Patents Issued in June 23, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160175002
    Abstract: A device for treating a lesion in a body lumen to enlarge a passageway in the body lumen having at least one cutting member and a tracking member. The at least one cutting member has a cutting surface and a separate material associated therewith. The cutting member and tracking member are connected at a distal portion and insertable into the body lumen as a unit, the cutting member configured for movement in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the tracking member to widen a gap between the cutting member and tracking member at least at a distal region and to apply the separate material to an interior of the lesion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: Rex Medical, L.P.
    Inventors: Israel Schur, James F. McGuckin, JR., James Erich Bressler
  • Publication number: 20160175003
    Abstract: A compound needle comprising an outer needle shaft having an outer needle tip and an inner needle shaft having an inner needle tip wherein one of the needle tips is sharper than the other needle tip. The outer needle tip can be formed of a flexible material and/or have a flexible/movable connection to the outer shaft, which enables the inner needle tip to be deployed and/or refracted through the outer needle tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Ronny KAFILUDDI, Ersno EROMO
  • Publication number: 20160175004
    Abstract: An overtube includes a slider within an overtube body, which guides an endoscope and a treatment tool into a body cavity. An endoscope-coupled part and a treatment tool-coupled part are provided in the slider, and the slider has a dead zone where the forward and backward movement of either the endoscope or the treatment tool does not interlock with the movement of the other and a sensing zone where the forward and backward movement of either the endoscope or the treatment tool interlocks with the movement of the other. A fluid-supplying connector that is provided on a base end surface of the overtube body, and has an axial direction that is made parallel to a longitudinal axis of the overtube body, and is detachably connected to an air supply tube for sending fluid into the body cavity through an internal space of the overtube body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Takumi DEJIMA
  • Publication number: 20160175005
    Abstract: Provided is an endoscopic surgical device and an overtube with which a surgeon can easily obtain a desired image and in which operability is high. The overtube includes a slider within an overtube body, which guides an endoscope and a treatment tool into a body cavity. An endoscope-coupled part and a treatment tool-coupled part are provided inside the slider, and the slider has a dead zone where the forward and backward movement of either the endoscope or the treatment tool does not interlock with the movement of the other and a sensing zone where the forward and backward movement of either the endoscope or the treatment tool interlocks with the movement of the other. The overtube body is configured to allow the treatment tool to rotate around an axis thereof without changing the positional relationship of the endoscope and the treatment tool with respect to the overtube body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Takumi DEJIMA
  • Publication number: 20160175006
    Abstract: Provided is an endoscopic surgical device and an overtube with which a surgeon can easily obtain a desired image and operability is high. The overtube includes a slider within an overtube body, which guides an endoscope and a treatment tool into a body cavity. An endoscope-coupled part and a treatment tool-coupled part are provided inside the slider, and the slider has a dead zone where the forward and backward movement of either the endoscope or the treatment tool does not interlock with the movement of the other and a sensing zone where the forward and backward movement of either the endoscope or the treatment tool interlocks with the movement of the other. F1>F2 is satisfied when a fixing force for fixing the endoscope-coupled part to the endoscope tool is defined as F1 and a fixing force for fixing the treatment tool-coupled part to the treatment tool is defined as F2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Takumi DEJIMA
  • Publication number: 20160175007
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides systems and methods for implanting an implantable cardiac monitor. An injection system includes an implantable cardiac monitor (ICM), a plunger, a plunger handle coupled the plunger, and an injector housing. The injector housing includes a tube extending from a first end of the injector housing to a second end of the injector housing, the tube configured to receive the ICM and the plunger, and at least one leaflet formed at the second end of the injector housing, the at least one leaflet configured to rotate outward when a user operates the plunger handle to push the ICM through the injector housing second end via the plunger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Abigail Valbuena, Gene A. Bornzin, Zoltan Somogyi, Didier Theret
  • Publication number: 20160175008
