Patents Issued in October 19, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170296212
    Abstract: An end effector assembly for a forceps includes first and second jaw members each having an opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surface. The first jaw member is pivotable relative to the second jaw member between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces. The second jaw member includes an electrical cutting element and is translatable relative to the first jaw member between a first position, wherein the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces are aligned with one another, and a second position, wherein the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces are longitudinally offset relative to one another. Upon translation of the second jaw member between the first and second positions, the electrical cutting element is translated at least partially along the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surface of the first jaw member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: WEIJIANG DING, MINGFENG XU
  • Publication number: 20170296213
    Abstract: Various examples are directed to systems and methods for operating a surgical instrument comprising a firing member translatable proximally and distally along a longitudinal axis between a stroke begin position to a stroke end position distal of the stroke begin position; a knife coupled to the firing member; and a motor coupled to the firing member to translate the firing member between the stroke begin position and the stroke end position. A control circuit may receive a firing signal and begin a firing member stroke by providing an initial motor setting to the motor. The control circuit may maintain the initial motor setting for an open-loop portion of the firing member stroke. The control circuit may receive firing member motion data describing a motion of the firing member during the open-loop portion of the firing member stroke and may select a firing control program based at least in part on the motion of the firing member during the open-loop portion of the firing member stroke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Brett E. Swensgard, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris
  • Publication number: 20170296214
    Abstract: Systems, instruments, methods, and compositions are described involving removing a portion of the epidermis within a donor site on a subject, and harvesting dermal plugs within the donor site. An injectable filler is formed by mincing the dermal plugs. The injectable filler is configured for injecting into a recipient site on the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Edward KNOWLTON
  • Publication number: 20170296215
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for removing obstructive material within a body lumen. The apparatus includes a macerator device deployable from a sheath that includes an expandable cage carried by a shaft and within a constraint tube. The shaft is movable relative to the constraint tube for deploying and expanding the cage within a body lumen such that an open end of the cage is oriented towards obstructive material. The cage is advanced to capture the material or the material is directed into the cage using an expandable member expanded beyond the material and retracted to direct the material into the cage. The cage is withdrawn into the constraint tube to compress the cage radially inwardly. Materials extending through apertures in the cage are sheared off by a sharpened edge of the constraint tube. The smaller, sheared off particles are then aspirated from the body lumen through the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Krolik, Juan Domingo, Daryush Mirzaee, James H. Dreher
  • Publication number: 20170296216
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a generator including a control module that is operably coupled to a power module. The power module is configured to produce an electronic signal to be received by an ultrasonic energy delivery assembly. The ultrasonic energy delivery assembly is characterized by a natural frequency, and the electronic signal is characterized by a frequency. The control module is configured to send a control signal to the power module to randomly vary the frequency of the electronic signal within a range defined at least in part by the natural frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: Med-Sonics Corporation
    Inventors: Shu Du, Tao Song
  • Publication number: 20170296217
    Abstract: A device and method for ablating tissue is disclosed comprising the steps of acquiring an anatomical image of a patient, correlating the image to the patient, guiding an ablating member within the patient while tracking the position of the ablating member in the patient, positioning the ablating member in a desired position to ablate tissue, emitting ablating energy from the ablating member to form an ablated tissue area and removing the ablating member from the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: James B. Hissong, Mark T. Stewart, David E. Francischelli, James R. Keogh, Hotaik Lee, Nadine B. Smith, James R. Skarda
  • Publication number: 20170296218
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a gripping assembly, a shaft assembly, an end effector, and a pivoting member. The gripping assembly defines a first opening for receiving a finger or a thumb of a user. The gripping assembly includes a first deformable feature that is configured to be moved in order to increase or decrease a cross-sectional area of the first opening. The shaft assembly extends distally from the gripping assembly. The end effector is positioned at a distal end of the shaft assembly and includes a first member. The pivoting member is pivotably coupled with the shaft assembly. The pivoting member is pivotable with respect to the first member of the end effector between an open position and a closed position to thereby clamp tissue between the first member and the pivoting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Tony C. Siebel, William B. Weisenburgh, II, Jeffrey D. Messerly, Matthew C. Miller, Cory G. Kimball
  • Publication number: 20170296219
    Abstract: A medical device for minimally invasive removal of tissue from a body lumen, can include: a sheath having a proximal and a distal end; and a tool configured to pass through the sheath and configured to transition from a crimped state to a deployed state and to a closed state, wherein the tool forms an aperture at a distal end, the distal end of the tool having at least one tube loop and at least one wire loop, wherein the tool is configured to dissect tissue in the deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: ANGIOWORKS MEDICAL B.V.
