Patents Issued in September 22, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160270735
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus measure blood oxygenation in a subject. A light source is activated to cause a first emission at a first wavelength and a second emission at a second wavelength. A detector detects a composite signal indicative of an attenuation of the first and second wavelengths by tissue of a patient. The composite signal is demodulated into a first intensity signal and a second intensity signal. Blood oxygenation in the subject is determined from the first and second intensity signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Mohamed K. Diab, Walter M. Weber, Ammar Al-Ali
  • Publication number: 20160270736
    Abstract: A measurement device for measuring a blood pressure is provided. The measurement device includes a first sensor, a processor, and a measurement component. The first sensor is used to generate a first sensing signal. The processor receives the first sensing signal and determines whether an event occurs according to the first sensing signal. The measurement component is enabled to measure the blood pressure. When the processor determines that the event occurs, the processor triggers a reminding operation related to enabling of the measurement component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: You-Ming CHIU
  • Publication number: 20160270737
    Abstract: The application relates to a method for analyzing continuously monitored physiological measurement values of a user, the method being performed in a data processing system and comprising: providing, by a data interface, a set of present physiological measurement values, determining whether a common pattern of values is contained in both the set of present physiological measurement values and a set of historical physiological measurement values, if the common pattern of values is found, requesting the user to provide contextualization for at least the present physiological measurement values of the common pattern of values, receiving contextualization and storing contextualized data. Furthermore, the application relates to a device for analyzing continuously monitored physiological measurement values of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Bernd Steiger, Jürgen Rasch-Menges
  • Publication number: 20160270738
    Abstract: In at least one example, a medical device is provided. The medical device includes at least one therapy electrode, at least one electrocardiogram (ECG) electrode, at least one acoustic sensor, and at least one processor coupled with the at least one acoustic sensor, the at least one ECG electrode, and the at least one therapy electrode. The at least one processor can receive at least one acoustic signal from the at least one acoustic sensor, receive at least one electrode signal from the ECG electrode, detect at least one unverified cardiopulmonary anomaly using the at least one electrode signal, and verify the at least one unverified cardiopulmonary anomaly with reference to data descriptive of the at least one acoustic signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: ZOLL Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Shane S. Volpe, Gregory R. Frank, Thomas E. Kaib, Steven J. Szymkiewicz, Gary A. Freeman
  • Publication number: 20160270739
    Abstract: A detecting system, a mobile electronic apparatus and a method for detecting a physiological characteristic thereof are provided. The mobile electronic apparatus includes a sensor unit, a PPG photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, and a processing unit. The sensor unit has a first, second, and third sensing electrodes. The PPG sensor senses a PPG signal. The processing unit is coupled to the sensor unit and the PPG sensor. When the first and second sensing electrodes detect a voltage difference above a threshold, the PPG sensor is triggered to detect blood volume changes, and when the third sensing electrode is triggered to detect electrical activity of a heart between the first and third sensing electrodes, the PPG sensor is disabled by the processing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Kuo-Chen Wu, Meng-Hsi Wu, Tung-Peng Wu
  • Publication number: 20160270740
    Abstract: A computing device receives analyte data produced by an analyte monitoring sensor over a communications link from at least one first device. Health data, comprising at least part of the analyte data, may be communicated over a communications link to at least one second device in response to a request. The first device may be positioned over the analyte monitoring sensor using signal strength and location information. External analyte data may be employed to calibrate the analyte monitoring sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: Senseonics, Incorporated
    Inventors: Barkha Raisoni, Barbara Montgomery, Todd Whitehurst, Shang Zhao, Mirasol Panlilio, Andrew Dehennis
  • Publication number: 20160270741
