Abstract: A method of diagnosing an air leak in a lung compartment of a patient may include: advancing a diagnostic catheter into an airway leading to the lung compartment; inflating an occluding member on the catheter to form a seal with a wall of the airway and thus isolate the lung compartment; measuring air pressure within the lung compartment during multiple breaths, using the diagnostic catheter; displaying the measured air pressure as an air pressure value on a console coupled with the diagnostic catheter; and determining whether an air leak is present in the lung compartment based on the displayed air pressure value during the multiple breaths.

Abstract: An apparatus for in-situ sensing of longitudinal and transverse strain in biological tissue (e.g. tendons and ligaments) includes a set of sensing electrodes that contact biological tissue and enable measurement of an electrical property of the biological tissue along two or more directions. The apparatus may also include a sensing module that senses the electrical property of the biological tissue along the two or more directions to provide multi-directional measurements that are captured by a logging module. The apparatus may also include a transmission module that transmits the captured measurements to a data analysis workstation or the like. The data analysis workstation may include a strain estimation module that receives the multi-directional measurement and estimates a longitudinal strain and a transverse strain therefrom. A corresponding system and method for in-situ sensing of longitudinal and transverse strain in biological tissue is also presented.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for characterizing motion data. The method and system obtain point specific (PS) motion data for a plurality of map points. The PS motion data indicates an amount of motion that occurred at the corresponding map point on a wall of the heart during at least one cardiac cycle. The method and system, calculate mechanical activation times (MAT) for the map points, identifying a group of neighbor map points for a current map point, and modifying the MAT corresponding to the current map point based on the MATs corresponding to at least a portion of the group of neighboring map points. Further, the method and system repeat the identifying and modifying operations for at least a subset of the map points.

Abstract: Systems and methods for autonomous intravenous needle insertion are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a system for autonomous intravenous insertion include a robot arm, one or more sensors pivotally attached to the robot arm for gathering information about potential insertion sites in a subject arm, a medical device pivotally attached to the robot arm, and a controller in communication with the sensors and the robot arm, wherein the controller receives the information from the sensors about potential insertion sites, and the controller selects a target insertion site and directs the robot arm to insert the medical device into the target insertion site.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for collecting samples and to a method for collecting a liquid sample. The system comprises at least one analytical aid, the analytical aid comprising a lancet and a test element, and the test element having a test field for analysis of the liquid sample. The system for collecting samples comprises a coupling element which can be successively connected to the lancet, in a first position of the analytical aid, and to the test element, in a second position of the analytical aid. The system for collecting samples also comprises a drive unit for moving the coupling element from a rest position to a deployed position, such that the movement of the coupling element is transmitted to the lancet, coupled thereto, in order to execute a puncturing movement, or is transmitted to the test element, coupled thereto, in order to execute a sample recovery movement.

Abstract: Systems and methods for dynamically and intelligently estimating analyte data from a continuous analyte sensor, including receiving a data stream, selecting one of a plurality of algorithms, and employing the selected algorithm to estimate analyte values. Additional data processing includes evaluating the selected estimative algorithms, analyzing a variation of the estimated analyte values based on statistical, clinical, or physiological parameters, comparing the estimated analyte values with corresponding measure analyte values, and providing output to a user. Estimation can be used to compensate for time lag, match sensor data with corresponding reference data, warn of upcoming clinical risk, replace erroneous sensor data signals, and provide more timely analyte information encourage proactive behavior and preempt clinical risk.

Abstract: Techniques for monitoring a target analyte in a sample using a polymer capable of binding to the target analyte are disclosed. A microdevice useful for the disclosed techniques includes a semi-permeable membrane structure, a substrate, a first and second microchambers formed between the membrane structure and the substrate. The first microchamber can be adapted to receive a solution including the polymer, and the second microchamber can be adapted to receive a reference solution. Environmental target analyte can permeate the semi-permeable membrane structure and enters the first microchamber and the second microchamber. Based on the difference in a property associated with the polymer solution that is responsive to the target analyte-polymer binding, and the corresponding property associated with reference solution, the presence and/or concentration of the target analyte can be determined.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for non-invasively determining a blood oxygen saturation level within an organ of a subject using direct application of a near infrared spectrophotometric sensor is provided. The method includes the steps of: a) transmitting a light signal directly into the subject's organ using the sensor; b) sensing a first intensity of the light signal and a second intensity of the light signal, after the light signal travels a predetermined distance through the organ of the subject; c) determining an attenuation of the light signal along multiple different wavelengths using the sensed first intensity and sensed second intensity; d) determining a difference in attenuation of the light signal between wavelengths; and e) determining the blood oxygen saturation level within the subject's organ using the difference in attenuation between wavelengths.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining tissue oxygenation such as arterial and venous oxygenation and cerebral oxygenation. In one embodiment, the optical properties of tissue are determined using measured light attenuations at a set of wavelengths. By choosing distinct wavelengths and using light attenuation information, the influence of variables such as light scattering, absorption and other optical tissue properties can be minimized.

