Patents Issued in January 12, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170007208
    Abstract: The present invention provides an ultrasound imaging system and an ultrasound imaging method for improving the imaging quality of the desired imaging plane in the volume of interest of a subject. According to the present invention, it is possible to directly scan the desired imaging plane by exploiting the capability of a 2D matrix ultrasound transducer and/or the flexibility of the position/orientation of the ultrasound probe. In some cases, the setting parameters of the transducer elements can be adjusted so that the ultrasound signal transmitted from the transducer elements is able to derive ultrasound echo data of the desired imaging plane without moving the probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Yinhui Deng, Xiaomin Li, Xiaolin Gu, Vijay Thakur Shamdasani, Ying Wu
  • Publication number: 20170007209
    Abstract: An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus and a method thereof are provided. The ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes: a data obtainer configured to obtain volume data of an object; a display configured to display a reference cross-section of the object extracted from the volume data; a user input unit configured to receive a user input selecting a reference object included in the displayed reference cross-section; and an image processor configured to normalize the volume data by using location information of the reference object, and to extract a coronal plane of the object based on information of at least one anatomical landmark included in the normalized volume data, and the display is further configured to display the extracted coronal plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun-sang YOO, Kwang-hee LEE, Sung-yoon KIM
  • Publication number: 20170007210
    Abstract: A blood vessel diameter measuring apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe which emits an ultrasonic wave toward a blood vessel, receives an ultrasonic wave reflected from the blood vessel and outputs an ultrasonic signal based on the received ultrasonic wave, a detecting section which is attached to the ultrasonic probe and outputs information indicating a position of the ultrasonic probe and an attitude of the ultrasonic probe with respect to the blood vessel, a support fixture which supports the ultrasonic probe so as to enable the ultrasonic probe to perform at least one of operations, an image processing section which produces an ultrasonic image of the blood vessel by using the ultrasonic signal from the ultrasonic probe and the position/attitude information from the detecting section, and a measuring section which measures a blood vessel diameter of the blood vessel by using the produced ultrasonic image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicants: TOKYO UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY, NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kohji MASUDA, Shinya ONOGI, Yoshinobu ONO, Tsuneo TAKAYANAGI, Takashi KAIAMI
  • Publication number: 20170007211
    Abstract: An ultrasound observation apparatus for generating an ultrasound image based on an ultrasound signal acquired by an ultrasound probe, includes: a frequency analysis unit configured to analyze a frequency of the ultrasound signal to calculate a plurality of frequency spectra in accordance with reception depths and receiving directions of the ultrasound signal; a feature calculation unit configured to calculate a feature of each of the plurality of frequency spectra; an attenuation factor setting unit configured to set an attenuation factor of a computation-purpose region, the computation-purpose region being a region that is different from a region of interest in the ultrasound image and is used for computation for correcting the feature; and a feature correction unit configured to perform attenuation correction on the feature using the attenuation factor, thereby to calculate a corrected feature at a sampling point in the region of interest in the ultrasound image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Junichi ICHIKAWA
  • Publication number: 20170007212
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a system and method for ultrasonic imaging. The method includes receiving a user-defined control gesture and associating the control gesture with a function selected by a user; forming a control gesture signal and function association database; when the ultrasonic imaging system is in normal operation, receiving a current control gesture signal and matching the current control gesture with a control gesture in the database to determine a function associated with the matched control gesture; and controlling the ultrasonic imaging system to perform the associated function. According to the present disclosure, it is very convenient for users to define customized control gestures according to their personal operation routines and habits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Zhengpeng FU
  • Publication number: 20170007213
    Abstract: In the present invention, a wave transmission/reception unit is provided in the distal end of a probe. The wave transmission/reception unit includes a 2D-array oscillator, an electronic circuit, and a relay substrate for electrically joining the 2D-array oscillator and the electronic circuit. The face of the wave transmission/reception unit on a subject side thereof is a wave transmission/reception face. A temperature detection unit is provided to the relay substrate. In the present invention, a surface temperature estimation unit estimates the temperature of the surface of the wave transmission/reception face on the basis of the detected temperature from the temperature detection unit and the power consumption by the wave transmission/reception unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Kazuya MOTOKI, Toru WATANABE
  • Publication number: 20170007214
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for unobtrusive fertility tracking, comprising a sensor for obtaining a heart signal, a processing unit configured to determine a subject's heart rate from the heart signal, and an evaluation unit configured to analyze the subject's heart rate to predict likelihood of ovulation. The processing unit is further configured to extract heart rate variability features from the heart signal, and the evaluation unit is further configured to predict likelihood of ovulation based on the heart rate variability features.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: PAULUS HENRICUS ANTONIUS DILLEN
  • Publication number: 20170007215
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are portable handheld devices for saliva collection for daily monitoring of salivary biomarkers of physiological conditions, the device comprising: a handheld handle comprising a saliva collector, the saliva collector comprising: a suction tip; a bi-directional pump electrically configurable for pumping towards two opposite directions; a saliva reservoir; a valve; a water reservoir, the water reservoir comprising an external filling lid; a reversible fluidic connection configurable in a connected and disconnected position; and a base accommodating the handheld handle, the base configurable to fluidly communicate with the handheld handle through at least the reversible fluidic connection, wherein the valve is electrically configured to allow fluid communication directly between at least two selected from: the saliva reservoir, the water reservoir, and the reversible fluidic connection, and wherein the bi-directional pump is electrically configurable to allow fluid communication directly betwee
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: SALVME, INC.
