Patents Issued in November 7, 2017
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Patent number: 9808209Abstract: A collimator for use in a CT system made of an X-ray absorbing material, the collimator comprises an imaging aperture having a first width for passage of a first X-ray beam, the first X-ray beam being used for X-ray imaging, and a tracking aperture having a second width for passage of a second X-ray beam, the second X-ray beam being used for X-ray beam tracking.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Bin Wang, Jiang Hsieh, Xianjun Pan, Jiaqin Dong
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Patent number: 9808210Abstract: A photon counting type X-ray computed tomography apparatus includes an X-ray tube, a detector, a raw data generating section, an information compression section, and a data transmission section. The X-ray tube is configured to irradiate an X-ray. The detector is configured to count photons derived from the irradiated X-ray. The raw data generating section is configured to collect results of counting performed by the detector and to generate, from the results of counting, raw data for each of a plurality of energy bands. The information compression section is configured to compare values of the raw data between the raw data generated respectively for the energy bands, and to perform information compression of each of the raw data. The data transmission section is configured to transmit the raw data compressed by the information compression.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Takayuki Yamazaki, Tomonori Ozaki, Jun Moteki, Makoto Ishizaki, Hiroaki Nakai
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Patent number: 9808211Abstract: A CBCT imaging system comprises a digital radiation detector and radiation source. A detector transport moves the detector along at least a portion of a first curved path and a radiation source transport moves the radiation source along at least a portion of a second curved source path. The detector is configured to travel at least a portion of the first curved path, and the radiation source is configured to travel at least a portion of the second curved path. The detector is configured to obtain a plurality of 2D projection images over a range of scan angles for reconstructing a 3D volume image using the plurality 2D projection images.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: John Yorkston, William C. Wendlandt, Peter A. Newman, Donna K. Rankin-Parobek, David Y. Chan
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Patent number: 9808212Abstract: Medical couch apparatus is provided capable of reducing the overrun amount even if the overrun occurs while shortening the stop distance when the top is urgently stopped to make it difficult for the overrun to occur. The frame is arranged between the couch body and the top to be guided in the rostrocaudal direction of the subject by the couch body. The driving unit transfers the top in the rostrocaudal direction via the frame. The guide unit is arranged between the frame and the top to guide the top in the rostrocaudal direction. The biasing mechanism biases the top in the opposite direction of the transfer direction of the top. The bias control unit applies the force to the top to be transferred in the opposite direction for the frame through the biasing force by the biasing mechanism when the transfer of the top by the driving unit is stopped.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventor: Yasuo Kodaira
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Patent number: 9808213Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes: an obtaining unit configured to obtain three-dimensional image data and positions of a plurality of feature points in the three-dimensional image data; a designation unit configured to designate a designation point indicating a portion of interest in the three-dimensional image data; a selection unit configured to select, using information determined by a position of the designation point and the positions of the plurality of feature points, a feature point from the plurality of feature points; a generation unit configured to generate, from the three-dimensional image data, a cross section image on a plane determined based on the position of the designation point and a position of the selected feature point; and a display control unit configured to cause a display unit to display the generated cross section image.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takaaki Endo, Kiyohide Satoh, Ryo Ishikawa
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Patent number: 9808214Abstract: A multi-mode system and method for imaging a patient's breast with x-rays in one or more of a CT mode, a narrow-angle tomosynthesis mode, a wide angle tomosynthesis mode, and a mammography mode, using essentially the same equipment, on one or more compressions or immobilizations of the breast.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: HOLOGIC, INC.Inventors: Andrew P. Smith, Jay A. Stein, Ken Defreitas, Ian Shaw, Zhenxue Jing, Loren Niklason, Baorui Ren, Christopher Ruth
