Patents Issued in January 19, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170014168
    Abstract: A polyaxial fastener is secured within an implant with a retaining ring. The ring is assembled onto a circumferential groove formed in the fastener head. The groove and ring are positionable, when the fastener is installed into an implant, at a wide portion of the mating polyaxial aperture in the implant. The ring is compressible into the groove to form a narrowed diameter, which is passable into a narrow diameter of the aperture, near an entrance to the aperture. The ring is released to expand and increase an overall diameter of the head and ring assembly, thereby rending the assembly too wide to pass by the narrow entrance to the aperture, thereby securing the assembly within the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Michael E. Black
  • Publication number: 20170014169
    Abstract: A device used in conjunction with fixation hardware to provide a two-stage process to address the competing needs of immobilization and re-establishment of normal stress-strain trajectories in grafted bone. A method of determining a patient-specific stress/strain pattern that utilizes a model based on 3D CT data of the relevant structures and cross-sectional data of the three major chewing muscles. The forces on each of the chewing muscles are determined based on the model using predetermined bite forces such that a stiffness of cortical bone in the patient's mandible is determined. Based on the stiffness data, suitable implantation hardware can be designed for the patient by adjusting external topological and internal porous geometries that reduce the stiffness of biocompatible metals to thereby restore normal bite forces of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Howard David Dean, Mohammad H. Elahinia, Christoph Haberland, Michael J. Miller, Alok Sutradhar, Narges Shayesteh Moghaddam, Jason M. Walker, Roman Skoracki
  • Publication number: 20170014170
    Abstract: There is disclosed a device and method for stabilizing a bone. The device includes a flexible threaded portion operable to thread along a curved path in a bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: IntraFuse, LLC
    Inventors: T. Wade Fallin, M. Mary Sinnott, Robert W. Hoy
  • Publication number: 20170014171
    Abstract: A system for restricting flexion of a spinal segment in a patient comprises a constraint device having a tether structure and a compliance member coupled with the tether structure. The tether structure is adapted to be coupled with a superior spinous process and a sacrum. The system also includes an anchor member that is anchored to the sacrum. The anchor member has an attachment feature that is adapted to couple with the constraint device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Todd Alamin, Louis Fielding, Darin Gittings, Hugues Malandain, Anand Parikh, Eller Torres, Ian Bennett
  • Publication number: 20170014172
    Abstract: Instruments and methods for surgical transosseous attachment to a bone include a guide able to guide the formation of intersecting bone tunnels and a passer able to pass a member through the bone tunnels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: KATOR, LLC
    Inventors: T. Wade Fallin, Joel Helgerson
  • Publication number: 20170014173
    Abstract: A bone positioning guide may include a main body member, a shaft, and a bone engagement member. The shaft can be movably connected to the main body member and have the bone engagement member rotatably coupled to its distal end. The bone engagement member can have a surface configured to engage a bone. The main body member can also include a tip opposite the bone engagement member for engaging a second bone. In use, the bone engagement member may be positioned in contact with a medial side of a first metatarsal while the tip is positioned in contact with a lateral side of a different metatarsal, such as a second metatarsal. The shaft can then be moved to advance the bone engagement member toward the tip, causing realignment of the first metatarsal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: W. Bret Smith, Paul Dayton, Sean F. Scanlan, F. Barry Bays, Carlos Eduardo Gil, John T. Treace
  • Publication number: 20170014174
    Abstract: A cryogenic cylinder including authenticating features and an apparatus recognizing the features and facilitation the cylinder use. The authenticating features prevent use of an unauthorized cryogenic cylinders. The cylinder also includes a number of mechanical features preventing repeat filling of the cylinder by cryogenic fluid or reuse of the cylinder once empty.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Lewis Levine, Kevin Schomacker, Walid Kayali, Perry Tomasetti
  • Publication number: 20170014175
    Abstract: A grasping treatment unit includes a first jaw, and a second jaw openable and closable relative to the first jaw. In the first jaw, a heating wire continues without branching from a first extending end to a second extending end, and heat is generated over an entire length from the first extending end to the second extending end when the electric current flows through the heating wire. In a heating portion, a calorific value per unit area is higher in a distal portion than in a proximal portion in the first jaw when the heat is generated from the heating wire. On a treatment surface of the first jaw, an amount of heat transfer from the heating portion is greater in the distal portion than in the proximal portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomoyuki TAKASHINO, Yusuke TAKEI, Kazuhiro TANAKA
  • Publication number: 20170014176
