Patents Issued in April 20, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170105728
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft assembly, an end effector, and a staple cartridge. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes an anvil that is configured to form a plurality of staples pressed against the anvil. The first and second jaws are configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The staple cartridge is received within the second jaw. The staple cartridge includes a deck and a plurality of staples. The deck has a plurality of staple openings. The staples are positioned within respective staple openings. At least one of the staple openings obliquely crosses a centerline of the end effector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170105729
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector with a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge includes a deck, a terminal driver assembly, and a wedge sled. The terminal driver assembly is positioned adjacent to a distal tip of the staple cartridge. The terminal driver assembly is configured to receive a first terminal portion of staples in the staple cartridge. The terminal driver assembly at least partially defines a storage space therebelow within jaw of the end effector. The wedge sled is configured to longitudinally slide proximate to the deck and engage the terminal driver assembly and force the terminal portion of the plurality of staples toward the anvil for formation in tissue. At least a majority of the wedge sled is configured to fit within the storage space and not slide distally beyond the terminal driver assembly when the wedge sled is in the distal sled position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170105730
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector with a staple cartridge. The end effector and staple cartridge extend along a centerline and have an arcuate portion. The staple cartridge includes a deck and a plurality of staples. The plurality of staples include an outer set of staples and an inner set of staples for respective receipt within outer and inner rows of staple openings formed through the deck. At least one staple of the outer set of staples has an elongated crown relative to the inner set of staples such that the outer set of staples are configured to overlap with the inner set of staples in a direction transverse to the centerline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170105731
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft assembly and an end effector extending from the shaft assembly along a jaw centerline. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first and second jaws are configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The first jaw and the second jaw define a straight portion of the end effector and an arcuate portion of the end effector. The arcuate portion extends distally from the straight portion such that the arcuate portion of the end effector is configured to provide access to tissue within a patient for treatment. The first jaw has an anvil that is configured to form a plurality of staples pressed against the anvil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170105732
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector. The end effector includes a first jaw, a second jaw, and a translating member. The first jaw includes an anvil, an upper elongated channel extending therethrough, and a first plurality of indicia positioned proximate to the first elongated channel. The second jaw includes a second elongated channel extending therethrough and a second plurality of indicia positioned proximate to the second elongated channel. The translating member is received within the first and second channels. The translating member is configured to slide distally along the first and second channels and engage a wedge sled for forming staples. The translating member includes a first indicator and a second indicator, wherein the first and second indicators in conjunction with the first and lower plurality of indicia are respectively configured to indicate one or both of staple usage or a cut position to an operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20170105733
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector extending along a jaw centerline. A staple cartridge is received in the end effector. The staple cartridge includes deck, staples, a wedge sled, and a driver assembly. The staples are positioned in respective openings formed through the deck. The wedge sled is slidable through the staple cartridge. The driver assembly has a first driver and a second driver. The first driver receives a first staple of the plurality of staples. The second driver receives a second staple of the plurality of staples. The driver assembly is configured to be engaged by the wedge sled sliding toward the distal sled position and thereby be forced toward a first jaw of the end effector, thereby forcing the first and second staples toward an anvil of the first jaw for formation in tissue. The driver assembly is positioned along the centerline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Nicholas Fanelli
  • Publication number: 20170105734
    Abstract: A staples push unit of a tacker includes a guide plate located at a staple outlet of the tacker. A motor is located in the tacker and has an output shaft to which a driving gear is connected. A slide and a push plate connected to the slide are movably located in a slot in the tacker. A rack is formed at one side of the slide and engaged with the teeth of the driving gear. A spring board has one end engaged with one end of the slide. When activating the motor, the driving gear drives the rack to move the slide, and the spring board is bent. When the teeth of the driving gear are disengaged from the rack, the spring board bounces back and drives the slide and the push plate to eject a staple. The push plate is guided by the guide plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Tsung-Wen HUANG
  • Publication number: 20170105735
    Abstract: An adapter assembly for connecting an end effector to a handle assembly includes first, second, and third drive assemblies configured for converting rotational motion from the handle assembly to linear motion for performing first, second, and third functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Justin Williams
  • Publication number: 20170105736
