Patents Issued in April 25, 2017
  • Patent number: 9629686
    Abstract: A method of generating a patient-specific prosthetic includes receiving anatomic imaging data representative of a portion of a patient's anatomy. A first digital representation of the anatomic imaging data is defined. The first digital representation of the anatomic imaging data is modified. A second digital representation of the portion of the patient's anatomy is defined based on the modifying of the first digital representation of the anatomic imaging data. A patient-specific prosthetic template of the portion of the patient's anatomy is generated based at least in part on the second digital representation of the anatomic imaging data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Aortica Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Van Bibber, Thomas C. Douthitt, Arun Palligaranai Tirumalai, Prashanth Dumpuri
  • Patent number: 9629687
    Abstract: A robotic system for performing an arthroplasty procedure of a patient is provided. The robotic system includes a robotic mechanism including an adaptive arm, an oscillating saw coupled to the robotic mechanism and configured to resect a portion of a bone of the patient. The robotic mechanism is configured to control movement of the saw during the resection. The system also includes a computer coupled to the robotic mechanism which is configured to control the robotic mechanism. The robotic mechanism is configured to position a prosthetic implant relative to the bone. The system also includes an electric motor coupled to the robotic mechanism and the computer. The electric motor is configured to facilitate movement of the robotic mechanism. The system also includes a position sensor configured to provide movement information of the prosthetic implant relative to the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: P Tech, LLC
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Patent number: 9629688
    Abstract: A tool apparatus and a method for actuating a tool apparatus are disclosed. The tool apparatus includes an actuator housing, and an elongate tool manipulator extending outwardly from the actuator housing and having a plurality of control links extending along a length of the tool manipulator. The control links are operable to cause movement of a distal end of the tool manipulator in response to movement of the control links in an actuating direction generally aligned with the length of the tool manipulator. The apparatus also includes a plurality of actuators, each actuator being associated with at least one of the control links and being mounted in the actuator housing to facilitate a range of travel in a transverse direction substantially orthogonal to the actuating direction, and a plurality of linkages. Each linkage is associated with one of the control links and extends between the control link and the respective actuator and is operable to transmit drive forces between the actuator and the control link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Titan Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Rene Robert, David Allen Zitnick
  • Patent number: 9629689
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for attaching a minimal access tool to a user's body (e.g., wrist or forearm) so that movements of the user's forearm, wrist, hand and fingers can control movements at a distal end of the minimal access tool. In particular, described herein are forearm attachment devices (which may be used with or integrated into) a minimal access tool including a cuff configured to secure to the user's forearm and a coupling joint configured to connect the cuff to the frame so that the cuff may move relative to the frame with between 1 and 4 degrees of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: FlexDex, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Brian Bowles, James Duncan Geiger, James Michael Licht, Shorya Awtar, Zachary Zimmerman, Deepak Sharma
  • Patent number: 9629690
    Abstract: A description is given of a sonotrode (18) for connection to an ultrasonic vibration transducer (2, 3) comprising a connecting portion (4), which extends along a first axis (16) and is attached by a first end (42) to the vibration transducer (2, 3) or is connected thereto, wherein the connecting portion (4) is made to vibrate almost exclusively along the first axis (16) by the ultrasonic vibration transducer (2, 3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: NEXILIS AG
    Inventors: Marco Stoffel, Uwe Werner
  • Patent number: 9629691
    Abstract: A device for disinfecting and/or sterilization of a dental cavity includes: an electrode pair that extends into the cavity to provide current along a portion of the cavity; and a controller that sends controlled electrical energy to the cavity via current flowing between the electrodes when located in the cavity, thereby to provide electrical energy for disinfection and/or sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Medic N.R.G. Ltd.
    Inventors: Arik Becker, Haim Rozenboim, Haim Levy, Simon Rothenstein, Gregory Berdichevsky, Omer Zeharhary
  • Patent number: 9629692
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a device for retaining a matrix band about at least a portion of a periphery of a tooth to be treated, the device comprising: a first lug to fit on one side of a proximal contact between two teeth; a second lug to fit on the other side of said proximal contact, and a resilient body member connecting between the first lug and said second lug. The body member applies a restorative or clamping force biasing the lugs together against opposed sides of the proximal contact and holds the lugs such that they must be separated to fit over the proximal contact. The first and second lugs are pivotally coupled to the resilient body member to allow the resilient body member to rotate relative to the lugs while providing the clamping force biasing the lugs together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Dentsply Sirona, Inc.
