Patents Issued in January 17, 2017
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Patent number: 9545208Abstract: A method of monitoring relative nerve health and the presence of neuropraxia is described. The methods utilize the integration of a waveform function of an elicited or monitored nerve response to provide an indication of the strength of a detected signal from a nerve and thus the relative health and integrity of the nerve. In some embodiments motor nerve stimulation innervates muscle and an EMG waveform is obtained in response thereto. The integration under the waveform is expressed and an indexed value indicating a percentage of a certain threshold value. Methods set forth provide a more reliable status of a nerve in real-time and allow action to be taken to reduce neuropraxia or prevent permanent nerve damage.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Neurovision Medical Products, Inc.Inventor: James Lee Rea
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Patent number: 9545209Abstract: A system for determining T wave bifurcation that includes three or more ECG leads configured to receive an ECG signal and a first computing device including a processor coupled to a memory, the processor and the memory configured to perform operations including: generating at least two orthogonal ECG vectors based on the ECG signal of a patient, processing the at least two orthogonal ECG vectors to determine a loop trajectory of at least a portion of the ECG signal, identifying a trajectory bifurcation by comparing the loop trajectory to a control loop trajectory for a plurality of cardiac cycles, and determining an indicator of a cardiac event based on the trajectory bifurcation.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: ZOLL Medical CorporationInventors: Binwei Weng, Ulrich Herken, Gary A. Freeman
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Patent number: 9545210Abstract: A computer-assisted method for quantitatively characterizing atrial fibrillation in a patient includes recording time series of bipolar atrial fibrillation signals at multiple sites in a patient's atria using two or more electrodes, calculating a similarity index vector by a computer system based on the bipolar atrial fibrillation signal between a first site and its neighboring sites, constructing an similarity-index vector field based on similarity-index vectors at different sites, calculating Curl and Divergence of the similarity-index vector field, calculating Rotor Identification using Curl and Divergence, calculating Focal Identification using Divergence, and determining one or more critical regions in the patient's atria if Rotor Identification is above a first predetermined threshold and Focal Identification is above a second predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventors: Yenn-jiang Lin, Men-Tzung Lo
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Patent number: 9545211Abstract: The system and method provide for electrocardiogram analysis and optimization of patient-customized cardiopulmonary resuscitation and therapy delivery. An external medical device includes a housing and a processor within the housing. The processor can be configured to receive an input signal for a patient receiving chest compressions and to select at least one filter mechanism and to apply the filter mechanism to the signal to at least substantially remove chest compression artifacts from the signal. A real time dynamic analysis of a cardiac rhythm is applied to adjust and integrate CPR prompting of a medical device. Real-time cardiac rhythm quality is facilitated using a rhythm assessment meter.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: PHYSIO-CONTROL, INC.Inventors: Joseph L. Sullivan, Ronald Eugene Stickney, Robert G. Walker, Daniel Piraino, Isabelle Banville, Fred Chapman
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Patent number: 9545212Abstract: A reconfigurable measuring apparatus includes a first chopper configured to modulate an input signal, and an amplifier configured to amplify an output signal of the first chopper. The reconfigurable measuring apparatus further includes a second chopper configured to demodulate an output signal of the amplifier, and a controller configured to control the first chopper and the second chopper based on a measurement mode.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jong Pal Kim
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Patent number: 9545213Abstract: An electrode patch and physiological signal device are disclosed. The physiological signal device includes an electrode patch and a physiological signal unit. The physiological signal unit has a conductive pad, and the electrode patch includes a flexible sheet having a first surface and a second surface opposite from each other, a conductive pad is disposed on the first surface, a conductive gel covers a portion of the conductive pad and a conductive area is exposed; the conductive gel penetrates through the flexible sheet and is exposed on the second surface; the second surface of the electrode patch contacts with the physiological signal unit, and the conductive gel is electrically connected to the conductive pad. The physiological signal unit is electrically connected to a charging device via the conductive area of the electrode patch. Thereby, the physiological signal unit can be placed on the charging device directly for charging.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignees: KINPO ELECTRONICS, INC., CAL-COMP ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY LIMITEDInventors: Jen-Chien Chien, Wen-Chung Cheng