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Patent number: 9808215Abstract: A 2D mammogram image is synthesized from at least one of tomosynthesis projection images and/or the tomosynthesis reconstructed image data. In a simplest form, the mammogram may be synthesized by selecting one of the tomosynthesis projection images for display as a synthesized mammogram. Other methods of synthesizing a mammogram include re-projecting and filtering projection data and/or reconstructed data. The synthesized mammogram is advantageously displayed together with at least a portion of the reconstructed data to aid in review of the reconstructed data. The present invention thus provides a familiar image which may be used to facilitate review of a tomosynthesis data set.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2016Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: HOLOGIC, INC.Inventors: Christopher Ruth, Andrew P. Smith, Jay Stein
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Patent number: 9808216Abstract: A method of processing x-ray images comprises training an artificial neural network to process multi-spectral x-ray projections to determine composition information about an object in terms of equivalent thickness of at least one basis material. The method further comprises providing a multi-spectral x-ray projection of an object, wherein the multi-spectral x-ray projection of the object contains energy content information describing the energy content of the multi-spectral x-ray projection. The multi-spectral x-ray projection is then processed with the artificial neural network to determine composition information about the object, and then the composition information about the object is provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Marquette UniversityInventors: Tal Gilat Schmidt, Kevin C. Zimmerman
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Patent number: 9808217Abstract: A model calculating device calculates a mammary gland normal architecture model that scatters in a fan shape from the nipple toward the greater pectoral muscle with respect to the X-ray image of the breast. An orientation extracting device extracts linear components orientations of a region image texture that form a shape of a shadow in the breast X-ray image using a Gabor filter. A lesion determining device compares the mammary gland orientation in the normal architecture model calculated by the model calculating device and the orientation extracted by the orientation extracting device with respect to a region of interest in the X-ray image of the breast including architectural distortion candidates of the mammary gland detected by a preprocessing device to calculate a feature quantity based on a difference between the orientations and determines whether the candidates are an architectural distortion of the mammary gland based on the feature quantity.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: TOHOKU UNIVERSITYInventors: Noriyasu Homma, Takeshi Handa, Tadashi Ishibashi, Yusuke Kawasumi, Makoto Yoshizawa
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Patent number: 9808218Abstract: Disclosed is a radiation image capturing system including a portable radiation image capturing apparatus and a portable console. The portable radiation image capturing apparatus can generate image data according to irradiated radiation and transmit the generated image data by wireless communication. The portable console includes a first wireless communication unit which can receive the image data transmitted from the radiation image capturing apparatus and a second wireless communication unit which can communicate with an external apparatus or system by wireless communication. The console gives priority to one wireless communication than the other between the wireless communication through the first wireless communication unit or the wireless communication through the second wireless communication unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2017Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.Inventors: Hidetake Tezuka, Yuuichi Nishijima, Akio Takagi, Koji Takemura
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Patent number: 9808219Abstract: Techniques, systems, and devices are disclosed for synthetic aperture ultrasound imaging using spread-spectrum, wide instantaneous band, coherent, coded waveforms.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Decision Sciences Medical Company, LLCInventor: Allan Wegner
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Patent number: 9808220Abstract: A probe for an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which is used for performing a test upon a subject is provided. The probe includes a case which forms an exterior of the probe, a piezoelectric object which is provided on an inside of the case and which generates an ultrasonic wave, a sound absorbing layer which is provided at a rear surface of the piezoelectric object and which prevents the ultrasonic wave from being delivered to a rear portion of the piezoelectric object, an acoustic matching layer which delivers the generated ultrasonic wave to a subject by matching a sound impedance of the piezoelectric object with a sound impedance of the subject, and a sound lens which concentrates the generated ultrasonic wave and radiates the concentrated ultrasonic wave toward the subject.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventor: Jin Young Choi
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Patent number: 9808221Abstract: An intracavity ultrasound probe includes a pivotally mounted array transducer which is oscillated to scan a volumetric region from within the body. The transducer is oscillated by a motor located in the probe handle. The array transducer is immersed in a liquid which acoustically couples ultrasonic energy between the elements of the transducer and the body. The acoustic coupling liquid is located in the distal tip of the probe shaft, where only 6 cc of liquid is required. The small amount of liquid reduces the weight of the shaft of the probe so that the center of gravity of the probe is in the handle, making the probe comfortable and easy to manipulate. The majority of parts in the probe shaft are made of aluminum or other low density materials, keeping the overall weight of the probe to about 250 grams.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: David Becker, Terry Wray, Jeffrey Hart