    Abstract: A method of electrothermally fusing together pieces of tissue at an interface includes: compressing the tissue pieces together at the interface sufficiently for fusing the tissue pieces together at the interface; delivering an impulse of electrical power of no greater than 4.0 seconds time duration which contains sufficient energy to fuse the tissue pieces together at the interface within the time duration of the electrical power impulse; converting the electrical power impulse into thermal energy applied at the interface to fuse the tissue pieces; and regulating the temperature of the thermal energy applied at the interface in a range of 150° C. to 200° C. while fusing the tissue pieces by controlling characteristics of the electrical power impulse.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Conmed Corporation
    Inventors: Francis T. McGreevy, Katherine R. Pavlovsky
  • Publication number: 20170014177
    Abstract: Methods and system are provided for thermally-induced renal neuromodulation. Thermally-induced renal neuromodulation may be achieved via direct and/or via indirect application of thermal energy to heat or cool neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers. In some embodiments, parameters of the neural fibers, of non-target tissue, or of the thermal energy delivery element, may be monitored via one or more sensors for controlling the thermally-induced neuromodulation. In some embodiments, protective elements may be provided to reduce a degree of thermal damage induced in the non-target tissues. In some embodiments, thermally-induced renal neuromodulation is achieved via delivery of a pulsed thermal therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Andrew Wu, Benjamin J. Clark, Erik Thai, Nicolas Zadno, Denise Zarins
  • Publication number: 20170014178
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for pulsed electric field neuromodulation via an intra-to-extravascular approach, e.g., to effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, changes in cytokine upregulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, the ITEV PEF system comprises an intravascular catheter having one or more electrodes configured for intra-to-extravascular placement across a wall of patient's vessel into proximity with target neural fibers. With the electrode(s) passing from an intravascular position to an extravascular position prior to delivery of the PEF, a magnitude of applied voltage or energy delivered via the electrode(s) and necessary to achieve desired neuromodulation may be reduced relative to an intravascular PEF system having one or more electrodes positioned solely intravascularly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Denise Zarins, Benjamin J. Clark, Nicolas Zadno, Hanson Gifford, III, Erik Thai
  • Publication number: 20170014179
    Abstract: Electric field delivery and ablation of target tissue regions, including cancerous cells and solid tumors. Methods and systems include delivering an electric field to a target tissue, and may include positioning a first electrode or plurality to at least partially define a first treatment volume in the target tissue; positioning a second electrode or plurality to at least partially define a second treatment volume, the first volume is disposed in the second volume; and establishing a first current flow extending through the first volume and a second current flow extending through the second volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Larry Azure
  • Publication number: 20170014180
    Abstract: Hysteroscopic system includes a hysteroscope having a main body coupled to an extension portion. The extension portion may be a shaft configured to extend transcervically to a patient's uterine cavity. First, second, and third channels extend from the main body to a distal end of the extension portion. A fluid source is coupleable to a proximal end of the first channel, and a pressure sensor is coupleable to a proximal end of the second channel. A tissue resecting probe is configured for introduction through the third channel. At least one resistance feature is included which is configured to provide a selected level of resistance to axial sliding of the probe through the third channel while permitting rotation of the probe within the third channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Aaron Germain, Csaba Truckai
  • Publication number: 20170014181
    Abstract: A method, consisting of ablating tissue for a time period, measuring a contact force applied during the time period, and measuring a power used during the time period. The method further includes ceasing ablating the tissue when a desired size of a lesion produced in the tissue, as estimated using an integral over the time period of a product of the contact force raised to a first non-unity exponent and the power raised to a second non-unity exponent, is reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Meir Bar-Tal, Erez Silberschein, Assaf Rubissa, Garth Francis Constantine, Hiroshi Nakagawa
  • Publication number: 20170014182
    Abstract: Herein disclosed is a method of detecting and identifying the source of abnormal electrical currents in the heart to assist in ablating these currents, comprising the use of contact or non-contact temperature measurement devices. In an embodiment, source of abnormal electrical activity of the heart and its attached arteries and veins show different temperature patterns from normal segments. In an embodiment, the method further comprises analyzing the temperature of the chamber of interest, and determining regions of low or high temperature by extension metabolic activity. In an embodiment, the method comprises measuring myocardial temperature comprising placing an array of thermocouples imbedded on a basket in the cardiac chamber. In an embodiment, the thermocouples are placed in contact with the myocardial tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Mehdi Razavi, Mohammad Madjid, James T. Willerson