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Patent number: 9545214Abstract: A heart rate meter and a method thereof are provided. The method is adopted by a sensing circuit of a heart rate meter, wherein the sensing circuit includes a pulse sensor and a proximity sensor. The method includes: determining whether the sensing circuit is close to a neighboring object according to a proximity output signal of the proximity sensor; determining whether the sensing circuit is hung in the air according to a direct current (DC) output signal of the pulse sensor; and when the sensing circuit is close to the neighboring object and is not hung in the air, determining that the measuring circuit can measure an electrocardiographic signal of the neighboring object.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: QUANTA COMPUTER INC.Inventors: Chih-Hsiung Yu, Yung-Ming Chung, Yen-Chih Huang
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Patent number: 9545215Abstract: A method and system which includes a minimally invasive, implantable device with a sensor configured for collecting electrical data associated with cardiac performance, a sensor configured for collecting mechanical data associated with cardiac performance, a sensor for collecting optical data associated with cardiac performance, a sensor for collecting biochemical data associated with cardiac performance, and a processor for deriving cardiac conditions and actuating an alarm upon identifying a cardiac event.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2008Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Randal C. Schulhauser, John K. Day, Scott Wayne Haskin, Tho V. Huynh, Todd A. Kallmyer, Brian Bruce Lee, Jeffrey O. York, William Cope
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Patent number: 9545216Abstract: An apparatus for medical diagnosis and/or treatment is provides. The apparatus includes a flexible substrate forming an inflatable body and a plurality of sensing elements disposed on the flexible substrate. The plurality of sensing elements are disposed about the inflatable body such that the sensing elements are disposed at areas of minimal curvature of the inflatable body in a deflated state.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: MC10, Inc.Inventors: Robert D'Angelo, Bassel de Graff, Kevin Dowling, Roozbeh Ghaffari, Lauren Klinker, Stephen P. Lee, Cliff Liu, Yung-Yu Hsu
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Patent number: 9545217Abstract: Provided are methods and systems for movement correction in an MRI environment. In one aspect, provided are systems and methods for movement correction, comprising receiving a first plurality of images from a first scan of a subject with a first camera, receiving magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images obtained concurrently with the first scan, correlating the first plurality of images obtained from the first scan with the MRI images, resulting in motion correction data, and providing the motion correction data to an MRI system, wherein the MRI system adjusts scanning according to the motion correction data.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2009Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary, Department of Health and Human ServicesInventors: Jeff Duyn, Lei Qin
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Patent number: 9545218Abstract: In one embodiment, an RF coil device includes a base board, a belt member, a first coil element, a second coil element inside the base board, and a connecting unit. Both ends of the belt member are respectively connected to mutually separated places on the base board, so that the center part of the belt member is located on the anterior surface of the base board. The belt member is curved to form airspace between the center part thereof and the anterior surface for letting an arm pass through in interdigitation state. The first coil element includes first and second partial coils inside the belt member, and becomes a loop coil element by their connection. The connecting unit detachably connects the base board to the belt member, and mutually connects the first and second partial coils in the interdigitation state.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATIONInventors: Miyuki Ota, Sadanori Tomiha, Shinji Mitsui, Mitsuo Takagi, Hiroki Motohashi, Kazuya Okamoto, Junichi Makita
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Patent number: 9545219Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for screening a patient for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using recordings of tracheal breathing sounds of both nose and mouth breathing in the upright and supine positions to compute characteristic features of the patient, the characteristic features being compared to the mean values of similar features of OSA and non-OSA training groups to classify a patient as OSA or non-OSA.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: University of ManitobaInventors: Zahra Moussavi, Davood Karimi
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Patent number: 9545220Abstract: The invention is a system and method for measuring 3D distances and dimensions of objects in endoscopic images by using a light plane to make Euclidean and geodesic measurements. The endoscopic measurement system of the invention comprises a flexible or rigid endoscopic device equipped with standard visualization means and a module containing components for generating a light plane. Based on triangulation, the intersection curve between the light lane and the object of interest is measurable in 3D in the coordinate system of the visualization means.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: V.T.M (Virtual Tape Measure) Technologies Ltd.Inventor: Avishay Sidlesky