    Abstract: This disclosure provides various embodiments of implant tools and implant techniques utilizing those tools. In one embodiment, an implant tool comprises a handle and a shaft. The shaft includes a proximal end adjacent the handle, a distal end, an open channel that extends from near the proximal end to the distal end, and at least one lumen that extends from a proximal end of the shaft to a location near the distal end of the shaft. The implant tool may also include a coupler configured to connect to a fluid delivery device. In one example, the fluid delivery device may be a syringe. In some instances, the handle of the implant tool may include a compartment or a recess configured to receive the fluid delivery device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Kevin R. SEIFERT, Nathan L. OLSON, Becky L. DOLAN
  • Publication number: 20160175009
    Abstract: Novel and unique medical devices and associated methods are disclosed, for facilitating efficient and repeatable puncture of a tissue site while allowing vascular access from various access sites of a patient's body. Disclosed medical devices include dilators and wires usable alone or in combination and configured to facilitate tissue access and puncture at various anatomical locations from desired access sites. The medical devices each include one or more sections having sufficient flexibility for accessing the tissue site from the access site while retaining sufficient stiffness to perform one or more additional functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Gareth Davies, John Paul Urbanski, Ferryl Alley, Bogdan Beca
  • Publication number: 20160175010
    Abstract: An artificial insemination device may include a condom having a sheath and a reinforced cup that caps one end of the sheath, thereby having an inner concave surface and an outer convex surface; and a delivery handle comprising an elongate extension sized, shaped, shaped to contact the outer convex surface of the condom cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: The Stork Ib2C, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen A. Bollinger, Glenn Kanner
  • Publication number: 20160175011
    Abstract: An external fixation clamp for receiving a fixation element includes an inner jaw and an outer jaw movable between an open position that permits the fixation element to be placed between the inner and outer jaws and a closed position that restricts removal of the fixation element from between the inner and outer jaws. A latch assembly may cooperate with the inner and outer jaws to secure the jaws in a closed position. The latch assembly may comprise a latch and a latch biasing member. The latch may be configured to translate linearly relative to one of the inner and outer jaws, and the latch biasing member may have a first higher level of stored energy when the inner and outer jaws are in the open position and a second lower level of stored energy when the inner and outer jaws are in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Michael W. Mullaney
  • Publication number: 20160175012
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for preparing a fractured bone for repair. Preparing the bone may include fracture reduction. Preparing the bone may include holding a fracture in reduction. Preparing the bone may include identifying locations for obtaining access to an interior region of the bone. The apparatus may include structures outside the bone that interact with fragments of the bone. The structures may participate in the reduction. The structures may participate in holding the reduction. The structures may participate in identifying the locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Kyle Taylor, Todd A. Krinke, Alex A. Peterson, Thomas David Magnuson, Steve D. Kruse, Mark Robert Bilitz, Stefan J. Hertel, Michael P. Brenzel, Paul Hindrichs
  • Publication number: 20160175013
    Abstract: A forming apparatus and method for forming a workpiece used a medical procedure is provided. A controllable bending machine for bending the workpiece is provided. A template is manually formable. The template has a shape sensor so as to sense a shape of the template. A controller receives template shape data from the shape sensor and operates the bending machine in accordance with the template shape data. The bending of the workpiece includes a spring back compensating operation which performs a first bending operation on the workpiece in accordance with the template shape data, acquires workpiece shape data from one of the shape sensor re-disposed associated with the workpiece, or another shape sensor associated with the workpiece, and performs a second bending operation compensating for spring back. A method employs the template for workpiece measurements and the forming apparatus using the measurements for forming the workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Jerald L. Redmond
  • Publication number: 20160175014
    Abstract: A clamp housing assembly and method for providing stabilization as a bone anchor during an operation. The assembly includes a housing, a locking element and a band. The housing defines a longitudinal axis, a center recess, and at least one slot. The housing has two opposing arms extending from a base. At least a portion of the inside surface of each arm may be threaded and at least a portion of the outside surface of each arm may be planar. The locking element is positionable within the recess in a co-axial relationship to the housing. The band is sized for travel along a predetermined path defined in part by the at least one slot in the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: BAND-LOK, LLC
