Patents Issued in March 28, 2017
  • Patent number: 9604002
    Abstract: A method of managing insulin includes receiving blood glucose measurements on a computing device from a glucometer. The blood glucose measurements are separated by a time interval. The method includes determining, using the computing device, an insulin dose rate based on the blood glucose measurements and determining a blood glucose drop rate based on the blood glucose measurements and the time interval. The method also includes determining a blood glucose percentage drop based on the blood glucose measurements. The method includes decreasing the time interval between blood glucose measurements by the glucometer when the blood glucose drop rate is greater than a threshold drop rate, and decreasing the time interval between blood glucose measurements by the glucometer when the blood glucose percentage drop is greater than a threshold percentage drop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Aseko, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Booth, Harry Hebblewhite
  • Patent number: 9604003
    Abstract: The invention relates to an auto-injector for administering a dose of a liquid medicament, comprising: an elongate case arranged to be held by a user, a tubular chassis telescopable in the case and biased against the case so as to protrude from the case, a syringe with a hollow injection needle, a drive spring and a plunger for forwarding load of the drive spring to a stopper of the syringe, a trigger button which is initially abutted against the case thus preventing actuation, wherein the chassis is arranged to translate into the case against the bias when pressed against an injection site, wherein the trigger button is at least initially coupled to the chassis in such a manner that the trigger button emerges from the case when the chassis is being pressed against the injection site so as to allow actuation by being translated towards the case for starting an injection cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GMBH
    Inventors: Simon Francis Brereton, Thomas Kemp, Rosie Burnell, Matthew Ekman
  • Patent number: 9604004
    Abstract: A drug delivery assembly comprises a drug delivery device, an electronic dose logging module releasably attachable to the drug delivery device, and a cap releasably attachable to the logging module to cover an outlet portion of a mounted drug reservoir. The logging module and the drug delivery device comprise mating snap coupling means. The logging module comprises locking means acting on the locking module snap coupling means, wherein the locking means is actuated from the unlocked to the locked state when the cap is attached to the logging module in a first direction, and the locking means is actuated from the locked to the unlocked state when the cap is detached from the logging module in a second direction opposed to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Novo Nordisk A/S
    Inventor: Nikolaj Eusebius Jakobsen
  • Patent number: 9604005
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for injecting a medium into or underneath the skin with a series of pressure pulses. The device includes a reservoir (1) for the medium, an application unit (10) to inject the medium into or under the skin, a hydraulic high-pressure pump (6) to pump the medium out of the reservoir (1) into the applicator unit (10), and an electronic control unit (11) that is suitable for regulating the applicator unit (10) such that the medium is injected with a series of pressure pulses into or underneath the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Jürgen Stockmar
  • Patent number: 9604006
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cartridge for a drug delivery device, comprising a barrel of substantially cylindrical shape and at least one piston arrangement displaceably arranged in the barrel, wherein the piston arrangement occupies at least 20% of the volume confined by the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: SANOFI-AVENTIS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Axel Teucher, Michael Jugl
  • Patent number: 9604007
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical injection system comprising a medical injection device (100) of the type comprising a rotatable dose setting member (160). The system further comprises a dose limiter module (200) adapted for being releasably coupled to the injection device (100). The dose limiter module (200) comprises a dose limiter base (201) and a limiter (240) arranged relative to the dose limiter base (201) so that their relative position is adjustable to set an adjusted dose limiting position. When the dose limiter module (200) is coupled to the injection device (100), the limiter (240) cooperates with the dose setting member (160) to define a blocking means for preventing rotation of the dose setting member (160) beyond the adjusted dose limiting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Novo Nordisk A/S
    Inventors: Bastian Gaardsvig Kjeldsen, Brian Mouridsen
  • Patent number: 9604008
