Abstract: A mixing and delivery device for osseous tissue and method of use is provided. A kit for use by a medical professional is also provided.

Abstract: A location device for locating an entry point of a pedicle of a vertebra intended for being used with an instrument for perforating the pedicle, the location device comprising: an elongate aiming body having two end openings connected to one another by a guiding channel defining an axis for longitudinal guiding of the perforating instrument, the aiming body being extended at one of the ends by a fork overlapping the transverse process supported by the pedicle to perforate, the overlapping fork comprising two extensions defining a receiving area for the transverse process supported by the pedicle to be perforated, the receiving area having a first contact surface, configured to engage with an area at the junction of the transverse process and an articular process associated with the pedicle to be perforated, placed offset relative to the guiding axis.

Abstract: An orthopedic driver instrument including a metal injection molded driver bit having an overall bit length, and a plastic injection molded handle having an overall handle length at least twice the overall bit length, the handle including a gripping portion and an elongate shaft portion over molded about a shank portion of the driver bit. A method of producing an orthopedic driver instrument is also provided including forming a metallic driver bit using a metal injection molding process, and forming a plastic handle using a plastic injection molding process, wherein the plastic handle has a gripping portion and an elongate shaft portion, and the plastic injection molding process comprises over molding the elongate shaft portion of the plastic handle about a shank portion of the metallic driver bit. In some embodiments, the overall length of the plastic handle is at least twice the overall length of the metallic driver bit.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for treating a patient having a sympathetically mediated disease associated at least in part with augmented peripheral chemoreflex or heightened sympathetic activation. The treatments include ablating one or more peripheral chemoreceptors or associated afferent nerves to reduce or remove afferent neural signals from the peripheral chemoreceptor.

Abstract: Technologies are generally described for devices for ablation of a target material. The device may be a medical device and may have a medical tool portion and an ablative device portion. The ablative device portion has at least two independently controllable firing chambers. A source of fluid is in fluid communication each firing chamber. Each of the firing chambers is configured to propel the fluid to ablate a target material according to a programmed pattern of ablative treatment for the target material. Methods of ablation and use of the disclosed device are also described.

Abstract: A thermal ablation device includes an elongated member sized and shaped for insertion into a uterus via a cervical opening. The elongated member defines a first lumen extending therethrough to a first distal opening which, when the apparatus is in an operative position, opens into the uterus and a seal positioned on the elongated member so that, when the elongated member is in the operative position, the seal engages cervical tissue around a circumference of the elongated member and prevent fluids introduced into the uterus via the first lumen from flowing therepast into the cervix. The seal includes a plurality of flexible members separated from one another along a length of the elongated member and projecting radially outward from an outer surface of the elongated member.

Abstract: A treatment apparatus to treat a body tissue includes a conductive heat transfer plate to transfer heat and power to the body tissue, an electrothermal conversion element provided on the heat transfer plate, the element including an electric resistance pattern that generates heat with a voltage applied, and a lead wire configured to supply an electric current to the heat transfer plate. Heat generation density by the electric resistance pattern in a first region of a pattern region where the electric resistance pattern of the electrothermal conversion element is formed, the first region including a region where a distance from the lead wire is smaller than a predetermined value, is higher than heat generation density by the electric resistance pattern in a second region including at least a part of the pattern region other than the first region.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems for energy delivery to targeted tissue comprise a catheter with an ablation member, a radiometer configured to detect temperature data from the targeted tissue, a processor configured to determine a calculated temperature (e.g., an extreme temperature, such as a peak or trough temperature) within the tissue by applying at least one factor to the temperature data detected by the radiometer, the processor configured to compare the calculated temperature to a setpoint and an energy source configured to energize the ablation member and to regulate delivery of ablative energy to the targeted tissue of the subject based at least in part on the comparison. In some embodiments, the factor depends on at least one characteristic of the targeted tissue. Information regarding a tissue characteristic can be provided using information from an imaging set (e.g., intracardiac echo) or an electrical signal of the subject (e.g., electrocardiogram).