Abstract: A thin film sensor, such as a glucose sensor, is provided for transcutaneous placement at a selected site within the body of a patient. The sensor includes several sensor layers that include conductive layers and includes a proximal segment defining conductive contacts adapted for electrical connection to a suitable monitor, and a distal segment with sensor electrodes for transcutaneous placement. The sensor electrode layers are disposed generally above each other, for example with the reference electrode above the working electrode and the working electrode above the counter electrode. The electrode layers are separated by dielectric layer.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a detection system, configured to acquire data regarding operation of the vehicle, and a robotic driving device, configured to provide robotic control of the vehicle. The vehicle also includes a control system configured to determine whether the robotic driving device is activated, such that the vehicle is in robotic driving mode; receive a request by a prospective operator of the vehicle to deactivate the robotic driving device to initiate a manual driving mode; determine whether the prospective operator is impaired based on the data; and selectively grant or refuse the request based on the determination.

Abstract: Provided is a non-invasive system and method for determining a target glycogen score value for a target muscle and potentially at least one indicator muscle. The method includes receiving an ultrasound scan of a target muscle; evaluating at least a portion of the ultrasound scan to determine glycogen store value within the target muscle; recording the determined glycogen store value for the muscle as an element of a glycogen value data set for the muscle; evaluating the glycogen value data set to determine a value range; and in response to the range being at least above a pre-determined threshold, establishing a target score for the muscle as based on an upper portion of the value range. The method may be repeated to identify ranges for a plurality of muscles, the muscle with the greatest range being identified as an indicator muscle. An associated system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Automated methods provide hypopnea detection for determining a hypopnea event and/or a severity of a hypopnea event. In some embodiments, a calculated short-term variance of a measured respiratory flow signal are compared to first and second proportions of a calculated long-term variance of the measured flow signal. A detection of the hypopnea may be indicated if the first measure falls below and does not exceed a range of the first and second proportions during a first time period. In some embodiments, a hypopnea severity measure is determined by automated measuring of an area bounded by first and second crossings of a short-term measure of ventilation and a proportion of a long-term measure. The detection methodologies may be implemented for data analysis by a specific purpose computer, a detection device that measures a respiratory airflow or a respiratory treatment apparatus that provides a respiratory treatment regime based on the detected hypopneas.

Abstract: A physiological sensor combination has a flexible substrate configured to attach to a tissue site. Multiple sensors are disposed on the substrate, which generate physiological signals. Each of the signals is responsive to a different physiological parameter. Conductors are carried on the substrate and routed between the sensors and at least one connector. The connector is configured to communicate the physiological signals to at least one monitor, which derives measurements of the parameters.

Abstract: A measurement device is provided for measuring a vessel pulse signal of a specific position attached by a mark. The measurement device includes a sensor, a plurality of conductive dots, a determination unit, and a measurement unit. The conductive dots are located around the sensor. The determination unit determines whether the plurality of conductive dots are connected to each other through the mark to generate a determination signal to indicate whether the sensor has been disposed in the specific position.

Abstract: A glucometer guide is provided to address the difficulty that blind or visually impaired diabetic patients have when attempting to independently use a glucometer. The guide provides haptic cues for the effective transfer of blood onto a test strip.

Abstract: A math model envelope of a single heartbeat between primary and secondary peaks of an autocorrelation of a received cardiovascular sound signal comprises an S1 lobe and a like-polarity S2 lobe. A bootstrap filter envelope is generated by averaging data from a plurality of heart cycles within heart cycle boundaries located responsive to a convolution of the envelope with the cardiovascular sound signal. Start points of a plurality of heart cycle signals are located from a convolution of the bootstrap filter envelope with the cardiovascular sound signal. The S1 and S2 regions are located within a cardiovascular sound signal responsive to peak and valley locations thereof and responsive to a phase window signal generated by filtering an average of a plurality of heart cycle signals, wherein the peak and valley locations are located responsive to a second derivative of the phase window signal and responsive to the start points.