    Abstract: A drive mechanism suitable for use in drug delivery devices is disclosed. The drive mechanism may be used with injector-type drug delivery devices, such as those permitting a user to set the delivery dose. The drive mechanism may include a housing, a dose dial sleeve, and a drive sleeve. A clutch is configured to permit rotation of the drive sleeve and the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are coupled through the clutch. Conversely, when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are in a de-coupled state, rotation of the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing is permitted and rotation of the drive sleeve with respect to the housing is prevented. In the de-coupled state, axial movement of the drive sleeve transfers force in a longitudinal direction for actuation of a drug delivery device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Frederick Veasey, Robert Perkins, David Aubrey Plumptre
  • Patent number: 9604009
    Abstract: A drive mechanism suitable for use in drug delivery devices is disclosed. The drive mechanism may be used with injector-type drug delivery devices, such as those permitting a user to set the delivery dose. The drive mechanism may include a housing, a dose dial sleeve, and a drive sleeve. A clutch is configured to permit rotation of the drive sleeve and the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are coupled through the clutch. Conversely, when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are in a de-coupled state, rotation of the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing is permitted and rotation of the drive sleeve with respect to the housing is prevented. In the de-coupled state, axial movement of the drive sleeve transfers force in a longitudinal direction for actuation of a drug delivery device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Frederick Veasey, Robert Perkins, David Aubrey Plumptre
  • Patent number: 9604010
    Abstract: A retractable needle is provided for a syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger that comprises a portion capable of engaging the retractable needle for retraction. The retractable needle comprises a cannula, a needle body having a plunger-engaging member, at least one aperture and an elongate portion which houses the cannula, the cannula comprising an end which is in fluid communication with the at least one aperture, wherein the at least one aperture is located between the plunger-engaging member and the elongate portion. The positioning of the at least one aperture distal to the plunger-engaging member maximizes the efficiency of fluid delivery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Unitract Syringe PTY LTD
    Inventors: Craig Stephen Thorley, Joseph Hermes Kaal, Christopher Rafferty, Huw Umberto Wallis, Ernesto Hueso-Monis, Kamman Law, Richard Sokolov
  • Patent number: 9604011
    Abstract: According to the invention, a safety device for a pre-filled syringe comprises a hollow support body for retaining the pre-filled syringe, a hollow needle shield that is movable relative to the support body from a first position to a second position, releasable mounting means to mount the pre-filled syringe within the support body and a spring means arranged within the support body in a non-energized or only slightly energized state. The movement of the needle shield from the first position to the second position fully energizes the spring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GMBH
    Inventors: Gareth Roberts, Sioned Owen, Matthew Ekman
  • Patent number: 9604012
    Abstract: A barrel with a cap, a pre-filled syringe, and a cap with a connector that accommodate connection-receiving bodies of the Luer lock type and of the slip-in type, are provided. Some versions include: a connector (3) detachably coupled to a cap (2) so as to be separated from the barrel (1) together with the cap (2) when the connector (3) is located at an initial position where the connector (3) is attached to a barrel (1) via the cap (2); and a connector-side engaging part (33) that engages a barrel-side engaging part (13) of the barrel (1) when the connector (3) is located at an attached position that is closer to a proximal end in an axial direction of the barrel (1) than the initial position, allowing the connector (3) to remain attached to the barrel (1) by being detached from the cap (2) separated from a nozzle (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Taisei Kako Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Taiji Horita, Norihiko Asahi, Ippei Matsumoto, Kensuke Taniguchi, Takeshi Karasawa, Akemi Sasaki
  • Patent number: 9604013
    Abstract: A pen needle assembly having a hub with an increased surface area that contacts a patient's skin is provided. The increased contact area of the hub with the patient's skin during injection of a cannula decreases the pressure exerted against the patient's skin, thereby increasing the comfort of the patient. A bonding adhesive is disposed on an outer surface of the hub, thereby decreasing the required curing time of the adhesive. Additionally, the increased contact area, between the cannula adhesive and hub increases the strength of the bond therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Joshua D. Horvath
  • Patent number: 9604014
    Abstract: A system for detecting and removing a gas bubble from a vascular infusion line, comprising a disposable cassette adapted for disposition intermediate the fluid line, the disposable cassette comprising a body comprising an inlet port, a chamber, an outlet port, and a purge port, a first passageway connecting the inlet port to the chamber, the first passageway comprising a first bubble detection section where a gas bubble may be detected within the first passageway, a second passageway connecting the chamber with the outlet port, and a first pinch valve disposed along the second passageway intermediate the chamber and the outlet port, and a third passageway connecting the chamber with the purge port, the third passageway comprising a second bubble detection section where a gas bubble may be detected within the third passageway, and a second pinch valve disposed along the third passageway intermediate the chamber and the bubble detection section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Clearline MD, LLC