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Patent number: 9808222Abstract: An intravascular ultrasound imaging system with a catheter having an elongated body having a distal end and an imaging core arranged to be inserted into the elongated body. The imaging core is arranged to transmit ultrasonic energy pulses and to receive reflected ultrasonic energy pulses. The system further includes an imaging engine coupled to the imaging core and arranged to provide the imaging core with energy pulses to cause the imaging core to transmit the ultrasonic energy pulses. The energy pulses are arranged in repeated sequences and the energy pulses of each sequence have varying characteristics. The reflected pulses may be processed to provide a composite image of images resulting from each different characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2010Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: ACIST Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Thomas C. Moore, Kendall R. Waters, J. Steve Reynolds, Duc H. Lam, Donald Masters
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Patent number: 9808223Abstract: An ultrasound probe includes: a first arm that swings along with rotation of a motor and includes a protrusion; a second arm that rotates along with rotation of a second gear engaged with a first gear attached to a first rotational shaft; a third arm attached to the second arm such that the third arm is rotatable with respect to the second arm; and an ultrasound device connected with the third arm. The protrusion of the first arm is connected with the third arm such that the protrusion is slidable on the third arm along the longitudinal direction of the third arm.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.Inventor: Kiyoshi Fujii
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Patent number: 9808224Abstract: Various methods and systems are provided for a removable transducer module having memory. In one example, a transducer module for an ultrasound imaging system comprises a casing configured to fit into a module receiver of the ultrasound imaging system, an array of transducer elements, and a non-transitory memory configured to store at least one of usage data and specification data for the transducer module.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Jiayu Chen, Douglas G. Summers
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Patent number: 9808225Abstract: The invention provides devices and methods for self-administered noninvasive retrieval of biological materials of the uterus and/or cervix. The cervical device comprises a receptacle with a variable volume receptacle cavity, a controller configured to change the volume of the receptacle cavity, a surface for collection of biological materials, and a flexible pouch for generation of suction to facilitate efficient retrieval of biological materials. The biological materials retrieved include various biomarkers of diseases and disorders of reproduction, are directly isolated from a site of pathology, and are not metabolized or diluted. Information generated by analyzing these biological materials permits early diagnosis and prognosis assessments of disease and disorders of the female reproductive organs, irregularities of pregnancy, anomalies of the fetus in utero, and microbial infections.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Inventor: Mrinal K. Sanyal
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Patent number: 9808226Abstract: A biopsy device comprises a coring and transport assembly and a distal beak assembly. The distal beak assembly may be coupled to or near a distal end of the coring and transport assembly and may comprise at least one movable cutting element. The distal beak assembly may be configured to rotate about an axis, and assume at least a first open configuration operative to enable the at least one cutting element to core through tissue and a second closed configuration operative to enable the at least one cutting element to move through the tissue and to sever a cored specimen from the tissue.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: TransMed7, LLCInventor: James William Vetter
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Patent number: 9808227Abstract: One embodiment includes an apparatus for retracting an animal tongue that includes a handle that is elongate and that includes a proximal portion and a distal portion and a tongue receiving cup coupled to the distal portion of the handle, the tongue receiving cup being generally concave and sized such that a first side of the tongue receiving cup extends over a first side of the tongue, a second side opposite the first side extends over a second side of the tongue that is opposite the first side of the tongue, a dorsal portion of the cup extends along the dorsal portion of the tongue and a posterior extending tip extends at least partially along the back of the tongue, the first side, second side, and posterior extending tip defining a tongue receiving cavity of the tongue receiving cup.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2008Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Q-In Medical Technologies, LLCInventor: Gilbert William Mettler, Jr.
