Patents Issued in March 7, 2017
  • Patent number: 9585636
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a first calculation unit calculates a first feature amount concerning an edge direction in a specific region. A second calculation unit calculates a second feature amount concerning an edge intensity or a brightness value in the specific region. A storage unit stores filter characteristics. The each filter characteristic is associated with a first feature amounts range and a second feature amounts range which ultrasonic images suitable for the each filter characteristic may have. A selection unit selects a filter characteristic corresponding to both the calculated first feature amount and the calculated second feature amount. An image filter unit applies an image filter having the selected filter characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryota Osumi, Kenichi Ichioka
  • Patent number: 9585637
    Abstract: Disclosed are an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasound image producing method capable of producing a spatial compound image with reduced artifacts. Reception data of frame images is repeatedly acquired in a data acquisition cycle of four frames such that, of three frame images for use in producing a spatial compound image, the angle difference in steering angle between two frames for which the acquisition of reception data is most temporally separated is smaller than a maximum value among the angle differences in steering angle between two frame images among three frame images having different steering angles, and each time reception data of two frame images or reception data of another two frame images is acquired, three frame images sequentially produced based on reception data for three frames sequentially acquired hitherto are synthesized to produce a spatial compound image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Masafumi Noguchi
  • Patent number: 9585638
    Abstract: A system comprising an A-mode ultrasonic apparatus and a data processing apparatus and a stored program method is disclosed, for classifying a palpable breast mass based on analyzing data from a digital a-mode ultrasound Echograph of the observed mass and communicating the results of that classification directly to a user of the system in the form of a simple color-coded text block depending on whether the system determines the observed breast mass to be more-likely abnormal or more-likely not abnormal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventors: Russell Dewey, Kenneth Purfey, Kenneth Jacobsen
  • Patent number: 9585639
    Abstract: A biopsy device for percutaneous tissue removal includes an elongated housing having an operational axis, a stylet hub slidably mounted in the housing, where the stylet hub is movable relative to the housing between a proximal, armed position, and a distal, fired position, the stylet hub having a stylet strike, a cannula hub slidably mounted in the housing alongside the stylet hub, and a spring-biased arming member. The cannula hub is movable relative to the housing between a proximal, armed position, and a distal, fired position. The arming member is moveably mounted to the housing proximal of the respective stylet and cannula hubs, and configured for manually-actuated movement from a relaxed, extended position to a loaded, compressed position to define a compressive arming stroke. The biopsy device also includes an arming member biasing spring that restores the arming member from the compressed position to the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary Stephen Swick, Rosario Friedman, Brett Haarala, David Sauvageau, Donna Schulz Torres
  • Patent number: 9585640
    Abstract: Attaching an elliptical excisional skin biopsy punch to an appropriately designed hand held electrically powered handle can quickly produce a sharply demarcated wound that is the same shape and size as the elliptical punch that was used. The biopsy specimen obtained in this manner can be obtained within 1-2 seconds and thus is a much faster method than the more laborious method of rocking the elliptical punch back and forth by hand. In addition, only slight pressure is required to complete the biopsy thus minimizing the crush effect on the biopsy specimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: James Henry Kerr
  • Patent number: 9585641
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tool having a wrist mechanism that provides pitch and yaw rotation in such a way that the tool has no singularity in roll, pitch, and yaw. In one embodiment, a minimally invasive surgical instrument includes an elongate shaft haying a working end, a proximal end, and a shaft axis between the working end and the proximal end; and an end effector. A wrist member has a flexible tube including an axis extending through an interior surrounded by a wall. The wall f the flexible tube includes a plurality of lumens oriented generally parallel to the axis of the flexible tube. The wrist member has a proximal portion connected to the working end of the elongate shaft and a distal portion connected to the end effector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Cooper, S Christopher Anderson
  • Patent number: 9585642