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus (10) includes a tissue gap adjustment mechanism (260) having a stop member (250), an asymmetrical polygonal washer (264), and a set screw (262). The stop member (250) is supported on a drive screw (220), includes first and second flanges (255a, 255b), and defines a transverse slot (254) between the flanges (255a, 255b). The stop member (250) sets a minimum tissue gap. The washer (264) defines an eccentrically positioned aperture (268) and includes a plurality of pairs of opposed flat sides (269a-269h). The set screw (262) is configured to fix the stop member (250) relative to the drive screw (220). The washer (264) is selectively rotatable about the set screw (262) to position a selected pair of sides (269a-269h) between and in engagement with the flanges (255a, 255b) to set the position of the aperture (268) of the washer (264) relative to the transverse slot (254), thereby setting the stop member (250) relative to the drive screw (220) and defining the minimum tissue gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Lin Chen, Zhan Hui, Jiangfeng Zhang, Wei Hu, Xiliang Zhang, Feng Wang
  • Publication number: 20170105737
    Abstract: A shell assembly includes a housing, a cartridge, and a hollow bushing. The housing defines a longitudinal axis and a cavity. The cartridge is supported on the housing and includes a plurality of staples. The hollow bushing is positioned within the cavity of the housing. The hollow bushing includes a distal portion and a proximal portion formed of a rigid material, and an expandable portion that connects the distal and proximal portions. The hollow bushing has an initial configuration where the hollow bushing defines a first length along the longitudinal axis and a stretched configuration where the hollow bushing defines a second length along the longitudinal axis which is greater than the first length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Justin Williams, Christopher Penna
  • Publication number: 20170105738
    Abstract: A method for producing an in vivo indwelling member having a secondary coil in which a secondary shape is given to a linear primary coil with a primary shape given to a linear material, includes: a first three-dimensional body formation step of forming a first three-dimensional body by aligning in a loop a plurality of segments, each of the segments being formed by winding the primary coil at least once, so that a part of the primary coil is spatially arranged; a second three-dimensional body formation step of forming a second three-dimensional body by aligning in a loop a plurality of segments, each of the segments being formed by winding the primary coil at least once, so that at least a part of the rest of the primary coil is spatially arranged after the formation of the first three-dimensional body; and an inside arrangement step of arranging one of the first and second three-dimensional bodies inside a loop part formed of the plurality of segments aligned in a loop of the other three-dimensional body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: KANEKA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shohei SUZUKI
  • Publication number: 20170105739
    Abstract: Mechanical delivery system for neurovascular embolization apparatus and method of use. A mechanical system for delivery of implants, such as coils for endovascular embolization of intracranial aneurysms and other neurovascular abnormalities such as arteriovenous malformations and ateriovenous fistulae, may include a detachment system for the release of a coil that deforms a detent to release (or eject) the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Mark Andrew DIAS, Ricardo Manabat AFAN, Robert GARABEDIAN
  • Publication number: 20170105740
    Abstract: A customised patient-specific 4-in-1 femoral finishing cutting jig comprising a cutting block which is configured to be placed, in use, in contact with the distal resection surface of a femur; the jig being characterised in that it comprises a reference means which is connected to said block; wherein the reference means is configured to position, in use, said block relative to the distal resection surface in a predetermined and patient-specific manner; wherein the reference means comprises a first contact element having a first surface which is configured to face, in use, a first femoral condyle and being customised and patient-specific; said first surface is configured to be placed against a respective portion of a first femoral condyle having a corresponding profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Gian-Guido Riva
  • Publication number: 20170105741
    Abstract: A tissue protection sleeve for use in suprapatellar surgery is provided. The sleeve has a first end, a second end, an inner surface and an outer surface. The sleeve further comprises at least two open grooves that extend along the inner surface from the first end to the second end. The grooves are adapted to accommodate elongated fixation elements inserted into a tibia. A drill guide sleeve and a trocar for inserting a guide wire are also provided and can be accommodated by the tissue protection sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Oliver Hirsch, Claudia Graca, Ole Prien
  • Publication number: 20170105742
    Abstract: A catheter includes a protective film covering an inner periphery of a proximal end side of a tubular mesh member, the tubular mesh member being expandable and contractible in a radial direction. The tubular mesh member including a first wire that is interwoven with a second wire. The protective film being joined only to any one of either the first wire or the second wire. The catheter has improved efficiency for removing a blockage in a blood vessel, and the catheter can prevent breakage of a retrograde guide wire. Additionally, the mesh member having the protective film is able to smoothly expand and contract.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: ASAHI INTECC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Makoto NISHIGISHI
  • Publication number: 20170105743
    Abstract: A catheter has an expansile tip that can be delivered in a constricted form. The increased tip diameter facilitates the aspiration and removal of large clot volumes by increasing the area of the catheter tip that applies aspiration to the clot. The tip comprises a support frame which can be cut from a metal or polymer tube, covered with a thin polymer sleeve 909 containing highly elastic properties. This construction provides good pushability and high compressive resistance. The cut pattern can contain axial connections of the support frame and ring members, which will provide a large level of axial support, lateral flexibility and hoop strength to withstand aspiration. The tip of the device can contain a section proximal of the highly flexible area that can expand to except clot. This potential to increase body diameter facilitates the retrieval of large volume clots while the construction of the catheter provides good column stiffness to avoid axial collapse and still maintain good flexibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: Neuravi Limited