    Inventors: Michael ALBERT, Randy ROOF, Stuart LINDQUIST, John M. Kapitan
  • Publication number: 20160175015
    Abstract: An articulated fixation device is provided having a high degree of adjustability for securing a plate member thereof to a skull and at least one spinal rod thereof to a vertebral bone. In one form, an adjustable bridge member is provided that is adjustably connected to both the plate member and the spinal rod. The adjustable connections can include an upper and rearward pivot connection between the plate member and the bridge member and a lower and forward pivot connection between the spinal rod and the bridge member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Gregory Berrevoets, Frankie Morris, Frederick E. Finger
  • Publication number: 20160175016
    Abstract: A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Todd Alamin, Ian Bennett, Colin Cahill, Louis Fielding, Manish Kothari, Jeffrey Schwardt
  • Publication number: 20160175017
    Abstract: A bone fixation plate includes a first opening formed in a plate that is configured to receive a first fastener; a second opening formed in the plate that is configured to receives a second fastener, and a retention member that extends into a third opening formed in the plate between the first opening and the second opening, wherein the retention member is elastically deformable between at least three positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Jonathon Costabile
  • Publication number: 20160175018
    Abstract: A bone plate includes (a) a body having a first surface which, in an operative configuration, faces away from a bone on which the plate is to be mounted and a second surface, which in the operative configuration, faces the bone, the body including a first section extending along a first longitudinal axis and a second section extending along a second longitudinal axis angled with respect to the first longitudinal axis; (b) a first hole extending through the body from the first surface to the second surface and defining a first hole axis, the first hole being structured to lockingly engage a head of a first bone anchor inserted therein such that a shaft of the first bone anchor extends along the first hole axis; and (c) a second hole extending through the body and spaced apart from the first hole. The second hole defines a second hole axis and is structured to lockingly engage a head of a second bone anchor inserted therein such that a shaft of the second bone anchor extends along the second hole axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Mark P. Grady, Jr., René Haag, Scott Didomenico, Kenny Koay, Jeffrey W. Mast, Brett R. Bolhofner, Keith A. Mayo
  • Publication number: 20160175019
    Abstract: A system for forming an implant to stabilize an interior of a vertebral body is provided. The system includes a delivery cannula. A plurality of elements are disposed adjacent to one another in the delivery cannula with void spaces defined between the elements. A fluent material, capable of setting to a hardened condition, is disposed within at least a portion of the void space in the delivery cannula. A push rod is movably disposed within the delivery cannula to apply a force to move the elements through the delivery cannula and into the interior of the vertebral body. Upon application of the force, the elements simultaneously carry the fluent material through the delivery cannula and into vertebral body to delivery the fluent material at a low pressure. The fluent material sets to the hardened condition to secure the elements and form the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce D. Henniges, Richard F. Huyser, Douglas L. Tyler
  • Publication number: 20160175020
    Abstract: A system for bending an implant includes a drill guide extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the drill guide including a distal portion having a first threading extending therealong to engage a threading along an interior of a bone fixation element receiving hole of an implant and a proximal portion having a second threading extending therealong and a bending pin extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end including a recess extending proximally therefrom, the recess sized and shaped to receive the proximal portion of the drill guide and including a corresponding threading therealong for engaging the second threading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: George DOUDOUKJIAN, Michael Mcgurk
  • Publication number: 20160175021
    Abstract: A control module for a powered surgical tool. The module includes a shell. Internal to the shell is a circuit for controlling the power generating unit of the tool with which the module is associated. Conductive pins extend through the shell to provide electrical connections to the components within the shell. Active seals are disposed around the conductors and the inner walls of the shell that define the openings in which the pins are seated. Each active seal include an inner and outer skirt. A biasing component disposed between the skirts urges the inner skirt against the section of the conductive pin seated in the opening. The biasing component also urges the outer skirt against the adjacent opening-defining inner wall of the shell. The active seal functions as a barrier between the conductive pin and the adjacent inner wall of the shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: William L. Hassler, JR.
