Patents Issued in February 21, 2017
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Patent number: 9572540Abstract: A detection device for a CT system comprises a low-energy detector assembly; and a high-energy detector assembly disposed under the low-energy detector assembly. The high-energy detector assembly comprises: a plurality of rows of high-energy detectors arranged at predetermined intervals. With the detection device, detectors and data acquisition units are greatly reduced. A high-resolution three-dimensional CT image is acquired while high-accuracy hazardous article alarm is achieved. The cost of manufacture of the system is greatly decreased while high system performance is ensured.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: Nuctech Company Limited, Tsinghua UniversityInventors: Li Zhang, Zhiqiang Chen, Yuanjing Li, Mingliang Li
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Patent number: 9572541Abstract: An equivalent phantom is used for an X-ray Talbot imaging apparatus which includes an X-ray source, a plurality of gratings and an X-ray detector. The apparatus captures at least a Moire image from which a differential phase image of an object is generated. The equivalent phantom includes a first substance having a first refractive index and a second substance having a second refractive index. A ratio of the first refractive index to the second refractive index is equal to a ratio of a refractive index of a soft tissue to a refractive index of a surrounding tissue. At least a part of a shape of one of the first and second substances is equal to a shape of a corresponding portion of the soft tissue.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Konica Minolta, Inc.Inventor: Yoshihide Hoshino
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Patent number: 9572542Abstract: A method of estimating a parameter of physiological significance in the central nervous system (CNS) is provided. The method comprises (a) providing one or more images of the brain or cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) in a subject to whom a dose of a contrast agent (CA) has been administered; (b) determining, using a computer equipped with image processing software, the concentration or relative concentration of the agent in a region or regions of interest in the brain or CSF, thereby generating concentration data; (c) describing the time-based behavior of concentrations of CA within the brain or CSF using a pharmacokinetic model that is based on a set of pharmacokinetic model parameters; and (d) fitting, using computer code, the pharmacokinetic model to the concentration data, varying one or more parameters, wherein the best fit estimates a parameter of physiological significance in the CNS.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventors: Kelly Davis Orcutt, John Hoppin, Jacob Hesterman, Christian Lackas
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Patent number: 9572543Abstract: A tomography system includes a radiation source, a radiation detector, a subject table, an imaging unit and a reconstruction unit. The imaging unit obtains a projection image a predetermined number of times while changing a positional relationship of the radiation source and the radiation detector. The reconstruction unit generates a tomogram of a subject using the projection image obtained by the imaging unit. The reconstruction unit includes a correction unit. The correction unit performs correction processing to (i) create a profile of a pixel signal value from a no-subject-included projection image obtained by the imaging unit without the subject on the subject table and (ii) correct, on the basis of the created profile, a subject-included projection image obtained by the imaging unit with the subject on the subject table or a detection probability used in generating the tomogram.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.Inventors: Takuya Yamamura, Youichi Ono, Koutarou Kanamori
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Patent number: 9572544Abstract: A boom has an x-ray head attached to one end thereof and the x-ray head has an x-ray source disposed therein. In a docked position of the boom, the x-ray source is disabled. In a deployed position, the x-ray source is enabled. A handle attached to the x-ray head is movable into at least two different positions. A first one of the positions disables the x-ray source while a second one of the positions enables the x-ray source. The handle extends a preselected distance from the x-ray source such that the handle maintains at least the preselected distance between the x-ray source and a subject to be exposed thereby.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: Dennis J. O'Dea, Craig F. Hofmann
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Patent number: 9572545Abstract: The present invention provides a radiotherapy system that can monitor a target location in real time. The radiotherapy system includes a remote control system operable to actuate a real-time image capturing device to acquire images in real time for monitoring the target location. The system also includes an image registration system that can register the acquired image with an image previously captured for the treatment plan, whereby it can be determined whether the patient's tumor is in the beam's eye view of the treatment plan. By confirming that the tumor is in the range of the beam's eye view, the accuracy of the treatment can be improved, and the irradiated area can be reduced, which makes the radiation treatment safer.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: Mackay Memorial Hospital, National Taipei University of TechnologyInventors: Yu-Jen Chen, Chia-Yuan Liu, Wen-Chung Chang, Chin-Sheng Chen
