Patents Issued in May 2, 2017
  • Patent number: 9636183
    Abstract: A system and a method are disclosed that allow for generation of a model or reconstruction of a model of a subject based upon acquired image data. The image data can be acquired in a substantially mobile system that can be moved relative to a subject to allow for image acquisition from a plurality of orientations relative to the subject. The plurality of orientations can include a first and final orientation and a predetermined path along which an image data collector or detector can move to acquire an appropriate image data set to allow for the model of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Medtronic Navigation, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick A. Helm, Shuanghe Shi
  • Patent number: 9636184
    Abstract: A surgical robotics system with robotic arms is configurable to perform a variety of surgical procedures. The system includes a table, column, base, and robotic arms that are either column-mounted, rail-mounted, or mounted on a separate unit. In a column-mounted configuration, the column includes column rings that translate vertically and rotate about the column. The robotic arms are attached to the column rings. In a rail-mounted configuration, the base includes base rails that translate along the base. The robotic arms are attached to the base rails. In both, the robotic arms move independently from each other and include multiple arm segments. Each arm segment provides an additional degree of freedom to the robotic arm. Thus, the system may position the robotic arms into numerous configurations to access different parts of a patient's body. The surgical bed may include a swivel segment that rotates laterally on the plane of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Auris Surgical Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Lee, Alan Yu, Frederic H. Moll, Benjamin Richter, Mark H. Olson, Jason Gonzalez, Kyle Andrew Tucker, Paxton Maeder-York, Gregory T. Schulte
  • Patent number: 9636185
    Abstract: System and method for performing a surgical procedure using a drill guide and a robotic device operable in multiple modes. The drill guide is mechanically coupled to the robotic device. A pre-defined virtual trajectory constrains movement of the drill guide. In a first mode, a user is able to manually manipulate the drill guide while movement of the drill guide is constrained by the pre-defined virtual trajectory. In a second mode, the robotic device operates autonomously, for instance, to perform service on the robotic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: MAKO Surgical Corp.
    Inventors: Arthur E. Quaid, Rony A. Abovitz
  • Patent number: 9636186
    Abstract: A multi-user medical robotic system for collaboration or training in minimally invasive surgical procedures includes first and second master input devices, a first slave robotic mechanism, and at least one processor configured to generate a first slave command for the first slave robotic mechanism by switchably using one or both of a first command indicative of manipulation of the first master input device by a first user and a second command indicative of manipulation of the second master input device by a second user. To facilitate the collaboration or training, both first and second users communicate with each other through an audio system and see the minimally invasive surgery site on first and second displays respectively viewable by the first and second users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajesh Kumar, Brian David Hoffman, Giuseppe Maria Prisco, David Q. Larkin, William C. Nowlin, Frederic H. Moll, Stephen J. Blumenkranz, Gunter D. Niemeyer, J. Kenneth Salisbury, Jr., Yulun Wang, Modjtaba Ghodoussi, Darrin R. Uecker, James W. Wright, Amante A. Mangaser, Ranjan Mauherjee
  • Patent number: 9636187
    Abstract: A surgical shield includes an at least partially rigid shield member extending in at least two spatial dimensions, at least one flexible sheet member, and a coupling element. The shield member has an aperture traversable by a surgical instrument, while the coupling element is provided on the shield member for releasably connecting the shield member to the instrument. The flexible sheet member is attached to the shield member so as to define, with the shield member, an enclosure having one open side opposing the shield member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: MISONIX INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Dan Voic
  • Patent number: 9636188
    Abstract: A system and method for tracking the three-dimensional position and orientation of a surgical instrument as the instrument is being utilized within the interior of a patient body. A stereoscopic camera system generates a stereoscopic image of the patient body which is subsequently rendered on a display device. A wireless signal transmitted by an electromagnetic field generator is received by a sensor on the surgical instrument. Utilizing this sensor data, a processor calculates the position and orientation of the surgical instrument and then superimposes upon the rendered stereoscopic image of the patient body a graphical representation indicative of the position and orientation of the surgical instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: STRYKER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Abhishek Gattani, Salmaan Hameed
  • Patent number: 9636189
    Abstract: A hydrogel plug is placed under stress during its curing stage, in one embodiment, by application of an externally applied force. The stress may also be induced during or after the dehydration process. The direction of the externally applied force increases the length, width, depth, or radial extent of the plug. The elastic limit of the plug is exceeded when the external force is applied so that the plug substantially retains its stressed size and shape when the externally applied force is removed. When the stretched or otherwise deformed dehydrated plug is hydrated, it substantially returns to the configuration it had prior to its dehydration and prior to the application of the externally applied force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: DEVICOR MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Frederick A. Ahari, John S. Fisher