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a minimally invasive implantable medical device (IMD) system are described. In one embodiment, the implantable medical device system includes an external device for transmitting a communication signal and an implantable device for receiving the communication signal by inductive coupling. The implantable device is configured to harvest power from the inductively coupled communication signal and power a signal generator from the harvested power to generate a therapeutic electrical stimulation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Dinsmoor, Joel A. Anderson, Forrest C. M. Pape, Todd V. Smith, Eric H. Bonde
  • Patent number: 9585643
    Abstract: A deployment device having a carrier tube, for bringing a sealing plug into position within a puncture tract or incision and deploying the sealing plug within the incision or puncture tract, towards the outer surface of a tissue puncture, is provided. The carrier tube is designed to facilitate easier deployment and improved compaction of the sealing plug, the sealing plug often made of collagen. The carrier tube is adapted to prevent the premature hydration of the sealing plug, where premature hydration of the sealing plug may result in difficulty in deploying the sealing plug. The carrier tube is designed to facilitate easier loading of puncture tract closing elements into the distal end of the carrier tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL PUERTO RICO LLC
    Inventors: Russell D. Terwey, Zachary J. Tegels
  • Patent number: 9585644
    Abstract: A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The body portion can include a plurality of segments defining a multi-cellular structure. The closure device can be configured to apply lateral force to tissue of the internal tissue opening to bring tissue together. The closure device can have a substantially flat aspect, and have a depth thickness that is substantially greater than the thickness or width of a majority of the members forming the closure device to reduce out of plane bending. The closure device can also include a member adapted to induce tissue growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Coherex Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Linder, Clark C. Davis, Scott D. Miles, DeWayne C. Fox, Daryl R. Edmiston, David A. Ewell
  • Patent number: 9585645
    Abstract: An insertion tool for a medical closure device for the sealing of an opening in a wall of a bodily organ includes a tamping force source adapted to deliver a first member to a position at the opening on one side of the wall subsequently to a second member being positioned at the opening on the opposite side of the wall. The tamping force source, which is energized prior to the tamping procedure, can be a spring, an elastic band or a pressurized gas container. A tamping spring can be compressed or extended upon loading. The tamping force source can be released in response to a manual operation or be triggered by retraction of the insertion tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: ST. JUDE MEDICAL COORDINATION CENTER BVBA
    Inventor: Dan Akerfeldt
  • Patent number: 9585646
    Abstract: A method that includes locating an opening in tissue by advancing a member through the opening in tissue and following locating the opening, deploying a medical device to aid with sealing the opening. The medical device includes a plurality of strut members forming a plurality of generally diamond-shaped openings, the plurality of strut member being configured to form an annular shaped structure with the generally diamond-shaped openings extending generally longitudinally relative to a longitudinal axis of the medical device. The medical device further includes a plurality of tissue engaging portions associated with the plurality of struts, each tissue engaging portion being disposed between adjacently positioned generally diamond-shaped openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Integrated Vascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael T. Carley, Javier Sagastegui, Richard S. Ginn, William N. Aldrich, W. Martin Belef, Steven N. Roe, Ronald J. Jabba
  • Patent number: 9585647
    Abstract: A closure element applying medical device for repairing a fistula is described. The closure element applying medical device can be configured for repairing any type of fistula that provides an abnormal channel from one body part to another body part (e.g., organ to organ, organ to vessel, and/or vessel to vessel). Examples of fistulas that can be repaired with the present invention include anorectal fistulas, enteroenteral fistulas, enterocutaneous fistulas, vesicovaginal fistulas, arteriovenous fistulas, perilymph fistulas, rectovaginal fistulas, ureterocolon fistulas, and the like. The medical device can include a closure element, a shaft, a carrier assembly, and controller systems. The medical device can also include a locator assembly. Additionally, the closure element applying medical device can include endoscope components so as to function also as an endoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: ABBOTT LABORATORIES
    Inventor: Ian J. Clark
  • Patent number: 9585648