Abstract: A method performed by a medical device for transmitting data packets includes: removing select data fields from a data packet defined in accordance with IEEE standard 11073 to form a modified data packet; determining a length of the modified data packet; determining whether the length of the modified data packet is greater than a predetermined maximum length of data packets under the Bluetooth low energy protocol, as defined in Bluetooth Core Specification version 4.0 or higher; when the length of the modified data packet is greater than the predetermined maximum length of data packets defined under the Bluetooth low energy protocol, partitioning the modified data packet into a plurality of individual data packets, wherein each of the individual data packets includes a portion of the modified data packet; and transmitting the individual data packets via an antenna in accordance with the Bluetooth low energy protocol.

Abstract: A method for the reconstruction of a dose administered in an object to be irradiated includes providing a radiation therapy device. The radiation therapy device includes a therapeutic radiation source for emitting a therapeutic treatment beam, a portal detector opposing the therapeutic radiation source for recording measurement data of the treatment beam once the therapeutic radiation source has left the object to be irradiated, and a single or multi slice computed tomography scanner having a kV x-ray source and an opposing kV detector for producing a computed tomography of the object positioned in the radiation therapy device. The method also includes recording a computed tomography image of the object to be irradiated with the computed tomography scanner, and using the computed tomography image in order to reconstruct a dose administered to the object from measurement data of the portal detector.

Abstract: A CT system includes a gantry having an opening for receiving an object to be scanned, an x-ray tube attached to the gantry, and a detector assembly. The detector assembly is positioned to receive x-rays that pass through the object and includes a light-sealed enclosure formed by at least first and second rails, a back support, and a light seal structure, and a plurality of liquid-cooled modules positioned in the enclosure. Each module includes a digital cable that passes from inside the enclosure, and each module is configured to convert the x-rays to a digital signal and output the signal via a digital cable.

Abstract: With an X-ray apparatus for round visit of this invention, when a brake operation is carried out, a CPU performs deceleration control (braking current control at c and short brake control at e) of a movable carriage instead of immediately driving electromagnetic brakes, and drives the electromagnetic brakes at time f. Therefore, a great shock does not occur to the apparatus, and there is no possibility of the operator colliding with the apparatus. Since the deceleration control of the movable carriage is carried out in advance, the apparatus does not stop suddenly and does not impair the floor. As a result, the X-ray apparatus for round visit is realized, in which no great shock occurs to the apparatus at times of deceleration, and which is also safe for the operator.

Abstract: Provided is an X-ray image photographing device, and more particularly, a portable X-ray image system available for multiple uses. In addition, disclosed is an X-ray image photographing device, and more particularly, an operating table which may be coupled to a portable X-ray image device.

Abstract: A mammograph is provided. The mammograph includes a source of X-rays; a detector of X-rays, the source being configured to emit at least one beam of X-rays to the detector; and an optic control device configured to control the direction of X-rays emitted by the source such that the X-rays emitted by the source are substantially parallel to one another.

Abstract: DPC (differential phase contrast) images are acquired for each photon energy channel, which are called spectral DPC images. The final DPC image can be computed by summing up these spectral DPC images or just computed using certain ‘color’ representation algorithms to enhance desired features. In addition, with quasi-monochromatic x-ray source, the required radiation dose is substantially reduced, while the image quality of DPC images remains acceptable.

Abstract: Systematic error is estimated as a function of location in quantitative functional imaging. The systematic error is estimated by perturbing the system matrix. The values of one or more variables of the system matrix are altered, and the reconstruction repeated. The differences in the resulting object or image data of the different reconstructions provide systematic error information as a function of location.

Abstract: A system and method provide heart sound tracking, including an input circuit, configured to receive heart sound information, and a heart sound recognition circuit. The heart sound recognition circuit can be coupled to the input circuit and can be configured to recognize, within a particular heart sound of a particular heart sound waveform, a first intra heart sound energy indication and a corresponding first intra heart sound time indication using the heart sound information from the particular heart sound waveform and the heart sound information from at least one other heart sound waveform. The particular heart sound can include at least a portion of one of S1, S2, S3, and S4. Further, the first intra heart sound energy indication and the corresponding first intra heart sound time indication can correspond to the at least a portion of one of S1, S2, S3, and S4, respectively.

Abstract: An ultrasound imaging method for detecting a target region of altered stiffness is provided. The method comprises delivering at least one reference pulse to the target region to detect an initial position of the target region, delivering a first pushing pulse having a first value of a variable parameter to a target region to displace the target region to a first displaced position, delivering a first tracking pulse to detect the first displaced position of the target region, delivering a second pushing pulse having a second value of the variable parameter to the target region to displace the target region to a second displaced position, and delivering a second tracking pulse to detect the second displaced position of the target region. An ultrasound imaging system for detecting a region of altered stiffness is also provided.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal peripheral veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's peripheral veins are provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining the volume of a bodily structure including the steps of acquiring at least two ultrasound images, estimating the location of the perimeter of a structure of interest as viewed in cross section in each said ultrasound image, calculating the cross sectional area of such structure as so viewed, and combining the perimeter and area information from the at least two images to calculate the volume of the structure.