    Inventors: Itzhak AVNERI, Rami LORE, Gonen YUVAL, Shahar AVNERI
  • Publication number: 20170296220
    Abstract: A rotational thrombectomy wire for breaking up vascular thrombus or other obstructive material having a core having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion has a smaller diameter than the proximal portion. A cable extends distally of the core. The cable has a first covering material positioned external thereof. A first coil is attached to a distal portion of the cable and has a diameter larger than a diameter of the cable and has a second covering material positioned thereover. The wire is rotatable by a motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: Rex Medical, L.P.
    Inventors: MARC-ALAN LEVINE, Michael Leedle, John D. Leedle
  • Publication number: 20170296221
    Abstract: The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to catheters for advancing past a vascular stenosis. Each of these catheters has at least one friction-reducing feature to reduce the friction between the catheter and the stenosis as the catheter is urged therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Fernando Di Caprio, Gianfranco Panarello
  • Publication number: 20170296222
    Abstract: A tissue removing catheter includes an apposition mechanism that selectively imparts an axially compressive load on the catheter body to bend the catheter and urge a tissue-removing element toward a blood vessel wall. The apposition mechanism can include one or more adjustment lines and an adjustment mechanism for selectively tensioning one of the adjustment lines to impart the compressive load on the catheter body. Two adjustment lines can have diametrically opposed positions and be wound onto a spool of the adjustment mechanism in opposite directions so that rotation of the spool simultaneously shortens one adjustment line and lengthens the other. The catheter body can have a more flexible bending segment adjacent the tissue-removing element to promote bending near the tissue-removing element operative to urge the tissue-removing element in apposition with the blood vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Bradley Steele
  • Publication number: 20170296223
    Abstract: A support apparatus for supporting a trocar while the trocar extends through a body wall of a patient includes an inflatable collar extending around the trocar which can be inflated to a predetermined size by a source of fluid where the source of fluid is located on the trocar support apparatus itself so as to be carried thereby and is defined by a pump mechanism to provide a fixed volume allowing inflation only to a fixed size. An abutment member is shaped to be received on an outer surface of the trocar sleeve and adjustable longitudinally of the trocar sleeve so as to be located at a selected position. A tube connecting the pump on the abutment to the inflatable collar is wrapped helically around the sleeve of the trocar. The collar includes a sleeve portion which can be unrolled on to the trocar sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: John Stephen Pacak, Heather Dawn Diamond, Caroline Alison Corbett
  • Publication number: 20170296224
    Abstract: A device for a medical procedure is provided that includes a handle axially supporting on one side a rigid needle forming a trocar provided to pierce skin, a sealing plug covering at least the rigid needle, and an elongated protective tube mounted on the handle on another side of said handle, said elongated protective tube containing a needle forming a cannula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: NEEDLE CONCEPT
    Inventors: Olivier BUCHS, Grégory DJIANE
  • Publication number: 20170296225
    Abstract: A stomal dilator comprising a proximal end; a distal end; a tapered dilation portion positioned between the proximal end and distal end having a first length and a varied diameter that progressively increases in size from the proximal end to the distal end; the proximal end including a filiform tip having a substantially constant diameter at second length, and the distal end including a handle portion having a substantially constant diameter third length; and a flange positioned on the distal end preventing the stomal dilator from entering into a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Dominic L. Diorio
  • Publication number: 20170296226
    Abstract: A surgical tool and method of use during laparoscopic surgery, the tool including a shaft having a distal region with an elastic modulus E. Distal and proximal regions of the shaft have outer diameters D1 and D2 respectively, with D2>D1. The distal region has a bend and terminates in a working feature having a distal end. The distal region has a length L1 measured in a direction parallel to the shaft axis in the proximal region, and has an offset doff relative to the proximal region where doff>D2. The elastic modulus E and the length of L1 are selected so that the working feature is insertable through an access device yet the distal region does not deflect noticeably when a force of 10 N is applied perpendicular to the distal end of the working feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: OmniGuide, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Payne, Jesse Rusk, Mihai Ibanescu, Crystal Simon
  • Publication number: 20170296227