  • Publication number: 20170014183
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for decalcifying an aortic valve. The methods and devices of the present invention break up or obliterate calcific deposits in and around the aortic valve through application or removal of heat energy from the calcific deposits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Hanson Gifford, III, Mark Deem, Stephen Boyd
  • Publication number: 20170014184
    Abstract: A surgical snare comprising a means of delivering thermal plasma on to biological tissue encircled by the snare. The snare may be “cold” snare, i.e. formed from insulating material, or active, i.e. connected to receive RF and/or microwave energy to be radiated into the area encircled by the snare. The surgical snare may thus deliver into biological tissue encircled by a retractable loop any one of (i) a plasma to perform surface coagulation, (ii) a non-ionising microwave field (in the absence of plasma) to perform coagulation at a deeper level, and (iii) an RF field to assist with cutting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Christopher Paul HANCOCK, Malcolm WHITE
  • Publication number: 20170014185
    Abstract: An improved antenna for microwave ablation uses a triaxial design which reduces reflected energy allowing higher power ablation and/or a smaller diameter feeder line to the antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: NeuWave Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred T. Lee, JR., Christopher L. Brace, Paul F. Laeseke, Daniel Warren van der Weide, Deepak Gopal, Patrick Pfau, Lisa A. Sampson
  • Publication number: 20170014186
    Abstract: This invention relates to a device and a method for monitoring and optimizing photothermal therapy, using a high-power continuous-wave laser beam and a pulsed laser beam, both transmitted through a single soft, multi-mode optical fiber with a diffuse active tip, to interstitially irradiate the target tissue at the same time. The continuous-wave laser light induces photothermal effect and increases tissue temperature and the pulsed laser light produces a photoacoustic signal. The photoacoustic signal intensity is used to monitor the temperature changes in the target tissue and to guide the irradiation of the high-power laser to optimize the photothermal effect by adjusting the light intensity and irradiation time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Wei R. CHEN, Feifan ZHOU, Zhifang LI, Hui LI
  • Publication number: 20170014187
    Abstract: Aspects of this disclosure pertain to a device with an elongated body having a distal end. The distal end may comprise a port that permits discharge of a laser energy towards a tissue from an optical fiber located in the distal end. An exterior surface of the distal end may include a cauterization portion that permits discharge of a cauterization energy towards the tissue. In some aspects, the device includes an insulative portion that attaches the distal end to the elongated body and limits energy transfer therebetween. Related systems and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Hui Wang, Wen-Jui Ray CHIA, Rongwei Jason XUAN, Jian James ZHANG, Aditi RAY, Honggang YU
  • Publication number: 20170014188
    Abstract: A system and devices for ablation and removal of occlusions from blood vessels is provided. Laser culling systems and mechanical cutting systems are provided in catheter devices, the cutting systems operable to ablate, cut, dislodge, and otherwise remove occlusions within a blood vessel that may limit or prevent proper circulation. Catheter systems comprise distal end features adapted to cut and remove al least portions of an occlusion that generally correspond to dimensions of an inner lumen of a catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Brandon Thomas Hendrick, Kenneth P. Grace
  • Publication number: 20170014189
    Abstract: Systems and methods for computer-aided alignment and positioning of a prosthesis component onto a target host bone, such as in joint resurfacing arthroplasty, are discussed. A system for can include a processor unit and a user interface unit. The processor unit can receive a target bone model including a first data set representing a target bone surface, and a prosthesis model including a second data set representing a prosthesis surface. The prosthesis, when positioned against the target bone, is configured to at least partially replace the articulation surface. The processor unit can generate an articulation interface representation that indicates spatial misalignment between one or more portions of the prosthesis surface and one or more portions of the target bone surface when the prosthesis model is positioned against the target bone model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: BLUE BELT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Branislav Jaramaz, Constantinos Nikou
  • Publication number: 20170014190
    Abstract: Systems and methods for positioning a cut guide using navigation-based techniques are discussed. A system for use in an orthopedic surgery on a target bone can comprise a cut guide adjustably positionable onto the target bone via two or more coupling receptacles created on the target bone. The coupling receptacles can include one or more guide members and a plurality of landing members. The system can include an input interface that can receive a target bone representation, and a model receiver module that can receive a generic post-coupling bone model. The target bone representation can include a data set representing two or more landing sites of the target bone, and the generic post-coupling bone model can include a data set representing a bone having two or more coupling receptacles each sized, shaped or otherwise configured to receive and secure the respective coupling feature of the landing members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Branislav Jaramaz, Constantinos Nikou