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Patent number: 9808228Abstract: Protective barrier for laparoscopy. The barrier has a closed bottom, wall(s), and open end. The barrier may incorporate a drawstring and/or optional flexible stay(s), in internal channel around periphery of the open end of bag. The barrier may optionally utilize self-sealing communication in closed bottom. Furthermore, barrier may also include flexible ring or other shapes positioned inside and tube passing through communication in the closed bottom. Protective barrier is configured to be collapsed, rolled, and/or folded into a size that can pass through an opening, such as a trocar. Protective barrier, when deployed in the peritoneal cavity, may be used to collect tissue, tissue parts, blood and/or other fluid that may spray during Morcellation or other laparoscopic procedure. After completion of the procedure, protective barrier can be collapsed, rolled or folded at a size that can be easily removed from the peritoneal cavity.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Laparoscopic Innovations, LLCInventors: James Dana Kondrup, Brenda A. Sylvester, Michelle Lee Branning
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Patent number: 9808229Abstract: An augmentation method is provided, wherein a thermoplastic augmentation element is subject to mechanical energy impact and mechanical pressure by a tool so that augmentation material of the augmentation element is liquefied and pressed into hard tissue to augment the hard tissue, wherein in at least one axial depth, the augmentation element is segmented as a function of the circumferential angle so that at this axial depth the circumferential wall of the initial opening in first regions is in contact with the augmentation element and in second regions is not in contact with the augmentation element.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: WOODWELDING AGInventors: Jörg Mayer, Marcel Aeschlimann
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Patent number: 9808230Abstract: A medical device for sealing a defect in a body includes a wire frame that includes a plurality of wires that form a first occluding member and a second occluding member. In some embodiments, a sealing member is in contact with the wire frame. In some embodiments, the sealing member is configured to define one or more openings in the sealing member.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.Inventors: Tyler J. Brown, Khoa Hua, Devin M. Nelson, Keith O. Rust
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Patent number: 9808231Abstract: A surgical site retractor is configured to retract tissue, such as in an intercostal procedure. The retractor may be formed from non-radiopaque material for improved monitoring via x-ray imaging. The retractor may have a rigid retractor and a soft tissue retractor, where the rigid retractor has a plurality of legs and the soft tissue retractor extends between the legs to prevent soft tissue from extending between said legs. The retractor may have a bendable arm with an implement holder, such as distal cuff or clip adapted to resiliently hold an implement such as a tube of an elongated port-access device. A method involves partly installing the surgical site retractor, expanding the surgical site retractor, deploying the surgical implement from outside the body through the incision and into the patient, resiliently capturing the implement with the holder of the arm, and bending the arm to hold the implement in a desired position.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences CorporationInventors: Manouchehr A. Miraki, Kevin Dang
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Patent number: 9808232Abstract: A dilation system for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures. In one version, the dilation system includes a plurality of open sided dilators having non-circular cross sections and configured to slidably and non-rotationally engage with one another in a sequential manner. In another version, the dilation system includes an expandable dilator movable from a closed condition to an expanded condition.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.Inventors: Stephen Heiman, Dustin Harvey, Corbett W. Stone, Kabir Gambhir, Timothy Anderson, Benjamin Arnold, Robert Bishop, Paul S. Maguire
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Patent number: 9808233Abstract: Catheter system, devices and methods for diagnosing and treating lateral stenosis causing back pain and or leg pain. The devices comprise a tubular part for insertion into a working cannula to self-position itself safely within the foramen, and minimize the risk of displacement medially or laterally, to prevent nerve or dura injury. An expandable membrane is configured to maintain the catheter device within the foramen. Expansion of this membrane would decompress the nerve within the foramen by opening the foraminal canal as the membrane expands.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Inventors: Fred F. Naraghi, Brandon Naraghi
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Patent number: 9808234Abstract: A suture thread is used to perform suturing without tying part of or the whole of knots that are supposed to be tied during suturing. A suture thread support body prevents an end of the suture thread from being pulled into a suturing site. A needle accommodation body has a shape of a tube having a through-hole through both ends. The suture thread has the suture thread support body and the needle accommodation body.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Y. JACOBS MEDICAL INC.Inventor: Young Jae Kim