Abstract: A device and method for improving the identification accuracy of fetal heart rate deceleration. The method includes: collecting fetal heart rate data (101); performing baseline identification on the collected fetal heart rate data (102); preprocessing the collected fetal heart rate data (103); performing deceleration identification on the preprocessed fetal heart rate data according to preset deceleration judgment standards and a fetal heart rate data baseline to obtain a decelerated data segment (104); and calculating a deceleration attribute value of each decelerated data segment (105), and outputting the decelerated data segment and calculation result (106).

Abstract: An ultrasound probe diagnosing apparatus which diagnoses an ultrasound probe having an array of a plurality of ultrasound transducing elements on the basis of how the ultrasound probe receives reflected ultrasound waves from a test object placed to face the ultrasound probe, includes a part which detects a posture of the ultrasound probe with respect to the test object by comparing reflected ultrasound signals received by at least some of the plurality of ultrasound transducing elements, and a presenting part which presents information based on the detected posture.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides medical devices possessing reactants thereon, which further promote adherence of the device to tissue in vivo and/or release of bioactive agents from the device.

Abstract: An electromechanical surgical device includes a motor system configured to drive drive-shafts and a steering cable arrangement. A control system may be provided for controlling the motor system. A remote control unit may also be provided for controlling the motor system via the control system. Optical or Hall-effect devices, may be provided for determining the position of the elements of the surgical instrument based on the detected rotation of the drive-shafts. A memory unit stores a plurality of operating programs or algorithms, each corresponding to a type of surgical instrument attachable to the electro-mechanical surgical device. The control system reads or selects from the plurality of operating programs or algorithms, the operating program or algorithm corresponding to the type of surgical instrument attached to the electromechanical surgical device.

Abstract: A tissue removal device is disclosed which includes an elongate shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the elongate shaft defines a longitudinal axis, a bag support defining an opening, the bag support being collapsible and expandable to open and close the opening, a bag operatively attached to the bag support, the bag having an open first end operatively secured to the bag support and a closed end, the first end being connected to the support so that when the bag support is in the collapsed position the bag opening is substantially closed, the bag having folds including at least one transverse fold. The tissue removal device may further include a tube for receiving the shaft, bag support and bag.

Abstract: A removal pouch that is utilized for removing body tissue from the interior of the body as part of a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The specimen removal pouch includes an elongated body and a gas vent. The elongated body has an interior portion to collect specimen from a body cavity of a patient. The gas vent is configured to allow passage of gas from the interior portion of the elongated body to an external environment during removal of the pouch from within the body cavity of the patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to a minimally invasive instrument comprising an enlargeable sensor head with a flat sensor element that has resilient properties. In order to enable an improved minimally invasive instrument, the sensor element comprises a film element with a first layer and with a second layer distanced from the first layer by means of spacers, wherein the sensor element comprises, arranged between the layers of the film element, expansion-sensitive, polymer-based resistance elements for picking up tactile stimuli.

Abstract: A method of performing arthroscopic surgery using an arthroscopic inflow and outflow sheath which provides an improved inflow and outflow system reducing the diameter of a continuous flow system while eliminating the need for a third portal during arthroscopy. The improved arthroscopic inflow and outflow sheath comprises an elongated atraumatic sheath having an inner surface, outer surface, proximal end, and distal end. The atraumatic sheath further comprises plurality of ribs extending from the inner surface of the sheath and designed to contact an outer surface of the arthroscope creating outer lumens facilitating the inflow and outflow of fluid to a surgical site. The atraumatic sheath further comprises a ridge to prevent the sheath from being easily removed from a surgical site.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for closing a vascular wound includes an apparatus that can be threaded over a guidewire into place at or adjacent the wound. The apparatus includes a chamber that encloses a hemostatic material therein. When the apparatus is positioned adjacent the wound as desired, the hemostatic material is deployed from the chamber. Blood contacts the hemostatic material, and blood clotting preferably is facilitated by a hemostatic agent within the material. Thus, the vascular puncture wound is sealed by blood clot formation.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for sealing a puncture through tissue includes an introducer sheath sized for introduction into a puncture, cartridge sized for insertion into the introducer carrying a sealant, and a locking element for coupling the introducer sheath to the cartridge. When the cartridge is advanced into the introducer sheath, the locking element couples the introducer sheath to the cartridge such that subsequent retraction of the cartridge causes the introducer sheath to retract, thereby deploying the sealant from the cartridge within the puncture beyond the introducer sheath.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sealing a puncture or incision formed percutaneously in a tissue. The apparatus includes an anchor, a sealing plug, a suture, a compaction member assembly, a spool assembly, and a release member. The compaction member assembly is structured and arranged to apply a compressive force to compact the sealing plug toward the anchor. The spool assembly includes a plurality of post members, and the suture is wound about the post members to define a suture cam path. Unspooling the suture along the suture cam path provides driving of the compaction member assembly. The release member is operable to move the post members to release the suture member from the spool assembly.