    Abstract: A retractor having an elongate body that provides access to a surgical location within a patient. The elongate body includes a plurality of segments that are connected to one another through a plurality of ratcheting mechanisms. The ratcheting mechanisms permit relative movement of the segments with respect to one another when expander dilators are inserted within the retractor. The segments are surrounded and retained by a resilient elastomeric sleeve or bands. The distal end surfaces of the segments include thin edges that are configured to mobilize, dissect, split and retract the terminal tissues in the surgical area. The retractor is used in conjunction with a resilient elastomeric pad that is affixed to the patient and firmly engages the outer surface of the elongate body to thereby anchor the retractor to the patient. A separate anchoring device can be used to connect the retractor to the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: BHDL Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Bradley A. Heiges, David E. Lane, II
  • Patent number: 9585649
    Abstract: A retractor for use in surgical operations comprises a pair of blade assemblies which are adapted to open about a set of axes that are not parallel to a third spatial axis. The retractor further comprises a pair of arms, which are adapted to move the pair of blade assemblies apart from one another in the third spatial axis. In operation, the blade assemblies are closed to assume a low profile, inserted into a relatively small incision, and stretched apart from each other, thereby stretching the skin about the incision to form an aperture longer than the incision. The blade assemblies are then opened by rotating the blades about the set of axes, thereby stretching the skin around the incision in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction (i.e. the direction of the incision.) The retractor thus forms an aperture for passage of surgical instruments and viewing of the surgical field by surgical personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Spinal Elements, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Blain, Eric Kovach
  • Patent number: 9585650
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a first member defining a longitudinal axis. A second member is connected with a pivot. A third member defines a first axis disposed at an angular orientation relative to the longitudinal axis and is connected with the pivot. The second member is translatable relative to the first member to rotate the pivot to move the third member between a first orientation and a second orientation to space vertebral tissue. Systems and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy Lim, Matthew M. Morrison, Kevin T. Foley
  • Patent number: 9585651
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for securing and deploying tissue anchors are described herein. A tissue manipulation assembly is pivotably coupled to the distal end of a tubular member. A reconfigurable launch tube is also pivotably coupled to the tissue manipulation assembly, which 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. A deployment assembly is provided for securing engaged tissue via one or more tissue anchors, the deployment assembly also being configured to disengage the anchors endoluminally or laparoscopically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: USGI Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Cang C. Lam, Richard C. Ewers, Robert A. Vaughan, Vahid Saadat
  • Patent number: 9585652
    Abstract: A surgical instrument for applying sutures to tissue includes a needle deployment mechanism and a catch mechanism. In some embodiments, the needle deployment mechanism employs a linear path. Alternatively, it can employ a curved needle. The surgical instrument may include a rotatable head, a bend, and/or a malleable elongated body member formable into various shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Juergen A. Kortenbach, Ghaleb Sater, Michael Sean McBrayer, Barry N. Gellman
  • Patent number: 9585653
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a medical device includes a tissue anchor, and elongate member, a first needle, and a second needle. The tissue anchor has a first arm portion, a second arm portion, and a base portion extending between the first arm portion and the second arm portion. The first needle extends from the elongate member. The first needle defines a lumen configured to receive the anchor member of the first arm portion of the tissue anchor. The second needle extends from the elongate member. The second needle defines a lumen configured to receive the anchor member of the second arm portion of the tissue anchor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jamie Li, Jozef Slanda
  • Patent number: 9585654
    Abstract: The suture device of the present disclosure disposes rigid components on suture, enabling the device to resist tensile and compressive loads and to protect soft tissue from suture pull-through. The suture device generally comprises of at least one rigid segment as well as a standard high tensile strength suture to create a segmentally rigid suture device. The at least one rigid segment may be comprised of any of a number of materials that are appropriate for use in the human body and provide the desired strength and stiffness for a particular application. Although the segmentally rigid suture device could be used with any prior art suture configuration, a grip stitch, a knot tying grip stitch, a straight-line grip stitch, and a reverse straight-line grip stitch suture configuration are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Dean & Webb, LLC
