Patents Issued in October 12, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170290558
    Abstract: A radiographic image capturing apparatus, includes the following. A sensor panel includes scanning lines, signal lines, a two-dimensional array of radiation detecting elements each having a first electrode and a second electrode, bias lines each applying a reverse bias voltage to the corresponding radiation detecting element, and switching elements. The first electrode of each radiation detecting element is connected to the corresponding bias line. The second electrode of the radiation detecting element is connected to the corresponding signal line via the corresponding switch element. A determination unit determines any defect in the sensor panel based on a signal value read after varying a potential difference between each signal line and the corresponding bias line or a signal value read after turning-on or turning-off of each switching element during a readout operation from the corresponding radiation detecting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Ryouhei KIKUCHI
  • Publication number: 20170290559
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for positioning an x-ray machine having an x-ray source and a detector. A second X-ray image is recorded once an x-ray apparatus has been positioned by using information of an alignment point in a first x-ray image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: Siemens Healthcare GMBH
    Inventors: ALEXANDER GEMMEL, GERHARD KLEINSZIG, WEI WEI, MARKUS WEITEN
  • Publication number: 20170290560
    Abstract: In viscoelastic imaging with ultrasound, the shear wave speed or other viscoelastic parameter is measured by tracking at the ARFI focal or other high-intensity location relative to the ARFI transmission. Rather than tracking the shear wave, the tissue response to ARFI is measured. A profile of displacements over time or a spectrum thereof is measured at the location. By finding a scale of the profile resulting in sufficient correlation with a calibration profile, the shear wave speed or other viscoelastic parameter may be estimated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Yassin Labyed, Liexiang Fan
  • Publication number: 20170290561
    Abstract: A medical device includes a structural element comprising an outer surface and a material on the outer surface of the structural element. The material defines void spaces containing a gas entrained within the void spaces. The material, upon contact with physiological fluid, is configured to release the gas in an amount sufficient for the gas to be imaged by ultrasound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas McPeak
  • Publication number: 20170290562
    Abstract: Rotational intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging devices, systems, and methods are provided. Some embodiments are directed to transducer mounting configurations that enable polymer piezoelectric micro-machined ultrasonic transducers (PMUTs) to be used with a Doppler color flow rotational IVUS imaging system. In one embodiment, a rotational intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) device includes: a flexible elongate body; a piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducer (PMUT) coupled to a distal portion of the flexible elongate body; and an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) coupled to the distal portion of the flexible elongate body. The ASIC is electrically coupled to the PMUT and includes a pulser, an amplifier, a protection circuit, and timing and control circuitry for coordinating operation of the pulser, amplifier, and protection circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Paul Douglas Corl
  • Publication number: 20170290563
    Abstract: A registration device includes an attachment piece (106) configured to conform with and attach to an imaging probe (102), in particular an internal or external ultrasound probe such as a TEE probe. A pathway (105) formed in or on the attachment piece is configured to receive an optical shape sensing device (OSS fiber) such that the optical shape sensing device can free float (no tip fixation) to permit longitudinal twisting within the pathway. The pathway includes a distinctive geometry for shaping the OSS device such that the distinctive geometry provides a template pattern (107) within an image collected using the imaging probe module to permit registration between imaging coordinates and OSS coordinates. A registration module (130) is configured to compare a stored shape template (121) with an image (134) including the template pattern to permit the registration (unique transformation).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Gregory Cole, Marissa Patricia Dreyer, Bharat Ramachandran
  • Publication number: 20170290564
    Abstract: An attachment for ultrasound probe, an ultrasound probe, an ultrasound inspecting apparatus, and an ultrasound inspecting method are provided. The attachment for ultrasound probe includes an acoustic matching element provided on a transceiver of an ultrasound probe and deformed based on a surface of an inspection target when the ultrasound probe scans the surface of the inspection target; a medium supplier provided near the acoustic matching element and configured to provide a medium between the inspection target and the acoustic matching element, based on the deformation of the acoustic matching element; and a body configured to fix the acoustic matching element and the medium supplier to the ultrasound probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kazuo IIJIMA
  • Publication number: 20170290565
    Abstract: An ultrasound probe of the present invention includes: a piezoelectric element configured to transmit and receive an ultrasonic wave; a casing that houses the piezoelectric element; and an acoustic medium liquid that fills a space between the piezoelectric element and the casing, and contains an aromatic compound or a substituted derivative thereof