    Abstract: A medical monitor is provided. The medical monitor may include a transparent display sheet providing spaced apart first and second conductive elements along a distal side of the display sheet. Electric ink marks may electrically connect to either the first or the second conductive element so as to form an open circuit having spaced apart first and second electric ink markings along said distal side. The display sheet may be sandwiched between two bandage sheets prior to placing the proximal side near or around a wound site the open circuit was tailored for. Wherein blood from the wound site would migrate through the two bandage sheets onto the distal side, bridging the open circuit of adjacent first and second ink markings, so that if the open circuit where electrically connected in series with a power supply and an alarm, the alarm would be powered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Derak Joseph RANKE
  • Publication number: 20160270742
    Abstract: A breast imaging system leverages the combined strengths of two-dimensional and three-dimensional imaging to provide a breast cancer screening with improved sensitivity, specificity and patient dosing. A tomosynthesis system supports the acquisition of three-dimensional images at a dosage lower than that used to acquire a two-dimensional image. The low-dose three-dimensional image may be used for mass detection, while the two-dimensional image may be used for calcification detection. Obtaining tomosynthesis data at low dose provides a number of advantages in addition to mass detection including the reduction in scan time and wear and tear on the x-ray tube. Such an arrangement provides a breast cancer screening system with high sensitivity and specificity and reduced patient dosing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Stein, Andrew P. Smith, Zhenxue Jing, Loren Niklason
  • Publication number: 20160270743
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a photographing device includes a plurality of detectors and a plurality of supporting members. The detectors detect electromagnetic waves. The supporting members support the detectors and are cylindrically arranged adjacent to each other. Each supporting member includes a first protrusion and two second protrusions. The first protrusion is provided on one side face of each supporting member in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical arrangement of the supporting members, and protrudes in the circumferential direction. The two second protrusions protrude in the circumferential direction from the other side face of each supporting member, are provided with a gap greater than the width of the first protrusion in an intersecting direction that intersects with the circumferential direction of the cylindrical arrangement, and overlap with the first protrusion of a neighboring supporting member in the intersecting direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Takayuki OGAWA
  • Publication number: 20160270744
    Abstract: A medical imaging system is provided. The imaging system provides patient region-of-interest scanning using a step-staggered detector unit arrangement. A region-of-interest may be a brain. This system can be a Nuclear Medicine (NM) imaging system to acquire Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) image information. The imaging system may comprise CZT detector modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Jonathan Sachs, Yaron Hefetz
  • Publication number: 20160270745
    Abstract: A radiographic imaging apparatus having a detector, a radiation source array, and a control processor is configurable to individually energize the radiation sources. A collimator having a number of apertures is movable to either a first or second position in a path of the radiation source array. In one position, the apertures are aligned with a first subset of the radiation sources. In another position, the apertures are aligned with a second subset of the radiation sources. The second subset of the radiation sources define substantially the same radiation field that is defined by the first subset of the radiation sources. A transport apparatus translates the collimator member between at least the first and second positions according to an electronic instruction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Michael D. Heath, Xiaohui Wang, Dennis J. O'Dea
  • Publication number: 20160270746
    Abstract: A method for processing a radiographic image of a patient, executed at least in part on a host processor, initiates exposure in response to an instruction entered from an operator console and obtains radiographic image data from a digital detector that is subjected to the exposure. The obtained radiographic image data is analyzed according to a set of predefined criteria for diagnostic suitability of the image. One or more results of the diagnostic suitability analysis at the operator console is indicated and a listing of one or more corrective actions at the operator console according to the indicated results is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: David H. Foos, William J. Sehnert, Zhimin Huo, Hui Luo, Xiaohui Wang
  • Publication number: 20160270747