    Inventors: John C. Dean, Jonathan H. Webb
  • Patent number: 9585655
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a body, a shaft assembly, an end effector assembly, and a drive assembly. The body may include a handpiece with an integral motor. The shaft assembly may include two pairs of concentric shafts. The end effector assembly may include arms that selectively grasp and release a suturing needle. The drive assembly is operable to drive the end effector assembly via the shaft assembly. The drive assembly is operable to convert a single rotary input into at least two rotary outputs. In some versions, the drive assembly comprises a plurality of shaft assemblies that include an input shaft, a first output shaft, a second output shaft, and a third output shaft. The drive assembly is operable to selectively rotate and hold the shaft assemblies in accordance with a predetermined sequence, such as to perform tissue suturing through a trocar in a minimally invasive surgical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: James A. Woodard, Jr., Aaron J. Brickner, Jason R. Lesko
  • Patent number: 9585656
    Abstract: An implant insertion system includes a shape memory implant movable between a first shape a second shape and an implant insertion device movable between an implant disengagement position and an implant engagement position. The implant insertion device receives the shape memory implant in its first shape while in its implant disengagement position. Movement of the implant insertion device from its implant disengagement position to its implant engagement position manipulates the shape memory implant from its first shape to its second shape. The implant insertion device maintains the shape memory implant in its second shape until delivery of the shape memory implant into tissue or bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: BioMedical Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph H. Taber, Adam T. Knight, Eric A. Marcano
  • Patent number: 9585657
    Abstract: An end effector assembly for use with a surgical instrument. The end effector assembly can comprise an anvil, a fastener cartridge including fastener cavities, fasteners removably positioned in the fastener cavities, a piece of buttress material releasably secured intermediate the anvil and the fastener cartridge, a connector, and an actuator configured to overcome the connector when actuated. The connector can secure the piece of buttress material relative to the anvil or the fastener cartridge at a location that is distal to at least one fastener cavity. The actuator can overcome the connector prior to the removal of the fasteners from the fastener cavities. Further, the actuator can extend past the fasteners in the fastener cavities, and can be actuated proximal to the fastener cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Michael J. Vendely, Taylor W. Aronhalt
  • Patent number: 9585658
    Abstract: A stapling system is disclosed. The stapling system comprises a housing comprising a rotary drive member, an elongate shaft extending from the housing, wherein the elongate shaft defines a longitudinal axis, and an end effector comprising a jaw configured to support a staple cartridge and an anvil rotatable relative to the jaw between an open position and a fully-closed position, wherein the anvil comprises a cam surface. The stapling system further comprises a closure cam operably coupled with the rotary drive member, wherein the closure cam is configured to move longitudinally to engage the cam surface and transmit a closing motion to the anvil to move the the into the fully-closed position and an opening member configured to move longitudinally to apply an opening force to the anvil at a location other than the cam surface to move the anvil into the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 9585659
    Abstract: A powered endoscopic surgical apparatus is provided and includes a handle including a housing, a power source supported in the housing; an endoscopic portion extending distally from the housing of the handle; an end effector assembly coupled to a distal end of the endoscopic portion, the end effector assembly including a pair of jaws configured to perform a surgical function; a driving member; a drive source including a motor powered by the power source and connected to the driving member; and a gear assembly engaged with the motor. The gear assembly including a gear rack provided on the driving member; and a main gear operatively connected with the gear rack, the motor spinning the main gear such that rotary motion of the main gear moves the driving member in an axial direction such that the driving member actuates the end effector to perform the surgical function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Frank J. Viola, Gregg Krehel, Guido Pedros
  • Patent number: 9585660