  • Publication number: 20160175022
    Abstract: An apparatus for operating on tissue comprises an end effector disposed at the distal end of an elongate shaft and including a first jaw and a second jaw that is selectively pivotable toward and away from the first jaw to capture tissue. A trigger is configured to move the second jaw toward and away from the first jaw. The locking mechanism in the locked state is configured to allow movement of the second jaw along a first path where a relative angle between the first jaw and the second jaw is limited to a first maximum angle. The locking mechanism in the unlocked state is configured to allow movement of the second jaw along a second path where the relative angle between the first jaw and the second jaw is limited to a second maximum angle. The second maximum angle is greater than the first maximum angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Chad P. Boudreaux, Catherine A. Corbett, Geoffrey S. Strobl
  • Publication number: 20160175023
    Abstract: Far field reduction is carried out in a cardiac electrogram by extracting unipolar beats of an intracardiac electrogram that occur within a predetermined time interval that includes QRS peaks, constructing a first mean unipolar beat by averaging the extracted unipolar beats, and accepting unipolar beats that cross-correlate with the first mean unipolar beat. A second mean unipolar beat is constructed from the accepted unipolar beats. A ventricular far field component is determined from the extracted unipolar beats and subtracted from the intracardiac electrogram to distinguish a local component of the intracardiac electrogram.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: BIOSENSE WEBSTER (ISRAEL) LTD.
    Inventors: Yaniv Ben Zriham, Roy Urman, Meir Bar-Tal, Richard P. M. Houben
  • Publication number: 20160175024
    Abstract: The design of high-power RF amplifiers, specifically the design of the output transformer, is complicated by the relatively low voltage provided by battery packs that are practical for handheld devices meant for possibly delicate uses. Provided is an RF amplifier with one or more taps on the primary coil, wherein each tap is controlled by a half bridge driver. The output transformer primary winding may be driven between any two half bridge drivers, with the number of turns between the half bridge drivers and the fixed output winding determining the overall turns ration for the transformer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: David C. Yates, Gavin M. Monson
  • Publication number: 20160175025
    Abstract: Surgical devices and methods are described herein that provide energy density control during tissue sealing. In general, these devices include a handle portion, an elongate shaft, and an end effector having a first jaw having a first tissue engaging surface and a second jaw having a second tissue engaging surface. The first tissue engaging surface can include an energy delivering electrode having a selected pattern of varying conductivity which may include a discrete region or a continuous pattern. The energy delivering electrode may be formed from a polymer substrate that includes a metal. The metal may be mixed into the substrate using an ion beam process. The amount of ions in the ion beam, the energy of the ion beam, or both may be varied to create the selected pattern of varying conductivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Geoffrey S. Strobl
  • Publication number: 20160175026
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a housing, an elongated member that extends distally from the housing and defines a longitudinal axis, an end effector assembly coupled to a distal portion of the elongated member, and a stopper assembly operably coupled to the proximal portion of the outer shaft member. The stopper assembly is disposed within one or more cavities defined within the housing. The stopper assembly is configured to prevent longitudinal movement of the outer shaft member along the longitudinal axis and to rotate within the one or more cavities upon rotation of the elongated member about the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: SIMRANJEET BHAGAT, VICTOR APPEL
  • Publication number: 20160175027
    Abstract: An apparatus for operating on tissue includes an elongate shaft extending distally from a body and an end effector at a distal end of the elongate shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw that is selectively pivotable toward and away from a second jaw to capture tissue and a firing beam. The firing beam is configured to advance relative to the first and second jaws to sever captured tissue and retract relative to the first and second jaws after the captured tissue has been severed. The apparatus further includes a debris removal element in communication with the firing beam. The debris removal element is configured to engage at least a portion of the firing beam at least during retraction of the firing beam relative to the first and second jaws to thereby remove at least some debris from the firing beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Kip M. Rupp
  • Publication number: 20160175028