    Abstract: An x-ray imaging apparatus revolves a digital radiation detector and a radiation source about an imaging area where a subject is positioned to be imaged. A housing encloses the source and the detector, and includes an open housing gap to allow movement of the subject into the imaging area by moving through the open gap. A housing extension may be deployed to close the housing gap and to enclose the detector as it revolves. Shielding assemblies prevent exterior access into the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Anthony Dirisio, Joseph E. Stagnitto, Michael A. Litzenberger, William C. Wendlandt, Peter A. Newman
  • Publication number: 20160270748
    Abstract: A system including an input sensor, a summer, a controller, and a feedback sensor. The input sensor: detects a first amount of force or torque applied on a component of an x-ray scanner gantry in a direction; and generates a command signal. The command signal indicates the first amount of force or torque. The summer generates an error signal based on the command signal and a feedback signal. The controller controls operation of a motor based on the error signal to: reduce the error signal; provide counterbalancing of the gantry in the direction; and provide a net force or torque on the gantry that is equal to a predetermined value or is within a predetermined range of the predetermined value. The feedback sensor detects a second amount of force or torque applied on the gantry in the direction as a result of the controlled operation and generates the feedback signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: David A. GARLOW
  • Publication number: 20160270749
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for bi-planar fluoroscopy, such as with dual fluoroscopes mounted to C-arms for lateral and anterior-posterior (AP) fluoroscopy of a patient. In one aspect of the invention, a bi-planar fluoroscopy system may generally include first and second fluoroscopes. In general, each fluoroscope may be positioned and aimed to provide different viewing angles and/or orientations of the target, such as, for example, placement for lateral and AP views of the target. In some exemplary embodiments, both fluoroscopes may be maintained as “fixed or locked” in AP and lateral positions, respectively, for example, and then each controlled by a set of proximally located control mechanisms, such as one control mechanism (e.g. a foot pedal or voice command specific to operation of a given fluoroscope each). The control mechanisms may further be adapted for use by a single operator individually and/or simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Ravish Patwardhan
  • Publication number: 20160270750
    Abstract: The present invention includes amount-of-change specifying means that specifies, among a plurality of pieces of image data generated by detection means in accordance with a detection result of radiated rays that have passed through a subject, the amount of change in a relative position of the subject with respect to the detection means during a period from a generation timing of immediately preceding image data, which is generated immediately before target image data, to a generation timing of the target image data, amount-of-radiated-rays setting means that sets the amount of radiated rays with which irradiation means performs irradiation in accordance with the amount of change, composition ratio determination means that determines a composition ratio in accordance with the amount of change, and noise reduction means that reduces noise of the target image data by combining, in accordance with the composition ratio, image data generated before the target image data with the target image data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Yoshihito Machida
  • Publication number: 20160270751
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement in connection with a mammography apparatus, in the invention, a screen or a user interface with a screen is attached to the mammography apparatus, which attachment is realized such that the screen or the user interface with a screen is aligned or can be aligned at least partly towards a lower tray structure of the mammography apparatus. Such screen or a user interface with a screen can be arranged in a functional connection with an information system and patient images recorded earlier in the information system can be displayed on the screen or the user interface with a screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Tapio Laukkanen, Leo Aspelund
  • Publication number: 20160270752
    Abstract: An X-ray image processing apparatus for performing image processing for frames successively obtained by an X-ray sensor acquires a first analysis value and a second analysis value by analyzing each of the successively obtained frames, and calculates, as a first statistic and a second statistic, statistics in a time direction of the first analysis values and the second analysis values of the successively obtained frames. Based on the calculated first and second statistics, the X-ray image processing apparatus determines whether to correct the first analysis value. If it is determined to correct the first analysis value, the X-ray image processing apparatus corrects the first analysis value based on the first statistic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Omi
