted Maurer
  • Patent number: 9320608
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for the optimization of shoulder arthroplasty component design through the use of computed tomography scan data from arthritic shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: MAYO FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH
    Inventor: John W. Sperling
  • Patent number: 9320609
    Abstract: The ankle joint prosthesis adapted to involve the patient's distal tibia and talus has, according to the present invention, tibial, talar and mobile or semi-constrained bearing components that are laterally to medially implanted in the patient. The tibial component's top surface has convex curvature in its anterior to posterior plane and is configured so as to approximate and match with the curvature of a prepared portion of the distal tibia; its bottom surface being approximately flat. The talar component's top surface has saddle-shaped, convex curvature in its anterior to posterior plane, it's bottom surface has concave curvature and is configured so as to approximate and match with the curvature of a prepared portion of the talus. The mobile or semi-constrained bearing components have embodiments that comprise a wide variety of geometric shapes. A method for implanting such a prosthesis is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: Lew C. Schon, Brent G. Parks, Christopher Chiodo, Steven Herbst, Johnny Lau
  • Patent number: 9320610
    Abstract: An expandable implant (210, 410) includes top and bottom plates (220, 250, 420, 450) having angled inner surfaces (222, 252, 422, 452) that interact with expansion members (300, 302, 500, 502). The expansion members (300, 302, 500, 502) may be situated on an actuator (280, 480), and may include at least one vertical projection (312, 314, 512, 514) for interacting with a recess (230, 430) in the plates (220, 250, 420, 450). In some instances, rotation of the actuator (280, 480) in opposing directions about a longitudinal axis may cause the expansion members (300, 302, 500, 502) to move toward or away from one another, thereby resulting in separation or collapse of the top and bottom plates (220, 250, 420, 450). Pins (316, 516) may also be associated with the expansion members (300, 302, 500, 502) and received in respective slots (318, 518) in the plates (220, 250, 420, 450).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Stryker European Holdings I, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Alheidt, Bryan D. Milz, Dan Boljonis, Julien Doreau, Christine Herrmann
  • Patent number: 9320611
    Abstract: A spacer formed of an intermetallic compound, such as nitinol. The spacer includes two segments shaped in opposing arches. The unique properties of the intermetallic compound enable the material to be deformed into a planar, insertable shape when the material is cooled below a transition temperature and returns to the undeformed shape when the material returns to an ambient, operational temperature. An expansion mechanism assembly can engage with the spacer to apply an expansion force. The expansion force extends the spacer longitudinally drawing the spacer into the planar configuration. The expansion mechanism assembly can be used to guide the spacer into the desired position within the patient. The spacer control mechanism assembly is subsequently removed, relieving the expansion force. The spacer returns to the natural undeformed shape as it returns to body temperature. Retention features can be integrated in the spacer to aid in retaining the spacer in location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: Carlos Andres Rodriguez, Cira Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 9320612
    Abstract: This Implant (1) includes, in a known manner, two pieces (2, 3) that are telescopically mobile relative to one another and elements (4) for positioning one piece (3) in a particular position relative to the other piece (2), the two pieces (2, 3) being made from a polymer material. At least one of the two pieces (2, 3) has a plurality of micro-cavities (15, 20, 32) over at least one wide portion of its peripheral wall (5); and the implant includes internal communications (16, 21, 33) in its wall(s) (5, 7, 31) including the micro-cavities (15, 20, 32), connecting all or some of the micro-cavities to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: MEDICREA INTERNATIONAL
    Inventors: Denys Sournac, David Ryan
  • Patent number: 9320613
    Abstract: The invention relates to an intervertebral fusion implant for fusing two adjacent vertebrae, comprising an adjustable support body, the base surface and cover surface of which are configured to bear on end plates of the adjacent vertebrae, wherein provision is made for a side bracket, which can be pivoted laterally about a hinge and the base and cover of which have a planar design, and provision is made for an actuator for pivoting out the side bracket into a position (working position) spread from the support body. As a result, the implant has particularly small dimensions and can, after assembly at the envisaged implantation site, be actuated in such a way that it becomes larger and thereby affords a larger support surface for support in the intervertebral space. Thus, even comparatively large-area defects can be treated by minimally invasive surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Facet-Link Inc.