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a method is provided. The method comprises obtaining a surgical tool configured to perform a surgical function, wherein the surgical tool comprises a firing member and a lockout, wherein an actuation movement of the firing member is configured to generate the surgical function, and wherein the lockout is configured to prevent the actuation movement of the firing member, engaging a test device with the surgical tool, permanently disabling the lockout while the test device is engaged with the surgical tool, and permanently preventing the surgical function while the test device is engaged with the surgical tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan J. Laurent, Brett E. Swensgard, Bret W. Smith, Craig S. Smith, Cory G. Kimball, Wendy A. Kerr
  • Patent number: 9585661
    Abstract: A surgical clip applier comprises a first arm (12) and a second arm (14) pivotable relative to each other and defining proximal ends (16, 18) for manually controlling the applier, and distal ends (26, 28); jaws (30) positioned between the distal ends such (26, 28) that pivot of the first arm (12) relative to the second arm (14) opens and closes the jaws (30); and a setting element (32) movably mounted in one (12) of the first arm and the second arm and extending into contact with the other (14) of the first arm and the second arm to define a maximum open position of the first arm (12) relative to the second arm (14), and wherein a change of position of the setting element (32) adjusts the maximum open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: PETERS SURGICAL
    Inventors: Denis Deperne, Adrien Fiorino
  • Patent number: 9585662
    Abstract: A fastener cartridge for use with a surgical instrument is disclosed. The fastener cartridge and/or surgical instrument can include an anvil. The fastener cartridge can comprise a cartridge body including a deck and a plurality of fastener cavities. The fastener cartridge can comprise fasteners at least partially stored within the fastener cavities, and a firing member configured to move the fasteners toward the anvil. The firing member can comprise a first ramp and a second ramp configured to lift the fasteners toward the anvil. In various instances, the first ramp and/or the second ramp can directly lift the fasteners. In certain instances, the fastener cartridge can include fastener drivers which are directly lifted by the first ramp and/or the second ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 9585663
    Abstract: A surgical stapling assembly. The surgical stapling assembly comprises a frame, a distal end, a first jaw comprising a channel, and a second jaw extending from the frame. The surgical stapling assembly comprises a channel retainer, wherein the channel is slidably attachable to the channel retainer. The surgical stapling assembly further comprises a plurality of staples and a staple firing member comprising a first cam configured to engage the first jaw and a second cam configured to engage the second jaw when the staple firing member is advanced from an unadvanced position toward the distal end, wherein one of the first jaw and the second jaw comprises a clearanced opening configured to permit the firing member to be unengaged with one of the first jaw and the second jaw when the firing member is in the unadvanced position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael E. Setser, William B. Weisenburgh, II
  • Patent number: 9585664
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a surgical instrument which includes a housing and an endoscopic portion extending distally from the housing and defining a first longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument also includes an end effector disposed adjacent a distal portion of the endoscopic portion. The end effector includes an anvil assembly and a cartridge assembly. The anvil assembly is pivotally coupled to the cartridge assembly to be movable from a first actuation position to at least one other second actuation position. The surgical instrument further includes a firing rod having a shaft defining a second longitudinal axis, the shaft having a cam member which is in mechanical cooperation with the anvil assembly and is configured to move the anvil assembly from the first actuation position to the at least one other second actuation position upon rotation of the firing rod about the second longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Michael Zemlok, David C. Racenet
  • Patent number: 9585665
    Abstract: A method for stimulation of collateral development in ischemic cardiac regions comprises the fluid coupling of the left ventricle of the heart to the anterior interventricular vein to stimulate collateral development in ischemic regions. The fluid coupling of the left ventricle of the heart to the anterior interventricular vein includes a control of the diastolic/systolic pressure in the venous system to be within about 20-50 mmHg. The fluid coupling of the left ventricle of the heart to the anterior interventricular vein includes inserting a transmyocardial conduit into the left ventricle and a tri-directional coupler attached to the anterior interventricular vein. An associated apparatus for stimulation of collateral development in ischemic cardiac regions via the fluid coupling of the left ventricle of the heart to the anterior interventricular vein is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: ENSION, INC.