    Abstract: A surgical end effector has a first jaw comprising a first electrode and a second jaw, wherein at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other one of the first jaw and the second jaw to transition the end effector between an open configuration, an approximated configuration, and a fully approximated configuration. The second jaw includes a second electrode and a spacer extending from the second electrode, wherein the spacer is configured to maintain a predetermined distance between the first electrode and the second electrode when the end effector is in the fully approximated configuration, wherein the spacer is in contact with the first electrode in the fully approximated configuration, wherein the spacer is spaced apart from the first electrode in the open configuration, and wherein the spacer is comprised of a semi-conductive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Gregory A. Trees, Geoffrey S. Strobl
  • Publication number: 20160175029
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a first arm, wherein the first arm comprises a first jaw, and wherein the first jaw includes a first electrically conductive member. The surgical instrument further includes a second arm, wherein the second arm comprises a second jaw, wherein the second jaw includes a second electrically conductive member, wherein the first arm is pivotable relative to the second arm between an open configuration and a closed configuration to capture tissue, and wherein the electrically conductive members are configured to cooperate to deliver energy to the tissue. The surgical instrument further includes a cutting beam, an actuator actuatable proximally to translate the cutting beam distally to sever the tissue, a support structure, and a flexible member extending at least partially around the support structure, and configured to couple the actuator to the cutting beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: David A. Witt, Cory G. Kimball, David K. Norvell
  • Publication number: 20160175030
    Abstract: A variety of surgical instruments include one or more elements that transmit RF energy to tissue. Some such instruments comprise a pair of jaws that open and close on tissue, with conductive tissue contact surfaces that are operable to weld tissue clamped between the jaws. Some surgical instruments also include a translating tissue cutting element. Some such instruments may be in the form of forceps having a scissor grip. Forceps type instruments may in some instances provide a feature that allows the jaws of the forceps to be locked on tissue, so that the operator can remove his or her hands from the instrument. In such an instrument it may also be desirable to provide a circuit that is activated only when the forceps are closed and sufficient pressure is applied to the tissue between the jaws of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Chad P. Boudreaux
  • Publication number: 20160175031
    Abstract: A variety of surgical instruments include one or more elements that transmit RF energy to tissue. Some such instruments comprise a pair of jaws that open and close on tissue, with conductive tissue contact surfaces that are operable to weld tissue clamped between the jaws. Some surgical instruments also include a translating tissue cutting element. Some such instruments may be in the form of forceps having a scissor grip. When an electrosurgical instrument includes grasping jaws and tissue severing capabilities it may be desirable to avoid accidental cutting by the knife. Hence, the instrument may include a feature that prevents the knife from firing until the jaws are sufficiently closed upon the tissue. It may also be desirable to prevent the jaws from being opened until the knife has been retracted. One or both of these features can prevent the knife from being extended while the jaws are open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Chad P. Boudreaux
  • Publication number: 20160175032
    Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator and an electrosurgical instrument with opposing first and second jaw members movable relative to one another between open and closed positions. The first and second jaw member include, respectively, a cutting electrode and at least a first sealing electrode separated therefrom by an insulating member, and at least a second sealing electrode. The generator includes an energy source for producing at least a cutting RF waveform, first, second and third output connections connected to the cutting electrode, first sealing electrode and second sealing electrode, respectively, and a switching circuit rapidly alternating between a first condition to direct the cutting RF waveform between the first and second output connections and hence the cutting and first sealing electrodes, and a second condition to direct the cutting RF waveform between the first and third output connections, and hence the cutting and second sealing electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Teo Heng Jimmy YANG
  • Publication number: 20160175033
    Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument is provided that captures, compresses, fuses and cuts tissue between upper and lower jaws connected to pivotably movable handles. The instrument includes a force and over compression regulation mechanism that is configured such that in a clamped configuration, the jaws delivers a gripping force between the first jaw and the second jaw between a predetermined minimum force and a predetermined maximum force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2015