  • Patent number: 9636190
    Abstract: A bone pen includes a pen which is coupled to a user's handpiece and comprises a drill section provided at an end portion thereof to drill to an alveolar bone; a cup which has an accommodating space to hold therein bone particles harvested during the drilling operation, has an outer diameter corresponding to a mesiodistal diameter of a patient's tooth targeted for treatment, and coupled to the pen so that the accommodating space can surround the drill section; and a spring which is supported at one side of the pen and elastically supports the cup with regard to the pen, wherein the drill section of the pen is positioned at a central axis line of the cup, maintained as being positioned at a mesiodistal diameter center of the tooth targeted for treatment, and guided for drilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: ACRODENT CO., LTD
    Inventor: Jun Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 9636191
    Abstract: An orthodontic bracket is described, and which includes a bracket base, which is releasably affixed to a patient's tooth; a bracket body borne on the bracket base, and which defines an arch wire slot, and which further has a selectively adjustable cross-sectional dimension; and an arch wire is received within the arch wire slot, and where the described embodiment of the bracket body, acting in combination with the arch wire is adjustable so as to provide a multiplicity of selective torque expressions, which act upon a patient's tooth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Premier Orthodontic Designs, LLLP
    Inventors: Paul L. Damon, Dwight H. Damon
  • Patent number: 9636192
    Abstract: An orthodontic appliance includes a telescopic assembly with an end tube and a telescopic member. A distal connector secured to the end tube at a generally distal end of the telescopic assembly. An end cap engages the distal end of the end tube. A spring is secured to the end cap and extends coaxially within the cover and the end tube. The spring is configured to impart a biasing force against the distal end of the telescopic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: American Orthodontics Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Eric Faust, Eric William Nimmer, Lee John Vogel, Andrew M. Hayes
  • Patent number: 9636193
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an articulator. The articulator may significantly improve the coupling force between a maxillary fixing part and a mandibular fixing part. In addition, since the horizontal turning radius of the maxillary fixing part is easily adjustable according to the size of a mandible model, errors that may occur when the state of occlusion between the mandible model and a maxillary model is checked may be easily prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Se Hun Kim
  • Patent number: 9636194
    Abstract: A dental device with dual saliva extractors and dual retractors for the tongue and upper lip and method are connectable to a suction and disposal unit. The device includes a pair of extractors each of which includes a suction tip and a tubular member for connecting the tip to the sources of suction. A first of the tubular members is put into a patient's mouth with a first curved portion inserted in a lower portion of the patient's mouth over the tongue and behind the front teeth and a second curved portion separate from said first portion branched off from where the first portion crosses the lower teeth and is inserted between the upper lip and upper molars under the region of the Stenson's duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventor: Fahad Ibrahim Fatiny
  • Patent number: 9636195
    Abstract: An oral hygiene system for cleaning teeth and gums includes a mouthpiece having at least one arcuate channel adapted to receive and surround the teeth. The mouthpiece includes at least two modalities chosen from a mechanical modality, an iontophoretic modality, and a disinfection modality. The mechanical modality brushes the teeth and gums and dislodges food debris, the iontophoretic modality breaks up plaque and tartar buildup, and the disinfection modality removes the food debris, plaque and tartar buildup. A control system coordinates the transmission of modalities, tracks and records utilization, recording completed and failed treatment cycles, and transmits them to a monitoring system. The monitoring system, which links to electronic medical administrating record (eMAR) technology and patient tracking technology (e.g., RFID sensors, electronic tags), facilitates compliance with recommended oral hygiene regimens and review of compliance by medical staff, assisted living staff, and/or caregivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Stephen H. Wolpo
  • Patent number: 9636196
    Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for whitening teeth of a subject comprising administering one or more isolated, non-pathogenic, hydrogen peroxide-producing bacterial strains to an oral cavity of a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: ProBiora Health, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Daniel Hillman
  • Patent number: 9636197
    Abstract: Apparatus is for user having teeth. Apparatus includes upper oral delivery mouthpiece and lower oral delivery mouthpiece each configured to be positioned in the mouth of the user. Upper oral delivery mouthpiece includes upper bendable assembly configured to urge upper oral delivery mouthpiece to conform, at least in part, to a curvature of the upper teeth of the user. Lower oral delivery mouthpiece includes lower bendable assembly configured to urge lower oral delivery mouthpiece to conform, at least in part, to a curvature of the lower teeth of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Gurmeet Khangura
  • Patent number: 9636198
    Abstract: A dental whitening system has a removable heating component that includes a heating plate having a heat generator. A positioning element, such as a dental tray, is used to position the removable heating component inside the person's lips, over and proximate to the person's teeth, so that heat from the heating plate is directed to the person's teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: J-Network, Inc.