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Patent number: 9808235Abstract: A device and method for fixating soft tissue to hard tissue with the aid of a suture anchor and a suture or with the aid of a headed anchor, wherein the anchor is forced into the hard tissue and then anchored therein by in situ liquefaction of a material having thermoplastic properties. The device includes a vibration tool and the anchor and possibly a support element, wherein the anchor includes an anchor foot and a thermoplastic sleeve. The thermoplastic sleeve includes the material having thermoplastic properties. The anchor foot has a distal end suitable for being forced into hard tissue and it is connected to the distal end of the vibration tool and the thermoplastic sleeve sits on a proximal face of the anchor foot, the vibration tool and/or a proximal portion of the anchor foot extending into or through the thermoplastic sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: SPORTWELDING GMBHInventors: Jorg Mayer, Mario Lehmann
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Patent number: 9808236Abstract: An internal bracing system is disclosed for stabilizing a joint such as the knee, shoulder, ankle or the like. The internal bracing system includes an extra-articular tension band mechanism and an anchor assembly therefore. The internal bracing system adds substantial control to unstable joints which is effective in limiting the pathological joint motions and internal slippage. The anchor anchoring assembly designed to affix a tethering device to various bony structures which form a joint, for the purpose of providing stability. The anchor assembly includes an anchor and a set screw. A series of disc structures compressed by the set screw securely holds the tether without binding.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2016Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Advanced Bone Anchor, LLCInventors: W. Andrew Hodge, Slobodan Tepic, Stephen J. Bresina
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Patent number: 9808237Abstract: Various exemplary methods and devices are provided for passing sutures around anatomical structures. In an exemplary embodiment, a suture delivery device is provided that includes a body portion having a suture delivery member disposed therein and configured to pass a suture around an anatomical structure. The suture delivery member can be movable between a retracted configuration in which the suture delivery member is disposed within the body portion and an advanced configuration in which the suture delivery member extends distally beyond the body portion and assumes an arcurate shape. The arcurate shape can correspond to a shape of the anatomical structure and can extend almost all of the way around the anatomical structure, for example at least around 270° of a circle, thus assisting a user in passing the suture around the anatomical structure without having to manually manipulate the suture delivery device at awkward angles around adjacent tissue.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: DEPUY MITEK, LLCInventors: Meghan P. Murray, Allison N. Stocks, Ariel L. Leigh, Alexandra Tsoi, Mary Schmidt
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Patent number: 9808238Abstract: An apparatus and method for minimally invasive suturing is disclosed. A suturing device for minimally invasive suturing includes proximal section having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween; a suture head assembly extending from the distal end of the proximal section; a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the proximal section, wherein the pointed end of the suturing needle is positioned within the suture head assembly prior to and after rotation of the suturing needle; and an actuator extending from the proximal end of the proximal section to actuate a drive mechanism having a needle driver for engaging and rotating the suturing needle.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2017Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: EndoEvolution, LLCInventors: John C. Meade, Jerry R. Griffiths, Francis J. DiFrancesco, Richard Clark
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Patent number: 9808239Abstract: A device for the transosseous insertion of suture threads comprises: —a main body (1), equipped with a grip (2), supporting a protruding cannula (3) provided with an active end (30); —a flexible thread-like element (4) which is housed in a coaxially sliding manner inside the cannula (3) and is suitable, on command, for exiting from the active end (30) of the cannula (3). The thread-like element (4) is made of a super-elastic, shape-memory material and thus has the property of freely assuming, at least in an adequate temperature range for which its operative use is foreseen, a natural and predetermined curved form at least in a determined portion of the terminal part thereof. Means are provided for producing the coaxial movement of the thread-like element (4) in the two directions relative to the cannula (3).Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: NCS LAB S.R.L.Inventor: Matteo Mantovani