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Kiyoshi FUJII, Toshiharu SATO
  • Publication number: 20170290566
    Abstract: In a rigid distal end portion of an ultrasonic endoscope, a side-viewing optical observation portion and a wave transmission/reception face of an ultrasonic probe are provided on respective sides, in the width direction, of a boundary side wall of a pair of side walls constituting a laterally open recess. The wave transmission/reception face is arranged in a range in which at least a part of the wave transmission/reception face overlaps the boundary side wall, while being offset from an elevator in the longitudinal direction of an insertion portion. When the rigid distal end portion is viewed in an observation direction of the optical observation portion, a top portion of the elevator is located on a line connecting a center of the outer shape of the wave transmission/reception face of the ultrasonic probe, and a center, in the width direction, of the distal end connecting portion of a treatment tool conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: HOYA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yoshitsugu HOSOGOE
  • Publication number: 20170290567
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a storage, a comparison function, and an evaluation function. The storage is provided in an ultrasound probe, and stores., in advance, an initial value of transmitting/receiving sensitivity measured with respect to each channel, of the ultrasound probe. The comparison function compares transmitting/receiving sensitivity newly measured with the initial value. The evaluation function evaluates the degree of the deterioration of the ultrasound probe based on a comparison result and a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Fuminori FUJITA
  • Publication number: 20170290568
    Abstract: An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus and a method of controlling the same are provided. The ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes an ultrasound probe configured to transmit an ultrasound signal to an object and receive an ultrasound echo signal from the object to form a reception signal; a body configured to receive the reception signal from the ultrasound probe and process the reception signal; an impedance matching circuit configured to match an impedance of the ultrasound probe with an impedance of the body; and a controller configured to control the impedance matching circuit to operate as at least one filter that passes or rejects a signal of a specific frequency band, based on the impedance of the ultrasound probe, the impedance of the body, and relevant frequency characteristics of the reception signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicants: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD., SOGANG UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Jong-sun KO, Jin-ho CHANG, Ju-young MOON, Sung-ho KIM
  • Publication number: 20170290569
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a medical image processing apparatus includes a storage and processing circuitry. The storage stores a first image indicating a breast of an object captured by a medical image diagnostic apparatus and interpretation information associated with the first image. The processing circuitry generates, based on position information of a region of interest based on the interpretation information and information of an interpretation direction, schematic diagram information for adding information about a position of the region of interest onto a schematic diagram of the breast. The processing circuitry transmits information, including the schematic diagram information, for generating the schematic diagram.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuki UTSUNOMIYA, Yusuke KANO, Shinya SUGIYAMA, Kei MORI, Tooru KATO, Hiroaki NAKAI
  • Publication number: 20170290570
    Abstract: Provided are a puncture range determination apparatus and a puncture range determination method in which the hardness of tissue is considered as well as blood vessels. A blood vessel (32) is detected through performing Doppler processing. In addition, a soft region (33) of a subject is detected through performing elastication processing. A range of the soft region (33) excluding the blood vessel (32) is detected as a puncture recommendation range. Guide lines (34) and (35) defining the puncture recommendation range are displayed. A doctor performs puncturing with a needle inside the guide lines (34) and (35) and punctures a puncture target region (31) with the needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroaki YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20170290571
    Abstract: A medical diagnostic apparatus acquires a signal to generate images of an observation target, sequentially generates observation images based on the acquired signal, and causes a display to continuously display the observation images. The apparatus includes: a first storage for storing the observation images in chronological order; input units for receiving a command signal for freezing the observation images on the display; and a second storage for storing correction information for each input unit so as to associate the correction information with each input unit. The apparatus is configured to: identify an input unit that has received the command signal among the input units; determine a correction amount based on a result of identification by the identification unit and the correction information; and select an observation image generated before or after receiving the command signal according to the correction amount, from among the observation images, based on the correction amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Sho FUNAKUBO
  • Publication number: 20170290572