  • Publication number: 20160270753
    Abstract: In order to assist the interpretation of a radiation image in which an abnormality appears, the invention provides a diagnostic auxiliary image generation apparatus, a diagnostic auxiliary image generation method, and a non-transitory computer readable recording medium recorded with a diagnostic auxiliary image generation program for generating a diagnostic auxiliary image. In a case where a past radiation image is present, a temporal difference image generation unit generates and sets a temporal difference image as a diagnostic auxiliary image only in a case where the projected images of a diagnostic target radiation image and the past radiation image match each other. In a case where a past radiation image is not present or the projected images of a diagnostic target radiation image and a past radiation image do not match each other, a bone-suppressed image generation unit generates and sets a bone-suppressed image as a diagnostic auxiliary image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Takahiro KAWAMURA
  • Publication number: 20160270754
    Abstract: An imaging system includes a computed tomography (CT) acquisition unit and at least one processor. The CT acquisition unit includes an X-ray source and a CT detector configured to collect CT imaging data of an object to be imaged. The at least one processor is operably coupled to the CT acquisition unit, and is configured to reconstruct an image using the CT imaging information; extract spatial frequency information from at least a portion of the image, wherein the spatial frequency is defined along a longitudinal direction; and remove a periodically recurring artifact from the at least a portion of the image based on a spatial frequency corresponding to a longitudinal collection periodicity to provide a corrected image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Guang-Hong Chen, Jiang Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20160270755
    Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises a plurality of pixels and a signal processing unit configured to read out an analog signal from each pixel and output an image signal. The signal processing unit comprises a conversion unit configured to convert the analog signal into a digital signal using an A/D converter such that the digital signals of a first group pixels include a first offset components and the digital signals of a second group pixels include a second offset components, and a digital signal processing unit. The digital signal processing unit calculates a correction value using the digital signals of the first and the second group pixels, and performs correction of reducing an influence caused by the A/D converter in the digital signals of the first group pixels using the correction value, thereby generating the image signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Katsuro Takenaka, Shinichi Takeda, Atsushi Iwashita, Sho Sato, Kosuke Terui, Yoshiaki Ishii
  • Publication number: 20160270756
    Abstract: A method of controlling radiation dosage of an X-Ray CT system includes applying radiation to a patient along a z-axis in an x-y plane at angles during rotations around the z-axis. The method also includes acquiring projections of the patient to reconstruct a 3D image of the patient's anatomy and controlling a dosage of the radiation by causing a same dosage of the radiation to be applied in the x-y plane to a posterior of the patient and to an anterior of the patient at a first portion along the length of the z-axis and causing a varied dosage of the radiation to be applied in the x-y plane at a second portion along the length of the z-axis. The varied dosage includes a first dosage applied to the posterior and a second dosage applied to the anterior that is less than the first dosage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas O'Donnell
  • Publication number: 20160270757
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus capable of displaying an image for providing guidance in moving an instrument to a target part in a subject to a user with high visual perceptibility. The image processing apparatus may be an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus including: a three-dimensional image analyzer determining target position indicating a three-dimensional position of the target part based on a three-dimensional image including the target part; a position information acquirer acquiring instrument position indicating a three-dimensional position of the instrument; a display state determiner selecting one display state from at least two display states, based on a positional relationship between the target part and the instrument; an assist image generator generating an assist image for the selected display state by using the target position and the instrument position; and a display controller performing control for outputting the assist image generated by the assist image generation unit to a display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.
