Patents Issued in January 30, 2018
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Patent number: 9878110Abstract: An infusion set has a partially integrated ballistic inserter that can insert a needle at a controlled rate of speed to a depth to deliver content to the upper 3 mm of skin surface, and a skin-securing adhesive layer to secure the skin surface at the insertion site such that the inserter that can insert a needle with a reduced risk of tenting of the skin surface. A removable turnkey or pushable handle can be provided to release a driving spring of the ballistic inserter to insert a needle at a controlled rate of speed, of 3.3 ft/sec. (1.0 m/sec.) up to and including those greater than 10 ft/sec. (3.0 m/sec.), then release from the set for disposal. The infusion set can further include an extendable interface ring that retracts when the inserter is removed from the infusion set.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: Russell S. Cole, Christopher J. Kadamus, Stephen J. Irwin, Serge Roux, Eric Bené
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Patent number: 9878111Abstract: The present invention is an operation device that can be used for angiographic operations applied on the upper extremity, comprising a hand-finger fixing apparatus (1), wrist air bag (8) located between preferably the arm support part (13) and hand-finger fixing apparatus (1), a length adjustment apparatus (22) on the arm support part (13), an elbow air bag (9), a housing support part (11), one level adjustment apparatus (23) located on the housing support part (11), a flexible connection band (6), a power and a pneumatic pumping system (2) and a and a remote control unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2012Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: ERTUGRUL ERCANInventor: Ertugrul Ercan
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Patent number: 9878112Abstract: There is provided an insufflation system and an insufflation apparatus which can prevent a pressure inside a lumen from rapidly increasing and can achieve operability matched to a sense of an operator. When the operator operates an air/water supply button of the endoscope, the gas is insufflated into a gastrointestinal tract of a patient through an internal conduit of the endoscope (manual insufflation). Meanwhile, the insufflation apparatus is connected to an insertion assisting tool which guides the endoscope into the gastrointestinal tract. When the insufflation apparatus automatically performs insufflation, the gas is intermittently insufflated into the gastrointestinal tract of the patient so as to maintain the pressure inside the gastrointestinal tract at the set pressure (automatic insufflation). The average flow rate of the gas in the automatic insufflation is set to be less than or equal to the insufflation flow rate in the manual insufflation.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignees: FUJIFILM Corporation, OSAKA UNIVERSITYInventors: Nobuyuki Torisawa, Manabu Miyamoto, Kiyokazu Nakajima
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Patent number: 9878113Abstract: An over-pressure control device prevents over-pressure conditions during the delivery of pressure treatment therapy to a patient with a respiratory treatment apparatus. The device may prevent delivered pressure from exceeding a first maximum pressure threshold. The device may also prevent the delivered pressure from exceeding a second maximum pressure threshold when the delivered pressure exceeds another pressure threshold for a period of time. In some embodiments, the second maximum pressure threshold may be lower than the first maximum pressure threshold. In an example embodiment, a set of comparators are configured to compare pressure with a maximum pressure threshold and to control a reduction in the pressure if the pressure exceeds the maximum pressure threshold. The set may also be configured to compare the pressure with a pressure threshold and to control reduction in the maximum pressure threshold if the pressure exceeds the pressure threshold for a period of time.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2009Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: ResMed LimitedInventors: Christopher Kingsley Blunsden, Ronald James Huby, Graham Stephen Cutcliffe, Jack Wei Cheng, Zhuo Ran Tang
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Patent number: 9878114Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system for controlling breathing of a patient. A mixing device extends from a patient interface to control a volume of exhaled gasses. The mixing device has a first orifice connected to and in fluid communication with a first control tube and terminating in a first variable flow control valve and a second orifice connected to and in fluid communication with a second control tube and terminating in a second variable flow control valve. Further a first volume extends between the first and second orifices. A controller then controls the volume of exhaled gasses from the patient using the first and second variable flow control valves.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventor: Robert W. Daly
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Patent number: 9878115Abstract: A system comprises a respiratory delivery arrangement adapted to cover at least one respiratory orifice of a patient. The system also comprises a first conduit having a first end and a second end, the second end connected to the respiratory delivery arrangement. A positive pressure is provided to the respiratory orifice via the first conduit and a second conduit having a third end and a fourth end, the fourth end connected to the respiratory delivery arrangement. An exhaled gas is extracted from the respiratory orifice by one or both of a valve configured to redirect flow through the respiratory delivery arrangement and a venturi opening.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: NEW YORK UNIVERSITYInventor: David M. Rapoport