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Patent number: 9572546Abstract: Provided is an object information acquiring apparatus including a probe in which a plurality of elements transmitting an ultrasound wave to a measurement target region of an object and receiving a reflected wave is arranged in a first direction, and a mechanical scanning unit that moves the probe in the first direction and a direction crossing the first direction. A transmission processor, to each element included in a transmission aperture element row transmitting the ultrasound wave, inputs an input signal for driving the element, and a received signal processor combines received signals obtained by the elements included in a reception aperture element row receiving the ultrasound wave. A generator generates property information on the object from the combined signal, and a controller that determines at least one of the number of elements included in the transmission aperture element row.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hiroki Takahashi, Hisafumi Ebisawa
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Patent number: 9572547Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus according to the present invention includes: a storing section storing a plurality of items for inspection including ultrasonic imaging or measurement of an imaged ultrasonogram and an order thereof; a controlling section calculating, regarding an item set for inspection constituted of a next item for inspection which is an item for inspection subsequent to a current item for inspection which is currently being implemented out of the plurality of items for inspection, an implementation frequency at which the item set for inspection is implemented, for each next item for inspection; a displaying section displaying a candidate for the next item for inspection on the basis of the implementation frequency; and an inputting section inputting the next item for inspection from the candidate for the next item for inspection.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: HITACHI, LTD.Inventor: Tomoaki Chono
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Patent number: 9572548Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for relating additional spatial information associated with one volume data set of an anatomical structure with another volume data set of the anatomical structure where the spatial information is not available. A unique spatial characteristic of the volume data set is identified, such as an image moment of inertia, and an arbitrary reference frame is assigned to the volume data set and correlated with the unique spatial characteristic. The additional spatial information is also correlated with the arbitrary reference frame. The additional spatial information is then correlated to a second volume data set of the anatomical structure by registering the first and second volume data sets based on the unique spatial characteristic. The methods and systems allow registration of different volume data sets of the same anatomical structure and transfer of the additional spatial information without establishing a local reference frame based on predefined landmarks.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: STRYKER EUROPEAN HOLDINGS I, LLCInventor: Jose Luis Moctezuma de la Barrera
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Patent number: 9572549Abstract: The quality of ping-based ultrasound imaging is dependent on the accuracy of information describing the precise acoustic position of transmitting and receiving transducer elements. Improving the quality of transducer element position data can substantially improve the quality of ping-based ultrasound images, particularly those obtained using a multiple aperture ultrasound imaging probe, i.e., a probe with a total aperture greater than any anticipated maximum coherent aperture width. Various systems and methods for calibrating element position data for a probe are described.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: MAUI IMAGING, INC.Inventors: Artem Belevich, Josef R. Call, Bruce R. Ritzi, Nathan W. Osborn
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Patent number: 9572550Abstract: Bodily fluid sample collection systems, devices, and method are provided. The device may comprise a first portion comprising at least a sample collection channel configured to draw the fluid sample into the sample collection channel via a first type of motive force. The sample collection device may include a second portion comprising a sample container for receiving the bodily fluid sample collected in the sample collection channel, the sample container operably engagable to be in fluid communication with the collection channel, whereupon when fluid communication is established, the container provides a second motive force different from the first motive force to move a majority of the bodily fluid sample from the channel into the container.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Theranos, Inc.Inventor: Gayle Lee