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Richard Le
  • Publication number: 20160175034
    Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft affixed to the housing. The shaft includes a longitudinal axis defined therethrough and a pair of jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly for moving one of the jaw members relative to the other jaw member from a first position wherein the movable jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to each other to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer one another for manipulating tissue. A movable handle is included which is rotatable about a pivot to force a drive flange of the movable handle into mechanical cooperation with the drive assembly to move the jaw members from the open and closed positions. The pivot is located a fixed distance from the longitudinal axis and the drive flange is located generally along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Darion R. Peterson, Sean T. Dycus, Duane E. Kerr
  • Publication number: 20160175035
    Abstract: An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft affixed to the housing. The shaft includes a longitudinal axis defined therethrough and a pair of jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly for moving one of the jaw members relative to the other jaw member from a first position wherein the movable jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to each other to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer one another for manipulating tissue. A movable handle is included which is rotatable about a pivot to force a drive flange of the movable handle into mechanical cooperation with the drive assembly to move the jaw members from the open and closed positions. The pivot is located a fixed distance from the longitudinal axis and the drive flange is located generally along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicants: Covidien LP, Covidien LP
    Inventors: Darion R. Peterson, Sean T. Dycus, Duane E. Kerr
  • Publication number: 20160175036
    Abstract: An end effector assembly for use with an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The end effector assembly has a pair of opposing jaw members. One or more of the jaw members includes a support base, an electrical jaw lead, and a sealing plate coupled to the electrical jaw lead. The sealing plate has a stainless steel layer and one or more piezo electric sensors. The jaw member also includes an insulative plate disposed between the support base and the sealing plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: GLENN A. HORNER, CHRISTINA A. OLIVER, KIM V. BRANDT
  • Publication number: 20160175037
    Abstract: An end-effector assembly includes first and second jaw members disposed in opposing relation relative to one another, at least one of the jaw members moveable from an open position to a closed position for grasping tissue therebetween. First and second conductive plates are disposed on opposing surfaces of corresponding first and second jaw members. First and second compressible membranes are configured to electrically connect corresponding first and second conductive plates to a surgical field when subjected to a compression bias.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: PAUL E. OURADA, ROBERT H. WHAM
  • Publication number: 20160175038
    Abstract: An endoscopic surgical instrument for removing tissue or bone, or for electrosurgical purposes. The instrument comprises a distal end member containing a cutting device, a proximal member, and between the distal member and the proximal member a hollow, generally tubular intermediate member which deforms elastically when the angle between the distal member and the proximal member is changed. The intermediate member can for example be composed of a nickel titanium alloy, and/or can be slotted, and/or can be in the form of an accordion, and/or be in the form of a coil. The instrument can include a cutting device which is housed in the distal end member and part of which protrudes beyond the window in the distal member, and a means for operating the cutting device. Alternatively, the instrument can include electrical components which deliver and electrosurgical treatment through the window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: John R. Zider, Robert R. Zider
  • Publication number: 20160175039
    Abstract: A catheter adapted for deflection in a narrow tubular region and/or sharp turn, has an elongated body, a deflection section having a support member adapted for heat activation to assume a trained configuration, and a lead wire configured to deliver a current to the support member for heat activation. The support member is constructed of a shaped memory alloy, for example, nitinol, and the lead wire is adapted to directly heat the support member. Moreover, the catheter may include a thermally insulating layer covering at least a portion of the support member. The trained configuration of the support member extends in a single dimension, in two dimensions or in three dimensions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: Vishav Manak Singh Aujla