    Abstract: An insertion device that allows gaining access to the left ventricle of the heart, via the tissue forming the wall of the right ventricle and via the ventricular septum, which includes a tubular shaft with a lumen extending there through, the shaft comprising distal, proximal and central sections, whereby the distal and proximal sections are disc-shaped extended thus forming each a double disc and whereby the central section links the distally placed double disc with the proximally placed double disc and whereby pressure valves are fixed inside the shaft preferably on its distal and proximal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Peter Osypka
  • Publication number: 20170296228
    Abstract: A trocar system, having a trocar, a trocar sleeve, an optical channel extending coaxially in the trocar for receiving an optical unit, and a hollow transparent distal tip of the trocar, which can be observed from the interior by means of the optical unit, wherein a working channel extends continuously from the proximal end to the distal end in the trocar and opens into an outlet opening in the region of the distal end, and wherein the inner wall of the working channel is formed at least in an axially continuous sub-region of the circumference thereof by the trocar sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Siegfried Riek, Karl-Heinz Bachmann, Thomas Gaiselmann
  • Publication number: 20170296229
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses, systems, and methods that comprise an introducer apparatus for facilitating subcutaneous implantation of a medical device. In certain instances, the apparatus may include a housing, an inserter configured to pass the medical device through the housing, and a tunneler configured to form a subcutaneous pocket for the medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Kathryn Sick, Troy Ehle, David P. Stieper, Serge Dubeau, Tyler Thompson
  • Publication number: 20170296230
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses, methods, and systems comprising an introducer apparatus for facilitating subcutaneous implantation of a medical device. The introducer apparatus may include a housing and an inserter configured to disengage from the second portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Serge Dubeau, Tyler Thompson, Kathryn Sick
  • Publication number: 20170296231
    Abstract: A needle assembly for pleural space insufflation is disclosed. The needle assembly has an outer shaft defining one or more pliable tissue receivers. The needle assembly also has a needle moveable within the outer shaft from a retracted position to an engaged position that does not extend past a distal end of the outer shaft. A method of pleural space insufflation is also disclosed. A parietal pleura is contacted with a distal end of an outer shaft that defines one or more pliable tissue receivers. The distal end of the outer shaft is pushed against the parietal pleura so that a portion of the parietal pleura enters the one or more pliable tissue receivers. A needle is advanced within the outer shaft so that the needle pierces the parietal pleura.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Jude S. Sauer, MD
  • Publication number: 20170296232
    Abstract: A callus removal apparatus includes a hollow main body having opposite first and second end portions and an elongated configuration for ease of gripping by one hand, a callus scraping device fitted on the main body first end portion, and a callus sanding device fitted on and detachable from the main body second end portion. The callus scraping device has a head and an array of spaced apart annular edges exposed at an exterior face of the head and forming apertures extending through the head. The exposed annular edges are capable of removing pieces of a callus by moving the head across and in contact with the callus. The callus sanding device has a panel and a plurality of sanding particles attached on the panel and exposed at the exterior thereof and thus capable of removing pieces of a callus moving the panel across and in contact with the callus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Alejandro Arango
  • Publication number: 20170296233
    Abstract: An external fixation frame for correcting a bone deformity includes a first fixation ring and a second fixation ring. A posterior adjustable length strut couples a posterior portion of the first fixation ring to a posterior portion of the second fixation ring and has universal joint. Medial and lateral adjustable length struts couple medial and lateral portions of the first fixation ring to medial and lateral portions of the second fixation ring respectively, each of the medial and lateral adjustable length struts including a constrained hinge joint. The fixation frame also includes a half ring coupled to the second fixation ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Manoj Kumar Singh, Yves Stephane Crozet, Vinzenz Andreas Burgherr, Mark Thomas Dahl
  • Publication number: 20170296234
    Abstract: A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral upper portion receivable in an integral receiver, the receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A down-loadable compression insert, a down-loadable friction fit split retaining ring having inner and outer tangs and an up-loadable shank upper portion cooperate to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra. The shank and receiver once assembled cannot be disassembled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Roger P. Jackson
  • Publication number: 20170296235