Abstract: According to some embodiments, a medical instrument (for example, an ablation device) comprises an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end, an energy delivery member positioned at the distal end of the elongate body, a first plurality of temperature-measurement devices carried by or positioned within the energy delivery member, the first plurality of temperature-measurement devices being thermally insulated from the energy delivery member, and a second plurality of temperature-measurement devices positioned proximal to a proximal end of the energy delivery member, the second plurality of temperature-measurement devices being thermally insulated from the energy delivery member.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for performing an ablation procedure by obtaining a signal from an acoustic sensor used to detect occurrence of a steam pop and adjust the ablation in response to the steam pop detection.

Abstract: A electrosurgical and injection device is combination disclosed herein allows for one to inject fluid, such as a protein or synthetic solution, and coagulate and/or solidify this solution as well as nearby tissue. At an extreme end of a generally elongated device is a tip or business end with a portal leading into a conduit where the fluid passes through before exiting out of the tip. Around this portal, on the tip are one (monopolar) or two (bipolar) electrodes used for coagulation.

Abstract: Cardiac catheterization is conducted using a probe having a balloon assembly, in which a spring has a resting axially elongated configuration and a torsed, axially shortened configuration. An inflatable balloon is twisted about the spring and mechanically linked to the spring. A flexible sheath is disposed about the spring within the balloon, the sheath and the wall of the balloon defining a chamber to contain a fluid flowing therein and thereout for inflation of the balloon and deflation of the balloon so as to energize and de-energize the spring.

Abstract: A method is provided, comprising: (1) applying an excitatory current to renal nerve fibers of a subject; (2) determining a change in a parameter of the subject in response to the excitatory current, the parameter being a fastest rate of increase in arterial pressure during a systolic upstroke of an arterial pressure wave of the subject; (3) in response to the change, deciding whether to ablate the renal nerve fibers; and (4) in response to the deciding, applying ablation energy to the renal nerve fibers. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an electrode including a first electrode portion and a second electrode portion. The first electrode portion and the second electrode portion collectively form an outer surface from which an electric field is produced when a voltage is applied to the electrode. The first electrode portion is constructed from a first material having a first electrical conductivity. The second electrode portion is distinct from the first electrode portion, and is constructed from a second material. The second material has a second electrical conductivity that is different than the first electrical conductivity.

Abstract: A catheter including an elongated shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, where the catheter includes a thermal element at the distal end thereof. The thermal element may be used in an ablation procedure or other procedure to heat a tissue adjacent a vessel. In some instances, the thermal element may be positioned in a first vessel and may operate to heat tissue adjacent a second vessel or adjacent an ostium between the first vessel and the second vessel. Further, the catheter may include an expandable portion on which the thermal element may be connected or positioned. The expandable portion(s) may comprise a basket or cage, a balloon, a memory shape and formable portion, and/or to other mechanical expanders.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, a medical instrument (for example, an ablation device) comprises an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end, an energy delivery member positioned at the distal end of the elongate body, a first plurality of temperature-measurement devices carried by or positioned within the energy delivery member, the first plurality of temperature-measurement devices being thermally insulated from the energy delivery member, and a second plurality of temperature-measurement devices positioned proximal to a proximal end of the energy delivery member, the second plurality of temperature-measurement devices being thermally insulated from the energy delivery member.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument for applying to biological tissue RF electromagnetic energy and/or microwave frequency EM energy, wherein the instrument tip has a protective hull with a smoothly contoured convex undersurface facing away from a planar body, and wherein the planar body has a tapering distal edge, and wherein an underside of the planar body extends beyond the protective hull at the tapering distal edge. Also disclosed herein is an interface joint for integrating into a single cable assembly all of (i) a fluid feed, (ii) a needle movement mechanism, and (iii) an energy feed (e.g. a coaxial cable), and a torque transfer device for permitting controlled rotation of the cable assembly within the instrument channel of an endoscope. The interface joint and torque transfer device may be integrated as a single component.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the treatment of dermatological conditions, including, for example, viral infections, microbial infections, cancers, dermatological conditions and particularly infections of the skin caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Abstract: A system and method for performing fractional resurfacing of a target area of skin using electromagnetic radiation are provided. An electromagnetic radiation is generated by an electromagnetic radiation source. The electromagnetic radiation is caused to be applied to a particular portion of a target area of skin. The electromagnetic radiation can be impeded from affecting another portion of the target area of the skin by a mask. Alternatively, the electromagnetic radiation may be applied to portions of the target area of the skin, other than the particular portion.