    Inventor: Simon P. McDonald
  • Patent number: 9629693
    Abstract: A dental wedge (10) includes symmetrical sides (22, 24). The dental wedge (10) includes a restorative tooth side (24), the restorative tooth side (24) having a generally longitudinally extending planar wall (44) defined in part by an upper edge (34) and a lower edge (42), the planar wall (44) is inclined, wherein the planar wall (44) extends from the lower edge (42) upward and inward. The planar wall (44) includes an upper inclined surface (46) and a lower inclined surface (48), the planar wall (44) having a concave curve extending in a longitudinal direction, the upper inclined surface (46) generally defining the restorative tooth side (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Rhondium IP Limited
    Inventors: Simon P. McDonald, Alejandro Aubone, Matthew Backler
  • Patent number: 9629694
    Abstract: A precision configuration system includes a plier device having clasp members, a heat transfer clamp member, a bending force transducer, and a temperature controller. One clasp member has a single jaw tooth that contacts and heats a component, for example, a wire positioned by a component holder and accommodated within a receptacle defined between double jaw teeth of the other clasp member. The heat transfer clamp member includes a heating coil that generates and transfers heat to the single jaw tooth. The bending force transducer controls magnitude and direction of bending forces applied by the plier device to precision bend and reshape the component at one or more bending points on the component based on force commands received from a component configuration computer system. The temperature controller controls the generation and transfer of heat to the single jaw tooth to facilitate temperature controlled, precision bending and reshaping of the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: HANKOOKIN, INC.
    Inventors: James Jiwen Chun, Andrew Youngho Chun, Angela Soyoung Chun, Jennifer Miseong Chun
  • Patent number: 9629695
    Abstract: The invention relates to an orthodontic working arch wire (2) for moving at least one tooth of a dental arch of patient to be treated from a first spatial configuration toward a second spatial configuration, including an element for connecting (42) to the tooth to be treated, which is intended to be attached onto the tooth being treated by snap-fining onto a bracket glued onto one of the surfaces of said tooth, the working arch wire being rigid, the connecting element being movable relative to the orthodontic working arch wire and connected to the orthodontic working arch wire by elastically deformable connecting means (43, 43a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: Antoine Meley
  • Patent number: 9629696
    Abstract: A hybrid temporary anchorage device implant system and method of use is disclosed. A temporary anchorage device (TAD) implant includes an external hex head, a cupped inner portion, a threaded core, a platform, and an implant portion. A first abutment is installed on the implant portion. The first abutment may include a graduated portion, a screw-retained healing collar, and a threaded portion. A second abutment may be installed over the first abutment. The second abutment may include a graduated head, a bulbous base, and an inner canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: Paul Ouellette
  • Patent number: 9629697
    Abstract: A framework for a removable, partial or complete prosthodontic device is made by machining, using a CAD/CAM technique, a disc 2, made from polyetheretherketone, to define the framework 4. Prosthetic teeth and gums can be secured to the framework to define the prosthodontic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: INVIBIO LIMITED
    Inventors: Nuno Sereno, Marcus Jarman-Smith
  • Patent number: 9629698
    Abstract: A computer model of a physical object may be formed by registering multiple images of the physical object by using a registration process based on characteristic features of the physical object. Multiple images may be registered by aligning characteristic curves of the physical object that have been identified through imaging. A curve-based registration process may be used in dental applications to register multiple images of a patient's oral anatomy to form a computer 3D model from which a patient-specific dental restoration may be designed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: James R. Glidewell Dental Ceramics, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Uri Lior, Sergei Azernikov, Sergey Nikolskiy, Steven Edward Benson, Shawn Andrews Ramirez
  • Patent number: 9629699
    Abstract: A treatment element for use with a dental-implant part anchored in a patient's jawbone is disclosed, wherein the treatment element includes a base body having a connection system adapted to the dental-implant part for mechanical connection of the base body with the dental-implant part, and at least one media duct for conducting a cleaning liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: ZYFOMA GMBH
    Inventors: Urs Brodbeck, Markus Schlee, Holger Zipprich
  • Patent number: 9629700
    Abstract: A tooth cleaning assembly for removing embedded plaque between a user's tooth and gum includes a housing that may be gripped by the user. A motor is coupled to the housing. A shaft is coupled to the motor. The motor rotates the shaft. A brush is structured to taper to a point. The brush may be positionable between the user's tooth and the user's gum. The brush removes embedded plaque. The brush is mechanically coupled to the shaft so the shaft rotates the brush. An actuator is coupled to the housing. The actuator is electrically coupled to the motor. The actuator actuates and de-actuates the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventors: David Okamura, Ghislaine Okamura
  • Patent number: 9629701
    Abstract: An endodontic instrument servicing system may comprise a socket-forming member that may include spaced wall members that define a socket. An at least partially open-cell foam body may be secured within the socket that is configured for cleaning contaminated instruments. The body may have an indentation force deflection greater than 120 pounds force (lbf) and be configured to substantially grip a rotating contaminated instrument in contact with the body without tearing the foam body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Jordco, Inc.