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Patent number: 9878116Abstract: A laryngeal mask is provided with an outer tube and a connector, having a base end in which is formed a first connecting portion capable of being connected to an artificial respirator and a leading end in which is formed a ventilation opening, the outer tube and the connector having a communication passage formed therein that communicates between the first connecting portion and the ventilation opening, a ring-shaped cuff capable of tightly adhering to a tracheal opening of a patient trachea as a result of inflating in a state where the ring-shaped cuff is inserted to a predetermined insertion position, and hyoid bone-contacting portions and protruding laterally from the outer tube so as to contact from above a site in a pharyngeal portion of the patient corresponding to a hyoid bone of the patient in a state where the ring-shaped cuff is inserted to the insertion position.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2012Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignees: DAIKEN IKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION OKAYAMA UNIVERSITYInventors: Yoshimasa Takeda, Kiyoshi Morita, Hiroshi Hashimoto, Masatomo Kokubu
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Patent number: 9878117Abstract: A swivel elbow for a mask assembly includes an elbow adapted to be provided to the mask assembly and a swivel detachably connected to the elbow. The elbow includes a plurality of spaced apart rings that provide a controlled clearance between the elbow and an interior surface of the swivel.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: RESMED LIMITEDInventors: Geoffrey Crumblin, Craig David Edwards, Daniel Robert Judson, Bryony Louise Marshall
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Patent number: 9878118Abstract: A headgear for use with a mask includes a first strap being configured to engage a back of a patient's head and extend on either side of the patient's parietal bone behind the patient's ears and assume, in use, a substantially circular or oval shape. At least a portion of the first strap is substantially inextensible. The headgear also includes at least one second strap configured to removably connect the first strap to the mask. The second strap may be more extensible than the first strap. At least a portion of the first strap is self-supporting such that the headgear maintains a three dimensional shape when not in use. The substantially inextensible portion of the first strap is constructed to resiliently return to a predetermined shape when not in use. The arcuate region includes a first portion that may be arranged to align substantially parallel with a top of the patient's head and a second portion being arranged to align substantially to a rear surface of the patient's head.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: ResMed LimitedInventors: Justin John Formica, Anthony Paul Barbara, Brent James Dravitzki, Philip John Gunning
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Patent number: 9878119Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device, system and method for providing a connector configured for connecting to an artificial airway for use in the treatment of respiratory conditions and in assisted respirations. In an embodiment of the invention, a connector configured for connecting to an artificial airway is provided. The connector configured for connecting to an artificial airway can include an inlet conduit configured to receive supplied respiratory gas, an outlet conduit configured to allow exhaled gas to exit to ambient during use, an artificial airway side conduit configured to couple to an artificial airway and a restrictor coupled with the outlet conduit. The restrictor coupled with the outlet conduit can be an outflow variable restrictor. The connector further can include a reducer coupled with the outlet conduit.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2012Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Mergenet Medical, Inc.Inventors: Robert M. Landis, Charles A. Lewis
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Patent number: 9878120Abstract: A nasal cannula assembly is disclosed having a face mount part, in use resting against a user's face, which includes at least one nasal prong capable of being fitted into a person's nares. The cannula assembly also includes a manifold part, in fluid communication with the face mount part, having a single horizontal side gases entry. In particular, this cannula assembly is for supplying heated, humidified gases to a patient suffering from COPD. A tie or lanyard is disclosed for use with a breathing assistance apparatus such as a nasal cannula, face or nasal mask or tracheostomy connector. The tie or lanyard transfers the weight of the conduits supplying gases to the breathing assistance apparatus from the breathing assistance apparatus and distributes it onto the neck of the patient.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare LimitedInventors: Craig Karl White, Jason Peter Van Beurden, Kevin Peter O'Donnell
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Patent number: 9878121Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a mask, such as a nasal pillows mask, for achieving positive pressure mechanical ventilation (inclusive of CPAP, ventilator support, critical care ventilation, emergency applications). The mask of the present invention includes a piloted exhalation valve that is used to achieve the target pressures/flows to the patient. The pilot for the valve may be pneumatic and driven from the gas supply tubing from the ventilator. The mask of the present invention further includes a heat and moisture exchange (HME) device which is directly integrated into the housing or cushion thereof (thus residing in extremely close proximity to the patient's nostrils), and is further uniquely configured to induce a flow pattern between it and the cushion which maximizes the transmission of heat and moisture to air which is inhaled by and exhaled from the patient through the mask.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: BREATHE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Enrico Brambilla, Samir S. Ahmad