Abstract: Methods using a small outer diameter ureteroscope may help overcome many of the problems associated with the prior art devices and methods for removing kidney stones. The ureteroscope includes an elongate member having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and an inner conduit that extends longitudinally between the proximal and distal portions. The elongate member is made from a passively flexible material that is capable of being inserted and directed through a patient's body cavity, such as the ureter, by manual direction and pressure so that minimal, if any, additional mechanical or steering mechanisms are present. An imaging device and light source are provided at the distal portion of the elongate member to allow for positioning the device with respect to the stone. A laser fiber can be directed through the conduit to destroy a targeted stone.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method of surgical navigation is provided. The method includes receiving an external three-dimensional model of a surgical site from the viewpoint of a headset, wherein the external three-dimensional model is derived from reflected light. The method further includes aligning the external three-dimensional model with an internal three-dimensional model of the surgical site from the viewpoint of the headset, wherein the internal three-dimensional model is derived from medical imaging, and generating an aligned view. The method further includes providing the aligned view to the headset, and updating the aligned view in real-time while the headset is moved or the surgical site is moved or modified during a surgical procedure.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed relating improved articular models, implant components, and related guide tools and procedures. In addition, methods and devices are disclosed relating articular models, implant components, and/or related guide tools and procedures that include one or more features derived from patient-data, for example, images of the patient's joint. The data can be used to create a model for analyzing a patient's joint and to devise and evaluate a course of corrective action. The data also can be used to create patient-adapted implant components and related tools and procedures.

Abstract: A framework for the accurate and noninvasive determination of perfusion in a mammal is provided, including a novel scaling law of a form-function relationship between the number of capillaries in a vascular network as compared to the perfusion of such network. Methods are disclosed that apply such scaling laws in connection with the steps of determining a capillary density of a targeted tissue comprising at least a portion of a capillary network, and calculating perfusion of the targeted tissue based on the determined capillary density of the targeted tissue. Additional methods for determining a therapeutic drug dosage for a biological subject are also provided based on the scaling-laws hereof, as well as methods of identifying a deviation in perfusion rates in a mammal noninvasively.

Abstract: A patient reference device is provided for use during a medical procedure. The patient reference device includes a housing having a back side and a front side, at least three tracking markers attached to the front side of the housing, the housing extending around the at least three tracking markers and beyond a horizontal plane defined by tops of the at least three tracking markers, the housing terminating at a substantially continuous edge, and a sterile cover attached to the substantially continuous edge of the housing for covering the housing and the tracking markers.

Abstract: A tool navigation system employing an ultrasound imager (21), a tool tracker (41), a tissue classifier (50) and an image navigator (60). In operation, ultrasound imager (21) generates an ultrasound image of an anatomical region from a scan of the anatomical region by an ultrasound probe (20). As an interventional tool (40) is navigated within the anatomical region, the tool tracker (41) tracks a position of the interventional tool (40) relative to the anatomical region, tissue classifier (50) characterizes the tissue of the anatomical region adjacent the interventional tool (40), and image navigator (60) displays a navigational guide relative to a display of the ultrasound image of the anatomical region.

Abstract: A system for tracking a device image includes an intraoperative imaging system (110) having a probe (146) configured to generate an image for a region. A shape sensing enabled instrument (102) is configured to have a portion of the shape sensing enabled instrument positionable relative to the region. The shape sensing enabled instrument has a coordinate system registered with a coordinate system of the intraoperative imaging system. A robot is configured to coordinate movement between the probe and the shape sensing enabled instrument such that movement of the shape sensing enabled instrument relative to the region causes the probe to be moved to maintain the shape sensing enabled instrument within the image.