    Inventors: Hal J. Oien, James B. Johnsen
  • Patent number: 9629702
    Abstract: A porous material for insertion cleaning of instruments is provided, such porous material including an at least partially open-cell foam body and a surface configured to enable an instrument having contaminants to be inserted into the body. The body may be configured to substantially grip the instrument to remove a substantial portion of the contaminants from the instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Jordco, Inc.
    Inventors: James B. Johnsen, Hal J. Oien
  • Patent number: 9629703
    Abstract: A reinforcement device for reinforcing tissues having one or more structural deficiencies includes a longitudinally-extending reinforcing layer for treating the structural deficiency, a plurality of spiked naps distributed across the reinforcing layer and projecting therefrom for adhering to the tissue, and a dissolvable matrix layer covering at least a portion of the reinforcing layer and a portion of the plurality of spiked naps. The matrix layer increases the time before the spiked naps substantially adhere to the tissue, thereby allowing the practitioner additional time to position the reinforcement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Martin G. Paul
  • Patent number: 9629704
    Abstract: Loading systems for compressing and loading an implantable medical device into a device chamber of a medical device delivery system are described. The loading systems include an elongate holding chamber within which the intraluminal medical device is disposed. A plunger has one or more attached pushers adapted to axially advance the intraluminal medical device through an intermediate portion of the holding chamber that has a tapered surface, which compresses the intraluminal medical device over a dilator of a medical device delivery system that has been introduced through the distal end of the elongate holding chamber. The elongate holding chamber can be placed within an outer storage container with an appropriate seal to for storage of the intraluminal medical device within the loading system. Methods of preparing an intraluminal medical device for implantation in a patient and kits useful in such methods are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: COOK MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: Jeffry S. Melsheimer, Sean D. Chambers, Arman H. Valaie, Ram H. Paul
  • Patent number: 9629705
    Abstract: A method of generating a patient-specific prosthesis includes receiving anatomic imaging data representative of a portion of a patient's anatomy. A first digital representation of the anatomic imaging data is defined. The first digital representation of the anatomic imaging data is modified. A second digital representation of the portion of the patient's anatomy is defined based on the modifying of the first digital representation of the anatomic imaging data. A patient-specific prosthesis is generated based at least in part on the second digital representation of the anatomic imaging data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Aortica Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas C. Douthitt, Richard Van Bibber, Arun Palligaranai Tirumalai, Prashanth Dumpuri
  • Patent number: 9629706
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an assembly for fixing a ligament in bone. The assembly includes a suspension member and an implant having a mechanism for fixedly receiving the suspension member and at least partially suspending the suspension member and the received bone graft within the implant, allowing for bony in-growth. A method of fixing a ligament in bone is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Konsei Shino, Stephen Santangelo, Jeffrey Wyman
  • Patent number: 9629707
    Abstract: A tissue graft attachment device includes a platform member including a leading edge and a trailing edge connected to the leading edge by a pair of sides. The platform member defines a pair of slots extending along a longitudinal axis passing between the leading edge and the trailing edge, and an opening between the pair of slots and the leading edge. The device includes a first suture passing through the opening, a second suture passing through one of the slots, and an attachment member passing through the pair of slots to form a loop. A method for attaching a tissue graft includes providing the tissue graft attachment device, forming a bone tunnel, pulling on the first suture to pull the platform member through the bone tunnel, and pulling on the second suture to position the platform member on the bone tunnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Charles Ferragamo, Jeffrey Wyman
  • Patent number: 9629708
    Abstract: Methods and instruments for repairing soft tissues of a skeletal joint such as for example of the foot or hand are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary Sinnott, Thomas W Fallin, Kwan-Ho Chan, Patrick White