    Inventor: Akira Kodama
  • Patent number: 9636199
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the concurrent treatment of multiple oral diseases and defects while promoting general oral hygiene utilizing electricity are provided for non-human animals. Electrodes are used to deliver an electrical current to the gingival tissues of a mouth in order to achieve a number of therapeutic, prophylactic, and regenerative benefits. These benefits include killing oral microbes, increasing oral vasodilation, reducing oral biofilm, improving oral blood circulation, reversing oral bone resorption, promoting oral osteogenesis, treating gum recession, and fostering gingival regeneration. Other benefits include the treatment of gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral malodor, and other systemic diseases correlated with oral pathogens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Biolectrics LLC
    Inventors: Issam Nemeh, William J. Leimkuehler, Jr., James G. Azlein
  • Patent number: 9636200
    Abstract: An implant including a vaginal portion having a length, width, first and second ends with a central region positioned therebetween, and a sacral portion having a length, width, first end and second end. The first end of the sacral portion is coupled to the central region of the vaginal portion so that the width of the first end extends substantially perpendicularly to the length of the vaginal portion. The implant is made of the same substantially flat, planar mesh having an anisotropic knitted or woven structure that has a greater stiffness in a first direction than a second direction. The mesh is aligned such that the first direction is aligned in a longitudinal direction of the sacral portion and the mesh of the vaginal portion is aligned such that the stiffness in a longitudinal direction of the vaginal portion is less than that of the sacral portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Chanaka Amarasinghe, Marc Feinberg
  • Patent number: 9636201
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a medical device includes a first elongate portion and a second elongate portion. The first elongate portion defines a loop and has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is configured to be removably coupled to an implant. The second elongate portion has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion of the second elongate portion is coupled to the first elongate portion. The second end portion of the second elongate portion is configured to be removably coupled to an insertion tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael S. H. Chu
  • Patent number: 9636202
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide systems and methods for ear restoration surgery. Certain embodiments provide an improved framework that provides enhanced cooperation between an ear base and a rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Poriferous, LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Noble
  • Patent number: 9636203
    Abstract: An inguinal hernia prosthesis includes a cord locating structure that provides cord protecting functions. The cord locating structure, which may be a semi-circular or other shaped recess positioned along a longitudinal peripheral edge of the prosthesis, is designed to only surround a portion of the cord, e.g. less than 180 or preferably 120 degrees, with the remaining cord circumference being positioned by the element against appropriate muscle tissue. The cord locating structure may be referenced as a non-encircling lateral cord locating structure. The prosthetic: provides tension free repair; minimizes cord damage through tissue ingrowth/strangulation effects, inadvertent suturing through the cord structure, and abrasion with the prosthetic; and minimizes size of prosthetic used in the repair; and is configured to reconstitutes the pre-hernia muscle physiology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Enrico Nicolo
  • Patent number: 9636204
    Abstract: Deflection devices, systems, and methods for the prevention of stroke. Devices hereof comprise an extension portion and an anchor portion, both of which are configured to prevent the device from advancing into the artery extending from the aortic arch in which the device may be positioned. Additionally, a retrieval system is provided, the system comprising a sleeve catheter and a retrieval device slidably disposed therein. The distal end of the retrieval device comprises one or more attachment portions configured to engage at least a portion of the anchor portion of a device positioned within an artery extending from the aortic arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: CVDevices, LLC
    Inventors: Ghassan S. Kassab, Hyo Won Choi, Jose A. Navia, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9636205
    Abstract: Multi-filter endolumenal methods and systems for filtering fluids within the body. In some embodiments a multi-filter blood filtering system captures and removes particulates dislodge or generated during a surgical procedure and circulating in a patient's vasculature. In some embodiments a dual filter system protects the cerebral vasculature during a cardiac valve repair or replacement procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Claret Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lee, Daniel W. Fifer, Randall T. Lashinski
  • Patent number: 9636206
    Abstract: Systems and methods can remove material of interest, including blood clots, from a body region, including but not limited to the circulatory system for the treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), cerebrovascular embolism, and other vascular occlusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: KP Medcure, Inc.