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Patent number: 9545221Abstract: An electronic system includes a storage interface configured to access a kinematic model for representing one or more motions of a carrier; a control unit, coupled to the storage interface, configured to determine an attachment location of an attachable device based on the kinematic model; and generate a device setting based on the attachment location for provisioning the attachable device.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Suranjit Adhikari, Jeffrey Scott Pierce, Stacie Lynn Hibino
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Patent number: 9545222Abstract: A physiological monitoring system for noninvasively monitoring physiological parameters of a subject, comprising a fitness monitoring system for monitoring physiological parameters of a subject engaged in a physical activity, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, includes (i) a monitoring garment adapted to cover at least a portion of a subject's torso, (ii) a magnetometer subsystem including a first magnetometer and a second magnetometer, wherein the first and second magnetometers are responsive to changes in distance therebetween, wherein the magnetometer subsystem is configured to generate and transmit a signal representative of a change in the distance between the first and second magnetometers, wherein the first and second magnetometers are incorporated into the monitoring garment, and wherein the first and second magnetometers are proximate to the subject's chest region when the monitoring garment is worn by the subject.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: adidas AGInventors: P. Alexander Derchak, George McLean
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Patent number: 9545223Abstract: Disclosed is a functional NIRS imaging system including an elastomeric cap, a set of transmit optical fibers and a set of receive optical fibers terminating on the inside surface of the elastomeric cap. A pair of light sources combines to produce a collimated light beam at two wavelengths. An optical modulation system, converts the light beam into a plurality of probe light beams, modulates the plurality of probe light beams and directs each probe light beam into a transmit fiber. An optical detection system accepts scattered photons from subcutaneous tissue underneath the elastomeric cap as a plurality of collected light beams and converts them into a time series of electronic images, stores the electronic images into the memory and processes the electronic images using. The system displays the resulting image on a display as a hemoglobin oxygen saturation map.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEMInventors: Duncan MacFarlane, Chester Wildey, Georgios Alexandrakis, Bilal Khan
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Patent number: 9545224Abstract: A system for measuring fitness for duty which includes a) a visual stimulus display b) eye monitoring equipment for measuring eye and eyelid movements c) a central processing unit and data storage device to collect and store the data from the eye monitoring equipment d) a data analysis device programmed to calculate one or more of the measures of blink latency, measures of the relative velocity of upper eyelid closing and opening movements during blinks, the product of the amplitude to velocity ratio of eyelid closing and opening, the duration of blinks, the variability of eyelid movements during blinks, the failure to respond appropriately with a voluntary blink following each said brief visual stimulus e) said data analysis device programmed to place the values for said measures into an algorithm for measuring fitness for duty.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2011Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: OPTALERT AUSTRALIA PTY LTDInventors: Murray Johns, Andrew Tucker
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Patent number: 9545225Abstract: A system that analyzes neurological signals is described. During operation, the system monitors neurological signals from users at multiple locations, where the neurological signals are associated with different electrode configurations. Then, the system modifies the monitored neurological signals to correct for the different electrode configurations so that a resulting set of modified neurological signals corresponds to a common electrode configuration, thereby facilitating subsequent identification of a subset of the set of modified neurological signals.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventor: James Cavuoto
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Patent number: 9545226Abstract: A method, comprising receiving at least one of a signal relating to a first cardiac activity and a signal relating to a first body movement from a patient; triggering at least one of a test of the patient's responsiveness, awareness, a second cardiac activity, a second body movement, a spectral analysis test of the second cardiac activity, and a spectral analysis test of the second body movement, based on at least one of the signal relating to the first cardiac activity and the signal relating to the first body movement; determining an occurrence of an epileptic event based at least in part on said one or more triggered tests; and performing a further action in response to said determination of said occurrence of said epileptic event. Further methods allow classification of epileptic events. Apparatus and systems capable of implementing the method.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: FLINT HILLS SCIENTIFIC LLCInventor: Ivan Osorio