    Abstract: A method for collecting tissue includes a body fluid removal step in which a body fluid inside a pancreatic cyst is moved to an outside of the pancreatic cyst, an injecting step in which a liquid different from the body fluid is injected into the pancreatic cyst, a collecting step in which the liquid is collected from the pancreatic cyst, and a separating step in which tissue of an inner wall of the pancreatic cyst, which is contained in the liquid collected from the pancreatic cyst, is separated from the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mari NAKATA, Hiromi SANUKI, Junichi MURAMATSU, Keita SHOJI
  • Publication number: 20170290573
    Abstract: A biopsy needle unit includes a biopsy needle and an elastically deformable safety tube for partially covering the biopsy needle inserted to a lumen extending in a longitudinal direction. A marker is arranged on the biopsy needle at a position protruding from an end portion of the safety tube on an opposite side of a needle tip of the puncture needle when the needle tip portion is accommodated in the lumen. The safety tube has portions in which the lumen is curved at least partially with respect to the longitudinal direction so that the safety tube is elastically deformed due to contact between an inner circumferential face of the lumen and an outer circumferential face of the biopsy needle when the biopsy needle is inserted to the lumen to cause frictional resistance between the inner circumferential face of the lumen and the outer circumferential face of the biopsy needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Hideo FUMIYAMA
  • Publication number: 20170290574
    Abstract: A surgical device comprising: (1) a handpiece having a distal end portion; (2) a tubular member extending from the distal end portion, the tubular member having a lumen therethrough, the lumen comprising: (a) a proximal lumen portion, (b) a distal lumen portion, (c) a first central lumen portion, and (d) a second central lumen portion, the second central portion being located between the proximal lumen portion and the first central lumen portion, wherein the distal lumen portion diverges as the distal lumen portion extends away from the first central lumen portion in a distal direction, and the second central lumen portion diverges as the second central lumen portion extends away from the first central lumen portion in a proximal direction and; wherein the tubular member has wall with a substantially uniform thickness about the first central lumen portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Kester J. Batchelor, James Faucher
  • Publication number: 20170290575
    Abstract: An endoscopic treatment tool set includes: an endoscopic treatment tool that includes a sheath having a lumen, an elongated shaft inserted into the lumen and the elongated shaft having an insertion passage, a stylet disposed in the insertion passage, an implant connected to the stylet, and a manipulation part provided at the sheath; and a jig. The endoscopic treatment tool is packed together with the jig. The jig is coupled to a proximal end portion of the stylet disposed in the manipulation part and the jig is configured to be movable relative to the manipulation part. The implant is connected to the jig via the stylet, and the implant is configured such that the jig is pulled toward a proximal end side of the manipulation part so that the stylet is moved to a proximal end side in the insertion passage and the implant is loaded in the insertion passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Masatoshi SATO
  • Publication number: 20170290576
    Abstract: A method of treating a patient's joint having opposing joint surfaces includes providing an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end and an expandable member near the distal end. The expandable member is positioned in the joint between the joint surfaces and expanded so as to separate the joint surfaces away from one another into a distracted position. The joint is manipulated while in the distracted position so that the joint is distracted and in flexion. A diagnostic or therapeutic procedure is then performed on the joint while maintaining the joint in the flexed and distracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: David Boudreault, Vivek Shenoy, Hanson S. Gifford, Mark Deem, Michael Hendricksen, Doug Sutton
  • Publication number: 20170290577
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fixating means adapted for use in hernia repair surgeries in attaching a mesh and mesh deployment means; said fixating means are attached to said mesh deployment means; and fixating means comprising: (a) a first portion coupled to said deployment means; and, (b) a second portion comprising a coil having a predetermined retracted shape; said coil is reconfigurable from a plurality of unretracted positions to a plurality of retracted positions and from said plurality of retracted positions to said plurality of unretracted positions; wherein said attachment between said deployment means and said mesh is obtained by reconfiguration of said coil from at least one of said unretracted positions to at least one of said retracted positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: Davol, Inc. (a C.R. Bard Company)
    Inventors: Mordehai Sholev, Ruth Zajdman, Itay Ben-Nun
  • Publication number: 20170290578
    Abstract: An adjustable, locking all-suture anchor assembly includes at least one suture strand and an all-suture anchoring element. The suture strand has a suture first end and a suture second end, wherein the suture first end includes an enlarged capturable structure and the suture second end is free and accessible for manipulation by a medical practitioner. In use, the suture first end is held in or by the all-suture anchoring element through inclusion of the enlarged capturable structure and the enlarged capturable structure functions to anchor the suture first end in relation to the all-suture anchoring element and retain the suture first end in position relative to the all-suture anchoring element when the suture second end is pulled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Raymond Thal