    Inventors: David VALE, Brendan CASEY, Michael GILVARRY, Kevin MCARDLE, Maeve HOLIAN, David HARDIMAN, Alan KEANE, Daniel KING, Jacqueline O'GORMAN, Eamon BRADY
  • Publication number: 20170105744
    Abstract: A method of making a platform of medical devices from a single tube of a memory metal is described. The single tube, which may be generally cylindrical, is cut to form perforations that function as scoring lines and are located adjacent to the proximal and distal ends. The perforations allow the manufacturer to cleanly tear proximal memory metal strips from each other and to cleanly tear distal memory metal strips from each other so that the freed proximal memory metal strips may be re-attached to each other and the freed distal memory metal strips may be re-attached to each other to form a medical device that may be positioned inside a catheter that has an inner diameter (ID) that is less than the outer diameter of the single tube. The formed medical device may be in the form of an expandable, shape-set basket with x-ray markers that may be used to remove an intracranial blood clot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Arthur John Ulm, III
  • Publication number: 20170105745
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a clot in the blood vessel of a patient, and particularly the treatment of a pulmonary embolism is disclosed. The treatment includes restoring flow through the clot followed by clot removal, either partially or substantially completely. The clot treatment device is expandable into the blood vessel and may contain radial extensions that assist in restoring flow as well as in removing clot material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Robert F. Rosenbluth, Brian J. Cox, Paul Lubock
  • Publication number: 20170105746
    Abstract: Apparatus for performing a minimally-invasive procedure, the apparatus comprising: a tool comprising: a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end; a handle attached to the proximal end of the shaft; and an end effector attached to the distal end of the shaft; wherein the shaft comprises a flexible portion extending distally from the proximal end of the shaft, and an articulating portion extending proximally from the distal end of the shaft, and wherein the articulating portion comprises a flexible spine; wherein a plurality of articulation cables extend through the shaft from the handle to the flexible spine, such that when tension is applied to at least one of the plurality of articulation cables, the flexible spine bends; wherein a rotatable element extends through the shaft from the handle to the end effector, such that when the rotatable element is rotated, the end effector rotates; and wherein an actuation element extends through the shaft from the handle to the end effector, such that when the actuat
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Jonathan O'Keefe, Jeffrey Cerier, Amos Cruz, David Rezac
  • Publication number: 20170105747
    Abstract: A medical instrument having an elongated shaft, with an elongated outer tube, a first transmission element including a first and second half tube, mutually displaceable in a longitudinal direction in order to operate one first functional element, wherein a second transmission element is in a cavity formed by the first and second half tube. A shaft housing connected to the outer tube is arranged in a proximal end portion of the shaft, and a first hollow tube which is connected to the first half tube is arranged within the shaft housing, and a second hollow tube connected to the second half tube within the first hollow tube, with substantially annular first and second seals. The first and second half tube extend through the shaft housing, a seal is arranged between an inner surface of the shaft housing and the outer surfaces of the first and second half tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Yann Thouément, Régis Besse
  • Publication number: 20170105748
    Abstract: A tissue resecting device includes an elongated shaft having a central axis, a distal end, and an outer surface. An offset housing is mounted on the distal of the shaft and has a tissue-receiving window. The tissue-receiving window is offset radially outwardly from the outer surface of the shaft, and a moveable electrode is configured to move back and forth across the window to resect tissue which extends into the window. The offset housing improves visibility of the cutting window when viewed from endoscopes and other visualization apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Csaba Truckai
  • Publication number: 20170105749
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of method and apparatus are provided for resurfacing of skin that includes formation of a plurality of small holes, e.g., having widths less than about 1 mm or 0.5 mm. For example, such small holes can be produced using a mechanical apparatus that includes one or more abrading elements provided at the end of one or more rotating shafts, thus avoiding generation of thermal damage as occurs with conventional laser resurfacing procedures and devices. The holes thus formed can be well-tolerated by the skin, and may exhibit shorter healing times and less swelling than conventional resurfacing procedures. The fractional surface coverage of the holes can be between about 0.1 and 0.7, or between about 0.2 and 0.5. The method and apparatus can produce cosmetic improvements in the skin appearance by eliciting a healing response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: William G. Austen, Dieter Manstein
  • Publication number: 20170105750
    Abstract: A surgical knife safety device having a handle, a blade connected to the handle, and a guard carried by the handle for sliding movement between a retracted position in which the blade is exposed for use, and an extended position for covering the sharp cutting edge of the blade. In the retracted position, an enlarged guard radius is provided at the distal end of the handle to allow improved handle control and blade orientation. The enlarged guard radius is positioned to allow the user to firmly grip a large distal handle portion which is preferably molded as a single piece with the blade holder, preventing unwanted blade or handle movement due to guard mechanism tolerances. A spring, such as leaf spring or a cantilever beam, and a pair of detents or slots are provided to fix the guard in the extended or retracted position and to provide resistance during movement between the two positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: Beaver-Visitec International (US), Inc.