    Inventors: Ihsan A. Haddad, David T. Healey
  • Patent number: 9604015
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a single-use syringe comprising a barrel (10) having an internal surface defining a chamber for retaining a fluid, a plunger (1) formed by an elongated body including a plurality of longitudinal fins (2) and optionally a piston (3) connected to the end of the plunger close to the needle, the external surface of the piston or of the end of the plunger in the case of not including a piston being in leak-tight connection with the internal surface of the barrel, where the barrel has a general external shape of a cylinder of revolution with a constant radius circular base and a variable internal shape, forming the wall of the barrel with variable thickness, generating a chamber inside which a plunger incorporating a plurality of fins (2) slides; each of the longitudinal fins (2) of the plunger has a constant height along its entire length but different from that of at least one of the other fins, which height is suitable in each fin so that the plunger (1) can be inserted tightly w
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Ma. Lourdes Gramage Piña
    Inventor: Ma. Lourdes Gramage Pina
  • Patent number: 9604016
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating aerosol comprises a capillary tube comprising at least one bend, fluid inlets, and an outlet along the bend. The capillary tube is heated to a temperature sufficient to volatilize fluid in the capillary tube, such that the volatilized fluid discharges from the outlet to form an aerosol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: Shane Price, Evgeni Sychev, Marc D. Belcastro, Jeffrey A. Swepston
  • Patent number: 9604017
    Abstract: The invention relates to a powder inhaler with at least one specially sharpened needle, to ensure the precise piercing or cutting open of capsules and hence the optimum delivery of powdered medicament compositions, medicament formulations or medicament mixtures, as well as ensuring that little effort is needed to perforate or cut open the capsule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Hubert Hoelz, Stefan Lustenberger, Torsten Kuehn, Herbert Wachtel, Rolf Kuhn
  • Patent number: 9604018
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to an aerosol therapy device including: a housing; an aerosol generator, which is arranged in the housing; an air inlet, which is formed in the housing upstream of the aerosol generator; and an air outlet, which is formed in the housing downstream of the aerosol generator to administer the aerosol produced, wherein an air flow from the air inlet to the air outlet can be generated by a negative pressure at the air outlet, wherein the air flow flows around the aerosol generator, wherein a truncated-cone-shaped flow channel, the central axis of which extends in a curved manner, is arranged between the aerosol generator and the air outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: PARI Pharma GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Gallem, Uwe Hetzer, Mihaela Loenner
  • Patent number: 9604019
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a detector, a pressure sensor and a processor. The detector is operable to detect light that is scattered by an aerosol that is associated with a pressure. The pressure sensor is operable to measure the pressure. The processor is coupled to the detector and to the pressure sensor, and is configured to receive at least a signal from the detector and the pressure sensor. The processor is further configured to use the received signals to calculate a volume of the first aerosol, and to output an output signal associated with the calculated volume. The various measurements can be repeated and compared, and the output signal can be a feedback signal for metering subsequent amounts of the aerosol, based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: David E. Altobelli, Larry B. Gray, Derek G. Kane
  • Patent number: 9604020
    Abstract: The anesthesia systems have an integrated, extendable clinical center and clinician/anesthesia office that accommodates for a physical separation of clinical and clerical functions. The anesthesia system includes an alarm reversion system which enables a predefined alarm limit to be set and then to be automatically reverted back to an alarm limit existing just before the predefined alarm limit was set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Spacelabs Healthcare LLC
    Inventors: Ronald Tobia, Andrew Levi, Gary Choncholas, Bruce Dammann, Erik J. Bluemner, Ben Schoepke, Patrick Flanagan, Lee Dalgety, Cory Boudreau, Sheldon Roberts, Dorian Lust
  • Patent number: 9604021