  • Publication number: 20170290579
    Abstract: A bone or tissue repair device can deploy first and second anchors from a distal end of a bore of a needle. A cylindrical first anchor can be disposed in the bore proximal to a distal end of the bore. A cylindrical second anchor can be disposed in the bore proximal to the first anchor. A pusher wire can include teeth positioned at a distal end of the pusher wire. The pusher wire and teeth can be configured to engage an interior of the first anchor; advance distally, with respect to the needle, to force the first anchor distally out of the bore; retract proximally, with respect to the needle and the second anchor, to position the teeth inside an interior of the second anchor; engage the interior of the second anchor; and advance distally, with respect to the needle, to force the second anchor distally out of the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel R. Norton
  • Publication number: 20170290580
    Abstract: Any of a number of implantable or partially implantable approximators, including, but not limited to, manual and ratchet approximators using a tensioning component that can be at least partially provided within a wound for closing the fascia of a wound (such as around the approximatoor) using continuously tensioned sutures. Also provided are approximators with automatic tensioning features, including electrically driven devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Hooman Soltanian
  • Publication number: 20170290581
    Abstract: A suturing device is provided. The suturing device may include at least one suturing needle, a drive mechanism and an impulse mechanism. The drive mechanism may be operatively coupled to the suturing needle and configured to advance the suturing needle from a retracted position to an extended position during engagement, and retract the suturing needle from the extended position to the retracted position during disengagement. The impulse mechanism may be operatively coupled to the drive mechanism and configured to accumulate energy during engagement of the suturing needle, and instantaneously release the accumulated energy through the drive mechanism during disengagement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Jafar S. Hasan, Wai N. Chin, James Orrico, Adam A. Saban, Gary M. Kobylewski
  • Publication number: 20170290582
    Abstract: An instrument for performing thorascopic repair of heart valves includes a shaft for extending through the chest cavity and into a heart chamber providing access to a valve needing repair. A movable tip on the shaft is operable to capture a valve leaflet and a needle is operable to penetrate a capture valve leaflet and draw the suture therethrough. The suture is thus fastened to the valve leaflet and the instrument is withdrawn from the heart chamber transporting the suture outside the heart chamber. The suture is anchored to the heart wall with proper tension as determined by observing valve operation with an ultrasonic imaging system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: Mayo Foundation For Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Giovanni Speziali
  • Publication number: 20170290583
    Abstract: A powered handle for a surgical stapler can have a drive system including an electric motor. The powered handle can include a manual articulation mechanism to articulate a jaw assembly coupled to a reload shaft connected to the handle. The manual articulation mechanism can include a ball screw mechanism that translates an articulation member responsive to rotation of an articulation knob. The articulation mechanism includes a release function that allows the jaw assembly to return to a longitudinally centered orientation. The powered handle includes a battery pack serving as a power supply for the drive system. A control system can control actuation of the motor based on user inputs and operating parameters of the stapler. The powered handle can include a manual return mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Christina N. Reed, Matthew M. Becerra, Andrew J. McCarthy, Scott Zimmerman, Joshua M. Schober, Steven E. Decker, Kevin Hudson, Andy Pham
  • Publication number: 20170290584
    Abstract: A surgical stapling system can include a reload shaft. The shaft can include an elongate tubular member with have a jaw assembly at the distal end thereof and a coupling collar at the proximal end thereof. The shaft assembly also includes an articulation joint coupling the jaw assembly to the distal end. A drive member and an articulation member extend within the tubular body of the shaft from the proximal end to the distal end. A firing member is connected to the distal end of the drive member such that advancement of the drive beam advances the firing member to close the jaw assemblies and fire staples from a reload positioned in the jaw assembly. The shaft assembly can also include a lockout mechanism to prevent a firing operation on a previously-fired reload or no reload.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Babak D. Jasemian, Steven E. Decker, Atal C. Patel, Erik Nelson, Andrew J. McCarthy, Scott Zimmerman, Timothy M. Hopkins, Joshua M. Schober, Eric J. Weiss, Matthew M. Becerra, Christina N. Reed
  • Publication number: 20170290585
    Abstract: Surgical end effectors and fastener cartridges having firing lockout arrangements for preventing or limit a firing stroke when a cartridge has not been operably installed in the end effector or a spent cartridge has not been replaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20170290586