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Patent number: 9878122Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatus for stable generation and delivery of solid nano-particles in aerosols that simultaneously maintain high nano-particle concentration, and which avoid coagulation and agglomeration of the nano-particles. The apparatus includes a Collison nebulizer is in communication with a plenum. The Collison nebulizer includes a port for introducing a helium gas flow into the Collison nebulizer. The plenum includes component(s) for providing flow of uniform axially symmetrical dry air around the nano-particles entrained in the helium gas flow in the plenum. Preferably, the plenum includes an uniformity screen and a reduction in the plenum circumference downstream from the uniformity screen. In some preferred aspects, the invention provides methods of introducing nanoparticles into the lungs of test animals. The present invention allows more than 0.5 mass % of the nano-particles to be deposited in an animal's lungs.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2011Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Battelle Memorial InstituteInventors: Vladimir B. Mikheev, William C. Forsythe, Benjamin N. Swita
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Patent number: 9878123Abstract: Some embodiments provide for humidifier control systems and methods configured to adjust power to a heater plate in a surgical humidifier to account for changes in flow rate to provide a consistent output, to provide functionality for different modes of use, and to provide accurate control over temperature and/or humidity at relatively low flows. The humidifier control system can receive a flow rate reading and determine a power requirement corresponding to the received flow rate reading, wherein the power requirement is one of a plurality of set points which correspond to ranges of flow rates. The humidifier control system can determine a mode of use based at least in part on the flow rate reading. The humidifier control system can provide electrical power to the heater plate according to the power requirement and/or the mode of use.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare LimitedInventors: Ali Ghalib Abdul Rahman Ghalib, Lina Tessy, Joseph Patrick Walter Strevens, Paul David Phillips
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Patent number: 9878124Abstract: A safety catheter for draining a given fluid includes a hollow stretch valve and a flexible, multi-lumen, balloon drainage catheter having a proximal catheter end, a balloon defining a balloon interior to be inflated with an inflation fluid, a drain lumen. and a balloon drainage port fluidically connecting the balloon interior to the drain lumen. The hollow stretch valve is shaped to permit the given fluid to pass therethrough and is positioned in the drain lumen to at least partially slide therein such that, in a steady state, the stretch valve prevents the inflation fluid from passing through the drainage port, and, in a stretched state when the proximal catheter end is stretched, the distal sliding portion slides within the drain lumen to permit the inflation fluid to pass through the drainage port and into the drain lumen.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Mayser, LLCInventors: Leonard Pinchuk, Gary A. Kalser, Gregory L. Mayback, James Leone
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Patent number: 9878125Abstract: A catheter has an entrance opening defined by the first end of a catheter body and non-circular inner surface in cross section. The entrance opening intersects a longitudinal axis extending longitudinally through the center of a lumen adapted to drain urine from a bladder. The non-circular inner surface can have dimples, channels, or grooves, all of which decrease frictional fluid forces against the inner surface as the urine drains. The catheter is free of any eyelets formed in the side wall of the catheter body. The catheter further includes a plurality of distinct longitudinally extending convex outer surfaces and may have an enlarged head.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: ZCATH LLCInventor: Philip J. Dye
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Patent number: 9878126Abstract: A nozzle for the supply of biological material, in particular tissue cells, having a mixing chamber (11) which is delimited by a proximal end surface (21) and a distal end surface (22) spaced apart from the proximal end surface (21), at least one nozzle opening (23) which is formed in the distal end surface (22), and at least two supply ducts (30, 40, 50) which discharge into the mixing chamber (11). A first supply duct (30) is arranged in the proximal end surface (21) and discharges into the mixing chamber (11) coaxially to the nozzle opening (23) and a second supply duct (40) has an inlet opening (42) which discharges into the mixing chamber (11) laterally, in particular tangentially at the distal end surface (22).Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: ERBE ELEKTROMEDIZIN GMBHInventors: Andreas Fech, Klaus Fischer, Markus Enderle, Mara Szyrach
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Patent number: 9878127Abstract: The invention relates to an operating handle (10-1, 10-2) for manipulating a catheter tip (80-1, 80-2) of a catheter delivery system. The operating handle (10-1, 10-2) comprises a hand grip (11) designed to be held by a user, and a manipulating part (12) axially aligned with the hand grip (11). The manipulating part (12) is rotatable relatively to the hand grip (11) about a longitudinal axis (L) defined by the operating handle (10-1, 10-2). The operating handle (10-1, 10-2) comprises at least one sliding member (30, 40) operatively linked with the manipulating part (12) by means of a cam mechanism (50) such that, upon rotation of the manipulating part (12) relative to the hand grip (11), the at least one sliding member (30, 40) moves axially in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L).Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignees: JenaValve Technology, Inc., Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Förderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V.Inventors: Christoph Damm, Andreas Kamm, Michael Litzenburger, Thomas Töllner