  • Patent number: 9629709
    Abstract: Fixation assemblies having a button captured by a continuous (i.e., closed) loop of thread, such as ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber are disclosed herein. Preferred assemblies are constructed such that the intact button cannot be detached from the continuous loop without breaking or opening the loop of fiber. The closed fiber advantageously contains at least one or two stitched, or otherwise secured or reinforced, sections positioned on the loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: RIVERPOINT MEDICAL, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Edward Ferguson, Patrick Joseph Ferguson, Aaron Joseph Sundholm
  • Patent number: 9629710
    Abstract: An intraocular lens has an optical part and a haptic adjoining the optical part. At least one additional fixation element that differs from the haptic is formed on at least an upper side of the intraocular lens. The additional fixation element is formed to fix the position of the intraocular lens in the capsular bag of an eye. A method for making an intraocular lens and a method for implanting an intraocular lens in a capsular bag of an eye are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Thomas Hartkens, Marco Wilzbach, Michael Stefan Rill, Frederik Siegmann
  • Patent number: 9629711
    Abstract: An intraocular lens including a flexible optic and at least one rigid plate haptic connected to the optic. The at least one rigid plate haptic can include a rigid structure. The at least one rigid plate haptic can be resistant to bending from pressure exerted on a distal end of the at least one haptic by contraction of the ciliary muscle. The intraocular lens can be a non-accommodating IOL having a longitudinal length that is fixed and configured to resist deformation by the action of the ciliary muscle. Various embodiments also include accommodating intraocular lenses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: James Stuart Cumming
  • Patent number: 9629712
    Abstract: An Accommodating Intraocular Lens (AIOL) is disclosed herein, that is comprised of a flexible optic and a flexible haptic rim that conforms to the human eye capsule. The spherical or custom shape of the optic is engineered to be maintained during accommodation through the mechanical/optic design of the implant and the interaction between the implant and the naturally occurring position and actuating forces applied through ciliary muscles/zonules/and capsule as the brain senses the need to increase the diopter change or magnification when an object of fixation approaches the eye. The axial relocation or position of the AIOL may also be further adjusted anatomically to further improve the affect needed to achieve improved accommodation. Optionally, the Accommodating Intraocular Lens (AIOL) is foldable or injectable for delivery of the lens into the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: Donald C. Stenger
  • Patent number: 9629713
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a biomedical implant for use in a fluid shear stress environment of a subject. The biomedical implant of the present invention includes a patterned surface having a plurality of cellular niches. The cellular niches of the patterned surface are effective to maintain at least one localized layer of living cells within the plurality of cellular niches by decreasing fluid shear stress within the cellular niches as compared to fluid shear stress measured outside of the cellular niches, with the fluid shear stress measured outside of the cellular niches having a peak fluid shear stress of at least about 50 dynes per square centimeter (dynes/cm2). The present invention also relates to methods of making and using the biomedical implant. The present invention further relates to a biomedical implant system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: CORNELL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Christopher M. Frendl, Jonathan T. Butcher
  • Patent number: 9629714
    Abstract: A prosthetic valve is provided for implantation in a stenosed aortic valve. The prosthetic valve includes a radially collapsible frame configured for advancement through a patient's vasculature using a catheterization technique. A collapsible valvular structure is sewn to the frame for permitting blood to flow in only one direction. An internal cover extends along an internal surface of the frame. The internal cover forms a tubular sleeve positioned between a lower extremity of the frame and the valvular structure. The internal cover prevents the passage of blood through spaces between bars of the frame. An upper end of the internal cover is sutured to the valvular structure. The internal cover is preferably made of pericardium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences PVT, Inc.