    Inventors: Dana Cote, Brian Rapp, Paul Karnafel, Xiaoyu Zhang
  • Publication number: 20170105751
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, and an end effector. The shaft assembly includes an outer tube, an inner tube, and an acoustic waveguide. The end effector includes an ultrasonic blade and a clamp arm. The ultrasonic blade is acoustically coupled with the acoustic waveguide. A first portion of the clamp arm is pivotably coupled with a distal end of the outer tube. A second portion of the clamp arm is pivotably coupled with a distal end of the inner tube. The outer tube and the inner tube are configured to removably couple with the body such that the outer tube, the inner tube, and the clamp arm are configured to removably couple with the body and the remainder of the shaft assembly and end effector as a unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: John A. Hibner, Thomas B. Remm
  • Publication number: 20170105752
    Abstract: An instrument includes an ultrasonic blade, a first fluid port in communication with the distal opening of the ultrasonic blade, a clamp arm, an irrigation member positioned adjacent to the distal end of the ultrasonic blade, and a second fluid port in communication with the irrigation member. The ultrasonic blade defines a distal opening. The ultrasonic blade is operable in a first mode to emulsify tissue that is distally positioned relative to the ultrasonic blade. The ultrasonic blade is further operable in a second mode to transect and seal tissue that is transversely positioned relative to the ultrasonic blade. The clamp arm is pivotable toward and away from the ultrasonic blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Chad P. Boudreaux, Jeffrey D. Messerly, Ion V. Nicolaescu, Foster B. Stulen, Charles J. Scheib, Mary E. Mootoo, Matthew C. Miller
  • Publication number: 20170105753
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, and an end effector. The shaft assembly includes an outer tube, a proximal inner tube member, a distal inner tube member, and an acoustic waveguide. The end effector includes an ultrasonic blade and a clamp arm. A first portion of the clamp arm is pivotably coupled with a distal end of the outer tube. A second portion of the clamp arm is pivotably coupled with a distal end of the distal inner tube member. The outer tube is configured to removably couple with the body and the distal inner tube member is configured to removably couple with the proximal inner tube member such that the outer tube, the distal inner tube member, and the clamp arm are configured to removably couple with the body and the remainder of the shaft assembly and end effector as a unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Sean P. Conlon, Ellen Gentry, Rafael J. Ruiz Ortiz, Matthew S. Corbin, Matthew C. Miller
  • Publication number: 20170105754
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a body, an ultrasonic blade, a clamp arm, and a resilient member. The body includes an electrical conductor and defines a longitudinal axis. The clamp arm is pivotably coupled with the body at a pivot assembly. The clamp arm is operable to compress tissue against the ultrasonic blade. The clamp arm includes an electrode operable to apply RF energy to tissue, wherein the clamp arm is configured to be loaded onto and removed from the body at the pivot assembly along a path that is transverse to the longitudinal axis defined by the body. The resilient member is located within the pivot assembly. The resilient member is configured to provide electrical continuity between the electrode of the clamp arm and the electrical conductor of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Chad P. Boudreaux, Phillip H. Clauda, John B. Schulte, William B. Weisenburgh, II, Timothy S. Holland, Ryan M. Asher, Tylor C. Muhlenkamp, Brian D. Black, Kristen G. Denzinger, Amy L. Benchek
  • Publication number: 20170105755
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a body, an ultrasonic blade, a clamp arm assembly, and a detent assembly. The clamp arm assembly includes a clamp arm pivotably coupled with the body at a pivot assembly. The clamp arm is operable to compress tissue against the ultrasonic blade. The detent assembly is configured to provide tactile resistance to pivotal movement of the clamp arm relative to the body beyond a predefined pivot angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Chad P. Boudreaux, Monica L. Zeckel
  • Publication number: 20170105756