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Patent number: 9572551Abstract: A biopsy trocar (1) is provided for performing bone marrow biopsies. The trocar comprises a biopsy needle (2) having a cannula (4), and a mandrel (3) having a shaft (6), the shaft (6) being suitable for sliding in the biopsy needle (2). The cannula (4) has, at its distal end, at least one internal rib (12, 21) forming a helix portion on the internal wall of the cannula (4), and the shaft (6) has a helical groove (16, 26) that is able to cooperate with the internal rib (12, 21), the internal rib (12, 21) being suitable for retaining a sample of marrow in the needle (2).Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventors: Laurent Fumex, Thierry Masseglia
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Patent number: 9572552Abstract: A battery powered surgical handpiece system including a surgical instrument having a housing containing a motor and a motor controller portion, and a battery pack configured for detachably coupling to the surgical instrument, the battery pack including a thermoelectric cooler. The thermoelectric cooler is directly thermally coupled between the motor controller portion and a thermally conductive element supported by the battery pack, the thermally conductive element being movable between a first position where the thermally conductive element is spaced apart from an internal housing of the battery pack and a second position where the thermally conductive element is thermally coupled to and between an external housing of the battery pack and the internal housing of the battery pack.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Integrated Medical Systems International, Inc.Inventors: Peter Pal Bodor, Leighton Schonlau, Craig Glenn Bishop
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Patent number: 9572553Abstract: A cannulated medical instrument handle apparatus comprised of a handle housing component with a hollow handle insert channel and a removable tubular insert that fits within the handle insert channel. Tubular insert has a hexagonal segment adapted to fit within a recessed hexagonal aperture within the handle insert channel, thereby connecting the handle housing component and tubular insert. Tubular insert also has a tubular shaft segment and a lumen running through its center.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Bradshaw Medical, Inc.Inventor: Joe Post
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Patent number: 9572554Abstract: A dismantlable surgical sliding shaft instrument having a function shaft comprising a guide element, a slide element supported on the guide element in a sliding manner and having a coupling element, an undercut rail oriented along the sliding direction of the slide element and having a mounting opening at the proximal end of the rail, a profile web having a profile complementary to the rail, a gripping part having a rear gripping element at an angle at the end of the guide element, a front gripping element pivotably supported on the guide element and having a carrier element to carry along the coupling element, and a securing device on the rear gripping element and engaging with a form closure component in the proximal part of the guide groove in a securing position, and a transition piece complementary to the form closure component between the distal part and the proximal part.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: WALDEMAR LINK GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Klaus Dmuschewsky
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Patent number: 9572555Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices for mixing and expressing a multi-component sealant or hemostat or adhesive comprising at least two containers configured to contain and express two reactive components into separate lumens of a cannula. An elongated expression tip having a main channel that is open at a proximal end with the cannula slidably fits into the main channel. The tip contains a plurality of separate mixing chambers open at the distal end of the tip, wherein each of the mixing chambers is in fluid communication with the main channel via an individual connecting channel. Openings for each of the connecting channels are provided at different distances from the distal end. The tip is configured to slide on the cannula and advance distally when the main channel is pressurized due to an obstruction in at least one of the mixing chambers.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.Inventors: Gwan-Ywan Lai, Keith L. Jeffcoat
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Patent number: 9572556Abstract: Described are devices, methods, and systems useful in the treatment of fistulae, and in certain embodiments those having openings extending into the alimentary canal, such as anorectal fistulae. Illustratively, an anorectal fistula can be treated by placing a volumetric construct within the primary opening of the fistula. In certain embodiments, the volumetric construct can include a rolled remodelable material processed to form a substantially unitary body. Advantageous such remodelable materials can include collagenous extracellular matrix materials, such as small intestine submucosa.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2006Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Cook Biotech IncorporatedInventors: F. Joseph Obermiller, Michael C. Hiles, Matthew R. Graham