    Inventor: Klaus Dmuschewsky
  • Patent number: 9320614
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and methodology for use in spinal fusion surgeries. An implant is proved for forming a rigid structure between adjoining vertebrae in a patient. The implant is a cage defined by at least a first end, second end, first side, and second side surface, wherein first and second side surfaces extend substantially parallel to each other to span a space between adjoining vertebrae and first and second ends interconnect said first side surface and second side surface. The cage incorporates one or more flexible joints that allow the cage to be deformed for insertion into a patient. The ability to deform the cage allows a greater ease and flexibility in inserting and positioning the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Garner, Sara Dziedzic, Michael Mahoney, Ramon A. Ruberte
  • Patent number: 9320615
    Abstract: A distractible intervertebral implant configured to be inserted in an insertion direction into an intervertebral space that is defined between a first vertebral body and a second vertebral body is disclosed. The implant may include a first body and a second body. The first body may define an outer surface that is configured to engage the first vertebral body, and an opposing inner surface that defines a rail. The second body may define an outer surface that is configured to engage the second vertebral body, and an inner surface that defines a recess configured to receive the rail of the first body. The second body moves in a vertical direction toward the second vertebral body as the second body is slid over the first body and the rail is received in the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jann-Paul Suedkamp, Sean Saidha, Philipp Brun
  • Patent number: 9320616
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing deeper knee flexion capabilities. In some instances, such systems and methods include an asymmetrical femoral component that includes a femoral prosthesis that is configured to attach to a distal portion of a femur. In some such instances, the prosthesis includes a medial condyle and a lateral condyle, wherein a medial-lateral width of an articulation surface of the lateral condyle is approximately 75% or less of a medial-lateral width of an articulation surface of the medial condyle. Other implementations are also discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: Kent M. Samuelson, Connor E. Samuelson
  • Patent number: 9320617
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing spinal percutaneous delivery of an implant that can rigidly fixate the spinous process of a first superior bone and a second inferior bone of a functional spinal unit. In one aspect, the device comprises two bone abutment members connected via an interconnecting member. In another aspect, the method comprises implanting at least two spinal implant apparatus within a target disc space via an implantation apparatus. In another aspect, a placement instrument comprising an implant delivery segment, an anchor segment, and an articulating arm is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Cogent Spine, LLC
    Inventors: Samy Abdou, Brian Bowman, Benjamin Arnold, Jude Paganelli
  • Patent number: 9320618
    Abstract: Described herein are methods and systems for precisely placing and/or manipulating devices within the body by first positioning a guidewire or pullwire. The device to be positioned within the body is coupled to the proximal end of the guidewire, and the device is pulled into the body by pulling on the distal end of the guidewire that extends from the body. The device may be bimanually manipulated by pulling the guidewire distally, and an attachment to a device that extends proximally, allowing control of both the proximal and the distal ends. In this manner devices (and particularly implants such as innerspinous distracters, stimulating leads, and disc slings) may be positioned and/or manipulated within the body. Guidewire exchange systems, devices and methods are also described. A guidewire may be exchanged between different surgical devices and may be releaseably or permanently coupled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Amendia, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory P. Schmitz, Michael P. Wallace, Winnie Tang, Amie R. Borgstrom, Jeffery L. Bleich, Gregory B. Arcenio, Ronald Leguidleguid, Roy Leguidleguid, Jefferey Bleam
  • Patent number: 9320619
    Abstract: A stemless humeral component for replacing the humeral head of a patient's humerus includes a support flange having a number of cantilevered legs extending distally away from a bottom surface thereof. Instruments and methods for surgically installing the stemless humeral component are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Sarah Anthony, Matthew T. Stone, Scott A. Lubensky, Chad Lawrence, David M. Warlop, Didier Poncet
  • Patent number: 9320620
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed relating improved articular models, implant components, and related guide tools and procedures. In addition, methods and devices are disclosed relating articular models, implant components, and/or related guide tools and procedures that include one or more features derived from patient-data, for example, images of the patient's joint. The data can be used to create a model for analyzing a patient's joint and to devise and evaluate a course of corrective action. The data also can be used to create patient-adapted implant components and related tools and procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: ConforMIS, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond A. Bojarski, Nam T. Chao, John Slamin, Philipp Lang, Wolfgang Fitz, Daniel Steines
  • Patent number: 9320621
    Abstract: A prosthetic hand system may include a plurality of prosthetic fingers and a prosthetic thumb. The prosthetic hand system may include a thumb drive mechanism that may be used to actuate the prosthetic thumb. In some examples, the thumb drive mechanism may be configured to enable the prosthetic thumb to perform a pinching or grasping motion and a release motion. The prosthetic hand system may also include a backlock that enables the prosthetic thumb to maintain pinching or gripping pressure after a motor has been disengaged. The prosthetic hand system may also include a gear lock that may be configured to lock a finger joint. The prosthetic hand system may also include an adaptive gripping joint that may be located on each prosthetic finger. In some examples, the adaptive gripping joint may be configured to passively adapt the plurality of prosthetic fingers to one or more differently shaped objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Motion Control
    Inventors: Edwin Kay Iversen, Joseph Anthony Jacobs, Jeffry David Christenson, Peter Karl Strazdins, Steven Reese Kunz, Brent Taylor Jarvis, Jeff Robert Welch, Harold Hume Sears, Arthur David Dyck
  • Patent number: 9320622
    Abstract: A nickel-free stainless steel stent using a stainless steel which does not substantially contain Ni in the stainless steel, has a metal allergy onset-preventing effect, and is excellent in terms of precision workability, strength, and ductility, is provided. The nickel-free stainless steel stent is characterized by using a stainless steel containing, as a chemical composition, from 15 to 30% by mass of Cr, from 0.97 to 2% by mass of Mo, and from 0.5 to 1% by mass of N, with the remainder being Fe, and optionally containing inevitable impurities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR MATERIALS SCIENCE
    Inventors: Tetsushi Taguchi, Yasuyuki Katada, Ryozo Nagai, Ichiro Manabe, Katsuhito Fujiu
  • Patent number: 9320623
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses of stents with likely reduced rates of tissue perforation are provided. Some embodiments include reducing the profile of a portion of the stent using a wire profile reduction electropolishing bath and/or other wire profile reduction means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Michael Ryan, James Michael Carlson
  • Patent number: 9320624
    Abstract: Provided is a method for manufacturing a stent having a superior bending characteristic, in which a basic jig is employed to weave wires by alternating an obtuse angle and an acute angle so as to repetitively form starry cells in left and right portions and upper and lower portions of the stent, and in which the wires intersecting each other in the starry cells are allowed to freely move to provide the superior bending characteristic caused by flexibility in both the diametrical direction and lengthwise direction thereof, and the stent manufactured thereby. Thus, the stent can have a flexible bending characteristic and is prevented from being folded even when sharply bent after being coated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignees: TAEWOONG MEDICAL Co., LTD.
    Inventor: Kyong Min Shin