    Abstract: Various exemplary methods and devices are provided for fixing bone anchors to bone. In general, the methods and devices can allow for a bone anchor to be fixed to a bone at a desired angle to a surface of the bone. In an exemplary embodiment, a bone anchor assembly is provided that includes a bone anchor configured to engage bone, a receiver member for seating a head of the bone anchor, and a compression member for securing the bone anchor at fixed angle with respect to the receiver member when the compression member is seated within the receiver member. Corresponding engagement features of the compression member and the receiver member can be engaged in a secured configuration to inhibit or prevent removal of the compression cap from the receiver member and optionally to substantially prevent longitudinal and/or rotational movement of the compression member with respect to the receiver member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: MEDOS INTERNATIONAL SARL
    Inventors: Thibault Chandanson, Ernest Quintanilha, Frank Spratt, Philip A. Cormier
  • Publication number: 20170296236
    Abstract: An interspinous process device is configured for placement between adjacent spinous processes on a subject's spine. The device includes a housing configured for mounting to a first spinal process, the housing having a lead screw fixedly secured at one end thereof. A magnetic assembly is at least partially disposed within the housing and configured for mounting to a second spinal process. The magnetic assembly includes a hollow magnet configured for rotation within the magnetic assembly, the hollow magnet comprising a threaded insert configured to engage with the lead screw. An externally applied magnetic field rotates the hollow magnet in a first direction or a second, opposite direction. Rotation of the hollow magnet in the first direction causes telescopic movement of the magnetic assembly out of the housing (i.e., elongation) and rotation in the second direction causes telescopic movement of the magnetic assembly into the housing (i.e., shortening).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Scott Pool, Arvin Chang, Peter P. Tran, Blair Walker
  • Publication number: 20170296237
    Abstract: An interspinous process spacer includes a main body, a first wing, and a screw. The main body includes a first securing member extending from a top portion of the main body that engages a first vertebra and a bottom portion of the main body that engages a second vertebra. The first wing pivotably couples to a distal portion of the main body and includes a second securing member extending parallel to the first securing member to form a first clamp. The screw is positionable within the main body and includes a distal end that positions the first wing between a first position and a second position. The first clamp includes a first diameter in the first position and a second diameter in the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: ALPHATEC SPINE, INC.
    Inventor: WILLIAM REIMELS
  • Publication number: 20170296238
    Abstract: An insertion instrument for inserting an implant includes an elongated main body having a proximal handle and a distal portion that selectively couples to the implant. A plunger is slidably engaged in a central passage of the elongated main body configured to fix the implant to the elongated main body by selectively filling the central passage within the distal portion. A hex nut driver is concentrically located about the plunger and elongated main body to deploy an actuation plunger of the implant. The proximal handle portion of the main body includes a staggered path therethrough for accepting a tab of the plunger therein. Advancement and retraction of the plunger tab within the staggered path alternates the insertion instrument between an unlocked position configured to mount the implant on the distal portion of the elongated main body, a locked position configured to lock the implant on the distal portion, and a deployed position configured to secure the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: Spinal Simplicity, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Snell, Barnds Annaria, Adam Frock
  • Publication number: 20170296239
    Abstract: This device is intended for orthopedic applications, particularly to treat a pars interarticularis fracture. The device is highly specialized to treat a common pars fracture with a uniquely contoured device that stabilizes the inferior fractured element with a generally conforming and non-linear hooked surface then transcribing the pars fracture to rigidly attach to the cortical bone between the facet and pedicle bones while applying compression across the fraction for fracture healing and stabilization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: Additive Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Nicholas Michael Cordaro
  • Publication number: 20170296240
    Abstract: A spinal fixation aiming device including an arc guide rail; an arc slide unit movably coupled to the arc guide rail; and a tool holder mounted to the arc slide unit and movable to a predetermined position to be selectively fixed at the position. To operate, the arc guide rail is fixed to an operation table and the arc slide unit and the tool holder are adjusted for desired angles for a surgical operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Shao-Kang Hsueh
  • Publication number: 20170296241
    Abstract: Arthrodesis devices and arthrodesis procedures are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, an arthrodesis device includes a shape memory material connecting member attached to two points of fixation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Adam GARLOCK, William Michael KARNES, Matthew FONTE, Matthew PALMER, Robert DEVANEY, Alexander DELMONACO, Kaitlyn NEALON
  • Publication number: 20170296242