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Patent number: 9572557Abstract: A device for closing holes in tissue is delivered via a catheter to the inside of a body lumen such as a heart. An elastic barbed clip is expanded, pulled into the tissue and released, pulling the tissue with it. The operation is fully reversible.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: KARDIUM INC.Inventors: Daniel Gelbart, Samuel Victor Lichtenstein
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Patent number: 9572558Abstract: A device for delivering an implant configured to seal an aperture in a tissue includes: a delivery shaft configured to engage the implant to allow the implant to be maneuvered into sealing engagement with a distal surface of the tissue, the delivery shaft comprising a retaining sleeve comprising a locking projection engagable with a locking recess of the implant to secure the implant to the delivery shaft, and a release sleeve axially slideable relative to the retaining sleeve between a first axial position in which the release sleeve is configured to maintain locking engagement between the locking recess and the locking projection, and a second axial position in which the release sleeve permits the locking projection to disengage the locking recess.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Vivasure Medical LimitedInventors: Peter Grant, Christopher Martin, Michael Dunning, Damien Ryan, Joseph Dolphin, Micheál Hession, Bartosz Pawlikowski, Mark McGoldrick, Ger Brett, Michael McCartin, Des Regan, Matthew Murphy
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Patent number: 9572559Abstract: A closure device for port site closure is provided. The closure device includes an end effector having a top surface and a bottom surface. A stem extends upwardly from a midsection of the top surface of the end effector. The stem has a free end, a distal end, and a middle portion therebetween. An attachment member extends from the distal end of the stem and is fixedly attached to the top surface of the end effector. The attachment member has a width smaller than a width of the distal end. At least one notch is defined by a gap between the distal end of the stem and the top surface of the end effector.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Nicholas Maiorino, Saumya Banerjee, Timothy Sargeant, Arpan Desai
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Patent number: 9572560Abstract: Technology disclosed herein relates to retractors and methods of use for surgical procedures, and in particular, spinal surgical procedures. In one embodiment, a surgical refractor includes a pair of pivotable armatures and a translatable armature. A body for supporting the armatures is provided, with a handle connected thereto. The handle includes a first rotary actuator, wherein a rotation of the first rotary actuator moves the pair of pivotable armatures in opposite arcuate directions, and a second rotary actuator, wherein a rotation of the second rotary actuator translates the translatable armature in a linear direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc.Inventors: Randall G. Mast, Alan R. Burkholder, Andrew Shifle, Adam Kanter
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Patent number: 9572561Abstract: Devices and methods for sternal retraction that reduces bleeding from the cut edges of a sternum and reduces fracturing of the sternum during retraction. The devices and methods involve the use of sternal retractor blades having a certain geometry and inserts placed inside the sternal retractor blades during retraction of the sternotomy incision. The blades and inserts act to tamponade the blood flow from the cut sternal edge and reduce fracturing of the sternum during retraction.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: EMORY UNIVERSITYInventors: John D. Puskas, Kelly Kloster Hon, Erick Eladio Rios, Brian Wong-Shui, Mark Joseph Moneypenny
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Patent number: 9572562Abstract: A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.Inventors: Patrick Miles, Scot Martinelli, Eric Finley, James Gharib, Allen Farquhar, Norbert F. Kaula, Jeffrey J. Blewett
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Patent number: 9572563Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing soft tissue to bone can include loading a suture through an eyelet of a suture anchor. The suture anchor can have a longitudinal axis and a distal tip. An anchor inserter assembly can be positioned in contact with the suture anchor. The anchor inserter assembly can include a sleeve portion and an impacting portion. The suture can be engaged with a suture engaging member on the suture inserter assembly at a location adjacent to the eyelet. The sleeve portion can be translated relative to the impacting portion from an alignment position to an insertion position thereby moving the suture a first distance offset from the eyelet in a direction away from the distal tip. The anchor insert assembly can be advanced to a driven position thereby advancing the suture anchor into the bone. The suture engaging member can be released from the suture.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Biomet Sports Medicine, LLC.Inventors: Brian K. Berelsman, Kevin T. Stone