    Inventors: Tadamasa TOMA, Jun OHMIYA, Bumpei TOJI
  • Publication number: 20160270758
    Abstract: The present invention relates to image acquisition technology. In particular, the present invention relates to tracking of an object of interest in ultrasound image information. For interventional procedures, an object of interest, e.g. the tool by which a procedure is performed, is depicted in image information acquired by a certain imaging modality. However, e.g. during transcatheter intracardiac procedures, tools are employed, which are rather narrow objects that may experience substantive passive motion due to heartbeat and blood flow as well as active motion due to the interventionist steering the tool. The present invention to allows steering two-dimensional ultrasound image acquisition, in particular steering of an imaging plane of an ultrasound image acquisition device, so that an object of interest remains visible in the acquired images, in particular without continuous readjustment of imaging parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Pascal Yves Francois Cathier, I, Olivier Pierre Nempont, Raoul Florent
  • Publication number: 20160270759
    Abstract: A method for locating a catheter tip within a human body is disclosed. An audio sensor is positioned at a site on the human body. An audio signal is detected by the audio sensor, and transmitted to an audio signal processing unit. The audio signal processing unit determines if the audio signal corresponds to a target location of the catheter tip, and transmits a notification signal to a user notification unit. An infusion of fluid or an audio emitting element can be used to generate the audio signal at the catheter tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: AngioDynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Ingold, JR., Thomas Vincent Casey, II, Brian F. Nentwick
  • Publication number: 20160270760
    Abstract: An ultrasound probe system for guiding introduction of an instrument into a patient includes a disk having a surface and an open channel passing axially through the disk and at least two ultrasound transducer elements disposed on the surface of the disk in a parallel arrangement. The open channel is configured to receive the instrument therethrough to permit alignment of the instrument with respect to the disk. Each of the ultrasound transducer elements is configured to transmit and receive ultrasonic waves for detecting an anatomical structure. A graphical representation of at least a portion of the anatomical structure can be provided for guiding the introduction or insertion of the instrument into the anatomical structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Arthur A. Janicki, Oscar T. Janicki
  • Publication number: 20160270761
    Abstract: A system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: CADUS IP LLC
    Inventors: Cliff A. Gronseth, John E. Tobey
  • Publication number: 20160270762
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to various aspects of imaging systems, including permeable and impermeable barriers separating liquid compartments, one of which contains the object to be imaged and the other an ultrasonic transducer, a fluidic bearing between a transducer carriage and guide supporting the carriage, a linear motor for the carriage, and a location sensing device for the carriage. A method and apparatus are disclosed for performing an ultrasound scan on a body part and specifically an instrument which directly attaches to the surface of the body. This apparatus provides high resolution images and increased depth of imaging for high resolution ultrasound of targeted subsurface body tissues. Targeted tissues may include joints, ocular structures, and internal organs. The method and apparatus stabilize and provide accurate determination of the position of the body part relative to the ultrasound probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: George J. Eilers, Heather Hoops, David Mabe, Ben Terry, J. David Stienmier, Wes Weber, John D. Watson, Andrew K. Levien
  • Publication number: 20160270763
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for synthetic aperture acoustic imaging, range-Doppler measurements, and therapies are disclosed. One synthetic aperture acoustic system includes a waveform generation and processing device and an acoustic probe device that are designed to enable generation, transmission, reception, and processing of coherent, spread-spectrum, instantaneous-wideband, coded waveforms in synthetic aperture ultrasound (SAU) applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: James J. Hayes, Evan Freiburg, Dustin Kruse
  • Publication number: 20160270764
    Abstract: An ultrasound imaging system and method is provided that includes an ultrasound probe configured to acquire ultrasound data for a region of interest and a controller circuit communicatively coupled to the ultrasound probe configured to generate one or more ultrasound images from the ultrasound data. The ultrasound imaging system and method further provide a curved housing shaped to extend along a curvature angle, the curved housing includes a front panel having a curved touchscreen having at least a first interface section, a second interface section, and a third interface section formed integral with one another. The first interface section and the third interface section are positioned at different display angles with respect to each other. The first interface section is also configured to display one or more ultrasound images, and the third interface section includes one or more user selectable icons to control the ultrasound probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Lionel Wodecki