    Inventors: Mark J Gartner, Patrick Cahalan, Linda Cahalan
  • Patent number: 9585666
    Abstract: A nerve guidance conduit includes a spiral structured porous sheet decorated with channels on its surface and electrospun nanofibers in a parallel alignment with the channels and an outer tubular structure including randomly-oriented nanofibers. Such a structure provides augmented surface areas for providing directional guidance and augmented surfaces for enhancing and peripheral nerve regeneration. The structure also has the mechanical and nutrient transport requirements required over long regeneration periods. To prepare a nerve guidance conduit, porous polymer sheet is prepared by a solvent casting method while using a template of thin rods to form parallel channels on a surface of the sheet. Aligned nanofibers are deposited on the sheet parallel to the channels. The polymer sheet is then wound to form a spiral structure. A dense layer of randomly-oriented nanofibers may be deposited on the outside of the spiral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: THE STEVENS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Xiaojun Yu, Wei Chang
  • Patent number: 9585667
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing a vascular treatment. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a vascular therapy device comprising a vascular treatment device and a feeder. The vascular treatment device can connect to a wire configured for use in vascular treatment. The vascular treatment device can rotate the wire. The feeder can be configured for controller the longitudinal translation of the wire. The feeder and the vascular treatment device can be independently or combinedly controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Vascular Insights LLC
    Inventors: Michael G. Tal, John P. Marano, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9585668
    Abstract: A medical device for insertion into a bodily vessel to treat an aneurysm (201), the device comprising: a mechanically expandable device (202) expandable from a first position to a second position, said mechanically expandable device (202) is expanded radially outwardly to the second position such that the exterior surface of said mechanically expandable (202) engages with the inner surface of the vessel so as to maintain a fluid pathway through said vessel; and a membrane (203) expandable from a first position to a second position in response to expansion of said mechanically expandable device (202), said membrane (203) obstructing blood circulation to the aneurysm (201) when expanded to the second position, and at least a portion of the membrane (203) is secured to the mechanically expandable device (202) to maintain the position of the membrane (203) relative to the mechanically expandable device (202) when expanded to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: MERLIN MD PTE LTD
    Inventors: Leon Rudakov, Michael O'Connor, Deepak Gandhi
  • Patent number: 9585669
    Abstract: Braid-balls suitable for aneurysm occlusion and/or parent vessel occlusion/sacrifice (e.g., in treating neurovascular defects) are disclosed. Especially for aneurysm treatment, but also for either one of the aforementioned treatments, the form of the ball is very important. In particular, the density of the device is paramount in applications where braid itself is intended to moderate or stop blood flow—allowing thrombosis within a volume formed by the ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Frank P. Becking, Arturo S. Rosqueta, Siddharth Loganathan
  • Patent number: 9585670
    Abstract: A medical flow restrictor that may be used to exclude a saccular aneurysm from the circulatory system. The device, a thin walled, foil-like shell, is compacted for delivery. The invention includes the device, electroforming fabrication methods, delivery assemblies, and methods of placing, and using, the device. A device with an aneurysm lobe and an artery lobe self-aligns its waist at the neck of an aneurysm as the device shell is pressure expanded. Negative pressure is used to collapse both the aneurysm lobe and the artery lobe, captivating the neck of the aneurysm and securing the device. The device works for aneurysms at bifurcations and aneurysms near side-branch arteries. The device, unlike endovascular coiling, excludes the weak neck of the aneurysm from circulation, while leaving the aneurysm relatively empty. Unlike stent-based exclusion, the device does not block perforator arteries. This exclusion device can also limit flow through body lumens or orifices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Electroformed Stents, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Hines
  • Patent number: 9585671
    Abstract: A hemostatic tablet preferably including potassium ferrate and a cation ion exchange resin pressure formed into a tablet for delivery to a bleeding wound. The tablet improves the rate of adhesion to a bleeding wound surface, and allows a significantly greater and more uniform pressure to be exerted by manual compression of the tablet on the wound site, as compared to that of a thin layer of scattered hemostatic powder. After the seal is formed from the interaction of blood or exudates with the immediate contacting surface of the tablet, the bulk of the unused tablet easily delaminates from the seal making clean up facile. If the unused portion of the tablet is not removed from the wound site, a reservoir of hemostatic dressing stops further bleeding and to provide antimicrobial protection and healing. The tablet may be applied to any surface orientation and take any shape and thickness possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Biolife, L.L.C.
    Inventors: John Hen, Talmadge Kelly Keene, Mark Travi
  • Patent number: 9585672
    Abstract: A device for implanting a prosthesis 12 in a body tissue equipped with a tubular element 7, within which a prosthesis 12 can slide, and a pressure element 16 for moving said prosthesis 12. The device also comprises a cartridge 5 provided with a seat 31 at its interior, such seat housing the prosthesis 12 and movable under the action of a pusher element 13 from a first position, in which the seat 31 is not facing the tubular element 7, to a second position, in which the seat 31 is in communication with the tubular element 7 in order to allow the insertion of the prosthesis 12 inside the tubular element 7 upon command of the pressure element 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: THD S.P.A.