  • Publication number: 20170014191
    Abstract: The invention relates to a registration apparatus for registering an elongated introduction element (18), like a catheter or a needle, during an interventional procedure, for instance, a brachytherapy or a biopsy. A guide element (13) comprising at least one opening guides the introduction element when being introduced into a living being (2) through the opening. A temperature profile generation element (14) associated with the opening generates a characteristic temperature profile at the opening for being transferred to the introduction element when being present in the opening. A temperature determination unit (15) determines a temperature along the introduction element, and a registration unit (16) registers the introduction element, wherein the registering comprises identifying the transferred characteristic temperature profile on the introduction element based on the determined temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: GUILLAUME LEOPOLD THEODORUS FREDERIK HAUTVAST, DIRK BINNEKAMP, SHYAM BHARAT, EHSAN DEHGHAN MARVAST, JOCHEN KRUECKER, MOLLY LARA FLEXMAN, AMIR MOHAMMAD TAHMASEBI MARAGHOOSH
  • Publication number: 20170014192
    Abstract: An electromagnetic (“EM”) tracking configuration system employs an EM quality assurance (“EMQA”) (30) and EM data coordination (“DC”) system (70). For the EMQA system (30), an EM sensor block (40) includes EM sensor(s) (22) positioned and oriented to represent a simulated electromagnetic tracking of interventional tool(s) inserted through electromagnetic sensor block (40) into an anatomical region. As an EM field generator (20) generates an EM field (21) encircling EM sensor(s) (22), an EMQA workstation (50) tests an EM tracking accuracy of an insertion of the interventional tool(s) through the EM sensor block (40) into the anatomical region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: SHYAM BHARAT, EHSAN DEHGHAN MARVAST, CYNTHIA MING-FU KUNG, AMIR MOHAMMAD TAHMASEBI MARAGHOOSHMEL, SANDEEP M. DALAL, JOCHEN KRUECKER, ANTONIO BONILLAS VACA, DOUGLAS ALLEN STANTON
  • Publication number: 20170014193
    Abstract: A system and a method for aligning an elongated tool to an occluded target are disclosed. The system comprises an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust an angular orientation of the elongated tool relative to a pivot point spaced from the target; an imaging device configured to capture one or more X-ray images of the elongated tool and the target; and a processor communicatively coupled with the adjustment mechanism and imaging device, wherein the processor is configured to: extract Euclidean vector data of the elongated tool based on image data of an X-ray image received from the imaging device; and control the adjustment mechanism to iteratively adjust the angular orientation of the elongated tool based on the Euclidean vector data to align a longitudinal axis of the elongated tool with the target and the pivot point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Ka Wei Ng, Jin Quan Goh, Ting Liu, Jun Wen Foong
  • Publication number: 20170014194
    Abstract: A surgical system includes a flexible steerable needle and a shape sensor for measuring the shape of the needle. The surgical system can be manual (e.g., laparoscopic), robotic, or any combination of the two. By directly measuring the shape of the needle, complex and potentially inaccurate modeling of the needle to determine trajectory and insertion depth can be avoided in favor of much more robust direct measurement and modeling of needle shape and/or pose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Vincent Duindam, Simon P. DiMaio, David Q. Larkin, Dorin Panescu, Giuseppe Maria Prisco
  • Publication number: 20170014195
    Abstract: A monitoring system tracks the non-visible structure of a body in three dimensions. A tracker obtains image information of the object and instruments in its vicinity, all bearing 3D tracking markers with at least one pattern segment. A controller spatially relates image information with previously obtained scan data of the object revealing non-visible structure of the object. For the scan a fiducial reference detectable in the scan is removably attached to a location on the object. Scan data and image information is used by the controller to provide the user with real time information on relative 3D locations and orientations of instruments and the non-visible structure of the body. In a further embodiment the monitoring system may be used to model and track changes in the body itself. In other embodiments, a model of the body and instruments is used to track contemplated actions and warn about possibly inappropriate instrument procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Ehud (Udi) DAON, Martin Gregory BECKETT
  • Publication number: 20170014196
    Abstract: An end effector of a surgical tool includes a first jaw and a second jaw rotated by a driving pulley. A first driven pulley is attached to the first jaw and a second driven pulley is attached to the second jaw. A first end portion of a first cable is connected to a first radial side of the first driven pulley, a second end portion of the first cable is connected to a second radial side of the second driven pulley, and an intermediate portion of the first cable is connected to the driving pulley. A first end portion of a second cable is connected to a first radial side of the second driven pulley, a second end portion of the second cable is connected to a second radial side of the first driven pulley, and an intermediate portion of the second cable is connected to the driving pulley.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Chi Min Seow