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for controlling a ventilator to automatically adjust ventilation assistance to an active or passive subject. The method includes determining volume and flow rate of gas to the patient during inspiration on an ongoing basis, and generating control signals in proportion to the volume and flow rate of gas to the patient wherein proportionality factors, and support levels for the elastic and resistive components of pressure are automatically adjusted by the ventilator. The ongoing pressure applied by the ventilator is a sum of elastic and resistive pressures that are automatically controlled by the system. When the patient breathes spontaneously, the support levels are automatically adjusted based on the patient's requirements. If the patient does not breathe spontaneously, the ventilator provides ventilation at an optimal level and rate. The method may be used in weaning or in a management phase of ventilation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Fleur Taher Tehrani
  • Patent number: 9604022
    Abstract: A portable, compact closed circuit ventilation device for manual ventilation of a patient undergoing a surgical or medical procedure that requires sedation as well as emergency management of respiratory failure. One example embodiment includes a closed breathing circuit having a manually squeezable bag, a carbon dioxide absorption canister, a plurality of valves, a gas port and a plurality of sensors for measuring Tidal Volume (TV), Peak Airway Pressure (PAP) and End Tidal CO2 (ETCO2). Another example embodiment includes an open breathing circuit having a bag, valves and sensors. A monitor displays the sensor measurements during the respiratory phases. In a spontaneously breathing patient the device may be used to assess the adequacy of patient's respiratory efforts. During manual or assisted ventilation, the monitor assures safe and efficacious ventilation by the closed breathing circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Osborne Williams
  • Patent number: 9604023
    Abstract: A patient interface device (8) for delivering a flow of breathing gas to an airway of a patient is provided that includes a patient contacting component (9, 90) having a patient contacting surface structured to engage the face of the patient when the patient interface device is donned by the patient, the patient contacting surface also including a plurality of ribs (40, 52, 62, 72, 82, 96) extending therefrom. The patient contacting component may be, without limitation, a mask having a mask cushion, a forehead support having a forehead cushion, a cheek pad or a chin pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Jerome Matula, Jr., Derrick Blake Andrews, Peter Chi Fai Ho
  • Patent number: 9604024
    Abstract: A divided cannula comprising a cannula body which is divided by a partitioning wall into first and second flow chambers. The first flow chamber has first and second spaced apart nare passages while the second flow chamber has first and second spaced apart nare passages. The cannula body supports spaced apart first and second nares and each of the first and the second nares defines a common nare passage. The first nare passage of the first internal flow chamber and the first nare passage of the second internal flow chamber both communicate with the common nare passage of the first nare and the second nare passage of the first internal flow chamber and the second nare passage of the second internal flow chamber both communicate with the common nare passage of the second nare. A pressure sensing line and a gas supply line interconnected to the divided cannula with a gas supply system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Salter Labs
    Inventor: James N. Curti
  • Patent number: 9604025
    Abstract: A patient interface assembly includes a support member having a central support portion and a pair of cheek mount supports coupled to the central portion. Each cheek mount support applies a force on or on a side of a user's cheekbone. A seal member is coupled to the support portion and seals against the user. An additional nasal support member is provided that includes a first lateral side member operatively coupled to the central support portion and arranged to be disposed along a first side of a user's nose, and a second lateral side member also operatively coupled the central support portion and arranged to be disposed along a second side of a user's nose. At least a portion of the first lateral side member and the second lateral side member is rigid or semi rigid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Sander Theodoor Pastoor, Krijn Frederik Bustraan, Tom Jan Severijn, Adrianus Johannes Josephus Van Der Horst, Jerome Matula, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9604026
    Abstract: A medical carbon monoxide generator provides for a solid carbon material that may be heated at substantially normal atmospheric pressure to provide a source of medical quality carbon monoxide. The heating source may be an electrical filament or laser controllable by a microcontroller to provide accurate delivery rates and amounts. In one embodiment, a replaceable cartridge holding the carbon material may be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Tye Travis Gribb, Duncan Bathe
  • Patent number: 9604027
    Abstract: An HME has exchange elements (4) at opposite ends of a tubular housing (1, 101) and a central port (2) for connection to a tracheal tube (3). An oxygen port (5, 105, 105?) is located centrally with the major part of it being contained within a recess (40, 140, 140?) on the exterior of the housing and extending at right angles to the length of the housing. The oxygen port (5, 105, 105?) opens into a wider passage (32, 32?) extending within the housing, which opens on the external face (30) of the two exchange elements (4). A large suction aperture (60) aligns with the port (2) opening to the tracheal tube (3) and is covered by a hinged flap (61) when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: SMITHS GROUP PLC
