Patents Issued in January 31, 2017
  • Patent number: 9554793
    Abstract: A device according to one exemplary embodiment is a compact, light-weight handheld device that includes a needle and suture assembly, a mechanism for gripping and releasing the needle and suture assembly (a “needle transfer mechanism” or “needle shuttle mechanism”), safely capturing the needle assembly upon exit from the patient's tissue, and returning the needle to position such that the process of delivering additional sutures to the patient can be repeated. The device of the present invention accommodates the right or left-handed user, rests comfortably in the user's hand, allows sufficient visualization of the procedure site, and permits the user to either control penetration depth of the needle or default to a device-determined depth. The present device permits the user to utilize a wrist-rotation (pivoting) suture delivery technique that is familiar to a user based on experience with other surgical techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: SAFEPATH MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Lane, Michael W. Sutherland, Thomas D. Egan, David P. Dolan
  • Patent number: 9554794
    Abstract: In various forms, the modular motor control system may comprise one or more motor controllers each having an associated motor. The one or more motor controllers may be in communication with a master controller. The master controller is configured to provide control signals to the motor controllers to control the associated motors. In some forms, the one or more motor controllers and the associated motors may be located within a surgical module. The surgical module may provide a communications interface between the master controller and the one or more motor controllers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel L. Baber, Richard L. Leimbach, Daniel J. Ulrich
  • Patent number: 9554795
    Abstract: An anvil cap for providing secure anastomosis in a circular staplers in which the anvil cap has a movable inner shaft, a command wire connected to the movable inner shaft so as to cause a pulling movement to be applied to the movable inner shaft, a plurality of upper wings pivotally mounted to joint points on the movable inner shaft so as to be openable in relation to the movable inner shaft, and a plurality of lower wings cooperative with the plurality of upper wings such that the plurality of lower wings open when the plurality of upper wings apply pressure to the plurality of lower wings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventor: Mustafa Sahin
  • Patent number: 9554796
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus includes a cartridge assembly, a firing assembly, and a lockout assembly. The cartridge assembly is configured to house a plurality of sets of surgical fasteners. The firing assembly is configured for repeated actuation wherein, upon each actuation, the firing assembly is moved from a first position to a second position to at least partially eject a set of surgical fasteners. The firing assembly further configured to translate from the second position back to the first position to reset the firing assembly for subsequent actuation. The lockout assembly is configured to permit a predetermined number of actuations and is configured to transition from a first condition, wherein subsequent actuation is permitted, to a second condition, wherein subsequent actuation is inhibited, when a number of previous actuations of the firing assembly is equal to the predetermined number of actuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Stanislaw Kostrzewski
  • Patent number: 9554797
    Abstract: Described herein is an improved device and method for acquiring, and optionally, fastening a tissue fold. The device has an improved configuration for forming a single, two-layer tissue fold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Bretton Swope, Tyler Grubb, Daniel Balbierz, Craig Purdy, David Cole
  • Patent number: 9554798
    Abstract: A surgical clip forming apparatus includes an unformed surgical clip having a head section including an upper portion and a lower portion separated from each other to define a first space therebetween in a first configuration, a left leg section including a proximal end and a distal end and a right leg section including a proximal end and a distal end. The surgical clip forming apparatus includes an anvil configured to engage the head section of the surgical clip and a pair of forming pins positioned adjacent the proximal ends of the left and right legs for securing the head section of the unformed surgical clip against the anvil. When a force is applied to the anvil, the upper portion compresses toward the lower portion. The unformed surgical clip transforms into a “T-shaped” clip or a formed clip in a second configuration, after the force has been applied to the anvil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Justin Williams
  • Patent number: 9554799
    Abstract: An apparatus for closing a surgical incision comprises left and right base panels, a plurality of closure components, and a plurality of left and right axial supports coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components couple the left and right base panels to each other laterally and have left and right ends coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components are positioned laterally across the left and right panels, the left axial supports are disposed between pairs of left closure component ends, the right axial supports are disposed between pairs of right closure component ends, and the left and right axial supports are offset from one another such that a serpentine arrangement of consecutive closure components and axial supports is formed. The apparatus can be made of antimicrobial materials or materials impregnated with antimicrobial agents. A flexible adhesive cover can be provided over the apparatus when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Zipline Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Amir Belson, Eric Storne, Alan Schaer, Pankaj Rathi, Keiichiro Ichiryu, Peter D'Aquanni, Luke Clauson