  • Publication number: 20170014197
    Abstract: An end effector for use and connection to a robot arm of a robotic surgical system, wherein the end effector is controlled and/or articulated by at least one cable extending from a respective motor of a control device of the robot surgical system, is provided. The end effector includes a jaw assembly defining a longitudinal axis and including a pair of jaws. Each jaw includes a proximal portion pivotally connected to the distal hub assembly; and a distal portion extending distally of the proximal portion thereof. The end effector additionally includes an actuation cable having a distal end operatively connected to the pair of jaws and a proximal end operatively connected to the at least one motor. In use, axial translation of the actuation cable results in one of an opening and a closing of the jaw assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: James McCrea, Ruth Beeby, Thomas McGaffigan, Steve Woodard
  • Publication number: 20170014198
    Abstract: An automated, manual or semi-automated donning system may be used to mechanically don wearable protective articles, such as gloves, without human contact with the outer surface of the wearable article. Thus, the system can be used to render wearable protective articles less capable of transferring disease organisms. In the donning system, a vacuum device can prepare a donning article for use in the donning system by inflating the article using negative pressure to the article's outer surface. Packaging of the wearable protective article may maintain sterility of the article and allow preparation of the article for donning without human contact. In addition, wearable protective articles used in the system may be subject to treatments to destroy potential pathogens. Alternatively, or in addition, a body part of the user may be subject to treatments to destroy potential pathogens during insertion into a wearable protective article prepared for donning by the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Van Clark Gravlee
  • Publication number: 20170014199
    Abstract: A surgical drape allows access to a vaginal area during cesarean sections without breaking a sterile field. The drape comprises a base sheet defined by an incision panel that overlays a peritoneal region, where the cesarean section primarily occurs; and a vagina panel that overlays a vaginal area. The incision panel has a transparent polymer film panel for viewing the incision. A collection pouch catches bodily fluids. The vagina panel enables sterile manipulation of the vagina while performing the cesarean section. The vagina panel is defined by a viewing pane for viewing the vaginal region through the base sheet. A sleeve extends through a hole in the viewing pane to manipulate the vaginal region and a baby. The sleeve is configured to allow insertion of a hand through an open end, and then manipulate the vaginal region with a closed end without breaking a sterile field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: David Schwartz, David Nowicki, David Power
  • Publication number: 20170014200
    Abstract: There is provided a medical support device for holding and positioning a needle. This device is particularly useful for positioning needles in a less invasive puncture treatment. This device comprises two rotational elements and at least one needle guide attached to a rotational element and. The needle guide guides the direction of insertion of a needle-like instrument and includes a guide portion that guides a needle or other needle-like instrument where the puncture point of the needle in a first position is different from the puncture point when the needle guide guides the needle in a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Kazufumi Onuma, Takahisa Kato, Nobuhiko Hata, Kemal Tuncali, Brian Ninni, Peter Tia
  • Publication number: 20170014201
    Abstract: A head fixation device and method of stabilizing a head of a patient includes a base, one or more clamp members, and an actuator connected with each of the one or more clamp members. The base supports the head of the patient resting thereon. The one or more clamp members extend from the base and each selectively move from an adjustable position to a fixed position in response to movement of the actuators. The one or more clamp members provide the ability to conform to the contour of the patient's head to provide an area of contact for stabilization. The one or more clamp members also provide the ability to provide a point of contact for stabilization with an attached tip on each of the one or more clamp members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Joachim A. Grotenhuis
  • Publication number: 20170014202
    Abstract: Catheter for visualizing ablated tissue comprises a catheter body; a distal tip positioned at a distal end of the catheter body, the distal tip defining a illumination cavity, the distal tip having one or more openings for exchange of light energy between the illumination cavity and tissue; a light directing member disposed within the illumination cavity, the light directing member being configured to split light energy received from a light source into multiple beams and to such beams to the tissue through the corresponding more openings in the distal tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Terrance J. Ransbury, Kenneth C. Armstrong, Omar Amirana, Cinnamon Larson