    Inventor: Mark Andrew Graham
  • Patent number: 9604028
    Abstract: Various systems and devices for generating nitric oxide are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, the device includes a body having an inlet, an outlet, and a porous solid matrix positioned with the body. The porous solid matrix is coated with an aqueous solution of an antioxidant, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a gas flow and fluidly communicate the gas flow to the outlet through the solid matrix to convert nitrogen dioxide in the gas flow into nitric oxide. The porous solid matrix allows the device to be used in any orientation. Additionally, the porous solid matrix provides a rigid structure suitable to withstand vibrations and abuse without compromising device functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: GENO LLC
    Inventors: David H. Fine, Bryan Johnson, Gregory Vasquez
  • Patent number: 9604029
    Abstract: A device for generating sensory stimuli, corresponding to sensory stimuli emanating from a reference person, for a child comprises a receiving unit for receiving a data stream from a device for acquiring sensory stimuli, emanating from a reference person, and a transducer unit, which is coupled to the receiving unit and is controllable by the data stream. The transducer unit generates at least either body-borne sound, which corresponds to the heart sounds, described by the data stream, of the reference person, or movements, which correspond to the movements, described by the data stream, of the reference person, or airborne sound, which corresponds to the airborne sound generated by the reference person and is described by the data stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Baybe GmbH
    Inventors: Camilo Andres Anabalón Alamos, Raphael Patrick Manfred Lang
  • Patent number: 9604030
    Abstract: A hub for a sheath, catheter, or other tubular device includes a first hub portion including a first hub lumen sized for receiving a medical device therethrough, and a second hub portion including a second hub lumen, the second hub portion coupled to the first hub portion such that the first and second hub lumens are aligned with one another and the first and second hub portions are spaced apart from one another to define a gap. A valve is secured within the gap between the first and second hub portions that includes a valve passage therethrough, e.g., for accommodating receiving a medical device through the first and second hub lumens into the tubular device, while providing a substantially fluid tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: AUST DEVELOPMENT, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen A. Leeflang, Christian S. Eversull
  • Patent number: 9604031
    Abstract: Brackets, systems comprising a bracket, and methods for securing medical articles. The bracket can include a base, a post coupled to the base and extending upwardly from the base in a direction generally normal to a first major surface of the base, and an arm coupled to the base and extending generally parallel to the first major surface of the base. The arm can be spaced a distance from the first major surface of the base to define a channel under the arm that is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article. The arm can be cantilevered, and the post and the arm can each be fixed with respect to the base. Methods can include abutting an external surface of the medical article against the post; and moving a portion of the medical article into the channel defined by the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Steven B. Heinecke, Phong V. Ha, Donald G. Peterson, Daniel P. DeCabooter, Matthew H. Fryxell, Jia Hu, Peter M. Eisenberg, Thomas G. Skulley
  • Patent number: 9604032
    Abstract: An elastic cap for covering the distal end of a catheter having inner and outer hoses, characterized in that the cap consists essentially of an elastic material, has a cavity in which the distal end of the inner and the outer hose of a catheter can be received, and the cap has a first opening via which the cavity is accessible from the outside, wherein prior to receiving the distal end of the catheter, the first opening has a diameter which is not larger than the outer diameter of the inner hose of the catheter and wherein the first opening is elastically expandable to a diameter which corresponds to the outer diameter of the outer hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: BIOTRONIK AG
    Inventor: Amir Fargahi
  • Patent number: 9604033
    Abstract: A body cavity drainage device includes a drainage tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and one or more lumens extending longitudinally through a wall thereof. The distal end may be configured to be inserted into a body cavity of a patient during use of the body cavity drainage device. An activation apparatus is configured to alter a position of the distal end of the drainage tube relative to the proximal end of the drainage tube. The activation apparatus may include a rotatable control device and one or more flexible members disposed within the one or more lumens extending longitudinally through a wall of the drainage tube. The one or more flexible members may be operably coupled to the rotatable control device and to the drainage tube. Methods relate to forming and using a body cavity drainage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Harrison M. Lazarus