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Patent number: 9545227Abstract: A method and system for Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) screening are disclosed. The method comprises detecting at least one physiological signal, converting the at least one physiological signal into at least one sensor stream, and processing the at least one sensor stream to perform the SAS screening. The system includes a sensor to detect at least one physiological signal, a processor coupled to the sensor, and a memory device coupled to the processor, wherein the memory device includes an application that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to convert the at least one physiological signal into at least one sensor stream and to processor the at least one sensor stream to perform the SAS screening.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: VITAL CONNECT, INC.Inventors: Nandakumar Selvaraj, Ravi Narasimhan
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Patent number: 9545228Abstract: Physiological monitoring can be provided through a wearable monitor that includes two components, a flexible extended wear electrode patch and a removable reusable monitor recorder. The wearable monitor sits centrally (in the midline) on the patient's chest along the sternum oriented top-to-bottom. The placement of the wearable monitor in a location at the sternal midline (or immediately to either side of the sternum) benefits extended wear by removing the requirement that ECG electrodes be continually placed in the same spots on the skin throughout the monitoring period. Instead, the patient can place an electrode patch anywhere within the general region of the sternum. Power is provided through a battery provided on the electrode patch, which avoids having to open the monitor recorder's housing for battery replacement. The patch further includes sensors for monitoring patient's air flow and respiratory measures contemporaneously with the ECG monitoring.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2016Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: BARDY DIAGNOSTICS, INC.Inventors: Gust H. Bardy, Jon Mikalson Bishay, Jason Felix
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Patent number: 9545229Abstract: The present invention includes devices, methods and systems for reporting a heart rate comprising: an input device; a microprocessor coupled to the input device and a power supply, wherein the microprocessor is programmed with a predetermined heartbeat threshold and calculates the number of times the input device is actuated over a predetermined amount of time; and a display connected to the microprocessor that receives the calculated heart rate and displays whether the heart rate is below, at or above predetermined threshold, e.g., when a patient has less than 60 heartbeats per minute, between 60 and 100 heartbeats per minute and greater than 100 heartbeats per minute.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventor: Jonathan M. Whitfield
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Patent number: 9545230Abstract: A user wearable portable communication device and a method for collecting and transmitting a plurality of physiological parameters to a remote monitoring center are disclosed. The portable communication device includes a provision for enabling the user to establish a video conference, a fail detection module in conjunction with an accelerometer recognizes a placement of the portable communication device, a home automation module for enabling the user to remotely operate multiple electronic devices, an acknowledgment acceptance module for receiving the acknowledgment, a physiological data, collecting module communicatively coupled to a fetal doppler module for monitoring and transmitting the physiological parameters associated with a child, multiple preprogrammed contact numbers for enabling the user to establish a communication, a subscriber identity module for enabling the user establish a communication and data transmission between the portable communication device and the remote monitoring center.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventor: Rajendra Padma Sadhu
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Patent number: 9545231Abstract: A method and imaging system for operating imaging computed tomography using at least one radiation source and at least one detector to generate an image of an object. The method includes: defining desired image characteristics; and performing calculations to determine the pattern of fluence to be applied by the at least one radiation source, to generate said desired image quality or characteristics. Then, the at least one radiation source is modulated, to generate the intended pattern of fluence between the beam source and the object to be imaged. The desired image characteristics can provide at least one of: desired image quality in at least one defined region of interest; and at least one desired distribution of said image quality.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: UNIVERSITY HEALTH NETWORKInventors: David A. Jaffray, Sean Alexander Graham, Jeffrey Harold Siewerdsen, Steven Joe Bartolac
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Patent number: 9545232Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and device for preventing metal artifacts computer tomography scans made during biopsy taking, when a metal needle is present in the field of view of a scan. The direction of the metal needle and the direction of the electro-magnetic field are determined in advance. For the determination of the electro-magnetic field a position of a source of the electro-magnetic field a position of a detector are considered. The user may be warned, when the determined direction of the electro-magnetic field and of the direction of the metallic needle correspond to each other.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventor: Nicolaas Jan Noordhoek