  • Publication number: 20170014203
    Abstract: A system for an automatic multimodal real-time tracking of moving instruments for image plane alignment inside an MRI scanner includes: an MRI scanner, an MRI multi-plane pulse sequence generating unit allowing to interactively modify the position and orientation of one or several image planes in real-time, one or several external optical sensors with high frame rate, preferably a RGB-D sensor or other similar camera system like a stereovision systems, a multimodal marker including at least one MR visible feature and one visual feature able to be tracked by both the MRI scanner and the at least one external optical sensor, a computer for processing in real-time images from both MRI and optical sensor to fuse the detected marker position and orientation or pose from both modalities, and predict the next image plane position and orientation based on the estimated motion of the moving marker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Michel DE MATHELIN, Markus NEUMANN, Loic CUVILLON, Elodie BRETON
  • Publication number: 20170014204
    Abstract: A specialized dental device or framework used to join and to stabilize remaining tooth structures together in order to reduce, limit or eliminate the small movements or elasticity of the tooth tissues or restorative materials by opposing to the forces generated on the tooth and restorations. The use of the actual device or framework is not limited to joining only tooth structures together, but it could also be used to join and reinforce the tooth structures and the restorative material. To adapt to the different possible clinical shapes, it will exist in different versions, depending on the shape, volume and type of remaining tooth surfaces. It could be made of any kind of materials, such as fiber-reinforced composite, ceramic, gold, zirconia or any other type of materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: René Daher
  • Publication number: 20170014205
    Abstract: A paste-type dental material is filled from an opening portion of a cartridge into a cylindrical portion by moving the opening portion of the cylindrical portion of the cartridge along a kneading surface, on which the paste-type dental material is kneaded, with the opening portion being inclined. The piston is placed on the kneading surface with a circular end surface of the piston contacting the kneading surface. The piston is inserted into the cylindrical portion by moving the opening portion of the cylindrical portion of the cartridge closer to the piston located on the kneading surface such that a piston-side tapered surface or the piston-side curved surface of the piston is fitted into the opening portion, and thereafter moving the one of the two ends of the cylindrical portion toward the kneading surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Ryouji Takei, Akira Yoneda, Shuji Sakamoto, Yusei Kadobayashi
  • Publication number: 20170014206
    Abstract: A dental veneer made from a composite comprising at least one organic binder, preferably with methacrylate, and inorganic solid particles as fillers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Stephan Lampl
  • Publication number: 20170014207
    Abstract: A self-ligating orthodontic brace comprising a base, a body, a groove that is configured to receive an orthodontic archwire and has an opening emerging in the direction of the occlusion plane, and a movable element for closing the groove that is configured to move between a position of closing and a position of opening the groove. The brace comprises a single lock for the movable element in the position of closing and also comprising a holder to hold the movable element in the position of opening the groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Jean-Christophe Merly
  • Publication number: 20170014208
    Abstract: The present invention employs a self-ligating orthodontic bracket comprising a body having a pair of laterally spaced gingival tie wings and a pair of laterally spaced occlusal tie wings, the gingival and occlusal tie wings projecting from a labial surface of the body; an arch wire slot extending mesially-distally across the body and between the gingival and occlusal tie wings to accommodate an arch wire; a free-sliding, controlled-locking, or pivoting clip wherein the clip allows placement and removal of the arch wire when in the open position and prevents the displacement of the arch wire from the bracket member when in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: DENTSPLY SIRONA Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew James Falcone, Neil Verma, Sivaramakrishnan Krishnamoorthy, Tieming Ruan, Calvin Ng, David Zdurne
  • Publication number: 20170014209
    Abstract: Tunnel bone grafting according to the proposed method can be used when an individual has a facial bone defect due to periodontal disease, cleft palate or trauma. The proposed method can be utilized for implant placement, it reduces wrinkles and supports facial muscle in order to make the individual look younger. The method can also be used to create a thicker alveolar ridge in order to stabilize full dentures or partial dentures. Its advantages over conventional guided bone regeneration techniques is that the proposed method is minimally invasive and lessens trauma to patients, prevents soft tissue opening, and reduces surgery time. Specifically, it minimizes the incision size and thus reduces trauma to the patient. Further, this reduces the risk of complications, including excessive bleeding, due to the minimization of the incision size. There is also considerable reduction in post surgery swelling using the proposed method as opposed to conventional techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Sung Joo Jeong