Abstract: Automated systems and methods for removing hair from a body surface is provided. The methods and systems are semi- or fully automated. Some of the steps of the methods comprise determining a hair growth phase and selecting hair follicles for depilation based at least in part of the identified hair growth phase. The energy delivery device may be attached to the robotic arm and directed to align with the hair follicle to be depilated.

Abstract: A robotic catheter control system includes a collision detection logic configured to determine a collision metric indicative of a collision between a medical device that is manipulated by the robotic control system and an object. The object may be an anatomical feature or can be another medical device, including another device being manipulated by the robotic control system. The collision detection logic produces virtual representations of the medical device and the object and uses these representation to determine collision. Geometrical solids, such as spheres, are used to represent the outer surfaces of the devices and the logic determines whether the respective surfaces intersect, thereby indicating collision. Collision avoidance involves estimating future device poses and then computing an alternate path computation so as avoid predicted collision(s).

Abstract: A method of controlling a surgical instrument comprising an end effector may comprise detecting a first signal indicating that an end effector component of a surgical instrument is positioned between a first position and a second position; and automatically controlling operation of the end effector component when a second signal is not detected within a predetermined delayed response time period after detecting the first signal, wherein the second signal indicates that the end effector component is in one of the first position or the second position.

Abstract: Provided is a surgical-manipulator manipulating device for manipulating a surgical manipulator including a treatment-tool distal-end portion having at least one electrically manipulated joint disposed at a distal end of an inserted portion of a flexible endoscope and a manual moving mechanism that moves the position of the treatment-tool distal-end portion, the surgical-manipulator manipulating device including a manual manipulating portion that manipulates a moving mechanism and an electric manipulating portion that manipulates the joint of the treatment-tool distal-end portion, wherein the manual manipulating portion includes a movable portion that moves the treatment-tool distal-end portion in accordance with the amount of displacement, and the electric manipulating portion includes manipulation input portions that drive the joint, and can be secured to the movable portion.

Abstract: A teleoperated surgical system includes a surgical instrument with an end effector and a master input device. A servomechanism may be operatively coupled to the end effector to apply a force to the end effector, and at least one processor may operatively couple the servomechanism to the master input device to apply a grip force with the first and second gripping elements in response to input at the master input device. The applied grip force may be based at least in part on a mechanical advantage of the surgical instrument end effector.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a device for measuring a length of a bone tunnel is provided. The device includes: a gauge comprising an annular shaft coupled to a handle, the handle including a constrained channel configured for receiving a passing pin from the annular shaft and displaying the passing pin in relation to a scale. In another embodiment, a method for measuring length of the bone tunnel is provided. A method and another device are provided.

Abstract: A head fixation device in the form of a skull clamp comprises an integrated rail for attaching accessories thereto. One or more clamps are configured to engage with the integrated rail. Additional accessories can be attached to the one or more clamps, which also include a starburst interface and an integrated rail. The clamps use a linear translating closure mechanism to engage the clamps to the integrated rail of the skull clamp. In some versions, the head fixation device is configured with a navigation adapter that attaches to an upper portion of the skull clamp.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for a microscope-integrated intraoperative scanner system having automated tracking of an instrument tip. A scanning mirror is configured such that a field of view of the OCT system is determined by a position or orientation of the scanning mirror. A drive system is configured to control the scanning mirror. Camera assemblies are configured to determine respective two-dimensional projections of the positions of markers attached to a surgical instrument. A stereo vision system is configured to determine a three-dimensional location of each of the markers from the determined two-dimensional positions. An instrument tracking component is configured to determine a position of a working tip of the surgical instrument according to the determined three-dimensional locations. A drive control is configured to instruct the drive system to adjust the scanner mirror to control the field of view of the OCT system.

Abstract: Upon using a stethoscope, there is a problem that it had been needed to interrupt work and mount the stethoscope using both hands, resulting in poor work efficiency. Also, when it is needed to repeatedly mount and unmount the stethoscope for such as a group examination, for example, it had been necessary to continuously carry out an operation of expanding ear tubes many times, which is complicated. Thus the present invention provides an attachment for a stethoscope comprising a mounting part which can be mounted to both of ear tubes, and a manipulating part for manipulating the mounting part, the manipulating part and the mounting part being connected through a rotatable fulcrum, so that the mounting part may be opened and closed by opening and closing operation of the manipulating part.