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Patent number: 9545233Abstract: A method verifying the position of a surgically inserted orthopedic insert. A preoperative three dimensional image data set of the surgical site is generated, showing the bone into which the insert is to be inserted. During the insertion procedure, a series of intraoperative two-dimensional fluoroscope images are generated, each at a known pose relative to the bone, showing the insert during or after insertion into the bone. The 3-D position of the insert is determined in an intraoperative three dimensional image data set reconstructed from the series of intraoperative 2-D fluoroscope images. The reconstructed intraoperative 3-D image data set is registered with the preoperative three dimensional image data set, such as by comparison of imaged anatomical features. Once this registration is achieved, the determined 3-D position of the insert is used to implant a virtual image of the insert into the preoperative three dimensional image data set.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: MAZOR ROBOTICS LTD.Inventors: Yael Sirpad, Eli Zehavi, Moshe Shoham, Leonid Kleyman
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Patent number: 9545234Abstract: A method to optimally set a position of a form filter in an x-ray image recording apparatus is proposed. The x-ray image recording apparatus has an x-ray radiation source and an x-ray radiation detector. An x-ray image is firstly recorded in a first position of the form filter. A new position of the filter is then calculated and automatically set with the aid of the x-ray image. A new x-ray image is then recorded. With a minimal dose of a patient, the method enables low contrast images to be recorded for a minimal main dose of the patient, in particular in a sequence.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE GMBHInventors: Philipp Bernhardt, Stefan Böhm, Richard Obler
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Patent number: 9545235Abstract: A mobile base designed to receive an X-ray machine is provided. An X-ray machine capable of being mounted on the mobile base is also provided. The X-ray machine of the invention is configured to move using a motor-driven system associated with a navigation system. The navigation system of the invention enables the X-ray machine to be moved automatically and with precision from one position to another within an examination, hybrid or operation room. The X-ray machine is also configured for the automatic positioning of the moving parts around the patient, while at the same time keeping the region to be subjected to radiography within an X-ray beam.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Bernard Bouvier, Carlos Martinez Ferreira, Bruno Galloni, Jean-Luc Thomé, Guy Jean Sébastien Caverot
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Patent number: 9545236Abstract: A computed tomography (CT) imaging apparatus includes an X-ray source to emit X-rays; a plurality of photon-counting detectors (PCDs) arranged in a circular ring between the X-ray source and a CT detector; and processing circuitry to cause the X-ray source and the CT detector to perform a helical scan of an object to obtain projection data; extract, from the obtained projection data, a plurality of sets of projection data corresponding to a plurality of X-ray tube positions of the helical scan; and combine the plurality of sets of extracted projection data to obtain a scanogram.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Yuexing Zhang, Satoru Nakanishi, Xiaolan Wang
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Patent number: 9545237Abstract: Method and device for recording a vascular structure during intervention comprises steps or elements for detecting S1 an injection of a contrast agent 6 provided to the vicinity of a device landmark 5, monitoring S3 for a predetermined time the vicinity of the device landmark 5, generating S3a time-contrast curves based on the monitored vicinity of the device landmark 5, analyzing S4a the time-contrast curves, and determining S4b a best instant as a visibility optimum based on the time-contrast curves.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2008Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventor: Raoul Florent
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Patent number: 9545238Abstract: A method and system for the diagnosis of 3D images are disclosed, which significantly cuts the time required for the diagnosis. The 3D images are for example an image volume dataset of a magnetic resonance tomography system which is saved in an RIS or PACS system. In at least one embodiment, the diagnostic finding are partially automatically generated, and details of the position, size and change in pathological structures are compared to previous diagnostic findings are generated automatically. As a result of this automation the diagnostic work of radiologists is significantly reduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2011Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Rüdiger Bertsch, Roland Brill, Alexander Cavallaro, Maria Jimena Costa, Martin Huber, Michael Kelm, Helmut König, Sascha Seifert, Michael Wels
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Patent number: 9545239Abstract: A detection device for detecting X rays and signaling the detection to a computer-assisted surgery processor system comprises an X ray detector unit having an X ray detector adapted to be positioned within a radiation field. The X ray detector emits a detection signal upon being excited by an X ray of a given intensity. A transmitter outputs the detection signal in radio frequency. A receiver receives the detection signal in radio frequency and forwards the detection signal to a computer-assisted surgery processor system to signal the detection of the X ray. A method is provided as well.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2009Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: ORTHOSOFT INC.Inventors: Ahmed Aoude, Louis-David Parenteau, Mélanie Chassé