    Abstract: A stapling cartridge having an elongated rail that provides support to a moveable clamping element and resists pulling or spreading forces caused by compressing and cutting tissue. The elongated rail can directly connect the stapling cartridge to the lower jaw and completely carry the moveable clamping element, which can couple and decouple to an anvil of an upper jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Ashley Lynn Wellman
  • Publication number: 20170290587
    Abstract: A handle assembly for a surgical stapler can comprise a rotatable actuation shaft. The actuation shaft can have a first rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a repeatable open and close mode, a second rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a staple firing mode, and a third rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a reversing mode. The handle assembly can include an articulation mechanism including a ball screw to selectively articulate the jaw assembly relative to an elongate shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Joshua M. Schober, Andrew J. McCarthy, Babak D. Jasemian
  • Publication number: 20170290588
    Abstract: An end effector for use by a surgeon to staple an anatomical structure of a patient during a surgical procedure includes an anvil and a cartridge. Each of the anvil and the cartridge has a face that is positionable on the anatomical structure. The anvil is coupled to the cartridge at first and second ends. The anvil is movable relative to the cartridge to define a first gap between the faces at the first ends that is different from a second gap between the faces at the second ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Jonathan Thompson, Ben Thompson, Richard P. Nuchols, Russell L. Holscher
  • Publication number: 20170290589
    Abstract: An apparatus for irrigating the vas deferens in connection with a vasectomy reversal is described. The apparatus comprises a fluid delivery device having a first portion that connects to the vas deferens, the fluid delivery device connecting such that a catheter tip inserts into the vas deferens and is held in stable position relative thereto and such that fluid enters the vas deferens through the catheter tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: David S. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20170290590
    Abstract: A ligating system having a ligating apparatus configured to attach to a distal end of a scope and to hold a ligating band thereon; an activating cord configured to extend down a working channel of the scope and attach to the ligating apparatus; and a line pulling assembly including: a central body; an attachment mechanism on the central body configured to attach the line pulling assembly to a proximal end of the scope; an access channel through the central body and in communication with the working channel of the scope, the access channel providing an open inlet to the working channel of the scope when the line pulling assembly is attached to the proximal end of the scope; and a winding mechanism attached to the central body, wherein the winding mechanism is configured to pull the activating cord proximally such that the ligating band is removed from the ligating apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Jan P. KAMLER
  • Publication number: 20170290591
    Abstract: A novel catheter-based system which ligates the left atrial appendage (LAA) on the outside of the heart, preferably using a combination of catheters and/or instruments, e.g., a guide catheter positioned inside the left atrial appendage which may assist in locating the left atrial appendage and/or assist in the optimal placement of a ligature on the outside of the appendage, and a ligating catheter and/or instrument outside the heart in the pericardial space to set a ligating element at the neck of the left atrial appendage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: John R. LIDDICOAT, William E. COHN, Roger LAHAM
  • Publication number: 20170290592
    Abstract: Described here are devices, systems and methods for closing the left atrial appendage. Some of the methods described here utilize one or more guide members having alignment members to aid in positioning of a closure device. In general, these methods include advancing a first guide having a first alignment member into the left atrial appendage, advancing a second guide, having a second alignment member, into the pericardial space, aligning the first and second alignment members, advancing a left atrial appendage closure device into the pericardial space and adjacent to the left atrial appendage, and closing the left atrial appendage with the closure device. In these variations, the closure device typically has an elongate body having a proximal end and a distal end, and a closure element at least partially housed within the elongate body. The closure element comprises a loop defining a continuous aperture therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Gary H. MILLER, Russell A. SEIBER, Gregory W. FUNG
  • Publication number: 20170290593
    Abstract: Devices for the occlusion of body cavities, such as the embolization of vascular aneurysms and the like, and methods for making and using such devices. The devices may be comprised of novel expansile materials, novel infrastructure design, or both. The devices provided are very flexible and enable deployment with reduced or no damage to bodily tissues, conduits, cavities, etceteras.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Gregory M. Cruise, Michael J. Constant, Terrance Tran
  • Publication number: 20170290594