  • Patent number: 9554800
    Abstract: An apparatus for closing a surgical incision comprises left and right base panels, a plurality of closure components, and a plurality of left and right axial supports coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components couple the left and right base panels to each other laterally and have left and right ends coupled to the respective base panels. The closure components are positioned laterally across the left and right panels, the left axial supports are disposed between pairs of left closure component ends, the right axial supports are disposed between pairs of right closure component ends, and the left and right axial supports are offset from one another such that a serpentine arrangement of consecutive closure components and axial supports is formed. The apparatus can be made of antimicrobial materials or materials impregnated with antimicrobial agents. A flexible adhesive cover can be provided over the apparatus when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Zipline Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Amir Belson, Eric Storne, Alan Schaer, Pankaj Rathi, Keiichiro Ichiryu, Peter D'Aquanni, Luke Clauson
  • Patent number: 9554801
    Abstract: An extravascular anastomosis device for facilitating side-to-side arteriovenous fistula creation and maintenance of patency thereof is presented. The device comprises two device halves each containing an anastomosis window which is in fluid connection with an interior space of the device. Further, the device comprises a pair of vessel capture spaces in which portions of the vessels to be joined are captured. The invention also has an embodiment wherein a method of joining a vein and an artery in order to create a fistula is presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: COOK MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Adam Shields, Keith Milner
  • Patent number: 9554802
    Abstract: An anvil assembly includes a retaining member having a body portion and a frangible portion connected to the body portion, where the frangible portion is positioned to engage a backup member and separates from the body portion during movement of the backup member from a first, proximal position to a second, distal position. The retaining member keeps the backup plate in the proximal position prior to firing of the stapling assembly, and upon separation of the frangible portion allows the backup plate to move to the distal position during firing of the stapling assembly. Proximal force on the backup plate after firing of the stapling assembly is avoided, thereby helping to ensure titling of the anvil assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Justin Williams, Patrick D. Mozdzierz, Steven Joyce
  • Patent number: 9554803
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector having an actuation assembly operable to effect a surgical procedure when actuated, a part of the actuation assembly being movable between a first position and second position, and a handle connected to the end effector for actuating the actuation assembly, the handle having a power supply disposed within the handle, a motor disposed within the handle and electrically powered by the power supply, a transmission connecting the motor to the moving part and operational to displace the moving part anywhere between the first and second positions when the motor is operated, and a manual release mechanism that selectively interrupts the transmission and, during interruption, displaces the moving part towards the first position independent of operation of the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin W. Smith, Thomas O. Bales, Jr., Derek Dee Deville, Carlos Rivera, Matthew A. Palmer
  • Patent number: 9554804
    Abstract: A medical device implant for the left atrial appendage of a patient's heart to prevent strokes. The device includes a cap that overlies the opening of the LAA connected to a bulb in the LAA. Discontinuous segmented sails attached to the cap promote tissue growth over the device. The device maybe repositioned and redeployed during implantation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Cardia, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary S. Erzberger, Dara Chin, Robert T. Sandgren, Michael Patrick Corcoran
  • Patent number: 9554805
    Abstract: Embolic coil implant systems and methods whereby coils are mechanically detachable are disclosed. The coils include a retention element that may be releasably retained within the distal end of an implant tool. The implant tool may include a fulcrum configured to engage a first filament and prevent the release of the coil when the first filament is engaged. Alternatively, an urging means and aperture may be disposed within the sidewall of the implant tool, and a first filament may, in conjunction with the aperture and sidewall, releasably retain the coil until the first filament is withdrawn. The implant tool may also include an alignment member for aligning the first filament.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Penumbra, Inc.