    Inventor: Erez Podoly
  • Publication number: 20170007216
    Abstract: An endocyte cannula is designed to provide improved and more productive Pap smear tests. The endocyte cannula includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion may include a fitting to connect to a user-actuated tool, such as a syringe. The distal portion may include a corkscrew feature to facilitate movement of the cannula through dense tissue. The distal portion may further include a plurality of apertures to aspirate mucus and reduce the risk of trauma or perforation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Lucia Cagnes
  • Publication number: 20170007217
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems are described herein that allow for improved sampling of tissue from remote sites in the body. A tissue sampling device comprises a handle allowing single hand operation. In one variation the tissue sampling device includes a blood vessel scanning means and tissue coring means to excise a histology sample from a target site free of blood vessels. The sampling device also includes an adjustable stop to control the depth of needle penetration. The sampling device may be used through a working channel of a bronchoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: Broncus Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas KEAST, Aaron M. WEISS, Eric J. GWERDER, Jeffrey SCHWARDT, Edmund J. ROSCHAK
  • Publication number: 20170007218
    Abstract: A multidirectional foot controller includes a base, a movable platform, a rotatable platform, and two pedals successively stacked and assembled together. The multidirectional foot controller is activated by having the two pedals depressed simultaneously, and then controls an externally connected endoscope to move forward or backward by means of a movable platform, or controls the endoscope to move leftward or rightward by means of a rotatable platform. By having only one of the pedals depressed, the multidirectional foot controller can change the field of view of the endoscope. The resultant multidirectional operation helps to improve working efficiency and operational stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Dong-Gu LAI
  • Publication number: 20170007219
    Abstract: A control device for a surgical power tool. The control device including a housing, an input element located on the housing, and a control unit. The housing configured to couple to a surgical power tool. The input element located proximate the top of the housing and configured to receive a user input. The control unit located within the housing, where the control unit sends user input information received at the input element to the surgical power tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Stephen M. Bucina, James H. Kasper, Cedric Beausse, Piotr Nowak, David S. Narducci, Ovidiu Neiconi
  • Publication number: 20170007220
    Abstract: A deployment device for bringing a sealing plug into position within a puncture tract or incision, and bringing an anchor into position adjacent a tissue puncture, is provided. The deployment device is designed to facilitate easier positioning of the sealing plug, wherein a separate tamping tool is not required. The sealing plug is held in place on the shaft of the anchor by a structure, for example, a knob or boss. The anchor, anchor shaft, and sealing plug may be made of various biocompatible resorbable materials such that the anchor may resorb very quickly, leaving the tissue or artery lumen clear, and the sealing plug may resorb more slowly, to assist in maintaining hemostasis. The deployment device may include a bypass device which maintains the anchor in either an extended or bent configuration. Further, the anchor may include at least one rib, to provide support to the anchor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC
    Inventor: Troy T. White
  • Publication number: 20170007221
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing device for repair of cardiac and vascular defects or tissue opening such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or shunt in the heart, the vascular system, etc. and particularly provides an occluder device and trans-catheter occluder delivery system. The sealing device would have improved conformity to heart anatomy and be easily deployed, repositioned, and retrieved at the opening site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Brad D. Aurilia, Steven J. Masters
  • Publication number: 20170007222
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing device for repair of cardiac and vascular defects or tissue opening such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or shunt in the heart, the vascular system, etc. and particularly provides an occluder device and trans-catheter occluder delivery system. The sealing device would have improved conformity to heart anatomy and be easily deployed, repositioned, and retrieved at the opening site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Brad W. Van Orden
  • Publication number: 20170007223