  • Publication number: 20160175040
    Abstract: A catheter apparatus defining a first lumen with a first internal diameter, the catheter apparatus further comprising a shaping structure having a distal end and a proximal end and a length therebetween, the shaping structure being moveable between a delivery state having a first helical shape, and a deployed state having a second helical shape. A deployment member having a second lumen with a second internal diameter, a first portion of the deployment member being positioned within the first lumen and having a third outside diameter sized to enable the deployment member to slide within the first lumen, the deployment member being operably coupled to the distal end of the shaping structure and being configured such that distal axial movement of the deployment member places the shaping structure in the delivery state, and proximal axial movement of the deployment member places the shaping structure in the deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Jesus Magana, John Stankus, Benny Serna, Michael Ngo
  • Publication number: 20160175041
    Abstract: Cardiac ablation is carried out by introducing a catheter into the left atrium, extending a lasso guide through the lumen of the catheter to engage the wall of a pulmonary vein, and deploying a balloon over the lasso guide. The balloon has an electrode assembly disposed its exterior. The electrode assembly includes a plurality of ablation electrodes circumferentially arranged about the longitudinal axis of the catheter. The inflated balloon is positioned against the pulmonary vein ostium, so that the ablation electrodes are in galvanic contact with the pulmonary vein, and electrical energy is conducted through the ablation electrodes to produce a circumferential lesion that circumscribes the pulmonary vein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Assaf Govari, Christopher Thomas Beeckler, Joseph Thomas Keyes, Rowan Olund Hettel
  • Publication number: 20160175042
    Abstract: An electrosurgical snare may include a conductive distal loop that includes an uninsulated thinner portion and an uninsulated thicker portion. Respective current densities over the outer surfaces of the thinner and thicker portions may cause the uninsulated thinner portion to immediately begin cutting tissue, while the uninsulated thicker portion may initially begin coagulating the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Tyler Evans McLawhorn
  • Publication number: 20160175043
    Abstract: Electrosurgical medical systems and methods for maintaining a target tissue portion in a raised position are disclosed. In one embodiment, the target tissue portion may be withdrawn into a distal chamber of an electrosurgical device using a proximal bias. An electrode assembly of the electrosurgical device may contact a base of the target tissue portion. The electrode assembly may apply an electrical current to coagulate the target tissue portion while the proximal bias is being applied. Suction and electrical current may be applied without detaching the target tissue portion from the underlying tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Tyler Evans McLawhorn
  • Publication number: 20160175044
    Abstract: A catheter apparatus for treatment of a human patient is described, the catheter apparatus having a central axis and comprising a shaping structure moveable between a delivery state having a first helical shape, and a deployed state having a second helical shape. The shaping structure is configured to have a reverse taper with a structural diameter that varies over the length of the shaping structure such that the structural diameter of the shaping structure at the proximal end is smaller than the structural diameter of the shaping structure at the distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Applicant: ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Chad Abunassar, John Stankus, Jesus Magana, David Mackiewicz, Mikael Trollsas, Syed Hossainy, Scott Perrin
  • Publication number: 20160175045
    Abstract: A method for delivering RF energy to living tissue includes the steps of extending a guidewire to a tissue treatment site in a body. A controllable stiffness catheter is provided with a stiffness device having non-metallic properties and a temperature-changing device. The stiffness device is in a stiff state below a given temperature and in a soft state above the given temperature. While supplying power to the temperature-changing device, the catheter is threaded along the guidewire up to the treatment site in the soft state. Power is removed from the temperature-changing device to alter the non-metallic properties of the stiffness device and directly result in a change of the stiffness device to the stiff state without straightening the catheter. The RF energy supply device is physically contacted with the treatment site and RF energy is delivered to the treatment site from the RF energy supply device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Kevin W. Smith, Matthew A. Palmer, M. Sean McBrayer, Thomas O. Bales, JR., Derek Dee Deville, Joe Abelleira