    Abstract: An energy treatment device including a movable handle having a jaw and a first through hole, and a sheath having a hollow portion and a second through hole, wherein the hollow portion is configured to receive an elongated member. The second through hole is configured to extend so as to eliminate an overlap with the hollow portion, and the movable handle is configured to rotate about an axis configured to pass through the first through hole and the second through hole such that the jaw rotates with respect to the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Minoru KATSUMATA
  • Publication number: 20170105757
    Abstract: Various example embodiments described herein are directed to articulating surgical instruments for treating tissue comprising an end effector and a shaft extending proximally from the end effector along a longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, the shaft comprises a plurality of transverse spacer members as well as first and second rotatable members extending through at least a portion of the plurality of transverse spacer members. The first and second rotatable members may both be biased away from the longitudinal axis such that their respective directions of bias vary with rotation of the first rotatable member. When the respective directions of bias of the first and second rotatable members oppose one another, the shaft may be substantially straight. When the respective directions of bias of the first and second rotatable members are aligned with one another, the shaft may articulate away from the longitudinal axis in the direction of the alignment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Michael P. Weir, Joseph B. Kraimer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Stephen J. Balek, Zhifan F. Huang, Sora Rhee, Foster B. Stulen, Carl J. Draginoff, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170105758
    Abstract: A scoring balloon catheter includes a scoring balloon, a distal control balloon positioned distal of the scoring balloon, a proximal control balloon positioned proximal of the scoring balloon, and a scoring element coupled to the proximal and distal control balloons. The scoring balloon is configured to expand radially and contact the scoring element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Francesco Piccagli
  • Publication number: 20170105759
    Abstract: A method of treating a lesion in a body lumen to enlarge a passageway in the lumen including inserting a cutting member and tracking member through a first lumen of a catheter, withdrawing the catheter from the cutting member and tracking member, inserting the catheter over the tracking member and leaving the cutting member outside the catheter, and expanding a portion of the catheter to move the cutting member into cutting contact with the lesion. A device for treating a lesion in a body lumen including a cutting member and tracking member is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: Rex Medical, L.P.
    Inventors: Israel Schur, James F. McGuckin, JR., James Erich Bressler
  • Publication number: 20170105760
    Abstract: The chest tube insertion guide includes a hollow cylindrical body having opposed proximal and distal ends, with a conical tip formed on the proximal end thereof. The conical tip is divided into a plurality of segments by axially-extending lines of separation, such that adjacent ones of the plurality of segments are frangibly joined to one another at the lines of separation. In use, an incision is created in a patient's chest above a pleural space to be drained of fluid. The conical tip of the chest tube insertion guide is inserted into the incision and an outer lining of the lung of the patient is punctured with the conical tip of the chest tube. The chest tube is inserted into the hollow cylindrical body of the chest tube insertion guide and is used to separate the plurality of segments of the cylindrical tip of the chest tube insertion guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: PRISCILLA FLAGLER
  • Publication number: 20170105761
    Abstract: A method is provided, including transvascularly inserting a guidewire into a right atrium of a subject. Apparatus is provided that includes (a) a catheter, and (b) a hollow needle disposed within a lumen of the catheter, the hollow needle including a proximal portion and a distal portion that is more flexible than the proximal portion. The apparatus is passed into the right atrium by passing the needle over the guidewire. Following the passing of the apparatus into the right atrium, the guidewire is partially withdrawn into the needle, while keeping a distal end of the guidewire within the needle and in a body of the subject. Thereafter, a hole is formed through an interatrial septum of the subject with the needle. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: TRANSSEPTAL SOLUTIONS LTD.