    Abstract: Described are medical graft products, systems, and methods useful for treating fistulae, particularly enterocutaneous fistulae. Certain products of the invention are configured to have portions residing in and around a primary fistula opening in a wall of the alimentary canal. One such product includes a biocompatible graft body which is configured to block at least the primary opening. The graft body includes a capping member connected to an elongate plug member. The capping member is configured to contact portions of the alimentary canal wall adjacent to the primary opening, and the elongate plug member is configured to extend into at least a portion of the fistula. A graft product of this sort may be particularly adapted to allow a portion of the capping member to be positioned alongside an exterior, lateral surface of the plug member, e.g., when placed in a delivery device lumen. Such a capping member may be hingedly or non-hingedly coupled to the elongate plug member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: F. Joseph Obermiller, Steve Chen
  • Publication number: 20170007224
    Abstract: A medical device is provided. The medical device includes an elongated device body having a steerable portion including a plurality of segments. The segments are co-axially mounted over at least one elongated elastic element which is configured for limiting rotation of the segments with respect to each other. The medical device also includes a control wire running alongside the elongated device body and being unrestrained at the steerable portion such that tensioning of the control wire angles the steerable portion from a longitudinal axis of the elongated device body and deflects the control wire away from the steerable portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Mordehai SHOLEV, Yuval BLYAKHMAN
  • Publication number: 20170007225
    Abstract: A surgical device is presented that combines multiple components and functions, such as, joint distraction, soft tissue distraction, a separation force that exerts a uniform tension on the knee ligaments, pre-aligned cut guides, and posterior cut guards that protect the posterior knee joint from unintentional damage by the surgical saw. A method of performing a partial knee replacement is also presented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas D. Ferro, Joe Phillips, Austin Ferro, Donald Lee
  • Publication number: 20170007226
    Abstract: A retractor, particularly for cranial surgery, having two articulated parts that can be pivoted relative to each other about a rotary axis, wherein each articulated part has a handle part on the proximal end and a retracting element on the distal end, wherein a section of each articulated part spans a plane and wherein a clamping arm is arranged on at least one of the articulated parts. The clamping arm has multiple tendons, which are threaded onto a traction cable and engage with each other and can be tilted and rotated relative to each other, wherein the clamping arm is arranged about a pivotal axis and the pivotal axis is connected to the articulated part by an arm arranged in a plane, wherein the arm is aligned outwards from the articulated part and the pivot axis is positioned in the plane at a distance from the articulated part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Guido Fehling
  • Publication number: 20170007227
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a first member having an inner surface and an outer surface. A second member has an inner surface and an outer surface. At least one of the inner surfaces defines at least one mating element and the outer surfaces are engageable with tissue. The members are relatively movable between a first configuration and a second configuration to space the tissue and define an opening between the members. At least one third member defines at least one mating element engageable with the at least one mating element of the inner surface such that the at least one third member is disposed within the opening. Systems and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Richard A. Hynes, Anthony J. Melkent, Stanley T. Palmatier
  • Publication number: 20170007228
    Abstract: A retractor blade and a retractor blade kit are provided. The retractor blade has a proximal end, a distal end, and a toe-out mechanism between the proximal end and the distal end. The toe-out mechanism, which is part of the blade, moves the distal end from an insert position to a toe-out position when activated. The retractor blade kit has a first blade with a first length and a second blade with a second length that is less than the first length. The first blade and the second blade have about the same stiffness such that each blade deflects about the same amount when a distal end of each blade is subjected to the same force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Jonathan T. Costabile
  • Publication number: 20170007229