  • Publication number: 20160270765
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprises an ultrasonic probe, image generation circuitry, an optical probe, at least one integrated solid-state image sensor and analysis circuitry. The image generation circuitry generates an ultrasonic image by using the ultrasonic wave. The an optical probe is integrally provided with the ultrasonic probe and including at least one light emission circuitry to apply light in an absorption wavelength band of a biological component from a surrounding of the ultrasonic transmission/reception surface onto the inside of the object and a plurality of optical detection circuits to detect an intensity of light having a specific wavelength which is applied from the at least one light emission circuitry and diffused/reflected by the inside of the object. The analysis circuitry is configured to analyze a change in the light intensity detected by the each optical detection circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Satoshi TAKAYAMA, Taeko URANO, Tsutomu NAKANISHI, Kenji NAKAMURA
  • Publication number: 20160270766
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus and method determines distribution and a type of tissue attribute in a vascular cross section based on reflected wave data of ultrasound detected by an imaging core and interference light data including a reflected wave of light detected by the imaging core. A portion of match/mismatch is determined by comparing respectively classified vascular tissue attributes. Then, the distribution of the body tissue attributes is displayed by superimposing the distribution on any one of an ultrasound cross-sectional image, an optical interference cross-sectional image, and a composite image between the ultrasound cross-sectional image and the optical interference cross-sectional image, in a display form in which the match/mismatch can be identified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Youhei Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20160270767
    Abstract: The present invention provides a generally hollow vessel which articulates with the female genitalia and, when left in situ, functions to opportunistically collect urine when the patient inevitably voids her bladder. The device is further designed to sequester the first portion of said urine, which tends to be unsuitable for diagnostic testing, and then, divert the remainder of relatively uncontaminated urine, preferably into a collection receptacle where it can be easily accessed for testing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Naomi Jessica Travers
  • Publication number: 20160270768
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method and a system for determining the fertility status of a female. The method comprises the steps of determining and recording a continuous series of temperature data points relating to a body temperature of the female, identifying if the series of temperature data points comprises at least one pre-determined feature in the series of temperature data points and, if a pre-determined feature has been identified, determining a point in time of ovulation for the series of temperatures based on a pre-determined relation of the pre-determined feature and ovulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: VivoSensMedical GmbH
    Inventors: TIm KERSKEN, Henry ALEXANDER
  • Publication number: 20160270769
    Abstract: A biopsy sampler comprising a penetration zone for receiving a part of an organism to be sampled, a ram situated at a first side of the penetration zone able to be actuated to move along a path between a withdrawn position and an advanced position, a sample collector that can cut a biopsy sample from tissue interposed in the penetration zone, and a container that can receive the sample collector, the sample collector and the container being initially located on opposite sides of the penetration zone, a disposable shield initially located between the ram (with the ram in the withdrawn position) and the penetration zone, advance action of the ram from the withdrawn to the advanced position bringing together the sample collector and container at side of the penetration zone away from the ram, and bringing the disposable shield into the penetration zone, withdrawal action of the ram from the advanced position to the withdrawn position withdrawing the disposable shield to the first side of the penetration zone, le
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Michael Stuart GARDNER, Roy Victor BLADEN
  • Publication number: 20160270770
    Abstract: Among other things, there are disclosed embodiments of full-core biopsy needles having an outer needle component and a middle cannula through a lumen in the outer component, through which a mandrel may be placed. The outer component includes an internal boss that reduces its internal diameter, and the cannula includes fingers that extend distally. When the needle is inserted for biopsy, tissue enters the outer component and cannula. Moving the cannula forward causes the fingers to engage a surface of the internal boss, resulting in the fingers curving into the tissue. The fingers pinch the tissue while reducing or eliminating compression of the sample to provide an easier removal of the tissue from adjacent tissue, as well as providing a block or backstop keeping the tissue within the needle. Gaps are provided between the fingers to further reduce damage to the tissue sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Thomas W. McGhie, Michael W. Hardert