    Inventors: Elad SAPIR, Eyal TEICHMAN
  • Publication number: 20170105762
    Abstract: A first shaft defining a proximal end, a distal end, and a first lumen there between sized to receive a medical lead. The first shaft includes a cutting element disposed at its distal end. The cutting element includes a sharp edge configured to mechanically cut tissue. A second shaft defining a proximal end, a distal end, and a second lumen there between is included. The second shaft co-axially surrounds the first shaft and is configured to slideably receive the first shaft. The second shaft includes a co-axial electrode extending from its distal end and configured to cut tissue with monopolar radiofrequency energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Eliot F. BLOOM, Mark T. MARSHALL
  • Publication number: 20170105763
    Abstract: Disclosed is a non-reusable intra-osseous access device and method thereof. The non-reusable intra-osseous access device which can be easily rendered non-reusable after establishing the access into the marrow region includes the automatic locking of driver unit 5 after removal of needle and trocar assembly from the driver unit. Further, the non-reusable intra-osseous access device also includes the non-loading of the trocar and or needle hub and or trocar with needle hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Jayant Sitaram KARVE, Sandeep SINGH
  • Publication number: 20170105764
    Abstract: A spinal rod extension includes a rod portion, a connector portion, a lip, and a connector. The connector portion is mounted to the rod portion. The connector portion is configured for insertion through a screw head of an existing pedicle screw that is used to secure an existing spinal rod. The lip is mounted to the rod portion, and is configured to engage at least a portion of an end of the existing spinal rod. The connector is configured to secure the connector portion to the existing spinal rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Seth K. WILLIAMS
  • Publication number: 20170105765
    Abstract: A spinal device including a variable-length member including a ratchet mechanism that has an operative configuration that allows a change in length of the variable-length member in one direction and prevents a change in length of the variable-length member in an opposite direction, wherein the variable-length member includes polyaxial-joint attachment members for attachment to bone, which permit pivoting movement of the attachment members about more than one pivoting axis, characterised by a force applicator operative to adjust or advance the ratchet mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicant: APIFIX LTD.
    Inventor: Uri Arnin
  • Publication number: 20170105766
    Abstract: A polyaxial screw assembly having a threaded shaft, a rod receiver, a bushing, and a deformable tab is provided. The rod receiver includes a side wall forming a proximal end with an interior portion configured to receive a spinal rod and a distal end configured to receive the spherical head. The bushing is disposed between the spherical head and the sidewall of the rod receiver is configured to engage the spinal rod. The deformable tab is within one of the rod receiver and the bushing and engages with the other of the rod receiver and the bushing. The deformable tab may be disposed within the side wall of the bushing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Robert Byrnes
  • Publication number: 20170105767
    Abstract: In some embodiments a method comprises disposing an implant into contact with a first bone portion and into contact with a second bone portion, the implant having (1) a first interface configured to receive a restraining member, and (2) a second interface. The method further comprises inserting a portion of the fastener member into the first interface. The method further comprises securing the fastener member such that the first bone portion and the second bone portion are fixed to each other, at least in part by a substance after the securing, at least a portion of the substance disposed through the second interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Jason Blain
  • Publication number: 20170105768
    Abstract: Instruments and systems for performing spinal fixation are provided. The instruments and system configured to position and force fit a hook onto a pedicle bone. The systems include a hook and an instrument. The instrument includes a handle and a rod fixedly mounted to a distal end of the handle. The instrument includes a hook support portion having a hood. The hood includes an opening, a support wall, a post and a threaded knob. The support wall is configured to support the hook. The post has a bottom surface dimensioned similar to that of a spinal rod. The threaded knob is mounted within the opening of the hood and engages a pair of threaded sidewalls of a rod support portion of the hook so as to pull the hook into a fixed engagement with the post, securing the hook support portion to the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Alexandra Pinkie
  • Publication number: 20170105769
    Abstract: Instruments and systems for performing spinal fixation are provided. The instruments and system configured to position and force fit a hook onto a pedicle bone. The systems include a hook and an instrument. The instrument includes a handle and a rod fixedly mounted to a distal end of the handle. The instrument includes a hook support portion having a hood. The hood includes an opening, a support wall, a post and a threaded knob. The support wall is configured to support the hook. The post has a bottom surface dimensioned similar to that of a spinal rod. The threaded knob is mounted within the opening of the hood and engages a pair of threaded sidewalls of a rod support portion of the hook so as to pull the hook into a fixed engagement with the post, securing the hook support portion to the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Applicants: Alphatec Spine, Inc., Alphatec Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandra Pinkie