    Inventors: Ben Tompkins, Arani Bose, Delilah Hui, David Barry, Stephen Pons, Aleksander Leynov
  • Patent number: 9554806
    Abstract: An occlusive device includes a frame element having a distal end and a proximal end, and a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration. The occlusive device also includes an occlusive face having a peripheral edge, where the occlusive face positioned toward the proximal end of the frame element. The occlusive device also includes at least one anchor positioned at the peripheral edge of the occlusive face, where the at least one anchor extends at an acute angle to the peripheral edge of the occlusive face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Coby C. Larsen, Steven J. Masters, Edward E. Shaw
  • Patent number: 9554807
    Abstract: Sensing technology methods related thereto for determining cut through of bone and a depth of penetration of a working portion of a surgical instrument (e.g., an oscillating saw blade in a cut). A first sensor outputs a first signal representative of a displacement of the cutting edge of the saw blade in the cut. A second sensor outputs a second signal representative of a force applied to the cutting edge of the saw blade. As such, monitoring the first and/or second sensor may allow for the saw to be stopped upon completion of a cut (e.g., when the saw passes completely through a medium to be cut or upon reaching a predetermined depth for the cut).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: McGinley Engineered Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph C. McGinley, Lawson Fisher, Devjeet Mishra, Jim McCrea, Brian Bliven, Martin Leugers
  • Patent number: 9554808
    Abstract: A surgical sagittal saw blade that includes a guide bar to which a blade head is pivotally mounted. Side edges extend between the opposed proximal and distal ends of the guide bar. A blade is pivotally mounted to the guide bar. The blade includes a base disposed in the guide bar. The blade has a head that extends outwardly from the base. A head extends from the base. The head extends outwardly from one of the side edges of the blade bar. Drive rods that extend from the base are reciprocated. The reciprocation of the drive rods results in the oscillation of the blade, including the blade head, around a pivot point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: STRYKER CORPORATION
    Inventor: Steve Carusillo
  • Patent number: 9554809
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical device capable of cutting biological tissues such as bone and cartilage. The ultrasonic surgical device includes a static casing, which sheaths an ultrasonic horn, and a lubrication film, which separates the ultrasonic horn and the static casing. The static casing, which also incorporates a plurality of fluid channels to allow passage of fluids along its length and eventual distribution of such fluids at the cutting end and biological tissue interface, inhibits the transfer of heat generated along the ultrasonic horn. The cutting end and the static casing are separated by a flexible joint, which serves to inhibit the transfer of vibrational energy, and consequently heat, from the cutting end to the static casing. As such, the static casing remains stable and can be used both to manipulate the surgical device with greater haptic control and facilitate effective penetration of larger cross-sections of biological tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventors: Robert K. Lark, Kelly C. Taylor, Edward C. Skolnick, Antoine R. Kaeslin, Pranali Tambe
  • Patent number: 9554810
    Abstract: An orthopedic surgical instrument assembly includes a system handle configured to clamp a broach and femoral stem trial assembly. The system handle includes a clamp lever and a release lever both pivotally coupled to the system handle, and a leaf spring connecting the clamp lever and the release lever. When the release lever is moved from an unclamped position to a clamped position, the leaf spring is put in tension, and the clamp lever engages a flange of the broach, securing the broach to the system handle. Methods of assembling the system handle are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: DEPUY IRELAND UNLIMITED COMPANY
    Inventors: Craig S. Tsukayama, Rebecca L. Chaney, William R. Macumber, Janelle M. Lubensky, Duncan G. Young, Jonathan C. Lee, Jeffrey M. Walcutt, Francisco A. Amaral, Carl F. Livorsi
  • Patent number: 9554811