    Abstract: Bowel retractor devices. In various forms, the bowel retractor devices are configurable from a collapsed position wherein the retractor may be inserted through a trocar cannula or other opening in a patient's body to a second expanded position wherein at least a portion of the patient's bowel may be advantageously supported in a desired position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Tamara Widenhouse, Andrew Yoo, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Katherine J. Schmid, Aron O. Zingman, Richard W. Timm, Jacob S. Gee, Steven G. Hall, Daniel J. Mumaw, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Gregory W. Johnson, Michael J. Vendely, Andrew T. Beckman, James R. Janszen
  • Publication number: 20170007230
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a surgical anchoring apparatus for use during a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The surgical anchoring apparatus includes a body member and a dilator element at least partially positionable therein. The body member includes a grip segment adapted for manual engagement by a user and an expandable section having a plurality of expandable segments and a plurality of cam surfaces. The grip segment resiliently transitions between a first or normal state and a second state in which the grip segment is at least partially inverted. The expandable section's cam surfaces are configured to engage a distal end of the dilator element upon its insertion such that the expandable section may transition from an initial condition to an expanded condition in which the body member is secured or anchored within an incision in tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Paul D. Richard
  • Publication number: 20170007231
    Abstract: A cleat for securing suture to tissue, the cleat comprising an elongated body having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end having a distal slot extending proximally into the elongated body, and the proximal end having a proximal slot extending distally into the body; the distal slot comprising a wide section and a narrow section, wherein the wide section has a width such that the suture is slidably accommodated therein and the narrow section has a width such that the suture is bound therein, and further wherein the wide section is disposed distally of the narrow section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David Caborn, Dennis McDevitt, Akbar Nawab, Vincent Novak
  • Publication number: 20170007232
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for cutting a filament or suture having an extrudable inner core member are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a device includes a compression element to compress an inner core away from a knot disposed at a distal end of the suture, and a cutting element disposed within a portion of the compression element to cut the inner core after it has been compressed. As a result, an amount of extrudable inner core that extends distally beyond the knot is minimized without negatively impacting the integrity of the knot. In other embodiments, the compression and cutting elements are separately provided as two different devices. The actions of compressing and cutting can be performed using a variety of techniques, including those known to those skilled in the art. Methods for clamping the inner core and then cutting a portion of the inner core are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: David B. Spenciner
  • Publication number: 20170007233
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention includes a surgical device for passing suture through soft tissue. The surgical device can include at least one elongate superelastic member having a thickness and having a first resting configuration that defines at least one curve having a first radius of curvature greater than or equal to 3 times the thickness of the superelastic member. The surgical device also can include a thermally formed opening in the superelastic member, the opening adapted to receive at least one strand of suture. Moreover, the surgical device can include a superelastic member adapted to be straightened into a second configuration having a second radius of curvature larger than the first radius of curvature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David R. Diduch, James G. Whayne
  • Publication number: 20170007234
    Abstract: A tissue fastening device is provided. The tissue fastening device may include an elongate member having fastener guides extending between a working end and a control end and a firing aperture disposed on the working end, an arcuate needle disposed within the firing aperture of the working end and rotatable between a retracted position and an extended position, the arcuate needle including an antegrade recess configured to engagably receive an end of a fastener during advancement of the arcuate needle, and a drive mechanism operatively coupled to the arcuate needle and configured to, upon actuation, advance the arcuate needle in a forward rotation to engage the end of the fastener to be installed and push the end of the fastener through one of a tissue and a prosthetic material into a helical configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: Surgimatix, Inc.