    Inventor: Harrison M. Lazarus
  • Patent number: 9604034
    Abstract: A retainer comprises a first member and a second member. The first member can define at least a portion of a channel. The channel can have a longitudinal axis and be configured to receive at least a portion of a medical article. The second member can be moveable with respect to the first member, between locked and unlocked positions. The second member can contact the portion of the medical article received by the channel at least when in the locked position so as to inhibit longitudinal movement of the medical article relative to the retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventor: Rafael V. Andino
  • Patent number: 9604035
    Abstract: This invention provides devices and methods for insertion of a catheter into a vessel. The devices include coaxial slidably mounted needle, dilator and catheter components. The methods include piercing a vessel with the needle component, dilating the pierced hole with the dilator component, retraction of the needle component, insertion of the catheter and withdrawal of the dilator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: I-V Access Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen R. Keyser, James E. Miller, III
  • Patent number: 9604036
    Abstract: A balloon catheter is provided that may be used to dilate hardened regions of a stenosis. The balloon catheter is provided with one or more dilation elements that extend along a surface of a balloon. Each dilation element is connected to an outer surface of the balloon by a connector. The connector is sufficiently sized and designed to undergo stress-induced plastic deformation incurred during blow molding so that a significant portion of each of the dilation elements does not become absorbed into the wall of the final blow molded balloon, thereby maintaining the structural integrity of each of the dilation elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: COOK MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: David G. Burton, Darin G. Schaeffer, David A. Drewes
  • Patent number: 9604037
    Abstract: Described in one aspect is a multi-pressure monitoring system for cell or other therapy includes a first catheter having a first lumen for accepting a treatment device, a second lumen for inflating a balloon, a pressure sensor for monitoring fluid pressure within the first lumen, and a flow restrictor such as a hemostasis valve for limiting the exchange of fluids into and out of the first lumen while treatment devices are present or exchanged in the first lumen. Also disclosed is a method of using the first catheter with a first pressure monitor coupled to the first pressure sensor along with a second catheter attached to a second pressure sensor coupled to a second pressure monitor. The second catheter is positioned within the first lumen of the first catheter during treatment operations and the first and second pressure monitors are used to verify proper pressures throughout the procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Muffin Incorporated
    Inventors: Frank J. Fischer, Jr., James R. Randolph, Neal E. Fearnot, Jimmy L. Taylor, Jr., Gary Bradford Shirley
  • Patent number: 9604038
    Abstract: According to embodiments, disclosed is an inflation and deflation device for an inflatable medical device, comprising: an inflation tubing disposed between an access block and a roller configured to rotate about an axis of a roller head; wherein the inflation tubing provides fluid communication between a container and the inflatable medical device; wherein the access block and the roller are configured to restrict flow through the inflation tubing at the area of pressure between the roller and the access block; and wherein the rotation of the roller about the axis of the roller head is configured to transport a fluid within the inflation tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: ReShape Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Pecor, Jason Kwok, Mark Ashby
  • Patent number: 9604039
    Abstract: A self-clearing actuator configured to be positioned in a pore providing fluid communication into a central lumen of a ventricular catheter body is described. The actuator extends into a central bore via a cantilever beam having a first end emanating at the central bore and a second end terminating at the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to reciprocate within the central bore between a first position extending downward at an angle into the central bore and a second position substantially at or above the external surface of the catheter. The cantilever beam is stressed, e.g. via a composite compress layer, such that it is preloaded to nominally curve downward to extend the actuator into the second position. The actuator is preferably a magnet responsive to magnetic field such that the magnetic field drives the actuator toward the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Jack W. Judy, Hyowon Lee, Marvin Bergsneider
  • Patent number: 9604040
    Abstract: A system and method for performing spine surgery, including a tissue distraction assembly. The tissue distraction assembly includes an initial dilator, a secondary dilator, a first expander, and a second expander. The tissue distraction assembly is provided with an overall generally oblong shape. The tissue distraction assembly provides for asymmetrical tissue distraction in a single direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: NUVASIVE, INC.