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Patent number: 9545240Abstract: The present invention provides a portable ultrasound system being superior in operability and design properties, and being allowed to take various storage postures fitting to the volume of a storage place. The keyboard unit 50 provided with an input device such as a keyboard and the display unit 80 incorporating a display part are mounted on the main body unit 30 that incorporates a main part of the ultrasound diagnostic system, respectively about the rotation axes P1 and P2, independently, in such a manner as rotatable, and further the rotation axes P1 and P2 are on a common axis P. The rotation axis part 200 supporting the display unit 80 is supported by the bearing of the main body unit in a part lower than the axis P, allowing the display unit to be rotatable about the rotation axis Q that is orthogonal to the axis P.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: HITACHI, LTD.Inventors: Atsushi Ninomiya, Kazuyuki Yanase, Masaru Yokoyama, Takashi Kashiwagi, Taisuke Matsushita
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Patent number: 9545241Abstract: It is provided a blood vessel function inspecting apparatus including: a blood vessel diameter measuring portion configured to measure a diameter of a blood vessel; a blood vessel wall thickness measuring portion configured to measure a wall thickness of the blood vessel; and a blood vessel function index value calculating portion configured to calculate a function index value for diagnosing the blood vessel of its function, after releasing of the blood vessel from blood flow obstruction, by dividing an amount of dilatation of said diameter of the blood vessel continuously measured by said blood vessel diameter measuring portion, by the wall thickness measured by said blood vessel wall thickness measuring portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: UNEX CORPORATIONInventors: Hiroshi Masuda, Chikao Harada, Hidenori Suzuki
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Patent number: 9545242Abstract: Sensor coupled to the ultrasound probe provides position information related to an ultrasound imaging position in the object. A processor performs first registration between the medical image and the ultrasound image based on the anatomical feature in the ultrasound image and a medical image of the object acquired by imaging modality different from the ultrasound apparatus, obtains first registration information which provides a relationship between a coordinate system of the medical image and a coordinate system of the ultrasound image based on the first registration, performs second registration between the sensor and the medical image based on the position information and the first registration information, and obtains second registration information based on the second registration. A display may display a portion of the medical image corresponding to the ultrasound imaging position based on the second registration information. The medical image includes one of SPECT, PET, MR, PET-CT, and PET-MR image.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignees: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD., KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventors: Dong Gyu Hyun, Jong Beom Ra, Duhgoon Lee, Woo Hyun Nam, Won Chul Bang
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Patent number: 9545243Abstract: Various devices and methods may be provided to aspirate bone marrow from an associated bone using a powered drive and an aspiration needle or aspiration needle set. Such aspiration devices and methods may also be used in association with stem cell transplant procedures. The aspiration devices may include a coupler assembly, a containment bag or sterile sleeve, an ejector and/or an ejector funnel. An aspiration needle set may include a cannula and trocar with respective tips having optimum configurations, dimensions and/or orientations relative to each other to optimize penetration of a bone and/or bone marrow with minimum trauma to a patient. Exterior portions of some cannulas may include markings to indicate depth of penetration into associated bone marrow. Some cannulas may include one or more side ports for use during aspiration of bone marrow.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Vidacare LLCInventors: Larry J. Miller, David S. Bolleter, Robert W. Titkemeyer, Christopher Brian Kilcoin
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Patent number: 9545244Abstract: A biopsy device comprises a probe assembly, a holster assembly, a tissue sample holder, and a manually operated rotation mechanism configured to rotate the tissue sample holder. The probe assembly comprises a cutter configured to sever a tissue sample. The tissue sample holder includes a plurality of tissue chambers configured to receive discrete severed tissue samples. The holster assembly comprises the non-motorized, manually operated rotation mechanism configured to allow a user to align consecutive chambers to successively collect discrete severed tissue samples. The tissue sample holder rotation mechanism may comprise a first button, a first lever, a first pawl, a first ratchet, an indexing shaft, and a first gear, which are all configured to, ultimately, rotate a tissue sample holder. The tissue sample holder rotation mechanism may alternately include thumbwheels, a worm gear, or a ratcheting lever, among other things.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Shailendra Kumar Parihar, Michael Robert Ludzack