    Inventors: Wai N. Chin, Gary M. Kobylewski, Jafar S. Hasan
  • Publication number: 20170007235
    Abstract: A stitching assembly includes upper and lower cradles, upper and lower needles, and first and second sutures supported by the upper and lower needles, respectively. The cradles move along a curved path in relation to the carriages between advanced and retracted positions. When each cradle is moved from the retracted position towards the advanced position, a stitch loop is formed when the respective needle is retracted. This process is repeated alternating between the first and second cradles with the upper and lower needles passing through the previous stitch loop formed by the other needle before passing through the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Stanislaw Kostrzewski
  • Publication number: 20170007236
    Abstract: A surgical severing and stapling instrument, suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic clinical procedures, clamps tissue within an end effector of an elongate channel pivotally opposed by an anvil. An E-beam firing bar moves distally through the clamped end effector to sever tissue and to drive staples on each side of the cut. The E-beam firing bar affirmatively spaces the anvil from the elongate channel to assure properly formed closed staples, especially when an amount of tissue is clamped that is inadequate to space the end effector. In particular, an upper pin of the firing bar longitudinally moves through an anvil slot and a channel slot is captured between a lower cap and a middle pin of the firing bar to assure a minimum spacing. Forming the E-beam from a thickened distal portion and a thinned proximal strip enhances manufacturability and facilitates use in such articulating surgical instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael E. Setser, Kevin R. Doll, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20170007237
    Abstract: A surgical cutting and fastening instrument that is motorized. The instrument comprises in one embodiment a charge accumulator device, separate from a battery, that provides additional power to the motor under certain conditions. In addition, the motor may comprise multiple windings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David C. Yates, Thomas W. Huitema, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170007238
    Abstract: A surgical cutting and fastening instrument that is motorized. The instrument comprises in one embodiment a charge accumulator device, separate from a battery, that provides additional power to the motor under certain conditions. In addition, the motor may comprise multiple windings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David C. Yates, Thomas W. Huitema, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170007239
    Abstract: A surgical fastener apparatus having a handle, an elongated shaft having a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal end extending therefrom. An end effector including a pair of jaws pivoted at a proximal end thereof and movable between an open and closed position. A cartridge containing a plurality of surgical fasteners, the cartridge attached to the end effector. An electrically powered actuator for deploying the surgical fasteners, the actuator including a power source and a motor. A switch configured to prevent application of firing motions to the end effector until the switch has been activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170007240
    Abstract: A stapling device (100) for attaching a clip (205) to tissue is disclosed comprising a sheath (101) having a distal end (102) for delivery of said clip, a pusher unit (103, 103?) being movable inside said sheath along a longitudinal direction (104) of said sheath, said distal end comprising a clip guide (105, 105?) in which said clip is movable in said longitudinal direction, wherein said clip guide has a closed (G) configuration in which said clip guide is adapted to apply a restraining force on said clip so that said clip assumes a delivery shape (C), and an open (G?) configuration in which said clip assumes a relaxed shape (C?), wherein said pusher unit is movable from a proximal position (P) in which said clip guide is in said closed configuration, to a distal position (P?) in which said pusher unit engages said clip guide and the clip guide is in said open configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Hans-Reinhard Zerkowski, Mark Pugh, Adrian Moran, Ger O'Carroll
  • Publication number: 20170007241
    Abstract: A surgical severing and stapling instrument, suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic clinical procedures, clamps tissue within an end effector of an elongate channel pivotally opposed by an anvil. An E-beam firing bar moves distally through the clamped end effector to sever tissue and to drive staples on each side of the cut. The E-beam firing bar affirmatively spaces the anvil from the elongate channel to assure properly formed closed staples, especially when an amount of tissue is clamped that is inadequate to space the end effector. In particular, an upper pin of the firing bar longitudinally moves through an anvil slot and a channel slot is captured between a lower cap and a middle pin of the firing bar to assure a minimum spacing. Forming the E-beam from a thickened distal portion and a thinned proximal strip enhances manufacturability and facilitates use in such articulating surgical instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael E. Setser, Kevin R. Doll, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20170007242
    Abstract: A surgical severing and stapling instrument, suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic clinical procedures, clamps tissue within an end effector of an elongate channel pivotally opposed by an anvil. An E-beam firing bar moves distally through the clamped end effector to sever tissue and to drive staples on each side of the cut. The E-beam firing bar affirmatively spaces the anvil from the elongate channel to assure properly formed closed staples, especially when an amount of tissue is clamped that is inadequate to space the end effector. In particular, an upper pin of the firing bar longitudinally moves through an anvil slot and a channel slot is captured between a lower cap and a middle pin of the firing bar to assure a minimum spacing. Forming the E-beam from a thickened distal portion and a thinned proximal strip enhances manufacturability and facilitates use in such articulating surgical instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael E. Setser, Kevin R. Doll, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20170007243