    Inventors: Troy B. Woolley, Nathan Lovell
  • Patent number: 9604041
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a body and a conduit. The body comprises an absorbent material. The conduit is in fluid communication with the body. The conduit has a suction opening positioned within the absorbent material. The conduit is operable to draw fluid away from the absorbent material. The apparatus may be positioned within the posterior choana or the nasopharynx of a patient using a deployment instrument. The apparatus may prevent fluids from draining from the nasal cavity into the patient's throat. In some instances, the apparatus is used as a plug during a sinus irrigation procedure to prevent irrigation fluid from traveling down the patient's throat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Acclarent, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Jenkins, Jessica M. Liberatore, Randy J. Kesten, Radit Tantisira
  • Patent number: 9604042
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a stricture in a body lumen. The method comprises (a) sensing pressure being exerted by a treatment device on the stricture, (b) determining if enough force is being exerted on the stricture, (c) if enough force is being exerted on the stricture, timing the application of enough force, (d) determining if too much force is being exerted by the treatment device on the stricture, (e) if too much force is being applied to the stricture, decrementing the force being applied to the stricture, (f) determining if not enough force is being applied to the stricture, (g) if not enough force is being applied to the stricture incrementing the force being applied to the stricture, and (h) repeating (a)-(g) until (i) a desired pressure has been maintained on the tissue for a desired time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Hansa Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Dart A. Fox, Eric D. Blom, Brian Kamradt
  • Patent number: 9604043
    Abstract: A capacitive fluid level sensing arrangement for use in a medical device is provided. The arrangement includes at least one pair of conductive plates configured to increase and decrease the amount of electric charge stored in relation to the level of fluid within a fluid maintaining device, such as a reservoir. The conductive plates are electrically connected to a medical device and are configured to measure the charge stored between the plates and thus sense the fluid level. The electric circuit may communicate the measurement to an instrument host arrangement for operating a pump configured to remove fluid from the reservoir and move the fluid to a collector when the level exceeds a preset upper level amount. The instrument host arrangement may stop operating the pump when the fluid level is reduced to a preset lower level amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventor: David A. King
  • Patent number: 9604044
    Abstract: A connection device for use in the negative pressure therapy of wounds, includes a flexible conduit having at least two lumens and being constructed for impingement with negative pressure and/or fluid media; a coupling body made of an elastomeric flexible material, and non-detachably molded onto a wound-side end section of the conduit and being constructed for arrangement on a negative pressure bandage which covers the wound and seals the wound against the atmosphere, wherein the conduit communicates with a wound space through at least one opening in the coupling body; and a fluid inlet section for insertion through an opening in the negative pressure bandage into the wound space. The fluid inlet section is formed on the coupling body and protrudes over a walling of the coupling body, which walling faces the negative pressure bandage. The fluid inlet section is fluidly connected interiorly of the coupling body with a further lumen for delivering a fluid medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: PAUL HARTMANN AG
    Inventors: Axel Eckstein, Pierre Croizat, Cornelia Wolf
  • Patent number: 9604045
    Abstract: Described is a lock connection device for medical fluid lines comprising a first connector for coupling a first medical fluid line and a second connector for coupling a second medical fluid line, wherein both connectors are adapted for releasable attachment to each other. The device comprises a first closing member adapted to be releasably attached to the first connector so as to close it, and a second closing member adapted to be releasably attached to the second connector so as to close it. The first and second closing members are configured to attach to each other. If the first closing member is attached to the first connector and the second closing member is attached to the first closing member and the second connector, the first closing member can be detached from the first connector wherein the second closing member remains attached to the first closing member and the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: MICREL MEDICAL DEVICES, S.A.