    Abstract: An embodiment includes a system for preparing fusion of joints, such as joints in the toes or fingers of an animal such as a human. The system may include one or more of complementary ball and socket joint reamers. A reamer may be separable from an intramedullary fixation rod. The rod may include channels to prevent rotation of the rod once implanted in bone. Other embodiments are discussed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventor: Robert B. Weinstein
  • Patent number: 9554812
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for integrating an electromagnetic navigation system and a tool and aligning the tool with a target are presented, including a sensor tool, a tool, a field generator, a display, and a computer. The sensor tool attaches to a target component in a unique position relative to target features. The field generator is fixed relative to the tool except in rotation about a tool axis. The display is adjustably mounted to the tool and automatically adjusts image parameters. Target registration and error compensation methods are provided. The system detects magnetic field and signal disturbances that may lead to inaccurate navigation, filters navigation data, and adjusts filtering parameters based on detected conditions. Apparatus for proximally locking an IM nail such that a clear passage through the cannulation of the nail is maintained are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin Bryant Inkpen, Antony John Hodgson, Pierre Guy, Willem J. Atsma, Stephane Lavallee, James B. Stiehl
  • Patent number: 9554813
    Abstract: An orthopedic surgical instrument includes a patella trial and drill guide that may be used to both perform a surgical trial of the patellofemoral joint and guide the surgeon in drilling a number of anchor holes in the patella of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: DEPUY IRELAND UNLIMITED COMPANY
    Inventors: Jennifer B. Clever, Matthew S. Wallace, Michael J. Rock, Abraham P. Wright, Olen J. Borkholder, Robert S. Gorab, Rusty T. Meier
  • Patent number: 9554814
    Abstract: An arterial device, system and method are provided for use with a patient undergoing a cardiac procedure. The system is configured for enabling one or more arterial devices to be accommodated in the aorta of the patient in use of the system, and a perfusion lumen arrangement provides therethrough a target perfusion flow into the aorta having a target perfusion flow rate that is significantly greater than a nominal perfusion flow rate, by an excess perfusion flow rate. A suction lumen arrangement provides therethrough a suction flow out of the aorta at a suction flow rate. The target perfusion flow rate and the suction flow rate may be concurrently and selectively controlled to cause embolic debris that may be present in the aorta to be diverted to the suction inlet, while providing the nominal flow rate to the body circulation of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: CARDIOGARD MEDICAL LTD.
    Inventors: Eldad Taub, Nathan Sela, Benny Dilmoney
  • Patent number: 9554815
    Abstract: Described herein are shock wave devices and methods for the treatment of calcified heart valves. One variation of a shock wave device includes three balloons that are each sized and shaped to fit within a concave portion of a valve cusp when inflated with a liquid and a shock wave source within each of the three balloons. Each balloon is separately and/or independently inflatable, and each shock wave source is separately and/or independently controllable. Methods of treating calcified heart valves using a shock wave device can include advancing a shock wave device having one or more balloons and a shock wave source in each of the balloons to contact a heart valve, inflating the one or more balloons with a liquid such that the balloon is seated within a concave portion of a valve cusp, and activating the shock wave source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: SHOCKWAVE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventor: John M. Adams
  • Patent number: 9554816
    Abstract: A device for fracturing calcifications in heart valves including an expandable stabilizer (14) and expandable impactor arms (20) assembled on and deployed by a delivery system (10), wherein the delivery system (10) is operable to move the impactor arms (20), while in an expanded position, with respect to the stabilizer (14) with sufficient energy so as to fracture a calcification located in tissure which is sandwiched between the stabilizer (14) and the impactor arms (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Pi-Cardia Ltd.