Abstract: A flossing appliance with a body portion which includes a system for generating bursts of liquid and/or a liquid/gas mixture. A neck portion extends from the body portion through which the bursts are delivered to a nozzle, which is shaped and adapted to fit into the interproximal spaces of a user's teeth. A use reminder system comprises a reminder timer which begins to time following the activation cycle of the appliance. An indicator is responsive to the timer, providing an indication to the user that the timer has exceeded a predetermined time, such as 24 hours, without use.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device having a circuit. The circuit includes at least one boost converter receiving power from an energy source, a square wave driver in series with the boost converter, an inductor in series with the square wave driver for converting a square wave to a sinusoidal wave, and a piezoelectric transducer in series with the inductor, the piezoelectric transducer connectable to a load. The device further includes a phase-locked loop coupled to the circuit to determine a resonance frequency of the piezoelectric transducer when the piezoelectric transducer is connected to the load.

Abstract: A method for fabricating a custom surgical stent. A human third molar tooth bud ablation system for use in a tooth bud ablation procedure that results in tooth agenesis. A tooth bud ablation procedure that results in tooth agenesis. These methods, systems, and procedures may include and/or use ablation probe tips and/or stents.

Abstract: A method for guiding the position of a dental drill for implant treatment of a patient, the method acquiring a volume image of patient anatomy; superimposing an image of a planned drill hole on a display of the acquired volume image according to observer instructions to form an implant plan; displaying at least a portion of the implant plan in stereoscopic form on a head-mounted device worn by an observer and tracking patient position so that the displayed portion of the implant plan is registered to the patient anatomy that lies in the observer's field of view; and highlighting the location of the planned drill hole on the head-mounted device display.

Abstract: A cradle, assembly, system and method for installing a prosthesis at a surgical site. The cradle temporarily engages the prosthesis and holds it in the correct orientation and position adjacent the surgical site. An aperture is defined in the cradle and a portion of the prosthesis is received therein. In one embodiment, the cradle, assembly and system are used to install a final dental prosthesis in a patient's mouth in a single visit to the dentist's office. A securement member pins the surgical template and subsequently the cradle to the jaw. A metal sub-structure on the final dental prosthesis is received in the aperture in the cradle. Cylinders attached to implants anchored in the jaw extend through holes in the sub-structure and are bonded to the prosthesis. The cradle is detached from the jaw and from the prosthesis prior to screws being re-inserted through the cylinders and into the implants.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for endodontic treatment of teeth provide effective cleaning of organic material (such as pulp and diseased tissue) from the root canal system. In an embodiment, a compressor system generates high pressure liquid (e.g., water) that flows through an orifice to produce a high-velocity collimated jet of liquid. The high-velocity jet is directed toward a surface of a tooth, for example, an exposed dentinal surface, and impingement of the jet onto the surface generates an acoustic wave that propagates throughout the tooth. The acoustic wave effectively detaches organic material from dentinal surfaces and tubules. The detached organic material is flushed from the root canal system by the liquid jet and/or by additional irrigation.

Abstract: A dental template to position an object on a patient's tooth includes digitizing the patient's tooth; adding virtual objects to predetermined locations on the digitized tooth; and fabricating the dental template to locate the object on the patient's tooth. The template can be used for etching or for positioning brackets on teeth.

Abstract: An abutment system for use in the area of anterior teeth and premolar teeth with an abutment basis. The system includes a first interface for placement onto an implant and a further interface for attaching a post. The abutment basis has a three-dimensional shape, which is not symmetrically designed with respect to the implant axis. The implant defines the implant axis. The abutment basis is designed as a one-time abutment basis. The abutment system includes a separate insertion post, which is attachable in the region of an upper surface of the abutment basis. The insertion post, in the attached state, extends coaxially with respect to the implant axis. The upper surface of the abutment basis is a scalloped upper surface and the further interface for attaching the insertion post is located within the area of the scalloped upper surface.