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Patent number: 9572564Abstract: An anchor delivery system is described. The system includes a guide and an anchor delivery tool disposed within the guide. The tool includes a shaft and a handle coupled to a proximal portion of the shaft. The handle includes a hub and a nose cone coupled to the hub. In an embodiment, the tool further includes a knob coupled to the hub and located between the handle and the nose cone. In an embodiment, the system further includes an anchor, such as a suture anchor, coupled to a distal portion of the shaft. An anchor delivery tool and a method of repairing soft tissue are also described.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventors: Marc Joseph Philippon, Kevin Murphy, Rebecca A. Blough, Paul Alexander Torrie, Paul A. Puniello, Paul S. Vincuilla, Paul McCabe, Gary R. Vario, Michael C. Ferragamo, Justin Dye, John M. Lipchitz
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Patent number: 9572565Abstract: Tissue anchors include a flat, broad, and large contact surface for engagement with a portion of tissue. Several embodiments of composite tissue anchors include a support element and an overlay element. Tissue anchor assemblies include two or more tissue anchors, a connector, and a cinching mechanism. In some embodiments, the tissue anchors included in the tissue anchor assemblies are of different types, sizes, and/or shapes.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: USGI Medical, Inc.Inventors: Richard C. Ewers, Tracy D. Maahs, Shirley Vong
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Patent number: 9572566Abstract: An implant manipulator may have a distal end that retains an implant, a proximal end, and an intermediate portion between the ends. The intermediate portion may have a cross-sectional shape that extends along a nonlinear pathway. The intermediate portion may have a selectively bendable portion in which the cross-sectional shape varies to facilitate bending when desired. The implant manipulator may be a needle for a suture passer, with a suture capture feature at the distal end. The suture capture feature may have first and second members that flex apart to permit entry of the suture into a suture capture hole wherein the suture is retained until released. A suture passer may receive the needle in a bore shaped to change the cross-sectional shape to facilitate or restrict bending of the needle, as needed.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Marker Medical, LLCInventors: David M. Skinlo, Ephraim Akyuz, Daniel Perkins
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Patent number: 9572567Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical clip, a clip unit, and a clip device by which accuracy in access to a target (a site to be treated) can be secured and also which can be employed to suture or remove a site involving widespread tissue injury. As one example to achieve this, the present invention provides a medical clip including: a first arm and a second arm between which a target is placed and which together squeeze the target; a ring configured to connect one end of the first arm with one end of the second arm; a first ancillary arm articulated with the other end of the first arm; and a second ancillary arm articulated with the other end of the second arm.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventor: Se-dong Lee
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Patent number: 9572568Abstract: Systems, devices and methods to improve safety and efficiency in an operating room comprise providing a suture package that holds new suture needles and needle receptacles for storing used needles. The devices can be safely worn for the surgeon to self-dispense new suture needles in the near surgical field and to secure the used needles into a needle trap or a needle retainer located on his extremity, on his operative instruments or on the surgical drapes. The device may provide automated and/or simplified needle counting both during use and after removal from the surgical field. The device may be configured for ergonomic and efficient use so as to minimize the actions and motions of the surgeon to dispense and secure the needle.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: SHARP FLUIDICS LLCInventors: Josef E. Gorek, Kenneth B. Trauner, Douglas G. Rimer
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Patent number: 9572569Abstract: A station for cutting a barb suture is provided. The barb cutting station includes a suture transport assembly for supporting a first suture, a first knife assembly for forming barbs on the first suture, and a first clamp and position assembly for approximating the at least first suture towards the at least first knife assembly. The barb cutting station may further include at least a first suture cutting mechanism configured for severing the at least first suture when a defect is detected. The station may also include at least a first visual inspection assembly configured for detecting defective barbs.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Nicholas Maiorino, Timothy Kosa, Mark Buchter, Keith Kroeber, Richard Casey Hart
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Patent number: 9572570Abstract: Sutures can be placed in difficult to access areas of the human body with devices, and related methods, utilizing a needle carrier. The devices and methods can be used in conjunction with both endosurgical and traditional open surgery procedures.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2009Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Barry N. Gellman, Jozef Slanda