Abstract: A medical material delivery device includes a shaft having a lumen that receives a therapeutic agent, and can include a guide having a channel for receiving a medical instrument adapted for positioning in conjunction with a bodily part. An expandable member positioned in conjunction with the guide is adapted for communication with the bodily part and is arranged to burst open when the expandable member is disrupted by a disrupting mechanism to deliver the therapeutic agent to the bodily part. Further embodiments include a medical instrument and an expandable member in conjunction with the medical instrument to burst or leak to deliver a therapeutic agent. The medical material delivery device can include a bodily fluid locator attached with the device, as well as can include a second expandable member to inflate and deflate to localize a bodily part, with a first expandable member bursting to deliver a therapeutic agent.

Abstract: An apparatus for closing an opening in a body tissue. The apparatus includes a shaft, a plurality of arms, and an expander. The arms each extend between a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of each arm is hingedly attached to or integrally formed with the shaft. The arms are laterally spaced apart from each other. The arms are movable between a retracted configuration, in which the arms are each aligned along the shaft, and a deployed configuration, in which the proximal end of each arm pivots respectively about the distal end of the arm so as to extend laterally away from the shaft. The expander is positioned within the shaft, and movement of the expander causes the arms to move between the retracted and deployed configurations. Methods of using the apparatus are also included.

Abstract: A suture anchor device and method for attaching soft tissue to bone includes an anchor body and a suture locking wedge movably disposed within the anchor body. Tension applied to one side of a suture causes the suture locking wedge to translate and rotate into a position which compresses the suture, thereby locking the suture in the anchor. A resilient or spring biasing member within the anchor device urges the suture locking wedge to compress the suture, facilitating suture locking.

Abstract: A suture anchor comprises a tubular body having an axial bore therethrough and having one or more purchase enhancements on an exterior surface of the body adapted to enhance purchase of the body within a bone hole, such as threads. A lateral port passes through the body from the bore to the exterior surface and is formed of a slot entering the body from its proximal end. A length of suture for attaching soft tissue to bone passes down along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements, over a distal end of the body, up into the bore through and then back out of the bore and up along the exterior surface over the one or more purchase enhancements.

Abstract: A system 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. An implant for attachment of soft tissue to bone, an insertion tool for anchoring suture anchors to bone, and a method for anchoring a suture anchor to bone.

Abstract: A method for confirming capture of a moving heart valve leaflet of a beating heart of a patient includes inserting an instrument through the chest cavity and into a heart chamber providing access to a valve needing repair. A movable tip on the distal end of the instrument is operable to capture a moving valve leaflet. Proper capture of the valve leaflet is confirmed at a proximal end of the instrument with a fiber optic capture confirmation system.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for manipulating suture within a patient. The surgical instrument includes a short cannulated handle and a cannulated shaft having a curved configuration. A Nitinol loop is inserted through the cannulation of the instrument for passing and shuttling suture through tissue. The curved shaped of the instrument allows it to be introduced into the shoulder for rotator cuff repair, for example, using the Neviaser Portal.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a package for a medical device having a surface prepared for receiving a target agent and a port for permitting the passage of the target agent between the surface of the medical device contained therein.

Abstract: A surgical clip applier is provided including a channel assembly and overlying a clip carrier having a clip counter plate slidably supported in the channel assembly, wherein the clip counter plate is configured and adapted to display a change in status of the clip applier upon actuation of the handle.

Abstract: In one aspect of the present disclosure a surgical stapling apparatus is disclosed including a cartridge assembly. The cartridge assembly includes at least one cartridge having a first half and a second half, a first row of retention slots disposed in the first half, a second row of retention slots disposed in the second half, a third row of retention slots being alternately disposed in the first half and the second half of the at least one cartridge between the first and second rows of staple receiving slots, a plurality of fasteners disposed in the retention slots of the first, second and third rows, and a plurality of pushers disposed in each of the first and second halves of the cartridge.