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Patent number: 9808240Abstract: A suture passer and method for passing suture in tissue repair and other surgical procedures. The suture passer has an outer stiff tube component and a flexible tube component which is both cannulated and retractable. The inner tube (i.e., the cannulated, flexible, retractable tube) is preferably made of NiTi and has a predefined curve. The inner tube is deployed and retracted from the outer stiff tube. The configuration of the inner tube allows the instrument to be introduced into a space through a small portal and then deployed to provide leverage and improved reach (without creating large portals).Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Arthrex, Inc.Inventors: Bradford O. Parsons, Peter J. Dreyfuss
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Patent number: 9808241Abstract: A suturing apparatus comprises a pair of jaws. A bendable needle housed in one of the jaws is adapted to carry a suture. An optional suture receiver may be disposed adjacent to the opposite jaw. A transition block curves the needle and directs it in a direction generally unparallel to an axis of the carrying jaw. The needle may also be configured to retrieve a suture. A retaining mechanism holds a suture in place to be engaged by the needle. The jaw housing the needle may include a lateral opening through which the suture may be inserted. The needle may also include a lateral notch which may be aligned with lateral opening to receive the suture. An actuator coupled to the needle enables the user to move the needle proximally to align the notch with the lateral slot.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: MEDOS INTERNATIONAL SARLInventors: Christopher Weinert, Ron Farkash, Dan Nelsen, Breck Petrillo, Michael C. Pereira, David Robson, Thomas Weisel, Charles Johnson, David Skinlo
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Patent number: 9808242Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for securing tissue to bone, including drilling a bone hole into the bone; passing a filament through the tissue, the filament including a first end, a second end and a length therebetween, the second end having a loop; passing the first end of the filament through the loop of the filament; pulling on the first end of the filament such that the loop travels along the length of the filament and to the tissue; passing an anchor along the length of the filament, from the first end towards the loop and tissue; engaging the loop with a distal end of the anchor; positioning the distal end of the anchor, with the loop of the filament, into the bone hole; and securing the anchor in the bone.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corp.Inventors: Tracy Pat-Yen Ng, Kyle Craig Pilgeram, Lee Harris Cordova, Robert Eugene McLaughlin, II, Stuart Edward Fromm
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Patent number: 9808244Abstract: A surgical instrument is disclosed. The surgical instrument may include an absolute position sensor system. The absolute position sensor system includes a sensor element operatively coupled to a movable drive member of the surgical instrument. A position sensor is operably coupled to the sensor element and is configured to sense the absolute position of the sensor element.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Richard L. Leimbach, Mark D. Overmyer, Brett E. Swensgard, Shane R. Adams
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Patent number: 9808245Abstract: A coupling assembly selectively interconnects a surgical device with an adapter assembly. The adapter assembly is configured for connection with a surgical attachment. The coupling assembly includes a first connector, a second connector and an outer tube. The first connector is configured for mating engagement with a surgical device. The second connector is configured for mating engagement with an adapter assembly. The outer tube extends between and has a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis therebetween. The first end of the outer tube supports the first connector. The second end of the outer tube supports the second connector. The longitudinal axis of the outer tube extends transversely relative to a longitudinal axis defined by a surgical device.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Paul Richard, Joseph Pierre
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Patent number: 9808246Abstract: A method of operating a surgical instrument is disclosed. The surgical instrument includes an electronic system comprising an electric motor coupled to the end effector; a motor controller coupled to the motor; a parameter threshold detection module configured to monitor multiple parameter thresholds; a sensing module configured to sense tissue compression; a processor coupled to the parameter threshold detection module and the motor controller; and a memory coupled to the processor. The memory stores executable instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to monitor multiple levels of action thresholds and monitor speed of the motor and increment a drive unit of the motor, sense tissue compression, and provide rate and control feedback to the user of the surgical instrument.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David C. Yates, Jason L. Harris, Jerome R. Morgan