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Patent number: 9545245Abstract: An endoscopic instrument includes a housing having shaft extending therefrom that defines a longitudinal axis therethrough. The shaft includes an articulating section disposed thereon. The articulating section has a central annulus extending therealong and first and second pluralities of bores. The first plurality of bores configured to receive corresponding tendons therethrough and the second plurality of bores configured to receive corresponding conductive leads therethrough. An end effector assembly operatively connected to a distal end of the shaft including a pair of first and second jaw members. The corresponding conductive leads transition from a first state for enabling articulation of the shaft about the articulating section, to a second state for disabling articulation of the shaft about the articulating section.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventor: Peter M. Mueller
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Patent number: 9545246Abstract: A deflection mechanism for an elongate medical device may comprise an actuator. The actuator may comprise a rotatable body comprising a channel, the channel comprising a plurality of recesses. The deflection mechanism may further comprises an activation wire having a proximal end and a distal end, and a wire lock attached to the proximal end of the activation wire. The wire lock may be disposed within the channel and configured to ride therein when the actuator body is rotated. An adjustable stop may be placed in one or more of the recesses of the channel so as to apply a force to the wire lock as the actuator is rotated so as to increase tension on the activation wire.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division, Inc.Inventor: Mark Lavender
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Patent number: 9545247Abstract: A septal occluder, such as one made from a polymer tube, can have portions on either side of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or other septal defect. The portions on either side can be held in place with a catching mechanism that can take one of many forms. The tube can be made of bioresorbable materials.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: W.L. GORE & ASSOCIATES, INC.Inventors: Andrzej J. Chanduszko, David R. Widomski, Carol A. Devellian
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Patent number: 9545248Abstract: A surgical obturator comprising an elongate shaft extending along an axis between a proximal end and a distal end includes a bladeless tip disposed at the distal end of the shaft. The tip has a blunt point and a pair of shorter side surfaces separated by a relatively longer pair of opposing surfaces to form in radial cross-section a geometric shape that has a longer length and relatively narrower width. The side surfaces and opposing surfaces terminate in end surfaces located proximally from the blunt point. The end surfaces extend radially outwardly from opposite locations of the outer surface. A conical surface facilitates initial insertion of the obturator and the geometric shape facilitates separation of consecutive layers of muscle tissue having fibers oriented in different directions and provides proper alignment of the tip between the layers of muscle.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Applied Medical Resources CorporationInventors: Scott V. Taylor, Matthew A. Wixey
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Patent number: 9545249Abstract: This application describes an overtube device that gives diagnostic and/or therapeutic access to body cavities using natural orifices of the body. The overtube includes an elongate flexible body having a distal portion deflectable in response to activation of a control cable. Proximal features of the overtube include an insufflations port and seals for minimizing loss of insufflations pressure around the shafts of instruments passed through the tube. In some embodiments, retractor elements are including on the distal portion of the overtube.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: David Cole, Melanie L. Harris, Carlos E. Castro, Jason S. Stewart, Samuel T. Crews, Daniel J. Balbierz
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Patent number: 9545250Abstract: A retractor for use in spinal surgery comprises a frame including a ring member defining a generally central interior space. A plurality of blades is releasably supported respectively to slidable arms each supported on the ring member for individual translational movement relative to the ring member. The blades define an initial substantially enclosed opening that is expandable for use in a surgical procedure. A clutch mechanism supported on the ring member is associated with each arm to individually selectively engage each such arm with a rotatable main gear such that upon rotation of the main gear by a single actuator any one, all or any desired combination of arms may be translated relative to the ring member to move the blades and expand the opening in one or more selected desired directions.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Spine Wave, IncInventors: Hubert W. Pfabe, Thomas R. Rainey
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Patent number: 9545251Abstract: An apparatus for tissue repair, comprising first and second fixation members, a flexible coupling member coupling the first and second fixation members, the flexible coupling member having two terminal ends, one of the two terminal ends terminating adjacent one of the first and second fixation members, the flexible coupling member slidably coupled to at least one of the first and second fixation members such that when the other of the two terminal ends of the flexible coupling member is pulled, a length of the flexible coupling member between the first and second fixation members is shortened, and a Chinese trap formed in the flexible coupling member through which a portion of the flexible coupling member slides when the flexible coupling member is pulled.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventors: Raymond A. Bojarski, George Sikora, Paul Alexander Torrie, Steven W. Ek