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a system for delivering an implantable device inside a body cavity includes: 1) a core cannula; 2) an access sheath; 3) an injection apparatus for filling the implantable device with one or more fluids; and 4) expanding members operatively connected to the core cannula for preventing the core cannula from advancing through a body orifice once the core cannula and expanding members exist the access sheath. According to particular embodiments, a distal end of the core cannula is pre-attached to the implantable device through a device locking member. In one or more embodiments, upon assessment, an injection apparatus is removed using an injection apparatus handle, the implantable device is detached from the core cannula via a device deployment handle (to be implanted), and the access sheath is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Arnab Ranjan Chakraborty, Christine Tu-Anh Hang
  • Publication number: 20170290595
    Abstract: Devices, methods and systems are provided for occluding an opening within the tissue of a body, such as a left atrial appendage. In one embodiment, a device includes a framework extending between a primary hub and a secondary hub. The secondary hub is moveable relative to the primary hub upon deploying the framework from a constricted position to a deployed position such that the secondary hub remains proximal a distal end of the framework. The framework, in the deployed position, includes engaging members proximal the distal end of the framework, and the framework includes multiple frame segments each extending with an arcuate configuration at a distal side of the framework such that the frame segments, at the distal side thereof, each extend radially and distally toward the distal end, then turn and extend radially and proximally inward toward the secondary hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Scott D. Miles, Clark C. Davis, Daryl R. Edmiston, Richard J. Linder
  • Publication number: 20170290596
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing bone material including a distal cutting instrument and a proximal cutting instrument. The distal cutting instrument has at least one first cutting edge, a shoulder, and a shaft portion. The shaft portion has an anti-rotation feature. The at least one first cutting edge removes bone material when moved in a first direction. The proximal cutting instrument is removably attached to the shaft portion, and has a first end portion and a second end portion. The second end portion contacts the shoulder of the distal reamer when the proximal reamer is mounted to the shaft portion. The proximal reamer has at least one second cutting edge and an aperture. The aperture is adapted to receive the anti-rotation feature of the shaft portion of the distal reamer. The at least one second cutting edge removes bone material when moved in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: David C. Kelman, Terry W. McLean, Richard D. Lambert, Vincent W. Shotton, David A. Harwood, Alisha W. Bergin, Jerry L. Jones
  • Publication number: 20170290597
    Abstract: Knee arthroplasty instrument systems directly reference and align with the anterior distal femoral cortex and the mechanical axis of the leg. The anterior femoral resection is aligned in the same plane as the anterior distal femoral cortex. The center of the femoral head, the medial/lateral center of the distal femur, the medial/lateral center of the proximal tibia, and the second toe, medial/lateral center of the ankle, or anterior tibial spine are all aligned to the mechanical axis of the leg. Methods of using the instrument systems are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: E. Marlowe Goble, Carlyle J. Creger, Daniel J. Triplett
  • Publication number: 20170290598
    Abstract: A system for aspirating thrombus and delivering an agent includes an aspiration catheter having a supply lumen having a proximal end, a distal end, and a wall, and an aspiration lumen having a proximal end, an open distal end, and an interior wall surface adjacent the open distal end, and at least one orifice at or adjacent the distal end of the supply lumen, in fluid communication with the aspiration lumen and located proximally of the open distal end of the aspiration lumen, wherein the at least one orifice is configured to create a spray pattern that is caused to impinge on the interior wall surface of the aspiration lumen such that the spray pattern upon impinging on the interior wall surface is caused to transform into at least a substantially distally-oriented flow capable of exiting the open distal end of the aspiration lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Bradley S. Culbert, David M. Look, Mark Mallaby
  • Publication number: 20170290599
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an intravascular device for removing thrombosis and recovering a blood flow, wherein the attachment of thrombosis can be facilitated since a plurality of minute protrusions are formed on the surface of the stent structure. The present inventive concept is able to significantly minimize any separation of the thrombosis when the device for removing thrombosis and recovering a blood flow is transferred to the outside of a human body in such a way that a plurality of minute protrusions are formed on the surface of the stent structure, and the attachment of the thrombosis to the stent can be facilitated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Sung-Won YOUN, Young-Cheol LEE
  • Publication number: 20170290600
    Abstract: Catheter-delivered endovascular medical devices are described. The devices may include a pull wire attached to a distal body. The distal body may be formed of a distal body outer body comprising a basket comprised of a plurality of cells defined by a plurality of basket strips and a distal body inner body located in the interior of the distal body outer body and comprising a plurality of distal braided mesh openings formed by a plurality of woven linear strands. The distal braided mesh openings may be smaller than the cells when the device is in the relaxed state. Methods of using and making the devices are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Arthur John Ulm, III