    Abstract: A surgical severing and stapling instrument, suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic clinical procedures, clamps tissue within an end effector of an elongate channel pivotally opposed by an anvil. An E-beam firing bar moves distally through the clamped end effector to sever tissue and to drive staples on each side of the cut. The E-beam firing bar affirmatively spaces the anvil from the elongate channel to assure properly formed closed staples, especially when an amount of tissue is clamped that is inadequate to space the end effector. In particular, an upper pin of the firing bar longitudinally moves through an anvil slot and a channel slot is captured between a lower cap and a middle pin of the firing bar to assure a minimum spacing. Forming the E-beam from a thickened distal portion and a thinned proximal strip enhances manufacturability and facilitates use in such articulating surgical instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael E. Setser, Kevin R. Doll, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20170007244
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft, an end effector extending distally from the shaft, and a housing extending proximally from the shaft. The housing includes a motor configured to generate at least one motion to effectuate the end effector, and a power source configured to supply power to the surgical instrument, wherein the power source includes a casing, a data storage unit, and a deactivation mechanism configured to interrupt access to data stored in the data storage unit. In addition, the power source includes a battery pack and a deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate the battery pack if the casing is breached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Emily A. Schellin
  • Publication number: 20170007245
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft, an end effector extending distally from the shaft, and a housing extending proximally from the shaft. The housing includes a motor configured to generate at least one motion to effectuate the end effector, and a power source configured to supply power to the surgical instrument, wherein the power source includes a casing, a data storage unit, and a deactivation mechanism configured to interrupt access to data stored in the data storage unit. In addition, the power source includes a battery pack and a deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate the battery pack if the casing is breached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Emily A. Schellin
  • Publication number: 20170007246
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft, an end effector extending distally from the shaft, and a housing extending proximally from the shaft. The housing includes a motor configured to generate at least one motion to effectuate the end effector, and a power source configured to supply power to the surgical instrument, wherein the power source includes a casing, a data storage unit, and a deactivation mechanism configured to interrupt access to data stored in the data storage unit. In addition, the power source includes a battery pack and a deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate the battery pack if the casing is breached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Emily A. Schellin
  • Publication number: 20170007247
    Abstract: A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument has an end effector and a trigger in communication with the end effector. The surgical instrument also has a first sensor and an externally accessible memory device in communication with the first sensor. The first sensor has an output that represents a first condition of either the trigger or the end effector. The memory device is configured to record the output of the first sensor. In various embodiments, memory device may include an output port and/or a removable storage medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, John N. Ouwerkerk, Jerome R. Morgan, Jeffrey S. Swayze
  • Publication number: 20170007248
    Abstract: A surgical staple including a crown and a deformable member extending from the crown, the deformable member having a notch configured to cause the deformable member to bend at the notch when the staple is deformed from a first shape into a second shape. The crown of the surgical staple, in various embodiments, further includes a forming surface, or anvil, which is configured to deform the deformable member and/or guide a distal end of the deformable member when the distal end contacts the crown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Christopher J. Hess, William B. Weisenburgh, II, James W. Voegele, Mak S. Ortiz, Michael J. Stokes, Carl J. Shurtleff, Jeffrey S. Swayze
  • Publication number: 20170007249
    Abstract: A surgical severing and stapling instrument, suitable for laparoscopic and endoscopic clinical procedures, clamps tissue within an end effector of an elongate channel pivotally opposed by an anvil. An E-beam firing bar moves distally through the clamped end effector to sever tissue and to drive staples on each side of the cut. The E-beam firing bar affirmatively spaces the anvil from the elongate channel to assure properly formed closed staples, especially when an amount of tissue is clamped that is inadequate to space the end effector. In particular, an upper pin of the firing bar longitudinally moves through an anvil slot and a channel slot is captured between a lower cap and a middle pin of the firing bar to assure a minimum spacing. Forming the E-beam from a thickened distal portion and a thinned proximal strip enhances manufacturability and facilitates use in such articulating surgical instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael E. Setser, Kevin R. Doll, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20170007250