    Inventor: Achilleas Tsoukalis
  • Patent number: 9604046
    Abstract: A protective cap for use with a medical fluid fitting including a fitting thread and a sealing portion having a sealing surface. The protective cap includes a body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a cap thread extending axially. The cap thread is configured to threadedly engage the fitting thread for releasably coupling the protective cap with the medical fluid fitting, and defines a tapered engagement surface. The tapered engagement surface tapers axially relative to a longitudinal axis of the body, and is configured to frictionally contact the fitting thread for retaining the protective cap in coupling engagement with the medical fluid fitting. The protective cap is configured to peripherally surround the sealing portion such that no portion of the protective cap contacts the sealing surface when the protective cap is coupled with the medical fluid fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: NORDSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kyle R. Steele
  • Patent number: 9604047
    Abstract: A gland member within a medical valve is configured to have a substantially consistent or enlarging internal volume as the valve transitions from a closed mode to an open mode. The valve has a housing forming an interior containing a flow path, and a stationary post member within the interior. The post member has a lumen that is a part of the flow path. The lumen has an opening to the interior of the housing. The valve further includes a gland member circumscribing the post member to produce a variable volume region formed at least in part between the gland member itself and the post member. The variable volume region is a part of the flow path, while the gland member occludes the post lumen opening when in the closed mode. The variable volume region has an open volume that is no less than its closed volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: NP Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Brian L. Newton, Andrew L. Cote, Sr., Charles F. Ganem, David B. Woyak, Richard T. Boisjoly
  • Patent number: 9604048
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation lead has a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and a longitudinal length and includes a lead body extending along the lead. The lead body includes an expandable mesh disposed along the distal end portion of the lead. The electrical stimulation lead also includes a number of electrodes attached to the mesh and a number of terminals disposed along the proximal end portion of the electrical stimulation lead. Further, the electrical stimulation lead includes multiple conductors electrically coupling the terminals to the electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Michael X. Govea
  • Patent number: 9604049
    Abstract: An electrical implantable lead includes an elongated lead body having a plurality of lumens therein, including at least one linear lumen and at least one planar, non-linear lumen and a plurality of conductor cables disposed within the plurality of lumens. The electrical implantable lead further includes a terminal connector coupled to a proximal end of the lead body, the terminal connector being in electrical communication with at least one of the plurality of conductor cables. Further, the electrical implantable lead includes at least one electrode coupled to the lead body, the at least one electrode in electrical communication with at least one of the plurality of conductor cables. In accordance with various embodiments, the at least one non-linear lumen extends longitudinally along a portion of the lead body and includes a plurality or crests and a plurality of troughs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Lily Lim, Devon N. Arnholt, Joel T. Eggert, Andrew De Kock, Paul E. Zarembo, Christopher A. Hartemink
  • Patent number: 9604050
    Abstract: A multi-needle paddle lead introducer includes a needle assembly, a hub assembly, and a sheath. The needle assembly includes at least one primary needle and at least one secondary needle. The secondary needle is coupled to the primary needle along a portion of the longitudinal length of the needle assembly such that the primary needle and the secondary needle are arranged in a side-by-side configuration. The secondary needle is configured and arranged to move relative to the primary needle along the longitudinal length of the needle assembly. The hub assembly includes a primary needle hub coupled to a proximal end portion of the primary needle and a secondary needle hub coupled to a proximal end portion of the primary needle. The sheath is configured and arranged for disposing over a portion of an outer surface of the needle assembly and for sliding along the longitudinal length of the needle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: John Michael Barker
  • Patent number: 9604051
    Abstract: The neural interface system of the preferred embodiments includes an electrode array having a plurality of electrode sites and a carrier that supports the electrode array. The electrode array is coupled to the carrier such that the electrode sites are arranged both circumferentially around the carrier and axially along the carrier. A group of the electrode sites may be simultaneously activated to create an activation pattern. The system of the preferred embodiment is preferably designed for deep brain stimulation, and, more specifically, for deep brain stimulation with fine electrode site positioning, selectivity, tunability, and precise activation patterning. The system of the preferred embodiments, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment (such as the spinal cord, peripheral nerve, muscle, or any other suitable anatomical location) and for any suitable reason.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Rio J. Vetter, Daryl R. Kipke, David Pellinen, David J. Anderson, Jamille Farraye Hetke