    Inventor: Filippo Bastia
  • Patent number: 9585673
    Abstract: A surgical clip includes a first clamping arm and a second clamping arm rotatably coupled to each other and prestressed against each other into a closed position by a spring in the rotational direction, a first housing part being formed or arranged on the first clamping arm and a second housing part being formed or arranged on the second clamping arm, the housing parts forming a housing in which the spring is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Gerold Zieris, Corvin Motz, Joachim Amann
  • Patent number: 9585674
    Abstract: A clip unit includes: a clip body having a pair of arm parts; and a fastening ring arranged in the outside of the clip body and configured to maintain the arm parts in the closed state, in which the clip body includes a connection base section connecting the base end side of the pair of arm parts, and a connection tail section provided on the connection base section to extend opposite to the arm parts and connected to the front end of a transmission member, and the connection base section has a flat part perpendicular to the axial direction of the fastening ring, and the arm parts and the connection tail section are connected on a side of the flat part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: FUJIFILM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Terada
  • Patent number: 9585675
    Abstract: A medical device includes an elongated sleeve having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end and a distal end. A cutting member extends distally from the distal end of the elongated sleeve, and has sharp cutting edges. The cutting head is formed from a wear-resistant ceramic material, and a motor coupled to the proximal end of elongated sleeve rotate the cutting member. The cutter is engaged against bone and rotated to cut bone tissue without leaving any foreign particles in the site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: RELIGN Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron Germain, Kyle Klein, Michael D. Walker
  • Patent number: 9585676
    Abstract: A handheld surgical device includes a gripping mechanism for gripping pins or wires with a range of different sizes. The gripping mechanism includes a plurality of gripping blocks, the plurality of gripping blocks interacting to form a variable size channel. A sliding compression control element applies a compressive force to each gripping block and thereby grip a wire or pin within a range of sizes in the center of a pin/wire receiving channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: MicroAire Surgical Instruments LLC
    Inventors: Robert Scott Russo, John H. Pascaloff, Robert W. McKemie
  • Patent number: 9585677
    Abstract: A surgical device of a drill/driver with bit recognition to set a desired application mode and a method of utilization thereof is provided. Various operating modes of the drill/driver are automatically set by a sensor which recognizes the bit applied to the drill/driver. A method of utilizing the drill/driver allows the drill driver to apply surgical screws at very high speeds while automatically preventing excessive torque levels that would strip out the surgical screw from the patient's bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Zimmer Biomet CMF and Thoracic, LLC
    Inventors: Saddy R. Garcia, Bradley Winterroth, Ryan Nicholas Luby, Larry Miller, Christopher C. Dyer, Benjamin J. Gray, Allan J. Meredith
  • Patent number: 9585678
    Abstract: A facet joint is exposed at one side of the spine during surgery. An inclinometer is mounted on an elongated probe, and a pin is fixed on a spinous process near the exposed joint. The probe is swivelled about the pin so that a distal end of the probe contacts the joint and the inclinometer indicates a corresponding first trajectory. A second trajectory from the pin to an unexposed facet joint on the opposite side of the spine is defined as being symmetrical with the first trajectory about the spine axis. The inclinometer is mounted on a guide sleeve, and the sleeve is swivelled about the pin into the second trajectory. A wire is inserted through the sleeve until a tip of the wire penetrates the unexposed joint percutaneously. A facet screw is advanced over the wire and threaded percutaneously into the unexposed facet joint after the sleeve is withdrawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: Seth L. Neubardt
  • Patent number: 9585679
    Abstract: An attachment mechanism and method for attaching or coupling a guide wire to a catheter for re-canalization or opening a passage through an occlusion in a blood vessel is provided. The attachment mechanism generates friction forces against the guide wire to couple the guide wire to a catheter, which design permits a greater force to be used on the guide wire during a re-canalization procedure. The invention also encompasses use of the attachment mechanism in conjunction with active catheters, which have vibration-generating means to oscillate the distal end of the catheter or a component in the distal end of the catheter, to add vibration motion, preferably axial vibration motion, to the increased force that may be applied to the guide wire for purposes of penetrating an occlusion. The methods of the invention relate to methods of attaching the guide wire to the catheter and methods of treating a vessel having a partial or total occlusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: MEDINOL LTD.