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Patent number: 9572571Abstract: Stomach tissue is manipulated and fastened with a tissue grasper and a tissue shaper to form folds in the stomach. The tissue grasper and the tissue shaper rotate and translate relative to one another. The tissue grasper has a plurality of vacuum orifices to adhere the tissue grasper to tissue.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: EndoGastric Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Richard Romley
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Patent number: 9572572Abstract: A surgical stapling device is disclosed including a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly. The anvil assembly is translatable relative to the cartridge assembly between a spaced position, where the anvil assembly is spaced from the cartridge assembly, and an approximated position, where the anvil assembly is in close cooperative alignment with the cartridge assembly for clamping tissue disposed therebetween. A lockout sleeve is slidably supported on the cartridge assembly and translatable relative to the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly between a first position and a second position. The lockout sleeve is configured to engage the anvil assembly and the cartridge assembly when the lockout sleeve is in the second position to inhibit translation of the anvil assembly relative to the cartridge assembly from the spaced position to the approximated position.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventor: Justin Williams
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Patent number: 9572573Abstract: An anvil introduction system is operable to provide smooth insertion of an anvil of a surgical stapling device through a bodily lumen such as the esophagus. The anvil introduction system is coupled to the anvil and includes a dilation feature. The dilation feature has a collapsed position and an expanded position. The dilation feature may cover staple pockets and an outer edge of the anvil with the dilation feature is in the expanded position. The anvil may be inserted through the bodily lumen with the dilation feature in the expanded position. The dilation feature may then be collapsed in order to complete an end-to-end anastomosis of the bodily lumen.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Charles J. Scheib, John P. Measamer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Patent number: 9572574Abstract: An end effector is disclosed. The end effector comprises a first jaw, a second jaw, wherein at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable to compress tissue between the first jaw and the second jaw, and a cartridge body configured to receive a cutting member. The end effector further comprises a layer arrangement including a tissue contact surface and a plurality of therapeutic agents releasably contained within the layer arrangement, wherein each therapeutic agent is configured to either initially treat the tissue or sustainably treat the tissue in contact with the tissue contact surface, wherein one of the plurality of therapeutic agents is configured to be released by the cutting member, and wherein another of the plurality of therapeutic agents is configured to be released by an absorption process.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Katherine J. Schmid, Charles J. Scheib, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph H. Contiliano, Chunlin Yang, Cortney E. Henderson, Jeffrey L. Aldridge
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Patent number: 9572575Abstract: A surgical stapler includes a handle assembly 80 made of paper pulp products or other eco-friendly material. The handle assembly and components of the staple mechanism housing are designed to account for the decreased material strength of the handle assembly. A new retainer clip 81 or handle retainer includes assembly ribs 82 which include interference fit ribs 96. The retainer clip 81 in combination with a raised circular boss 16 of the handle assembly facilities the use of lower strength materials, such as paper pulp products. An efficient staple housing mechanism includes the use of new staple carrier assembly fixture pin 86 and other disclosed components.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: NEWGEN SURGICAL, INC.Inventors: Robert N Chase, Paul Kardel
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Patent number: 9572576Abstract: An end effector for a surgical stapling apparatus is provided which includes an anvil assembly and a surgical buttress. The anvil assembly includes an anvil body and an anvil plate. The anvil plate includes a bottom surface that defines a plurality of staple forming pockets. The anvil body and the anvil plate are selectively connectable. The surgical buttress includes a buttress body and a plurality of arms extending from the body. The arms are disposable between a top surface of the anvil plate and a bottom surface of the anvil body to support the buttress body against the bottom surface of the anvil plate when the anvil plate and the anvil body are connected to one another.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Gerald Hodgkinson, Timothy D. Ebner, Peter Hathaway