    Inventor: Erez Golan
  • Patent number: 9554817
    Abstract: A medical device and method for the treatment of a sinus opening includes a handle, a guide catheter, a guide wire, a balloon catheter, a guide wire movement mechanism and a balloon catheter movement mechanism. The guide wire and balloon catheter are both disposed at least partially in the handle and catheter lumen. The guide wire movement mechanism is configured for advancement and retraction of the guide wire through the handle and catheter lumen by user operation of the guide wire movement mechanism. The guide wire movement mechanism includes an integrated guide wire locking and rotation mechanism configured for rotation of the guide wire and for securely locking and unlocking the guide wire to the guide wire movement mechanism. The balloon catheter movement mechanism is configured for advancement and retraction of the balloon catheter through the handle and catheter lumen by user operation of the balloon catheter movement mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric A. Goldfarb, Richard R. Newhauser, Jr., Thomas R. Jenkins, John W. White, Mina W. B. Chow, Serena Swei Loh, Mei Y. Pader, Scott O. Chamness, Luke W. Clauson, Matthew B. Newell, Arthur M. Lin
  • Patent number: 9554818
    Abstract: A system for magnetically suspending tissue includes a grasper placement tool, a tissue grasper, a magnetic coupling element, and a tether which secures the magnetic coupling element to the tissue grasper. The grasper placement tool is used to simultaneously introduce both the tissue grasper and the magnetic coupling element to a body cavity. The grasper then releases the magnetic coupling element and engages a target tissue structure. The tissue grasper is then detached from the placement tool and a conventional laparoscopic or other grasper is used to engage the magnetic coupling element to an external magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventor: Mohammadreza Rohaninejad
  • Patent number: 9554819
    Abstract: An endoscopic treatment tool includes a sheath, a support portion which is attached to a distal end of the sheath, a pair of forceps members which are provided on the support portion, a linear portion which is inserted through the sheath so that the linear portion is capable of advancing and retracting, the linear portion causing facing surfaces each provided on the pair of forceps members to approach each other, and the linear portion separating the pair of facing surfaces from each other, an engaging portion which is provided in the support portion, an engaged portion which is provided in the linear portion, and a moving mechanism that moves the position of the distal end portion of the linear portion to a distal end position closer to the distal end side than the engaged portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Keita Suzuki, Masatoshi Sato
  • Patent number: 9554820
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument is provided and includes a housing. A shaft is supported on the housing and defines a longitudinal axis therethrough. The shaft supports a jaw member at a distal end thereof. The jaw member is movable between open and clamping configurations. A probe includes proximal and distal ends. The distal end has an active blade thereon configured to effect tissue when the jaw member is in the clamping configuration. The proximal end has at least one mating feature thereon. A rotating assembly operably supported on the housing is configured to rotate the shaft. The rotating assembly includes a torque adapter that is engageable with the at least one mating feature to selectively and releasably couple the probe to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventor: Jason L. Craig
  • Patent number: 9554821
    Abstract: A medical device for resecting tissue. The medical device is slidably disposed within a working channel of an elongate introduction sheath. The medical device includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending therebetween. The distal end of the elongate shaft may include an opening in communication with the lumen. In addition, the medical device includes a support structure having a slot extending along an inner surface of the support structure in communication with the lumen of the elongate shaft. The medical device further includes a snare loop having a first position disposed within the slot of the support structure, and a second position disposed within the lumen of the elongate shaft. An actuation member is slidably disposed within the lumen of the elongate shaft and is connected to the snare loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Smith, Samuel Raybin, Melanie Li Sing How
  • Patent number: 9554822
    Abstract: The subject matter relates a catheter having a helical or spiral tip defining an aspiration port for removing obstructions from blood vessels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Consigny
  • Patent number: 9554823
    Abstract: An atherectomy device is disclosed herein. The atherectomy device includes a first drive shaft, a second drive shaft, a handle assembly, and a cutting member. The first drive shaft extends distally from the handle assembly and includes the cutting member mounted on a distal end region of the first drive shaft. The second drive shaft extends distally from the handle assembly to a distal end of the second drive shaft such that both the first and the second drive shafts are rotatable relative to the handle assembly, and the first drive shaft is rotatable independent of the second drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Jan Weber, James M. Anderson
  • Patent number: 9554824
    Abstract: An orifice introducer device for introducing, for example a surgical device, into, for example an orifice of a body, includes a tubular member having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end is adjustable between a first position for insertion into an orifice and a second position once inserted into the orifice. Alternatively, the orifice introducer device includes a distal portion having a proximal end configured to be detachably secured to the distal end of the tubular member. The distal portion is selectively detachable when the orifice introducer device is positioned in the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Michael P. Whitman, Gerald Dorros, Jeremy Hill
  • Patent number: 9554825
    Abstract: An access assembly is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Gregory Fischvogt, Sally Carter
  • Patent number: 9554826
    Abstract: The present invention comprises methods and devices for generating and providing contrast medium for sonography of structures such as ducts and cavities. The invention provides for creation of a contrast medium comprising detectable acoustic variations between two phases, for example, a gas and a liquid. Sonography is the primary imaging technique but other conventional detection techniques may also be employed with the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: FEMASYS, INC.