    Abstract: A process and system are disclosed for downloading sensor data, stored in a memory device of a surgical cutting and fastening instrument, to an external or remote computer device. The process may involve storing data from one or more sensors of a surgical cutting and fastening instrument in a memory device of a control unit of the surgical cutting and fastening instrument during a surgical procedure involving the surgical cutting and fastening instrument. Next, after the surgical procedure, a data link between the control unit and the remote computer device is established. Then, the sensor data can be downloaded from the control unit to the remote computer device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, James R. Giordano, Jeffrey S. Swayze
  • Publication number: 20170007251
    Abstract: A surgical cutting and fastening instrument comprises an end effector that has a shaft coupled thereto that is coupled to a robotic system. A tool mounting portion includes an electric, DC motor connected to a drive train in the shaft for powering the drive train. A power pack that comprises at least one charge-accumulating device connected to the DC motor for powering the DC motor is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David C. Yates, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, James R. Giordano
  • Publication number: 20170007252
    Abstract: An electromechanical surgical device is provided and includes an end effector configured to perform at least one function; and a shaft assembly. The end effector includes a rotatable drive screw having a coupling member at a proximal end thereof; and a flexible drive cable rotatably supported therein and extending therefrom, wherein the flexible drive cable receives rotational forces and transmits said rotational forces to the drive screw to actuate the end effector. The shaft assembly includes a proximal neck housing supported at a distal end of the outer tube; and a distal neck housing pivotally connected to the proximal neck housing, wherein a distal end of the distal neck housing is configured and adapted for operative connection with the end effector. In use, when the end effector is connected to the shaft assembly, the flexible drive cable extends through the proximal neck housing and the distal neck housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Justin Williams, Paul Scirica
  • Publication number: 20170007253
    Abstract: A tissue thickness compensator comprising at least one woven lattice can be positioned in the end effector of a surgical instrument. A fastener cartridge that is positioned in the end effector can comprise at least one cavity configured to receive a fastener. The fastener can be moveable between an initial position, wherein the fastener is at least partially position in a cavity, and a fired position, wherein the fastener is configured to compress a woven lattice of the tissue thickness compensator. The woven lattice can comprise a resilient material such that compression of the woven lattice generates a restoring force. The woven lattice can also comprise an axis that can laterally traverse the fastener cartridge, diagonally traverse the fastener cartridge, or intersect a deck surface of the fastener cartridge. The woven lattice can comprise a hydrophilic substance, which can expand when the woven lattice is severed by a cutting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Aldridge, Chunlin Yang, Charles J. Scheib, Venkataramanan Mandakolathur Vasudevan, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Joseph H. Contiliano, Michael S. Cropper, Eugene L. Timperman, Cortney E. Henderson, Katherine J. Schmid, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170007254
    Abstract: A cover for an articulation joint that is supported in an elongate shaft assembly of a surgical instrument that is operably coupled to a surgical end effector that includes at least one end effector conductor therein. The cover includes at least one electrically conductive pathway that extends from the distal end of the cover to form an electrically conductive pathway from the end effector conductor to a shaft conductor on the elongate shaft assembly while facilitating operation of the articulation joint. Various conductor arrangements facilitating the passage of electrical current between an end effector to a control system across the articulation joint are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Gary S. Jaworek, Robert L. Koch, JR., Michael D. Auld
  • Publication number: 20170007255
    Abstract: A cover for an articulation joint that is supported in an elongate shaft assembly of a surgical instrument that is operably coupled to a surgical end effector that includes at least one end effector conductor therein. The cover includes at least one electrically conductive pathway that extends from the distal end of the cover to form an electrically conductive pathway from the end effector conductor to a shaft conductor on the elongate shaft assembly while facilitating operation of the articulation joint. Various conductor arrangements facilitating the passage of electrical current between an end effector to a control system across the articulation joint are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Gary S. Jaworek, Robert L. Koch, JR., Michael D. Auld
  • Publication number: 20170007256
    Abstract: A surgical stapling instrument is disclosed, the instrument having a handle assembly, a body portion having a staple cartridge assembly, and an anvil assembly. The anvil assembly includes an anvil head, an anvil member, an anvil shaft, and a biasing member. The anvil shaft defines a longitudinal axis and the anvil member is pivotally secured to the anvil head. The biasing member is supported on the anvil assembly to urge the anvil member from a first position to a second position defining an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Lee Ann Olson
  • Publication number: 20170007257
    Abstract: A clamping device for an umbilical cord includes a first member having a first clamping surface and a second member having a second clamping surface. The second member is flexibly coupled to the first member. The clamping device further includes an arcuate body extending away from the first member to assist an operator in moving the first member relative to the second member. The arcuate body is removably coupled to the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Charles Potter, Ilya Avdeev, Maxwell Potter, Alex Francis