  • Publication number: 20170290601
    Abstract: [Object] To enable to detect a force acting on a surgical instrument with a simpler configuration. [Solution] Provided is an information processing device including an acting force calculation unit that calculates, on a basis of a first detected value by a first force sensor provided on one side of a rod-shaped member, at least one of acting forces on a first point of action and a second point of action that differ from each other on an other side of the rod-shaped member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Kazuo HONGO, Kenichiro NAGASAKA, Naoki KOMINE, Hiroyuki SUZUKI
  • Publication number: 20170290602
    Abstract: Arthroscopic cutters are used for resecting tissues, such as meniscal tissues, in meniscectomies or other arthroscopic procedures. The arthroscopic cutters have a shaft assembly with openable-closeable jaws at a working end of the shaft. A handpiece having a motor drive may be detachably coupled to a hub on a hub end of the handpiece. When the shaft is coupled to the handpiece, the motor drive will couple to the jaw structure to open and close the jaw structure to cut meniscal and other tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Applicant: RELIGN Corporation
    Inventors: Aaron Germain, Jeffrey Norton, Salvatore G. Mangano, Michael D. Walker, Steffan Benamou
  • Publication number: 20170290603
    Abstract: Rotational atherectomy devices and systems can remove or reduce stenotic lesions in blood vessels by rotating an abrasive element within the vessel. The abrasive element can be attached to a distal portion of an elongate flexible drive shaft that extends from a handle assembly. In particular embodiments, the handle assembly includes a compressed gas driven turbine member that drives rotation of the drive shaft. The turbine member can be rotatably attached to a carriage that is longitudinally translatable in relation to a housing of the handle assembly. The handle assembly can include a latch mechanism that when actuated allows the carriage to translate to a proximal-most position. While the carriage is in the proximal-most position, an open pathway is created so that a guidewire can be slidably passed through the handle assembly and a lumen of the drive shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Cassandra Ann Piippo Svendsen, Charles Anthony Plowe, Albert Seiden Benjamin, Paul Joseph Robinson, Evan Leingang
  • Publication number: 20170290604
    Abstract: An atherectomy catheter having an inner shaft which rotates a distal rotary tissue borer with a helical cutting surface which enables the catheter to out it and cross a CTO. Additionally, the atherectomy catheter has a distal cutting element rotated by an outer drive shaft configured to cut material from the wall of a vessel at a treatment site as the catheter is pushed distally through the treatment site. The atherectomy catheter includes a collection chamber positioned proximally of the cutting element and rotary tissue borer. The atherectomy catheter may include means to direct material cut from the treatment site into the collection chamber, means to break down larger portions of material that may block or clog the collection chamber and means of transporting the material collected from the treatment site to a proximal opening in the atherectomy catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Jenny Zeroni, Robert VanPelt, JR., Cory Sills, Scott Petersen, Nick van der Lugt
  • Publication number: 20170290605
    Abstract: The invention generally relates to intracavitary medical devices and methods for using the devices. In one aspect, the devices comprise: a tube comprising a longitudinal body having opposed proximal and distal ends, and at least three lumens extending there between; and an expandable balloon region located at the distal end of the tube; wherein at least one lumen comprises at least one of: a drainage lumen which opens at a portion of the distal end of the tube and configured to allow fluid communication from a body cavity into the drainage lumen, an inflation lumen connected to an interior of the balloon region and configured to enable passage of a distending fluid to control expansion and contraction of the balloon region, and an instillation lumen which opens at a portion of the distal end of the tube and configured to allow a fluid to be introduced from the instillation lumen into the body cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2017
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Younes Noaman Bakri
  • Publication number: 20170290606
    Abstract: A cosmetic device includes a housing having a handle portion, a head assembly coupled to the handle portion, and a drum assembly within the head assembly. The drum assembly includes a drum having an outer surface configured to abrade the skin or nails of a user during rotation of the drum. The device further includes a electromechanical drive system located within the housing and configured to rotate the drum. The head assembly is configured to rotate about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventor: Wai Wah Yiu
  • Publication number: 20170290607
    Abstract: A minimally invasive screw with double threaded plugs is provided, for connecting to a connecting rod. The screw includes an inner threaded plug, an outer threaded plug, a lengthened arm connector, a press block and a pin with a hollow ball head. The connecting rod can be fixed to the lengthened arm connector via the press block, the inner and outer threaded plugs, to prevent the vertebral body from rotating and loss of intervertebral height when the vertebral body is distracted and pressurized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2016
    Publication date: October 12, 2017
    Inventors: Wenzhi Zhang, Xiyi Huang, Guoshuai Miu, Yaling Wang, Wensheng Lu, Hongyan Li