    Inventors: Kathy Lee-Sepsick, Max S. Azevedo
  • Patent number: 9554827
    Abstract: Provided is a medical robot system which includes a medical manipulator capable of handling organs such as a uterine of different shapes and sizes. The medical robot system includes a robot arm, a medical manipulator which is detachably provided in the robot arm and supports an organ to a predetermined position, and a controller unit operable by an operator to control the robot arm and the medical manipulator. The medical manipulator also includes a first arm portion in a base side thereof, a second arm portion in a front side thereof for supporting the organ, and a connection portion connecting the first arm portion with the second arm portion. The control unit adjusts a relative direction of the second arm portion and the first arm portion and a length of the second arm portion in a telescopic manner thereby being suitable for organs of various shapes and sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Shigeru Omori
  • Patent number: 9554828
    Abstract: A birth delivery device (10, 30) including one or more engaging elements (18, 32) shaped to engage a fetal head, one or more handles (19, 40) connected to the one or more engaging elements (18, 32) that manipulate the one or more engaging elements (18, 32), and one or more position sensors (20) placed on a portion of at least one of the engaging elements (18, 32) and the handles (19, 40), the position sensors (20) being in communication with a processor (22) that processes data from the position sensors (20) to determine positional information related to the fetal head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Trig Medical Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoav Paltieli
  • Patent number: 9554829
    Abstract: Spine stabilization systems are disclosed. One spine stabilization system includes a bone screw assembly including a coupling member and a screw member received therein. The coupling member includes a pair of extension elements that form a pair of slots. The slots include bottom angled surfaces. An angled wedge member having a substantially horizontal bottom surface and an angled top surface is delivered on top of the screw member within the coupling member. A rod member can be delivered down the coupling member such that it rests on the slots and on top of the angled wedge member. A locking assembly comprising a cap member and set screw can be delivered down the coupling member to secure the rod member to the coupling member. The rod member and locking assembly components can be delivered through a single incision and at a same or similar angle as the screw member during surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Cahill, Andrew Iott, Khiem Pham, Edward Karpowicz
  • Patent number: 9554830
    Abstract: This document provides materials and methods related to delivering drugs to desired locations within a mammal. For example, materials and methods for implanting a guide wire and a drug eluting implant into a mammal are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Marc A. Huntoon
  • Patent number: 9554831
    Abstract: A spinal implant is provided. The spinal implant includes a body extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end defines a notch configured for disposal of a first vertebra. The distal end includes a protrusion configured for disposal in a second vertebra. The proximal and distal ends are movable relative to one another between an unexpanded position in which the spinal implant is inserted between lamina and an expanded position in which the spinal implant is disposed between the lamina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. McKay
  • Patent number: 9554832
    Abstract: An instrument for spinal rotation that aligns and holds direct vertebral rotation (DVR) lever arms relative to each other to achieve an initial axial alignment of a segment of vertebrae and allows the final DVR rotation by rotating the instrument and lever arms together. A method of direct vertebral rotation that allows rotating the vertebrae to be aligned relative to each other, and collectively rotating the vertebrae to be aligned relative to adjacent spinal segments by rotating the direct vertebral rotation instrument. A system for direct vertebral rotation having at least two pedicle screws. The system also includes at least two levers attachable to the pedicle screws and a clamping instrument configured to clamp the levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Stryker European Holdings I, LLC
    Inventors: Andy Wonyong Choi, Michael L. Schmitz, Se-il Suk
  • Patent number: 9554833
    Abstract: Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy B. Woolley, Nathan Lovell, Michael Serra, Mark Peterson
  • Patent number: 9554834
    Abstract: A method and device for inserting screws into a patient, such that when the device is removed the device does not stick to the screw. The device, being a push-off driver, may have a handle, an inner driver, and a threaded driver sleeve having a button mechanism and a plurality of spheres, and an inner sleeve. The method includes the steps of assembling a push-off driver attaching a bone screw to the push-off driver inserting the bone screw and detaching the bone screw from the driver by unthreading the threaded driver sleeve from the polyaxial screw which causes the spheres in the recess of the inner driver to back up against the start of the recess and causing the threaded driver sleeve to “push-off” the polyaxial screw from the inner driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Saidha, William Strausbaugh, Boyd A. Wolf