    Inventors: Jacob Richter, Amir Pansky, Gal Demer
  • Patent number: 9585680
    Abstract: A method of retrieving calculus includes positioning an elongated member in the lumen of the living body, wherein the elongated member includes a sealing member positioned in the lumen of the elongated member and possessing an outer surface in sealing contact with the inner surface of the lumen of the elongated member. The method also involves proximally moving the sealing member while the outer surface of the sealing member is in contact with the inner surface of the lumen in the elongated member to cause fluid and calculus in the living body to pass through the inlet of the elongated member and be introduced into a retrieval space, discharging at least some of the fluid in the retrieval space out of the retrieval space by way of an outlet, and withdrawing the elongated member from the living body while the calculus in the retrieval space remains in the retrieval space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kei Honda, Takeshi Tsubouchi
  • Patent number: 9585681
    Abstract: Described here are paranasal sinus devices for treating paranasal sinus conditions. The devices include a cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion. One or more of the cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion may deliver an active agent for sustained release to treat the paranasal sinus condition. Exemplary paranasal sinus conditions are sinus inflammation due to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and rhinosinusitis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Intersect ENT, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Eaton, Thomas R. Tice, David B. Downie, Patrick A. Arensdorf, Rodney A. Brenneman, Danielle L. Biggs
  • Patent number: 9585682
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable stand-alone device (1), particularly suitable for use in surgery, micro-component handling and the like. The invention comprises: a micro-tool that can be removably coupled to a main casing (3); and actuation means for handling the micro-tool (2), associated with servomotors. The aforementioned actuation means comprise: a first actuator associated with a first servomotor (4), providing the micro-tool (2) with a degree of rotational freedom; a second actuator associated with a second servomotor and connected to the first actuator in order to move the micro-tool forwards and backwards in translation; and a third actuator (6) associated with a third servomotor, which oscillates the micro-tool in relation to the longitudinal axis of the first and second actuators. The first, second and third actuators are associated with a control unit (7) for determining the position of the micro-tool in space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Inventor: Jesus Hernandez Juanpera
  • Patent number: 9585683
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a movable member having a proximal portion, the movable member defining an opening at the proximal portion. The instrument includes a stationary member defining an aperture. The stationary member is arranged relative to the movable member with a close fit between the stationary member and the movable member such that aspiration occurs through the movable member substantially only during a portion of a repetitive motion of the movable member. The instrument includes a surgical handpiece coupled to the movable member and the stationary member to provide suction and motion to the movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas D. Sjostrom
  • Patent number: 9585684
    Abstract: Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Generally, ultrasound catheters include an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and, in some embodiments, a guidewire tube extending through the lumen. A distal head for disrupting occlusions is coupled with the distal end of the ultrasound transmission member and is positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body. Some embodiments include improved features such as a bend in the catheter body for enhancing positioning and/or advancement of the catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Flowcardia, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Nita, Jeff Sarge, Simon Nguyen
  • Patent number: 9585685
    Abstract: In an ultrasonic treatment instrument, a vibration generation section is connected to a probe from a proximal direction side in an inside of a case by coupling a drive assembly integrally and detachably to a handle assembly. An opposite extended portion is extended from the case in a state where the opposite extended portion is opposed to the movable handle on the proximal direction side with respect to the movable handle and a space between the opposite extended portion and the movable handle can be opened and closed, when the drive assembly is coupled to the handle assembly. A battery is located in the opposite extended portion, when the drive assembly is coupled to the handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ko Kawashima, Minoru Kawasaki, Kenichi Kimura, Kazunori Taniguchi