    Inventors: Thanh Van Nguyen, Duy Nguyen, Tung Hoang Ngo
  • Patent number: 9636207
    Abstract: An implantable prosthesis for repairing or reinforcing a tissue or muscle wall defect including a first composite structure including at least one layer of a non-absorbable material, wherein the first composite structure has a central portion sized and shaped to cover at least a portion of the tissue or muscle wall defect, and has an outer periphery. The prosthesis further includes a second structure having a reinforced central region and an outer peripheral edge, a reinforcing element positioned between the first and second structures, and having an outer periphery and a stiffness greater than that of the first and second structures, and at least one pulling element coupled to the reinforced central region of the second structure. The second structure is coupled to the first structure substantially only at their respective peripheries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Rousseau, David C. Lindh, Sr., John R. Jacobs, Ilya S. Koyfman, Gaoyuan Gavin Chen, Donald G. Hill
  • Patent number: 9636208
    Abstract: A vascular prosthesis is disclosed, comprising a forked tube, having: an inflow tube with an inflow end; a primary distal outflow branch with a primary distal outflow end; and a secondary proximal outflow branch with a secondary proximal outflow end. The two outflow ends are directed in different directions and the two outflow branches in the vicinity of the bifurcation have different cross-sectional areas. Further, the secondary proximal outflow branch is more curved than the primary distal outflow branch, and the secondary proximal outflow branch in the vicinity of the bifurcation has a smaller cross-sectional area than the primary distal outflow branch. Hereby, energy losses at flow bifurcations is adapted to the bypass situation to even out the level of shear stress, thereby avoiding areas with low shear stress and decreasing the tendency for turbulent flow, thus reducing the risk of graftstenosis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Y-GRAFT AB
    Inventors: Torbjƶrn Lundh, Erney Mattsson
  • Patent number: 9636209
    Abstract: The disclosure describes implantable bioprosthesis and constructs having an implantable woven ribbon with at least one integrated suture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: MiMedx Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Koob, Mengyan Li
  • Patent number: 9636210
    Abstract: A mammary implant and method of making are provided herein. The implant includes an outer shell configured to retain fluid therein, an injection element coupled to the outer shell and adapted to receive therethrough an injection device for injecting fluid into the outer shell, and an injection marker zone made of a material having ultrasonically detectable markers incorporated therein. The markers are a plurality of microcavities that are located relative to the injection element so that, when ultrasonically detected, such detection indicates a location of the injection element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Mentor Worldwide LLC
    Inventors: Krasimira Hristov, Leo B. Kriksunov, Robert J. Tannhauser
  • Patent number: 9636211
    Abstract: Absorbable implants for breast surgery that conform to the breast parenchyma and surrounding chest wall have been developed. These implants support newly lifted breast parenchyma, and/or a breast implant. The implants have mechanical properties sufficient to support a reconstructed breast, and allow the ingrowth of tissue into the implant as it degrades. The implants have a strength retention profile allowing the support of the breast to be transitioned from the implant to regenerated host tissue, without significant loss of support. Three-dimensional implants for use in minimally invasive mastopexy/breast reconstruction procedures are also described, that confer shape to a patient's breast. These implants are self-reinforced, can be temporarily deformed, implanted in a suitably dissected tissue plane, and resume their preformed three-dimensional shape. The implants are preferably made from poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) and copolymers thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Tepha, Inc.