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Patent number: 9808247Abstract: A fastening system for fastening tissue that comprises a cartridge and an implant is disclosed. The cartridge comprises a cartridge body comprising removable fasteners. The implant comprises a first portion comprising a first absorbable polymer comprising a first compactness of first fibers and a first medicament releasably stored in the first compactness of the first fibers of the first portion. The implant further comprises a second portion comprising a second absorbable polymer comprising a second compactness of second fibers, wherein the second compactness is different than the first compactness. The second absorbable polymer is different than the first absorbable polymer. The implant further comprises a second medicament releasably stored in the second compactness of the second fibers of the second portion. The second medicament is different than the first medicament. The release of the second medicament and the release of the first medicament co-operatively produce a healing result.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Katherine J. Schmid, Charles J. Scheib, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph H. Contiliano, Chunlin Yang, Cortney E. Henderson, Jeffrey L. Aldridge
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Patent number: 9808248Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a body, a shaft, and an end effector. The end effector has a staple cartridge, a lower jaw, an anvil, and a firing beam. The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body and a lower cartridge tray. One or both of the cartridge body or the lower cartridge tray comprises at least one notch. The lower jaw is configured to be coupled with the cartridge body and comprises protrusions. The protrusions of the lower jaw align with the notches of the cartridge body and/or lower cartridge tray when the lower jaw and staple cartridge are coupled. The body comprises a handle portion and a series of actuators capable of closing the anvil on the staple cartridge and driving the firing beam to vertically drive a plurality of staples.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventor: Douglas B. Hoffman
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Patent number: 9808249Abstract: A connection portion for attaching a disposable loading unit to the shaft of a surgical instrument. The connection portion can include a rotatable collar, which can be rotated relative to the disposable loading unit and the shaft. The connection can include a spring for biasing the collar and/or the disposable loading unit into a locked orientation.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Patent number: 9808250Abstract: Systems and methods introduce and deploy prosthesis into a blood vessel or hollow body organ by intra-vascular access. The prosthesis is secured in place by fasteners which are implanted by an applier that is also deployed by intra-vascular access. The applier is configured to permit controlled, selective release of the fastener in a step that is independent of the step of implantation.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.Inventors: Lee Bolduc, Philip Houle
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Patent number: 9808251Abstract: A medical device is disclosed which includes a delivery member having at least two lumens extending within. Each lumen may include a rotational element within. Each rotational element may be configured to convert linear motion into rotational motion. The medical device may also include a snare element including a distal snare loop and two proximally extending legs. Each leg of the snare element may be within one of the two lumens. Further, the rotational element in a first lumen may be configured to impart a clock-wise rotation to a first leg of the two proximally extending legs, while the rotational element in a second lumen of the at least two lumens may be configured to impart a counter clock-wise rotation to a second leg of the two proximally extending legs.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Laura Elizabeth Firstenberg, Colby Harris
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Patent number: 9808252Abstract: Shape memory materials (SMM) are formed as coil-shaped vascular occlusion devices upon deployment. Shape memory polymer (SMP) materials are tailored through formulation for specific mechanical behavior of the coils. Concurrent coil diameter changes enhance the relative change in stiffness along the length of the coil. Interconnecting structures (104a/b) are formed on ends of elongated members (102a) in the pre-deployment shape for multiple coil insertion capability within an introducer. Channels (206) are formed in pre-deployment shape, elongate members (202) that allow access for injection of imaging contrast agent or concurrent placement of instruments. A single SMM occlusive device (300) transforms into multiple, smaller diameter coils (302b) in the deployed state to generate a complex occlusive structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2010Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignees: ENDOSHAPE, INC., THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO, A BODY CORPORATEInventors: Julie Marie Trommeter, Michael B. Lyons, Jeffrey Paul Castleberry, Robin Shandas, James Fogelberg, Stephen Johnson
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Patent number: 9808253Abstract: The present invention relates to a Left atrial appendage occluder comprising an elastic closure disc. The left atrial appendage occluder also comprises an elastic fixing frame connected with the closure disc and located on one side of the closure disc. The fixing frame comprises a central end connected with the closure disc and a plurality of interconnected and bent struts, wherein at least one anchor is set near the end of at least one strut with the anchor pointing toward the closure disc. The left atrial appendage occluder has a stable structure, a good positioning and sealing effect on the cavity wall in the left atrial appendage, and it is easy to position repeatedly; it can also be recycled before separating from a conveyor. When in surgical operation, the left atrial appendage occluder can select the position area based on the actual shape and size of the patient's left atrial appendage, so the surgical risk is lowered.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Lifetech Scientific (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd.Inventors: Anning Li, Deyuan Zhang