    Abstract: The invention concerns a bone joining implant (1) for joining of a first bone section (2) with a second bone section (3) of a mammal bone (4) with a first attachment area (6), displaying several holes for fastening elements (5a), prepared for attachment to the first bone section (2), and a second attachment area (7), linked to the first attachment area (6), with the second attachment area (7) also displaying several holes for fastening elements (5b), also prepared for attachment to the second bone section (3), with formation of a separating tool guidance contour (9) between the first and second attachment areas (6, 7), defining a cutting line (8), as well as a procedure for the individualized manufacture of such a bone joining implant (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Axel Waizenegger
  • Publication number: 20170296243
    Abstract: A device for modulating biological tissue and/or bone conformation, the device including a shape memory material and being capable of modulating biological tissue and/or bone conformation simultaneously in at least two dimensions, a process for producing the device, a process for modulating biological tissue and/or bone using the device, and uses thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: David DUNAWAY, Alessandro BORGHI, Owase JEELANI, Silvia SCHIEVANO
  • Publication number: 20170296244
    Abstract: Implants for the fusion or fixation of two bone segments are described. For example, the implants can be used for the fusion or fixation of the sacroiliac joint. The implants can have a matrix structure, have a rectilinear cross-sectional area, and have a curvature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Bret W. SCHNEIDER, Roxanne SIMON, Derek LINDSEY, Scott A. YERBY
  • Publication number: 20170296245
    Abstract: A compression screw for applying compression at a bone joint. The compression screw includes an axial screw body extending from a distal end to a proximal end with the distal end including a series of bone engaging threads configured to be self-drilling and self-tapping and the proximal end including a head which defines a radially extending shoulder. At least one proximal rotary cutting structure is defined proximally of the bone engaging threads. The at least one proximal rotary cutting structure is configured to be self-drilling such that a proximal portion of the axial screw body cuts into and advances within a bone of the bone joint as the axial screw body is advanced. A method of inserting the compression screw is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: James A. Gault, Barclay Davis
  • Publication number: 20170296246
    Abstract: A X-ray detectable bioabsorbable bone screw comprises a light-emitting element, a light-sensing element, a transparent inner encapsulant body, an outer covering body, and two conductive frames on which. An optically reflective surface is in contact and formed between the dome enclosing portion of the transparent inner encapsulant body and the outer encapsulant body. A portion of the light emitted by the light-emitting element is reflected to the light-sensing element through the optically reflective surface, and the other portion of the light emitted from the light-emitting element is directly emitting to the light-sensing element through the transparent inner encapsulant body. The present invention applies the optically reflective surface to minimize the overlapping area between the two conductive frames, and reduces the capacitance value, and increases the CMRR in a manner that the photo coupler of the present invention is able to meet the standard of electrical characteristics as required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: MEDALL BIOTECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Haw-Ming HUANG, Jy-Jiunn TZENG, Chi-Hsien SHE, Yu-Ming HSU
  • Publication number: 20170296247
    Abstract: A bone cement injection device includes an outer barrel including a side slot; an injection unit movably received in the outer barrel and including an inner tube that defines a first hollow section therein and an outer tube that defmes, in combination with the inner tube, a second hollow section therebetween and includes a guide tube mounted to the outer tube to be movably received in the side slot and in communication with the second hollow section; and a pusher unit movably received in the first hollow section and positioned against a bottom end of the outer barrel. Bone cement is filled in the first hollow section and is driven by the pusher unit into a patient's bone. An air compressor is used in combination with the guide tube to induce a pressure difference between inside and outside of the bone to help injection the bone cement into the bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventor: Shao-Kang Hsueh
  • Publication number: 20170296248
    Abstract: Surgical tools and methods of their use are provided. A surgical tool includes first and second working members, first and second handle arms, a handle post having first and second ends, the second end confronting the second handle arm, and a ratchet coupled to one of the first and second handle arms and engageable with the other of the first and second handle arms. Movement of the first handle arm with respect to the second handle arm causes movement of the first working member with respect to the second working member. A force applied to the handle post causes the first working member to move in a first direction with respect to the second working member. The ratchet is configured to temporarily prevent the first and second working members from moving with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Matthias Paulisch, Nicholas Morfing, Jakob Kemper, Julien Borgnard, Benoit Landais, Franck Day