  • Publication number: 20160175046
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for enabling user preview and control of the size and shape of an electromagnetic energy field used in a surgical procedure. The disclosed system includes a selectively activatable source of microwave surgical energy in the range of about 900 mHz to about 5 gHz in operable communication with a graphical user interface and a database. The database is populated with data corresponding to the various surgical probes, such as microwave ablation antenna probes, that may include a probe identifier, the probe diameter, operational frequency of the probe, ablation length of the probe, ablation diameter of the probe, a temporal coefficient, a shape metric, and the like. The probe data is graphically presented on the graphical user interface where the surgeon may interactively view and select an appropriate surgical probe. Three-dimensional views of the probe(s) may be presented allowing the surgeon to interactively rotate the displayed image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: JOSEPH D. BRANNAN, KYLE R. RICK
  • Publication number: 20160175047
    Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes a power source, a microwave applicator, a switching mechanism, and a controller. The power source is configured to generate microwave energy. The microwave applicator is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue. The switching mechanism includes a housing having input and output ports. The input port is connectable to the power source and the output port is connectable to the microwave applicator. The housing is configured to house one or more switches therein. The controller is in operative communication with the switching mechanism to toggle the switch from a first state, wherein microwave energy generated by the power source is directed to the microwave applicator to a second state, wherein microwave energy is directed to a resistive load operably coupled to the switching mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: JOSEPH D. BRANNAN
  • Publication number: 20160175048
    Abstract: An electrosurgical system for directing energy to tissue includes a generator assembly operable to supply power having a selected phase, amplitude and frequency, and an applicator array assembly. The applicator array assembly includes a shell assembly, a plurality of energy applicators disposed within the shell assembly, and a power divider unit electrically coupled to the generator assembly. The power divider unit is operable to divide power into the applicator array assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2016
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventor: JOSEPH D. BRANNAN
  • Publication number: 20160175049
    Abstract: The invention provides a treatment device (100) for fractional laser-based skin treatment. The treatment device comprises an emission window (70) comprising an elongated area (75) and a plurality of predefined locations (74) in said elongated area (75), wherein the predefined locations (74) are arranged in an elongated array which extends along a treatment axis (72) of the window (70), and wherein each predefined location (74) in the array is located at a distance from the treatment axis (72), seen in a direction perpendicular to the treatment axis (72), which is smaller than 25% of a maximum distance between two predefined locations (74) in the array, seen in a direction parallel to the treatment axis (72).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: CAECILIA HENDRINA THEODORA CHLON, MARTIN JURNA, ANTONIUS MAARTEN NUIJS, MARIA ANGELINA JOSEPHA GROOTEL-RENSEN, BASTIAAN WILHELMUS MARIA MOESKOPS
  • Publication number: 20160175050
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a body, an elongate shaft extending distally from the body, an end effector disposed at a distal end of the elongate shaft, and a firing beam. The end effector has a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw is pivotable toward and away from the second jaw to capture tissue. The end effector further comprises at least one electrode. The at least one electrode is operable to apply RF energy to tissue captured between the first jaw and the second jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: Susan Arshonsky, Catherine A. Corbett, Megan A. Broderick, Geoffrey S. Strobl, Gregory A. Trees
  • Publication number: 20160175051
    Abstract: Provided herein is a composition that includes: (i) chelator (e.g., ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)), (ii) buffer system (e.g., potassium phosphate dibasic and sodium hydroxide), (iii) cleaner (e.g., diethyl glycol monoethyl ether), (iv) solubilizer (e.g., propylene glycol), and (v) diluent (e.g., water), wherein the composition has a pH of at least about 9.5. Also provided is a method of cleaning a medical device that includes contacting the medical device with the composition described herein, for a period of time effective to clean the medical device. Subsequent to the cleaning, the medical device can optionally be disinfected, dried, and stored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2014
    Publication date: June 23, 2016
    Inventors: John J. Matta, Tuan Nguyen, Huyen Phuong Bui