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Patent number: 9572577Abstract: A fastener cartridge assembly. The fastener cartridge assembly can comprise a cartridge body, a tissue thickness compensator releasably secured relative to the cartridge body, and a fastener removably positioned in a staple cavity of the cartridge body. The tissue thickness compensator can comprise a first clearance aperture extending along a first predefined trajectory and a second clearance aperture extending along a second predefined trajectory. The fastener can comprise a first leg aligned with the first clearance aperture and moveable along the first predefined trajectory, a second leg aligned with the second clearance aperture and moveable along the second predefined trajectory. The first and second predefined trajectories can be parallel.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Brandon J. Lloyd, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Michael J. Vendely, Emily A. Schellin, Lauren S. Weaner
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Patent number: 9572578Abstract: Tissue fasteners carried on a tissue piercing deployment wire fasten tissue layers of a mammalian body together include a first member, a second member, and a connecting member extending between the first and second members. One of the first and second members has a configuration alterable by a deployment wire to permit release of the fastener from the deployment wire after deployment and without causing excessive tissue trauma.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: EndoGastric Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Steve G. Baker, Stefan J. M. Kraemer, Raymond Michael Wolniewicz, III
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Patent number: 9572579Abstract: A surgical clip is provided, having two clip arms and a resiliently flexible element pivotally connecting the two clip arms together. The two clip arms each have a first free end, which are held in parallel to and in contact with each other with a predetermined closing force by the flexible element in a rest position. At a second end opposite the free end, the clip arms are held connected to a wall section of the flexible element that is arranged substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction of the clip arms, extends between the second ends of the clip arms and has a first wall portion facing towards the clip arms and a second wall portion facing away from the clip arms. The flexible element is made from a plastics material by injection molding. The first wall portion is produced with a greater shrinkage than the second wall portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Aesculap AGInventor: Dieter Weisshaupt
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Patent number: 9572580Abstract: A surgical portal apparatus includes a sleeve having a proximal end and a distal end that extends along a longitudinal axis, and a surgical tape. The sleeve includes an inner wall defining an internal longitudinal passageway dimensioned for permitting passage of a surgical object therethrough and an outer wall configured for positioning against tissue. The inner and outer walls define at least a partial annular space therebetween, the annular space being in fluid communication with an opening in the outer wall. The surgical tape includes a body portion retained within the annular space of the sleeve and a leading tab extendable through the opening in the outer wall of the sleeve. The surgical tape has a first surface and a second surface, each of the first and second surfaces having at least one of tissue reactive functional groups and self-reactive functional groups.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventors: Timothy Sargeant, Arpan Desai, Joshua Stopek, Atu Agawu, Saumya Banerjee, Frank Viola
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Patent number: 9572581Abstract: Tissue manipulation and securement systems are described herein. A tissue manipulation assembly is pivotably coupled to the distal end of a tubular member and has a lower jaw member and an upper jaw member pivotably coupled to the lower jaw member. A reconfigurable launch tube is also pivotably coupled to the upper jaw member and is used to urge the jaw members from a low-profile configuration to an open configuration for receiving tissue. The tissue manipulation assembly may be advanced through a shape-lockable endoscopic device, a conventional endoscope, or directly by itself into a patient. A second tool can be used in combination with the tissue manipulation assembly to engage tissue and manipulate the tissue in conjunction with the tissue manipulation assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: USGI Medical, Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Vaughan, Cang C. Lam, Richard C. Ewers, Vahid Saadat
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Patent number: 9572582Abstract: A connector for joining a first hollow structure to the side wall of a second hollow structure, the connector comprising a first component comprising an inner collar; a hollow body; and a graft mounted to the inner collar and forming a conduit through the hollow body and the inner collar; and a second component comprising an outer collar and a hollow body, the hollow body of the second component being sized for coaxial disposition over the hollow body of the first component so that the outer collar of the second component can be adjustably positioned relative to the inner collar of the first component and so that the conduit of the graft provides fluid communication between (i) the region beyond the inner collar, and (ii) the region beyond the hollow body of the first component.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Correx, Inc.Inventors: Richard M. Beane, Ronald Boudreau, James Alan Crunkleton, Anthony G. Liepert, Joseph L. Smith, Jr.