  • Publication number: 20170296249
    Abstract: A method of treating scoliosis in a subject includes securing a scoliosis treatment device to first and second locations on the subject's skeletal system, the scoliosis treatment device including a first portion, a second portion moveably mounted relative to the first portion, and an adjustment device disposed on the device and configured to change a distraction force between the first location and the second location, the adjustment device including a rotationally mounted magnetic element configured to move the second portion relative to the first portion in response to rotation of the magnetic element. An external adjustment device is provided external to the subject and is able to adjust the distraction force between the first location and second location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Blair Walker, Scott Pool, Jay R. McCoy, Arvin Chang
  • Publication number: 20170296250
    Abstract: Methods and instruments for placement of orthopedic implants in bones of a patient. The placement may include selective placement of the implant relative to structure of the bone using a measurement system that may detect interfaces between layers of the bone. The orthopedic implants may be engaged by various embodiments of chucks. The chucks may include structure for engaging indexing features of a corresponding orthopedic implant to restrict movement of the implant relative to the chuck along a working axis. The chucks may allow for use of an instrument having a measurement system for accurate and repeatable placement of the implants using the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Joseph C. McGinley, Matthew V. Russell, Vincent Palazzolo, Ben Warren, Adam M. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20170296251
    Abstract: A catheter having a basket-shaped electrode assembly at the distal end of the catheter body formed from a plurality of spines with electrodes. The plurality of spines are formed by a framework which is prestrained to have a diameter greater than the diameter of the expanded arrangement of the basket-shaped electrode assembly and a length less than the length of the expanded arrangement of the basket-shaped electrode assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Steven Wu, Sungwoo Min, Vishav Manak Singh Aujla, Neil Merchant
  • Publication number: 20170296252
    Abstract: Cryotherapeutic devices for renal neuromodulation and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A cryotherapeutic device configured in accordance with a particular embodiment of the present technology can include an elongated shaft having a distal portion and a supply lumen along at least a portion of the shaft. The shaft can be configured to locate the distal portion intravascularly at a treatment site proximate a renal artery or renal ostium. The supply lumen can be configured to receive a liquid refrigerant. The cryotherapeutic device can further include a cooling assembly at the distal portion of the shaft. The cooling assembly can include an applicator having a distributor in fluid communication with the supply lumen and a balloon configured to deliver cryotherapeutic cooling to nerves proximate the treatment site when the cooling assembly is in a deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Benjamin J. Clark, David J. Hobbins, Tim Huynh, Grace Kelly, Brian Kelly
  • Publication number: 20170296253
    Abstract: Medical devices utilizing shape memory alloys and associated methods are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed toward a treatment element configured to be positioned within a body lumen and coupled to an energy source. At least a portion of the treatment element may be made of a shape memory alloy, and wherein application of thermal energy to the treatment element from the energy source transforms the treatment element from the martensitic state to the austenitic state in which the treatment element is configured to cut, ablate, resect, and/or cauterize tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Theresa Brandner, Susannah Wedgwood
  • Publication number: 20170296254
    Abstract: To provide a chemical ablation device that enables simple performance of chemical ablation treatment including pre- and post-treatment potential measurements. A chemical ablation device according to the present invention includes an electrode-equipped guidewire (30) with which intracardiac potential is measurable, an over-the-wire balloon catheter (40) having a guidewire lumen (415) into which the electrode-equipped guidewire (30) is to be inserted, a Y-shaped connector (50) connected to a proximal side of the balloon catheter (40) and including a guidewire port (51) and an expansion port (53), and a hemostasis valve (60) connected to the guidewire port (51) of the Y-shaped connector (50) and including a side-infusion tube (65) for supplying ethanol to the guidewire lumen (415) of the balloon catheter (40). The ethanol supplied to the guidewire lumen (415) of the balloon catheter (40) is ejected from an opening of a distal tip (47).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: Japan Lefline Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Norihiko Mitsumune, Kenji Mori
  • Publication number: 20170296255