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Patent number: 9545252Abstract: A system for implanting an anchor into bone, the system comprising a curved cannulated guide for percutaneous insertion, having a proximal end and a distal end; a flexible drill insertable through the curved guide from the proximal end to the distal end, the flexible drill having a shaft having a flexible portion; and a flexible inserter for inserting a suture anchor into a bore at the anatomical site formed by the flexible drill, the flexible inserter having a shaft having a flexible portion, wherein the flexible portions of both the flexible drill and flexible inserter include a series of discrete, interlocking segments.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2013Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Bryan Patrick Howard, José Raúl Marchand
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Patent number: 9545253Abstract: An apparatus comprises an end effector, an elongate shaft, and a handle assembly. The shaft includes an articulation section that is operable to deflect the end effector away from the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The handle assembly includes a rotary member positioned within an intermediate section of the handle assembly. The rotary member is rotatable about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The rotary member is operable to control the articulation section of the shaft. The rotary member may include opposing thread sections that simultaneously drive lead screws in opposite longitudinal directions, to thereby control the articulation section. The shaft may be rotatable relative to the handle assembly, and the apparatus may selectively lock or resist such rotation based on the articulation state of the articulation section.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2012Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Barry C. Worrell, Jason R. Lesko
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Patent number: 9545254Abstract: An apparatus for application of surgical clips to body tissue is provided and includes a handle assembly; a shaft assembly including a housing extending distally from the handle assembly and defining a longitudinal axis; a plurality of surgical clips disposed within the shaft assembly; a jaw mounted adjacent a distal end portion of the shaft assembly, the jaw being movable between an open spaced-apart condition and a closed approximated condition; and a pusher bar reciprocally disposed within the housing of the shaft assembly and being detachably connectable to the housing of the shaft assembly, the pusher bar being configured to load a distal-most surgical clip into the jaws during distal movement and remain connected to the housing of the shaft assembly and in a distally advanced position during an approximation of the jaws.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2016Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Gregory Sorrentino, Kenneth H. Whitfield
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Patent number: 9545255Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the endoluminal revision of previously performed obesity procedures which have failed are described. One or more endoluminal instruments may be advanced per-orally into the previously formed failed pouch where a number of different procedures can be performed. One or more tissue folds can be formed and secured to reduce the size of the pouch, or the stoma connecting the pouch to the intestinal tract can be reduced in size using endoluminally deployed tissue anchors. These procedures can be performed entirely from within the pouch lumen or upon the exterior surface of the pouch via transgastric entry of the instruments into the peritoneal cavity of a patient. Alternatively, the interior tissue within the pouch can be injured or sclerosed to shrink the pouch lumen. In another alternative, a length of the Roux limb can be shortened endoluminally to create a malabsorptive region.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: USGI Medical, Inc.Inventors: John A. Cox, Tracy Maahs, Richard C. Ewers, Eugene Chen, Cang Lam, Lee Swanstrom
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Patent number: 9545256Abstract: Minimally invasive endoscopic and laparoscopic devices and methods for inverting and closing a diverticulum. Devices can include a closing component such as a loop, a clip, or a suture that can allow the diverticulum to be removed or to slough off after necrosis.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: EMPIRE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT LLCInventors: Daniel Hawkins, John Adams
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Patent number: 9545257Abstract: An apparatus for introducing an implant into a hollow anatomical structure. The apparatus comprises a storage unit; an elongate vascular implant stored inside the storage unit and having a distal end; and a pushrod at least partially stored inside the storage unit and having a distal end coupled to the distal end of the implant. The implant diverges from adjacency with the pushrod as the implant extends away from the distal end of the pushrod, such that the pushrod forms a force application region near the distal end of the pushrod. The force application region is accessible for force application but separated from the implant.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2009Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Halil I. Karabey, Michael S. Mirizzi, William N. Boenig, Miranda M. Ray