    Inventors: Fabio Felix, Antonio Fosco, David P Martin, Arikha Moses, Bruce Van Natta, Said Rizk, Simon F. Williams
  • Patent number: 9636212
    Abstract: The object of providing a device for reversibly attaching an implant to an eye, with which the implant can be attached in a simple way to the eye and can if necessary be detached or removed from the eye, is achieved according to the present invention by means of a device for attaching an implant by means of a pin that comprises a substantially elongated shaft, wherein the implant includes an implant film for contacting living tissue or nerves in the visual system of the eye and the implant film has an opening through which the shaft of the pin can be at least partially inserted, characterised in that the device includes a holding element that can be arranged on the shaft of the pin so that the holding element engages on the shaft of the pin and is fixed in an attachment position to the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: PIXIUM VISION SA
    Inventors: Hans-Jürgen Tiedtke, Alexander Meyer
  • Patent number: 9636213
    Abstract: An intraocular lens includes a deformable optic, a rigid optic, and a support structure. The deformable optic is disposed about an optical axis and comprises a solid material and a deformable surface. The rigid optic is disposed about the optical axis and comprises a solid material and a rigid surface. The support structure is operably coupled to at least one of the optics for pressing the deformable surface and the rigid surface together in response to or in the absences of an ocular force, whereby at least a portion of the deformable surface changes shape such that the optical power of the at least a portion of the deformable surface and/or the intraocular lens changes by at least 2 Diopter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel G. Brady
  • Patent number: 9636214
    Abstract: A method of designing a multifocal ophthalmic lens with one base focus and at least one additional focus, capable of reducing aberrations of the eye for at least one of the foci after its implantation, comprising the steps of: (i) characterizing at least one corneal surface as a mathematical model; (ii) calculating the resulting aberrations of said corneal surface(s) by employing said mathematical model; (iii) modelling the multifocal ophthalmic lens such that a wavefront arriving from an optical system comprising said lens and said at least one corneal surface obtains reduced aberrations for at least one of the foci. There is also disclosed a method of selecting a multifocal intraocular lens, a method of designing a multifocal ophthalmic lens based on corneal data from a group of patients, and a multifocal ophthalmic lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: AMO GRONINGEN B.V.
    Inventors: Patricia Ann Piers, Hendrik A. Weeber, Sverker Norrby
  • Patent number: 9636215
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for improving overall vision in patients suffering from a loss of vision in a portion of the retina (e.g., loss of central vision) by providing an enhanced toric lens which redirects and/or focuses light incident on the eye at oblique angles onto a peripheral retinal location. The intraocular lens can include a redirection element (e.g., a prism, a diffractive element, or an optical component with a decentered GRIN profile) configured to direct incident light along a deflected optical axis and to focus an image at a location on the peripheral retina. Optical properties of the intraocular lens can be configured to improve or reduce peripheral errors at the location on the peripheral retina. One or more surfaces of the intraocular lens can be a toric surface, a higher order aspheric surface, an aspheric Zernike surface or a Biconic Zernike surface to reduce optical errors in an image produced at a peripheral retinal location by light incident at oblique angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: AMO GRONINGEN B.V.