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Patent number: 9572583Abstract: A method is provided for ablating a portion of the myocardium. The method includes inserting an occlusion catheter into a vessel on a heart, occluding the vessel using the occlusion catheter, inserting an ablation catheter into a chamber of the heart, positioning the ablation catheter against the myocardium, and ablating a portion of the myocardium while the vessel is occluded. The system includes an occlusion catheter having a catheter body including a tubular member having a distal portion and a bend located in the distal portion, a balloon located proximal of the bend and configured to contact an inner surface of the coronary sinus when positioned therewithin, a plurality of marker bands positioned on the catheter body, and a plurality of electrodes positioned on the catheter body.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division, Inc.Inventors: James V. Kauphusman, Andre d'Avila, Vivek Y. Reddy
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Patent number: 9572584Abstract: A medical device, system and method for modifying a left atrial appendage (“LAA”). The medical device system includes a tether anchored within the LAA and one or more tissue growth members or occluders configured to be slid over the tether and lodged within the LAA. With this arrangement, a physician may close-off the LAA with a selective number of tissue growth members to meet the varying LAA sizes as determined from imaging information while conducting the procedure.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Coherex Medical, Inc.Inventors: Scott D. Miles, Brian K. Whisenant, Daryl R. Edmiston, Clark C. Davis
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Patent number: 9572585Abstract: A surgical sagittal saw blade with first and second elongated openings. The openings have major axes that are angled relative to each other. The openings are arranged to receive draw for pivoting a blade in a sagittal plane. Each opening receives a separate drive member integral with the saw to which the blade is mounted. The action of one drive member in a first opening results in the proximal to distal reciprocation of the blade. The action of a the second drive member in the second opening results in the back and forth pivoting of the blade around an axis that extends through the plane of the blade. The blade has a constraining feature that engages a complementary constraining feature integral with the saw. The engagement of the constraining features limits the reciprocal and pivotal movement of the blade.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: STRYKER CORPORATIONInventor: Steven Carusillo
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Patent number: 9572586Abstract: Systems and methods for joint replacement are provided. The systems and methods include a surgical orientation device and at least one orthopedic fixture. The surgical orientation device and orthopedic fixtures can be used to locate the orientation of an axis in the body, to adjust an orientation of a cutting plane or planes along a bony surface, to distract a joint, or to otherwise assist in an orthopedic procedure or procedures.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: OrthAlign, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas van der Walt, Santiago P. Borja
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Patent number: 9572587Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for microfracture (e.g., forming a plurality of microfractures in a bone to encourage cartilage regeneration). Some of the present apparatuses and methods are configured to create microfractures with smaller transverse dimensions (e.g., diameters) and greater depths than previously known. Some of the present apparatuses and methods comprise a penetrator removal tab coupled to the penetrator and configured to retract the penetrator relative to the cannula.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: ARTHROSURFACE, INC.Inventors: George J. Sikora, Steven Ek, Steven Tallarida
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Patent number: 9572588Abstract: A device for performing a surgical procedure on a knee includes an adjustable femoral portion, a tibial portion and at least one sensor coupled with the femoral and/or tibial portions to sense pressure exerted by the femoral and tibial portions against one another. The femoral portion is adapted for removably coupling with a distal end of a femur to adjust tension in soft tissue adjacent the knee and has at least one positioning feature adapted to move relative to the distal end of the femur as the femoral portion is adjusted, thus helping position a femoral prosthetic on the distal end of the femur. The sensor(s) may be adapted to sense pressure at medial and lateral sides of the knee, and relative pressures may be displayed as data on a visual display. Adjustments to the femoral member may be made to balance pressure at flexion and extension of the knee.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Synvasive Technology, Inc.Inventors: Michael Fisher, Anthony K Hedley, Michael Howard, Kevin M Cordes, Toshinobu Katsuya
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Patent number: 9572589Abstract: A drill guide for drilling bone comprising a housing having a bore running through the housing is disclosed. In one embodiment, the drill guide may comprise a locking member coupled to the housing that is adapted to engage with a locking portion of a drill bit to lock the drill bit axially within the housing. The locking member may also be adapted to disengage with the drill bit to allow the drill bit to move within the bore of the housing and be inserted into bone. A movable guide may also be provided with the drill guide, such movable guide including a bore for receiving a portion of the drill bit and allowing the same to move axially within the housing. Methods of using the aforementioned drill guide are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Stryker European Holdings I, LLCInventors: Martin Knape, Denis Digeser, Cem Adalioglu, Frank Rothmann