  • Publication number: 20160270771
    Abstract: The invention discloses a tendon stripper including a stripping device and a rod. The stripping device includes a stripping member and at least one coupling member coupling to the stripping member. The stripping member has a blade portion and a separating portion separating the stripping member into several parts. The rod has a handle end and a coupling end opposite to the handle end. The coupling end couples to the coupling member of the stripping device. The separating portion allows the stripping member to be divided into first and second parts, and the first and second parts can be combined to each other to jointly receive the tendon. This avoids the generation of the incisions during the tendon transplantation. In addition, since the tendon stripper does not require any instrument for retaining the free end of the tendon, a convenient surgical procedure is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Chih-Kun Hsiao, Yuan-Kun Tu, Teng-Yao Yang, Feng-Chen Kao, Yi-Jung Tsai, Hao-Yuan Hsiao
  • Publication number: 20160270772
    Abstract: A method facilitates the treatment of the spine of a patient by providing simultaneous access through at least a first opening and a second opening formed in the patient. For example, the method can include the acts of positioning the patient on a surgical table, providing the first opening into a posterior portion of the patient, providing the second opening into a lateral portion of the patient, inserting a first device through the first opening into the patient to contact the spine in a first direction that is transverse to the coronal plane of the patient, and inserting a second device through the second opening into the patient to contact the spine in a second direction that is transverse to the sagittal plane of the patient, where the first and second openings are accessible simultaneously, and, when the first and second devises are inserted into the patient, the position of the patient is stationary with respect to a portion of the table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Jeffrey W. Beale, Thomas A. Carls, Richard A. Hynes, Matthew M. Morrison
  • Publication number: 20160270773
    Abstract: Minimaily invasive surgical retractors and methods of using the retractors are provided. This retractor may be introduced through a sealed port, controlled by a robotic system, have full articulation, and need not require assembly within the patient's body. As a result, fully endoscopic mitral valve surgery may be performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: David W. Bailey, Michael H. Ikeda, Margaret M. Nixon, Hubert Stein
  • Publication number: 20160270774
    Abstract: An apparatus (650) for inserting a distal ring (9) of a wound retractor device (2) through a wound opening comprises a bladeless tip (641) for creating the wound opening by forcing tissue apart, and a conveying device (5) for conveying the distal ring (9) through the wound opening. The conveying device (5) comprises a hook element (6) for engaging the distal ring (9) to convey the distal ring (9) through the wound opening, and a receiver housing (651) for receiving a seal (652) and a proximal ring (653) of the wound retractor device (2) to hold the seal (652) and the proximal ring (653) externally of the wound opening, and thus maintain a sleeve portion of the wound retractor device (2) in tension, during conveying of the distal ring (9) through the wound opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: ATROPOS LIMITED
    Inventors: John BUTLER, Trevor VAUGH, Frank BONADIO, Catherine DEEGAN, Shane J. MacNALLY
  • Publication number: 20160270775
    Abstract: An inflatable retractor for use in laparoscopic surgery of a patient's body includes an inflatable element disposed at a distal end of a retractor shaft. The retractor shaft includes a port for receiving insufflating fluid. The inflatable element includes an inner and outer surface such that the inflatable element forms an angle with the retractor shaft and forms a compartment when the inflatable element is insufflated with fluid. The angle formed between the inflatable element and retractor shaft changes depending upon the insufflating pressure. In this way, the rigidity and shape of the inflatable element is controlled by the surgeon by the amount of insufflating pressure used, allowing for flexibility and ease of use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Hien Tan Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20160270776
    Abstract: Some disclosed suture securement devices comprise a flat, thin, generally planar body that has one or more suture engagement slots extending into the body from a perimeter inlet for receiving sutures laterally into the device. The slots can be resiliently widened to receive a suture and then released to clamp onto the suture. Some embodiments include two or more such suture engagement slots that independently receive and secure different sutures. Some embodiments include one or more locking tabs that have a closed position that retains the slots against widening and blocks the inlet to the slot. In some embodiment two or more slots are position next to each other on the same side of the device, while in other embodiments slots are positioned on opposite sides of the device. Other types of suture securement devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Manouchehr A. Miraki, Hengchu Cao, Ralph Schneider