    Inventors: Robert Rosen, Hendrik A Weeber, Carmen Canovas Vidal, Marrie Van Der Mooren, Dora Sellitri
  • Patent number: 9636216
    Abstract: An inorganic-organic hybrid coating applied to a polymer and method for forming same to provide improved hydrophilicity and lubricity to the surface of the polymer. The hydrophilic coating is on the order of one micron thick, as is formed by activating the surface of the polymer, reacting the activated surface of the polymer with a Lewis acid metallic composition, and then quenching the coating in salt solution having a pH>7.2 at a temperature above the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: STAAR Surgical Company
    Inventors: Alexei Ossipov, Thomas R. Paul
  • Patent number: 9636217
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods for folding an intraocular lens and inserting an intraocular lens into an eye are disclosed herein. In some instances, a system for folding an intraocular lens may include a folding pin, a guide pin rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the folding pin, and a stage laterally moveable relative to the folding pin. An intraocular lens may be secured between the folding pin and the guide pin and be folded onto the folding pin during rotation of the guide pin. A retention member may be used to hold the folded intraocular lens onto the folding pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Novartis AG
    Inventor: Neelesh Kunte
  • Patent number: 9636218
    Abstract: Devices and methods of treating sleep disordered breathing are provided herein. The devices are designed capable of preventing collapse of an oral airway tissue during sleep while maintaining normal velopharyngeal functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: SVIP 7 LLC
    Inventors: Tidhar Shalon, Guy Kotlizky
  • Patent number: 9636219
    Abstract: The invention is a cardiac implant, and associated methods therefore, configured to repair and/or replace a native heart valve, and having a support frame configured to be reshaped into an expanded/changed form in order to receive and/or support an expandable prosthetic heart valve therein. The implant may be configured to have a generally rigid and/or expansion-resistant configuration when initially implanted to replace/repair a native valve (or other prosthetic heart valve), but to assume a generally non-rigid and/or expanded/expandable form when subjected to an outward force such as that provided by a dilation balloon. The implant may be configured to have a generally D-shaped configuration when initially implanted, but to assume a generally circular form when subjected to an outward force such as that provided by a dilation balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Yaron Keidar, Mark A. Konno
  • Patent number: 9636220
    Abstract: A valve holder is connectable to a prosthetic valve including a stent having a plurality of commissure posts. The valve includes a base, a plurality of legs extending from the base, and one of several mechanisms for deflecting the plurality of commissure posts radially inward so as to temporarily decrease the overall size of the prosthetic valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad Joshua Green, James Michael Forsberg
  • Patent number: 9636221
    Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve includes an annularly collapsible and re-expandable supporting structure extending between an inflow end and an outflow end and including a plurality of struts and a plurality of posts, each post having an elongated opening, a plurality of leaflets disposed inside the supporting structure and operative to allow flow in a first direction from the inflow end to the outflow end and to substantially block flow in an opposite direction from the outflow end to the inflow end, each of the plurality of leaflets including flaps, and a first patch covering the opening of a first post, the first patch being attached to a first flap of a first leaflet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter N. Braido, Andrea L. McCarthy, Rubem L. Figueiredo, Julia A. Schraut
  • Patent number: 9636222
    Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve includes a collapsible and expandable stent having a proximal end and a distal end, and a collapsible and expandable valve assembly, the valve assembly including a plurality of leaflets connected to at least one of the stent and a cuff. The heart valve further includes a conformable band disposed about the perimeter of the stent near the proximal end for filling gaps between the collapsible prosthetic heart valve and a native valve annulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventor: John Oslund
  • Patent number: 9636223
    Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for improving the function of a defective heart valve, and particularly for reducing regurgitation through an atrioventricular heart valve—i.e., the mitral valve and the tricuspid valve. For a tricuspid repair, the device includes an anchor deployed in the tissue of the right ventricle, in an orifice opening to the right atrium, or anchored to the tricuspid valve. A flexible anchor rail connects to the anchor and a coaptation element on a catheter rides over the anchor rail. The catheter attaches to the proximal end of the coaptation element, and a locking mechanism fixes the position of the coaptation element relative to the anchor rail. Finally, there is a proximal anchoring feature to fix the proximal end of the coaptation catheter subcutaneously adjacent the subclavian vein. The coaptation element includes an inert covering and helps reduce regurgitation through contact with the valve leaflets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Vivian Khalil, Erin Spinner, Neil Zimmerman, Alexander Siegel, Son V. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 9636224
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for use with a subject, including an implant comprising a sleeve shaped so as to define a lumen therein, the sleeve having first and second portions. A contracting mechanism is coupled to a portion of an outer surface of the sleeve in a vicinity of the first portion of the sleeve. An elongated contracting member is coupled at a first end portion thereof to the contracting mechanism, and coupled at a second end portion thereof to the sleeve in a vicinity of the second portion of the sleeve. The contracting mechanism comprises a driving interface that is positioned so as to be accessible from the portion of the outer surface of the sleeve. The contracting mechanism is configured such that rotation of the driving interface contracts the implant by tightening the elongated contracting member. Other applications are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: VALTECH CARDIO, LTD.