    Inventors: Brice Letac, Alain Cribier
  • Patent number: 9629715
    Abstract: A device for regulating blood pressure between a patient's left atrium and right atrium comprises an hourglass-shaped stent comprising a neck region and first and second flared end regions, the neck region disposed between the first and second end regions and configured to engage the fossa ovalis of the patient's atrial septum; and a one-way tissue valve coupled to the first flared end region and configured to shunt blood from the left atrium to the right atrium when blood pressure in the left atrium exceeds blood pressure in the right atrium. The inventive device may include a biodegradable material that biodegrades to offset flow changes caused by tissue ingrowth. The inventive device may reduce left atrial pressure and left ventricular end diastolic pressure, and may increase cardiac output, increase ejection fraction, relieve pulmonary congestion, and lower pulmonary artery pressure, among other benefits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: V-Wave Ltd.
    Inventors: Yaacov Nitzan, Menashe Yacoby
  • Patent number: 9629716
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for repairing or replacing a defective cardiac valve including an anchor having a double helix configured to engage the cardiac valve leaflets of a diseased or defective cardiac valve, and a replacement valve body disposed in an expandable stent configured to be disposed within the anchor so that the anchor limits expansion of the expandable stent. The expandable stent of the replacement valve body may be self-expanding or mechanically expanded, e.g., using a balloon catheter or catheter-based mandrel and the valve body may be formed of animal tissue or a synthetic fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: BMEYE B.V.
    Inventor: Jacques Seguin
  • Patent number: 9629717
    Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve assembly suitable for implantation in body ducts via a catheter. The prosthetic heart valve assembly includes a collapsible and expandable tubular frame having an inlet end and an outlet end. The frame is preferably made from a self-expanding material. Three pericardial leaflets form a tricuspid valve having a top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion. Three longitudinal support members are positioned along an internal surface of the frame, desirably proximate to the outlet end. Each support member includes a pair of longitudinal surfaces that extends radially inwardly. End portions of adjacent valve leaflets extend through a gap between the pairs of longitudinal surfaces of each support member. The end portions are sutured to the longitudinal support members. The bottom portion of the tricuspid valve is sutured to the inlet end of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences PVT, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Spenser, Netanel Benichou, Assaf Bash, Avraham Zakai
  • Patent number: 9629718
    Abstract: A system includes a medical device for implanting in a valve of a subject, the implantable medical device having a self-expanding frame; and a holder configured to retain the frame of the implantable medical device in a constricted configuration and to control expansion of the frame. The holder has a controllably constrictable and expandable loop, wherein the loop is disposed about at least a portion of the self-expanding frame such that constriction or expansion of the first loop controls constriction or expansion of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Gloss, Timothy Groen, Carolyn Majkrzak, Behrooz Nadian, Matthew Rust, Timothy Ryan, Matthew Weston, Marc Anderson, Evelyn Birmingham, Mark Casley, Deirdre McGowan Smyth
  • Patent number: 9629719
    Abstract: A delivery system for delivery of an implantable stented device to a body lumen that includes an elongated member having a distal tip and a proximal end portion, a wire connection member positioned between the distal tip and proximal end portion of the elongated member, and a plurality of capturing wires extending from a distal end of the wire connection member. Each of the capturing wires includes a distal end having a lower portion that is moveable relative to an upper portion between an open position and a closed position, and a slot defined by the upper and lower portions when they are in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Rothstein
  • Patent number: 9629720
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for repairing a cardiac valve, e.g., a mitral valve, are provided. The apparatus may include an expandable frame defining a curved structure in the expanded deployed state and a membrane coupled to the expandable frame. The membrane may curve around a native leaflet, e.g., the posterior leaflet, in a first plane and curve around another leaflet, e.g., the anterior leaflet, in an orthogonal plane. The membrane may be adapted to be suspended in the flow path of the cardiac valve such a first surface of the membrane abuts the native leaflet during systole and a second surface of the membrane abuts the other native leaflet during systole, thereby reducing cardiac valve regurgitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: Jacques Seguin
  • Patent number: 9629721