  • Publication number: 20160270777
    Abstract: A suture anchor that is configured to pull repair sutures into a pre-formed hole in bone or boney tissue, having a fibrous construct having a first side and a second side; and a first filament body passing through the fibrous construct, the first filament body forming a first pair of loops that interleave with one another on one of the first side or the second side of the fibrous construct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: Conmed Corporation
    Inventors: Peter C. Miller, Jeremy Reedy
  • Publication number: 20160270778
    Abstract: An absorbable screw fastener and a method of firing with an applicator capable of applying a surgical fastener to tissue in order to form tissue connection to secure objects to tissue, the fastener including a body portion having a helical thread, a head portion disposed at the proximal end of the body portion. The head portion includes a driver receiving configuration on its outer surface. The screw fastener further includes a cannulated center lumen with an opening extending from the head portion through the longitudinal length of the body portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Earl M. Zergiebel
  • Publication number: 20160270779
    Abstract: A method includes receiving a torque limit for a motor, monitoring a torque output of the motor, determining an amplitude and a phase of a torque ripple of the torque output, and determining a compensated torque limit for the motor, the compensated torque limit including a first component at the torque limit and a second component at an adjusted torque limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Amir Chaghaerdi, Pushkar Hingwe
  • Publication number: 20160270780
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a drive member movable by a drive motor between a home position and an end of stroke. A mechanical stop is disposed at or near the end of stroke and is structured to increase resistance to movement of the drive member from a first position to a second position. A control system detects a current spike associated with the increased resistance and interrupts power to the drive motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Steven G. Hall, Daniel L. Baber, Richard L. Leimbach
  • Publication number: 20160270781
    Abstract: A surgical instrument including a handle portion, a body portion, a movable handle, a tool assembly, a drive beam and a closure apparatus is disclosed. The movable handle is in mechanical cooperation with a drive member. The tool assembly includes an anvil, a cartridge assembly and a contact surface. The drive beam includes a plurality of layers and at least one layer has a proximal engagement portion and is configured to engage a portion of the drive member. The closure apparatus is configured to engage the contact surface of the tool assembly. At least a partial actuation of the movable handle moves the closure apparatus distally into engagement with the contact surface to approximate the anvil and the cartridge assembly. At least one of the layers of the drive beam is affixed to an adjacent layer of the drive beam via at least one spot weld.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventor: Paul Scirica
  • Publication number: 20160270782
    Abstract: A suturing nail includes a first nail body a second nail body being intertwined mutually to form a helix portion; a first nail crown extending from an end of the first nail body; a second nail crown extending from an end of the second nail body and opposite to the first nail crown, the first and the second nail crown being located on the same side of the helix portion and perpendicular to the helix portion; a first nail leg extending from the other end of the first nail body; a second nail leg extending from the other end of the second nail body and being spaced from the first nail, the first and the second nail leg are located on the same side of the helix portion, the first nail leg and the second nail leg are parallel to the helix portion. The suturing nail is not deformed easily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: GUORU ZHAO, YONGFENG WANG
  • Publication number: 20160270783
    Abstract: A cartridge assembly for use with a surgical instrument including a cartridge, a longitudinal channel, a first row of slots, and a second row of slots. The cartridge has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The longitudinal channel extends between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The first row of slots is disposed on a first side of the longitudinal channel. At least one slot in the first row of slots is empty. The second row of slots is disposed on a second side of the longitudinal channel. At least one slot in the second row of slots has a staple disposed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Inventors: Nilgun Yigit, David Racenet, Russell Estrella, Gerald Hodgkinson
  • Publication number: 20160270784
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are described for closing the base of a left atrial appendage or other tissue structure. A tissue closure device comprises a pair of legs having compliant surfaces for engaging against opposite sides of the tissue structure. A plurality of axially spaced-apart tissue-penetrating fasteners are delivered from one leg to the other to pierce the intervening tissue and hold the closure device in place on the tissue structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: September 22, 2016
    Applicant: DATASCOPE CORP.
    Inventors: William K. WHEELER, Ashik A. MOHAN