    Inventors: Yuval Zipory, Oz Cabiri, Tal Hammer, Aram Ayvazian
  • Patent number: 9636225
    Abstract: A method of implanting a penile prosthetic includes confirming that a tow suture is coupled with a resorbable suture-engagement component attached to an exterior surface of a cylinder. The method includes inserting the tow suture into a corpora cavernosum of a penis and pushing the tow suture through a glans of the penis and pulling on the tow suture and towing the cylinder to a distal location within the penis. The tow suture is removed from the resorbable suture-engagement component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Geoffrey A. Daniel, Yelena Tropsha
  • Patent number: 9636226
    Abstract: A hand and/or wrist implant, including a web structure having a space truss with two or more planar truss units having a plurality of struts joined at nodes. The web structure is configured for the repair of traumatic bone fractures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: 4WEB, Inc.
    Inventor: Jessee Hunt
  • Patent number: 9636227
    Abstract: A hip stem prosthesis is provided for treating a deficient hip joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Natalia Fridshtand, Douglas W. Gabel, Steven Charlebois, David L. Glass, Steven Zawadzki, Jeffrey P. Matney
  • Patent number: 9636228
    Abstract: A radial head implant including a head, a stem, and a locking mechanism, whereby the head laterally engages the stem, and an instrument for implanting and removing such implant is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.
    Inventor: David A. Leibel
  • Patent number: 9636229
    Abstract: Disclosed are designs, methods and systems for manufacturing implants, implant components, features of implant components, and/or related tools using solid freeform fabrication or additive metals technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: ConforMIS, Inc.
    Inventors: Philipp Lang, John Slamin
  • Patent number: 9636230
    Abstract: An interbody fusion implant fits between adjacent vertebrae for fixation during fusion thereof. Upper bores extend into a cephalid surface of the implant and preferably include threads therein. A guide tool is removably attachable to the implant which supports guide bores along centerlines aligned with the upper bores in the implant. A drill can pass along these guide bores to form holes in a vertebra adjacent the cephalid surface of the implant which is precisely aligned with the upper bores. A hybrid screw then passes through these holes in the vertebra adjacent the cephalid surface and threads into the upper bores to secure the implant to the adjacent cephalid vertebra. Bone screws can also be used to secure the implant to caudal vertebra by passing through bores passing through the implant, such that the implant is securely mechanically fastened to both cephalid and caudal vertebrae adjacent the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Vikram Talwar
  • Patent number: 9636231
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an expandable prosthetic implant device for engagement between vertebrae generally comprising an inner member, outer member, and gear member positioned coaxial with respect to each other such that the inner and outer members are moveable relative to each other along an axis. The gear member is axially fixed to the outer member and freely rotatable with respect to the outer member and the gear member threadedly engages a threaded portion of the inner member to translate inner member along the axis. The implant is configured to engage the vertebrae in a predetermined alignment and the gear member includes gear teeth exposed to the exterior and configured to be accessible by a tool member at a plurality of angular positions around the perimeter of the implant device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: William S Rhoda, Noah Hansell, Andrew Lee
  • Patent number: 9636232
    Abstract: A system for harvesting bone graft material for use during bone fusion surgery. In one embodiment, a bone cutting tool has a blade fixed on a distal end of a shaft. The distal end of the shaft is pivoted on a cage set between two bones to be fused, and the blade is activated to cut into the bones and form a solid bone segment in each bone as the tool shaft turns. A paddle is arranged to be inserted between the bones, and to displace the cut bone segments so that a leading portion of each segment enters the bone opposite the bone from which the segment was cut, a central portion of the segment spans across the bones, and a trailing portion of the segment remains in the bone from which it was cut. The displaced segments act as strut grafts to fuse the bones to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Seth L. Neubardt