  • Patent number: 9554835
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a body. A first member extends between a first end and a second end. A second member extends between a first end connected with the body and a second end. A third member is connected to the first end of the first member and the body to relatively axially translate the second ends. The third member includes a latch and a lock engageable with the latch. The latch is disposable in a locking orientation and a non-locking orientation. Systems and methods of use are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jennifer G. Brinkman, Nicholas M. Benson, David W. Harwood, Larry Thomas McBride, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9554836
    Abstract: A bone fixation device comprises an elongated body. The elongated body includes a first end portion with a coil and an opposite second end portion with an elongated tail. The second end portion also includes an attachment portion configured for engagement with a fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventor: Thomas J. Graham
  • Patent number: 9554837
    Abstract: A fixation device is used to fix an elongate element, in particular a wire, in an opening of a retaining structure, in particular of an implant plate. The fixation device has a main body. The main body is provided with a bore for receiving the elongate element. The main body is radially deformable in a clamp area, such that the diameter of the bore can be reduced. The main body has an outer contour which is designed in such a way that, when the fixation device is inserted into the opening of the retaining structure, the clamp area is deformed such that the elongate element is clamped securely in the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Medartis AG
    Inventors: Jürgen Schonhardt, Thomas Tribelhorn, Hermann Zeuner, Joanna Norström
  • Patent number: 9554838
    Abstract: Methods for treating pain resulting from osteoarthritis, and associated devices and instruments for such pain treatment are disclosed. These methods aim to prevent the progression of osteoarthritis of a joint, by biochemically diagnosing microenvironmental abnormalities in the subchondral bone, and subsequently treating the subchondral bone to prevent, or delay the onset or progression of, or otherwise treat, osteoarthritis as well as any bone marrow edema or lesion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: ZIMMER KNEE CREATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Peter F. Sharkey, Charles F. Leinberry
  • Patent number: 9554839
    Abstract: An injection device includes a housing, a plunger, and a heating unit. The plunger is slidably arranged within the housing thereby performing a plunging movement therein. The heating unit is disposed within the housing for generating a heat energy inside the housing such that a filling material inside the housing can be soften and be transformed into a movable filling material with viscosity by absorbing the heat energy from the heating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Ying-Tso Lin, Chi-Feng Chan, Chieh Hu, Chun-Jen Liao
  • Patent number: 9554840
    Abstract: An inflatable bone tamp for performing a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes a shaft having a primary region and a reduced diameter region, and an inflatable structure surrounding at least a portion of the reduced diameter region. The reduced diameter region of the shaft allows the deflated size of the inflatable structure to be minimized, while at the same time eliminating the need for the conventional dual lumen balloon catheter construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Kyphon SÀRL
    Inventors: Calin Druma, Bruce Chabansky
  • Patent number: 9554841
    Abstract: An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end and movable about a pivot from a first position and disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue, a movable handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another. At least one jaw member conducts electrical energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on an exterior surface of at least one jaw member and about the pivot and includes a first longitudinal portion made from a high durometer material and a second longitudinal portion made from a low durometer material. The high durometer material may operably retain the flexible insulating boot atop the proximal ends of the jaw members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: COVIDIEN LP
    Inventors: Paul Guerra, Curt D. Hammill, James S. Cunningham, Charles Schryver
  • Patent number: 9554842
    Abstract: A cryoprobe for use in cryosurgery and other applications comprising a rigid outer tube, an inner coolant inlet tube. a short rigid penetrating segment extending distally from the distal end of the outer tube and a helical-shaped baffle having a heating element disposed about the outer surface of the inlet tube. The baffle is adapted to produce turbulent fluid flow improving heat transfer and is able to warm target tissue during rapid freezing and thawing cycles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Sanarus Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell L. DeLonzor, James B. Ross, Mathew J. Nalipinski, Keith Turner, David J. Foster, Tom A. Oakley, Michael R. Cane