    Abstract: Among other things, there are disclosed embodiments of a valve implant that in particular examples are implantable within a blood vessel, which include a first set of elongate members, a second set of elongate members, and a hood affixed to the first set of elongate members. The first set of elongate members is resiliently deformable, and their distal ends are flared radially outward. The distal ends of the second set of elongate members are distal to the ends of the first set of elongate members. The hood is affixed to the first set of elongate members, and seals against the interior wall of the blood vessel in an expanded configuration. When blood flows from the proximal to the distal side of the valve implant, it presses on the hood, compressing the first set of elongate members, breaking the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Muffin Incorporated
    Inventors: Peter S. McKinnis, Neal E. Fearnot
  • Patent number: 9629722
    Abstract: A penis erection stimulation system comprises an infusion device (11) adapted for implantation inside the patient's body, at least one reservoir (R1, R2) adapted for implantation inside the patient's body in fluid connection with the infusion device to supply to the infusion device a substance to be injected into the patient's body, and a cooling device implantable along with the reservoir for keeping the content within at least one compartment of the reservoir at a temperature below 37° C. The reservoir preferably comprises at least one first compartment accommodating or adapted to accommodate a first substance and at least one second compartment accommodating or adapted to accommodate as a second substance a drug for stimulating penis erection, wherein the at least one second compartment is cooled by means of the cooling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Patent number: 9629723
    Abstract: An orthopedic knee prosthesis includes a femoral component which exhibits enhanced articular features, minimizes removal of healthy bone stock from the distal femur, and minimizes the impact of the prosthesis on adjacent soft tissues of the knee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond C. Parisi, Nick Drury, Charles A. Baldridge
  • Patent number: 9629724
    Abstract: A method of surgically implanting a reverse shoulder orthopedic implant, the method comprises the step of installing a glenosphere component having a bore formed therein over a metaglene component implanted within bone tissue of a glenoid surface of a scapula, capturing a screw cap within the bore of the glenosphere component, the screw cap positioned with a shaft of the screw cap located within a bore formed in an elongated stem of the metaglene component and an upper surface of a locking flange opposite the shaft of the screw cap flush with an upper surface of a platform of the metaglene component opposite the elongated stem of the metaglene component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Kyle E. Lappin
  • Patent number: 9629725
    Abstract: Reversed glenoid implants, and related kits and methods, are described that include an anchor member having a proximal head and a baseplate having a distal end with a first aperture sized to accept the proximal head of the anchor member. The proximal head is inserted along an un-threaded length thereof from the distal end into the first aperture, and the anchor member is restrained against axial translation with respect to the baseplate but is permitted to rotate with respect to the baseplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Tornier, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn M. Gargac, Brian C. Hodorek, William Matthew Kuester, Austin Wyatt Mutchler
  • Patent number: 9629726
    Abstract: A prosthesis suited for orthopedic implantation possesses a multi-piece stem component that supports an artificial joint surface that can articulate with another artificial joint surface in various ways. The prosthesis can be assembled in a snap fit and/or interlocking fashion that provides positive locking means without the use of screws or other fasteners. The prosthesis can accommodate fitment of a plastic joint surface made, e.g., from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. The prosthesis is well suited for use in an ankle replacement system that can be installed using minimally invasive intramedullary guidance established with respect to the major axis of the tibia by minimally invasive access through the calcaneus, through an incision in the bottom of the foot. The prosthesis makes possible the installation of a total ankle system using minimally invasive anterior access to the ankle joint for making bony cuts and to install prosthesis components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Inbone Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Reiley, Louis E. Greenberg, R. Garrett Mauldin
  • Patent number: 9629727
    Abstract: A facet joint fixation device formed from a flexible wedge shaped implant constructed from a single piece of material. The device is defined by an insert end spaced apart from outer end by first and second side members. Each side support is cut by a series of recesses defining a living hinge therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Atlas Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew G. Baynham
  • Patent number: 9629728
    Abstract: A bioactive spinal implant used in cervical fusion, Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF), Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF), and Transforaminal Interbody Fusion (TLIF), having properties and geometries that enhance bone contact, stability, and fusion between adjacent vertebral bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Orthovita, Inc.