  • Publication number: 20170105770
    Abstract: Implants, instruments, and methods for performing surgical procedures on the spine, including one or more of creating an operative corridor to the spine, delivering implants to the spine, fusing one or more segments of the spine, and fixing one or more segments of the spine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Troy B. WOOLLEY, Nathan LOVELL, Michael SERRA, Mark PETERSON
  • Publication number: 20170105771
    Abstract: A method and device for inserting screws into a patient, such that when the device is removed the device does not stick to the screw. The device, being a push-off driver, may have a handle, an inner driver, and a threaded driver sleeve having a button mechanism and a plurality of spheres, and an inner sleeve. The method includes the steps of assembling a push-off driver attaching a bone screw to the push-off driver inserting the bone screw and detaching the bone screw from the driver by unthreading the threaded driver sleeve from the polyaxial screw which causes the spheres in the recess of the inner driver to back up against the start of the recess and causing the threaded driver sleeve to “push-off” the polyaxial screw from the inner driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Sean Saidha, William Strausbaugh, Boyd A. Wolf
  • Publication number: 20170105772
    Abstract: Embodiments include a system that facilitates placement of a rod through receiving portions of screws placed along the spine. The system includes a rod and a cable detachably connectable to the rod to pull the rod through the receiving portions of the screws. Some embodiments include methods and devices for inserting a rod into a plurality of screws and for ex situ templating of a rod. These can include connecting a cable to a rod, inserting the cable through the plurality of screws, and using the cable to pull the rod into position. The methods of ex situ templating of the rod can include contacting a templating member to each of the screws so that a portion of the templating members replicate the relative positioning of the screws and shaping a rod to match the relative positioning of the portion of the templating members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Morgan Packard Lorio, Mark A. Slaughter
  • Publication number: 20170105773
    Abstract: Provided is a novel rod reducing device including a screw jack mechanism that is moveably engaged with an elongated grasping fork assembly, the screw jack mechanism having an elongated threaded portion, the elongated threaded portion being connected at its most distal end to a rod contact member, which is positioned in sliding circumferential contact with each of the two opposing elongated grasping members and the most proximal end of the elongated threaded portion terminating in a controlling member, which can be activated in a measured and controlled manner. A method of using the device is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Michael Barrus, Scott A. Jones
  • Publication number: 20170105774
    Abstract: An orthopedic locking screw is be configured to be retained inside the bore of an orthopedic implant provided as part of an orthopedic fastening system. The orthopedic locking screw includes a shaft extending axially, a drive member, and a casing secured around an outer surface of the shaft. The casing is formed of a plastically deformable material. The casing has an outer cross-sectional width that is larger than a cross-sectional width of the shaft adjacent the casing. When operably disposed in the bore, an axial and/or radial press-fit pressure is formed between the casing and the bore. A method of securing an orthopedic screw in a bore of an orthopedic implant is provided, in which the shaft is rotated to operably engage the casing to the bore to achieving a deformable press-fit of the casing against the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Ole Prien, Thomas Amirov
  • Publication number: 20170105775
    Abstract: Plates for patella fracture reduction and fracture reduction devices are described. More particularly plates and devices for patella reduction that are universally fit to a front surface or perimeter of a patella and include a plurality of attachment holes disposed therein for receiving a fastener. In some embodiments, the plates include removable tab members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: Lauren Ricker, Daniel S. Horwitz, Roy Sanders, Dan Dziadosz, Peter Giannoudis
  • Publication number: 20170105776
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing an osteosynthetic implant, comprising the steps of producing a load-bearing metal component and coating the load-bearing component with a biocompatible material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventor: Christian LUTZ
  • Publication number: 20170105777
    Abstract: A bone nail apparatus includes a bone nail, a light source unit and a focalizing unit. The bone nail has a tube wall and at least one through hole. The tube wall is enclosed to form a receiving space. The at least one through hole extends through the tube wall and communicates with the receiving space. The light source unit includes a light emitter and at least one light transmission tube. The at least one light transmission tube is connected to the light emitter and receives a light therefrom. The at least one light transmission tube is received in the receiving space of the bone nail. Each light transmission tube has a light-outputting end aligned with a respective one of the at least one through hole. The focalizing unit has a light-receiving face facing one of the at least one through hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: April 20, 2017
    Inventors: JAU-SHENG WANG, TIEN-CHING LEE, MEI-LING HO, YIN-CHIH FU, WEI-CHI CHEN