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Patent number: 9808254Abstract: A selective aortic balloon device includes a catheter comprising an open distal end configured to be inserted into a body cavity or vessel, and a plurality of adjustable port regions with inflatable balloons between adjacent adjustable port regions. Each adjustable port region is configured to move between a closed position and an open position to selectively allow fluid flow to enter the catheter through the open distal end and to exit the catheter through one or more of the plurality of adjustable port regions depending on an inflation pattern of the inflatable balloons.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Hays, Inc.Inventors: Gregory Hays, Julia Hays
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Patent number: 9808255Abstract: An embolic coil detachment system includes an elongated, flexible shape memory polymer tube having an inner wall surface defining an interior lumen. A distal portion of the shape memory polymer tube has an enlarged and reduced diameter configurations. An embolic coil is releasably mounted to the shape memory polymer tube by a headpiece releasably attached within a distal portion of the shape memory polymer tube. A resistive heating element disposed longitudinally along and in immediate contact with the inner wall surface of the distal tubular wall of the shape memory polymer tube provides direct, even heating to release the headpiece and embolic coil attached thereto when the resistive heating element is energized.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Juan A. Lorenzo, Kirk Johnson
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Patent number: 9808256Abstract: Detachment of a medical device from a delivery assembly can focus activity of electrolytic detachment to enhance detachment procedures. Electrolytic activity can be focused by insulating nearby areas of a core wire and pre-treating a detachment zone to reduce crystallinity of the detachment zone.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Jianlu Ma, Vincent Divino
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Patent number: 9808257Abstract: A surgical clamp may have two elongated members with a bight portion that joins the two elongated members at a proximal end of the clamp and that may bias the two elongated members in an open position at a distal end. The bight portion may have one or more engagement features, such as a slotted aperture or other engagement or coupling feature. A clasp mechanism at the distal end of the clamp may have a male or first component disposed on or adjacent one of the two elongated members and a female or second component disposed on or adjacent the other of the two elongated members at the distal end of the clamp.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Advanced Bariatric Technology, LLCInventors: Jesús R. Armenteros, Moises Jacobs, C. Kenneth French, Garrett Barker
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Patent number: 9808258Abstract: A system may include an introducer sheath including a retention member configured to anchor the introducer sheath in a natural body lumen having a wall. The system may also have an elongate member extending along a longitudinal axis through a working channel of the introducer sheath. Additionally, the system may have a manipulating portion coupled to a distal end of the elongate member. The manipulating portion may include at least one selectively actuatable member configured to transition between an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration. In the undeployed configuration, the at least one actuatable member may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and in at least one position in the deployed configuration, the at least one actuatable member may extend radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Jason Weiner, Paul Smith, Robert B. Devries
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Patent number: 9808259Abstract: A clip-over disposable assembly includes a switch assembly and a disposable body. The disposable body includes a first disposable member, a second disposable member including first and second wall portions, and a third disposable member. The first wall portion defines a first aperture therethrough and a first cavity configured to receive therein a first portion of the switch assembly. The third disposable member includes a third wall portion, wherein a body of the second disposable member and the third wall portion define an opening configured to allow a shaft of a hemostat-style surgical instrument to pass therethrough. The second wall portion and the third wall portion cooperatively define a chamber in communication with the opening and configured to receive therein at least a portion of the shaft of the hemostat-style surgical instrument, wherein the at least a portion of the shaft is received in the chamber from an off-axis position.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventor: John R. Twomey