    Abstract: A controller for an electrosurgical device and related methods and devices are disclosed. The controller has a processing component to: (a) derive a power factor of power applied to the electrosurgical device; and (b) responsive to the deriving a power factor, assign a circuit status to a circuit comprising the electrosurgical device. IF (PF?0) and ((Vrms/Irms)?T), THEN the circuit status is “open”. IF (PF?0) and ((Vrms/Irms)<T), THEN the circuit status is “short”. PF is the power factor. Vrms is the root mean square of a voltage associated with the power applied to the at electrosurgical device. Irms is the root mean square of a current associated with the power applied to the electrosurgical device. T is a threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: James A. Gilbert, Steven C. Rupp, William N. Gregg, Kristin D. Johnson, Dirk Johnson
  • Publication number: 20170296256
    Abstract: The inventive ablation element comprises an elongated cannula having a proximal end and a distal end. The cannula defines an internal lumen and a cannula axis. A plurality of conductors contained within the lumen, each having a proximal end proximate the proximal end of the cannula, and a distal end proximate the distal end of the cannula. A plurality of ablation stylets each has a proximal end and a distal end, and each coupled to the distal end of a respective conductor, the conductors together with their respective stylets being mounted for axial movement. A trocar point defined proximate the distal end of the cannula. A deflection surface positioned between the trocar point and the proximal end of the cannula, the deflection surface being configured and positioned to deflect at least some of the stylets laterally with respect to the cannula axis in different directions defining an ablation volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Applicant: HALT MEDICAL INC.
    Inventors: Gordon Epstein, Bruce Lee, Jeffrey M. Cohen, Adam Hagmann, Richard Spero
  • Publication number: 20170296257
    Abstract: A surgical end effector may comprise first and second jaw members. The second jaw member may comprise an offset proximal supply electrode that is positioned to contact an opposing member of the first jaw member when the first and second jaw members are in the closed position. The second jaw member may also comprise a distal supply electrode that is positioned distal of the offset proximal electrode and is aligned with a conductive surface of the first jaw member when the first and second jaw members are in the closed position. When the first and second jaw members are in the closed position, the proximal supply electrode may be in contact with the opposing member and the distal supply electrode is not in contact with the conductive surface of the first jaw member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Chester O. Baxter, III, David C. Yates
  • Publication number: 20170296258
    Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument has a movable tissue cutting mechanism and a pair of opposing jaws having a first jaw and a second jaw. The jaws move between a closed position for clamping and sealing tissue therebetween and an open position. At least one jaw has a conductive core member and a non-conductive coating, the non-conductive coating covering a portion of the core member and exposing a portion of the core member to form a sealing surface area recessed relative to the non-conductive coating. Each jaw has an elongated slot for receiving a portion of the cutting mechanism, the cutting mechanism movable between a proximal position and a distal position for cutting tissue clamped between the pair of opposing jaws. A related method is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Joseph D. Bucciaglia, Dale Schmaltz, Jenifer Kennedy, Casey Kuchta
  • Publication number: 20170296259
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a reusable component and a limited-use component releasably engagable with the reusable component. The limited-use component is configured for one or more uses and includes a clocking mechanism configured to count each engagement of the reusable component and the limited-use component to one another. The clocking mechanism is incrementally transitionable upon each successive count from one or more uses state, wherein the clocking mechanism permits both mechanical engagement and electrical coupling of the reusable component and the limited-use component to one another, to a spent state, wherein the clocking mechanism inhibits both mechanical engagement and electrical coupling of the limited-use component and the reusable component to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: ARNOLD V. DECARLO, WILLIAM O. REID, JR.
  • Publication number: 20170296260
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a device and methods of use to endoluminally ablate and/or occlude a body vessel using a radiofrequency (“RF”) signal. The device has two conductive elements or electrodes that form various electrical circuits, and the two conductive elements are operable to create an electrical field. The electrical field ablates the body vessel, forming an occlusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Per Elgaard, Rune T. Paamand, Allan Torp, Raimo Urban Butzbacker
  • Publication number: 20170296261
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a device and methods of use to endoluminally ablate and/or occlude a body vessel using a radiofrequency (“RF”) signal. The device has two conductive elements or electrodes that form an electrical circuit and are operable to create an electrical field. The electrical field ablates the body vessel, forming an occlusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Per Elgaard, Rune T. Paamand, Allan Torp, Raimo Urban Butzbacker