    Inventors: Charanpreet S. Bagga, Erik M. Erbe, James P. Murphy, James M. Freid, Gregory J. Pomrink
  • Patent number: 9629729
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for near-simultaneous and integrated delivery of bone graft material during the placement of surgical cages or other medical implants in a patient's spine. The integrated fusion cage and graft delivery device according to various embodiments delivers and disperses biologic material through a fusion cage to a disc space and, without withdrawal from the surgical site, may selectably detach the fusion cage for deposit to the same disc space. The integrated fusion cage and graft delivery device is formed such that a hollow tube and plunger selectively and controllably place bone graft material and a fusion cage in or adjacent to the bone graft receiving area. In one embodiment, the integrated fusion cage is an expandable integrated fusion cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Spinal Surgical Strategies, LLC
    Inventors: Edward John Grimberg, Jr., Jeffrey B. Kleiner
  • Patent number: 9629730
    Abstract: A total ankle replacement system, novel surgical method for total ankle replacement, and novel surgical tools for performing the surgical method are described. The total ankle replacement system includes the calcaneus in fixation of a lower prosthesis body, thereby significantly increasing the amount of bone available for fixation of the lower prosthesis body and allowing the lower prosthesis body to be anchored with screws. The total ankle replacement system further includes a long tibial stem which can also be anchored into the tibia with, for example, screws, nails, anchors, or some other means of attachment. The novel surgical arthroscopic method allows introduction of ankle prostheses into the ankle joint through an exposure in the tibial tubercle. Various novel surgical instruments, such as a telescoping articulating reamer and a talo-calcaneal jig, which facilitate the novel surgical method, are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Inbone Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Reiley
  • Patent number: 9629731
    Abstract: The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a bidirectional biomechanical prosthetic finger assembly. One embodiment includes a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) pivot configured for swivelable attachment to a hand of a user, a distal coupler, and an articulation assembly rotatively coupled therebetween. A multiple-finger ring configured to receive a user's residual finger and at least one adjacent finger is disposed upon the articulation assembly, and may be adjusted to a target location based on a length of the residual finger. The articulation assembly is configured to utilize vertical movements of the residual and/or adjacent finger(s) within the multiple-finger ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-z plane, and the MCP pivot is configured to utilize lateral movements of the residual finger within the ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-y plane. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: RCM Enterprise, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Thompson, Jr., Jon Bengtsson, Anthony Charles Peto, Sydney Tye Minnis, Eric Dennis Klumper, Bradley Arthur Crittenden
  • Patent number: 9629732
    Abstract: A liner is arranged for use in prosthetic and orthopedic devices. The liner defines first and second end portions, and inner and outer surfaces. The liner includes an inner layer having a frictional component and forms at least part of the periphery of the inner liner surface. The inner layer defines a plurality of apertures. A porous element is in communication with the inner liner surface and is connected to the inner layer such that the apertures permit a transfer of air from the inner surface to the porous element. A base layer adjoins the porous element and extends between the first and second end portions of the liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventors: Egill Sveinbjorn Egilsson, Palmar I. Gudnason, Olafur Freyr Halldorsson, Thordur Elefsen
  • Patent number: 9629733
    Abstract: The present embodiments provide a method for delivering a stent comprising providing a stent in a delivery state, where the stent comprises a plurality of interconnected strut segments that enable expansion of the stent from a delivery state to a deployed state. Stacking a frontal surface of a first strut segment at least partially behind a rear surface of a second strut segment in the delivery state. Aligning a sharpened tip of a first barb at least partially circumferentially behind at least one strut segment in the delivery state such that the sharpened tip is not radially exposed. Expanding the stent from the delivery state to a deployed state, wherein the first barb is exposed to a patient in the deployed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Blayne A. Roeder, Siddharth Vad
  • Patent number: 9629734
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, a fatigue resistant stent comprises a flexible tubular structure having an inside diameter, an outside diameter, and a sidewall therebetween and having apertures extending through the sidewall. According to other aspects of the invention, processes for making a fatigue resistant stent are disclosed. According to further aspects of the invention, delivery systems for a fatigue resistant stent and methods of use are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Jianlu Ma, Joe Tatalovich, Lixiao Wang, Xiaoling Zhao, Dan Ranum
  • Patent number: 9629735
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes endoluminal devices, such as stents and stent grafts capable of being bent smoothly, with various benefits resulting therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanislaw L. Zukowski