Abstract: Articulator—semiadjustable, arcon with lower and upper parts that could be detached from one another or interconnected, with two mechanical joints. An upper horizontal shoulder (5) is fixed to an elevator (4), said elevator (4) is connected to an upper vertical body (11) and can move vertically to adjust the vertical position. A lower vertical body (10) is fixed to the base (1) and holds an axis with two joint heads (14). The upper vertical body (11) is pivotably connected to the lower vertical body (10) through the two joint heads (14), the distance between the joint heads can vary due to an elastic element (18), thus reproducing the lateral shift. The articulation between the vertical bodies (11 and 10) can be locked and unlocked via an elbow shaped piece (13). The articulator lower part has an incisive platform (8) with a position angle that could be adapted.

Abstract: A dental restorative device is shown as comprising a first cured or hardened layer in the form of an occlusal surface of the tooth being restored and a second uncured dental composite layer joined to the first layer enabling a dental professional to perform direct dental restoration procedures with results replicating indirect direct dental restoration procedures. A system comprising the multi-layered dental restorative device and packaging provides for sufficient support and protection of the uncured second layer and facilitates positioning and finishing of the dental restorative device by cooling the uncured portions to a rigid state while in the packaging, positioning the dental restorative device, and modifying the second layer to fit, curing the second layer and permanently placing the fully cured and hardened dental crown on the tooth being restored.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method, an occlusion setup fixture and system for recording digital 3D representations of physical teeth models of a patient's jaws and for arranging the digital 3D representations according in a common coordinate system such that the digital 3D representations are arranged according to the patient's occlusion. The recorded digital 3D representations are virtually brought into occlusion by a virtual movement, where the virtual movement includes a translation along a path according to the confined relative movement of the occlusion setup fixture.

Abstract: A woven fiber optics dental post includes a post body and a woven fiber component. The post body includes a post face, an irradiation receiving portion, and a bottom. The woven fiber component is provided within the post body. The woven fiber component is formed by intertwining a plurality of fiber optics members. A light receiving end portion and a light emitting end portion are respectively composed of a plurality of light receiving ends and light emitting ends of the fiber optics members. The light receiving end portion is appeared on the irradiation receiving portion of the post body for having the woven fiber component receiving a light irradiated at the irradiation receiving portion, and the light emitting end portion is appeared on the post face and/or the bottom of the post body for having the light received by the woven fiber component transmitting to the light emitting end portion to be emitted out of the post face and/or the bottom.

Abstract: A flossing tool includes an elongated handle. An end of the elongated handle has a head end. The head end has a wrapping field that is separated from the elongated handle by a separation bulge and a holding area, such that an end of the floss wedges into the holding area and the wrapping field accepts windings of floss to facilitate flossing between pairs of one's teeth.

Abstract: A dental solution dispenser includes a body having a first end, a second end, and including a front housing at the first end, a twist back at the second end, and a grip that interposes the front housing and the twist back. An applicator tip is coupled to the body at the first end, and an ampoule assembly is positioned within the body and includes an ampoule sealed at one end with a frangible seal and defining a fluid chamber for storing a dental solution. A mandrel extends longitudinally within the body and provides a piercing member. The twist back is rotatable relative to the grip to pierce the frangible seal with the piercing member. A trigger is coupled to the body and pivotable between an engaged position, where the trigger engages the ampoule assembly, and a disengaged position, where the trigger disengages the ampoule assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a toothbrush head which is constituted by a body, a first rotation pipe, a drive unit, a support, a rotator, and an auxiliary rotator and can clearly wash every nook and corner of teeth and wash upper teeth and lower teeth at once only by a method that just slightly bits a part of a body unlike the existing tooth brushing method in which a user brushes his/her teeth by rapidly moving his/her hand left and right and up and down and right to reduce a tooth brushing time. As a correct washing method of the teeth, only when the teeth are brushed while rotating a toothbrush vertically from an upper side to a lower side of the teeth, food wastes can be easily removed and an injury of gum parts connected with the teeth due to wrong tooth brushing (tooth brushing performed in a horizontal direction of a set of teeth) can be prevented and the present invention is configured to be suitable for the tooth brushing.