  • Publication number: 20170014210
    Abstract: A dental implant assembly is disclosed. The dental implant assembly includes an implant having a bore within a coronal end, an abutment configured to couple to the implant to the coronal end, a screw configured to secure the abutment to the implant, and a gasket configured to seal an interface between the implant and the abutment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Dan P. Rogers, Zachary B. Suttin
  • Publication number: 20170014211
    Abstract: The invention relates to a blank for the production of a dental shaped body, wherein the blank has a corpus (2) of tooth restoration material, from which the shaped part to be fabricated is carved by means of a tool (4) by removal of material. The blank has coding means (1) formed on part of the surface (6) of the blank corpus (2), which coding means (1) has at least one structure (8, 9) for identification of the blank. The coding means (1) consists of a plurality of panels (5.1) at the level of the surface (6) of the corpus (2) and a plurality of panels (5.2, 5.3) incorporating a flat structure (8, 9) at a level (h1, h2) which is distinguishable from at least the level of the surface (6) of the corpus (2). The invention further relates to a method for identifying a blank with the aid of coding means (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Klaus Niewiadomski
  • Publication number: 20170014212
    Abstract: Methods for manufacturing a denture including providing a cavity having a plurality of wells formed therein for receiving denture teeth, inserting denture teeth into the wells so that distal coronal aspects face into the wells, positioning the cavity over a core to form a molding void therebetween, in which the exposed proximal aspects of the denture teeth are in the molding void, and introducing a molding material into the molding void to envelope the proximal aspects of the denture teeth and form a denture base upon at least partial setting of the molding material. Once set, the denture base with denture teeth retained therein may be removed from the cavity and core. Using such methods, a kit of differently sized prefabricated dentures in which the denture bases comprise a plastically deformable material may be provided, an appropriate denture selected, and semi-customized to a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Ultradent Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan E. Fischer
  • Publication number: 20170014213
    Abstract: A system for vaccinating swine according to one embodiment includes a housing having an open first end and an open opposite second end. The housing has a pair of side walls that are angled and non-parallel to one another such that at the second end only a single piglet can exit at one time. The system also includes a vaccination station for individually vaccinating piglets. The vaccination station is located between the pair of side walls in a region thereof that is sized to only permit one piglet to stand between the side walls. The vaccination station includes at least one sensor that detects the presence of the one piglet within the vaccination station and at least one spray nozzle positioned within the vaccination station such that a vaccine dose discharged therefrom is directed upwardly into facial areas of the piglet effectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Mahesh Kumar
  • Publication number: 20170014214
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a table for treatment comprising operations of different types of/on primarily small animals, e.g. dogs, cats, and so on, which has a working surface in the form of a table top, which is adjustable in at least the vertical direction and inclination and which has at least one collecting space at one or both ends of the table top, wherein the collecting space is situated under the surface of the table top and is coupled to an air/gas suction device via a device for the attenuation of primarily air noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Susanne ANDERSSON, Johan CAVALLI
  • Publication number: 20170014215
    Abstract: An insert which can be inserted into an inhaler, particularly for a horse has a reservoir for a medicament preparation held under excess pressure and a valve. The insert also has a nebulizer that is held directly on the reservoir and a discharge nozzle, associated with the nebulizer and fluidically connected to the valve, for forming an aerosol with the medicament preparation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH
    Inventors: Marcu Rainer RAHMEL, Andree JUNG, Herbert WACHTEL
  • Publication number: 20170014216
    Abstract: Orthopedic braces and splints for use on a limb of an animal, that provide stability for unstable joints and limbs for short or long term support and function. These orthoses are designed to prevent the occurrence of or reduce the severity of, a joint injury. These braces and splints can also be fitted immediately after corrective surgery, and can support and stabilize the joint while assisting or restricting the range of motion. Various embodiments of the orthoses are modular, thermoformable and may include an adjustable tensioning system, which in combination provide a custom fit for a wide variety of animals and injuries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Chris Boraas, Kristian Gamble
  • Publication number: 20170014217
    Abstract: An intravaginal incontinence device includes a longitudinal component for insertion into a vagina, wherein the longitudinal component includes a bladder support component configured to provide intravaginal support to a neck of a bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: KAREN L. PATRUSKY