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Patent number: 9878128Abstract: A system and method for treating a blood vessel that is at least partially obstructed by an occlusion which divides the lumen into a proximal lumen segment and a distal lumen segment. The system includes an orienting catheter having an orientation element positionable in an intrawall space of the vessel and an occlusion catheter having an occlusion balloon inflatable in the proximal lumen segment so as to isolate a target volume including the intrawall space. The pressure inside the target volume is reduced to a pressure below the pressure of the distal lumen segment so that the intima presses against the orienting element of the orienting catheter. A distal end of a reentry device may be advanced from the orienting catheter through the intima and into the distal lumen segment.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Chad J. Kugler, David B. Robinson
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Patent number: 9878129Abstract: An infusion site retainer configured to maintain tubing coupled to an infusion port includes a base configured to be secured to a patient and comprises a patient surface opposite a first surface. At least one trench is formed in the base to couple the tubing to the base.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventor: Daniel Larkin
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Patent number: 9878130Abstract: A shieldable needle device includes a hub with and a needle cannula having a puncture tip extending from a forward end thereof, and a shield member in telescoping association with the hub. At least one of the hub and the shield member are adapted for relative axial movement with respect to the other between a first position in which the puncture tip of the needle cannula is exposed from a forward end of the shield member and a second position in which the puncture tip of the needle cannula is encompassed within the shield member. A drive member extends between the hub and the shield member, biasing the hub and the shield member axially away from each other. A packaging cover may further extend about the needle cannula, applying external pressure between the cooperating portions of the hub and the shield.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventor: Jamieson W. Crawford
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Patent number: 9878131Abstract: A device for restraining a guide wire includes a base having a recessed formation configured to receive a portion of the guide wire, and a flexible lid configured to fit on the base. The lid has a main sheet portion covering the portion of the guide wire and a plurality of fingers separated by gaps and extending downwardly from a peripheral edge of the main sheet portion to surround the base. Sandwiched between the lid and base, the guide wire extends through gaps between the finger members. Constructed of sheet material, the lid is flexibly movable between a closed configuration wherein the fingers are flexed inwardly engaging the base, and an open configuration wherein the fingers are flexed outwardly releasing the base.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Biosense Webster (Israel) Ltd.Inventor: Debby Esther Highsmith
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Patent number: 9878132Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure comprise occlusion and drug delivery devices and methods. One aspect of the disclosure comprises a drug delivery device comprising an inner expansion member and an outer drug delivery component. Another aspect of the disclosure comprises bioabsorbable, lumen-occluding implants.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.Inventors: Edward H. Cully, Jeffrey B. Duncan, Douglas S. Paget, Rachel Radspinner, Edward E. Shaw, Michael J. Vonesh
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Patent number: 9878133Abstract: The present invention provides a stretchable material suitable for use in an inflatable medical device. The stretchable material has at least one reinforcing polymer layer with a top and bottom side forming a porous matrix which is imbibed with a sealing material to infiltrate and substantially seal spaces of the porous matrix and extend beyond the reinforcing polymer layer to form a surface coating.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.Inventors: Alex R. Hobson, Michael Houghton, David R. King, Joseph E. Korleski, Jr., Brian C. Lentz, Kenneth Newcomb, Peter J. Roeber, John Streeter
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Patent number: 9878134Abstract: A device having multiple chambers may be configured to expand to contact a substantial section of an interior wall of a body structure or lumen in order to simultaneously exclude blood or other liquid from a target structure while providing for delivery of a therapeutic agent directly to the interior wall. The expandable device may be manufactured from a plurality of flat sheets of material heat sealed to one another to form an inflation chamber and one, two or more delivery chambers. The sheets may also be bonded to an elongate catheter body having inflation and delivery lumens. The excluding of blood flow and delivery of therapeutic agents are completed by the same device.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventor: Michael S Mirizzi
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Patent number: 9878135Abstract: Methods and devices incorporating a guidewire entry port subassembly for use in rapid exchange catheters. The use of a subassembly allows for stronger quality control and simpler fabrication of a rapid exchange device. In several embodiments, methods of making a molded guidewire entry port using a mold, often in conjunction with one or more mandrels, are disclosed. Several device embodiments include a separate molded guidewire port as well as molded guidewire ports which are attached, during a molding step, to segments of a catheter.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.Inventors: Mark S. Holzapfel, Martin J. Plantenberg, Daniel K. Tomaschko, Richard J. Olson
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Patent number: 9878136Abstract: A method of implanting a prosthetic in a penis includes moving a dilation portion of a dilator in a distal direction and in a proximal direction within the corpora cavernosum, dilating a first portion of tissue in the corpora cavernosum, and leaving a second grooved portion of the tissue in the corpora cavernosum un-dilated and vascularized.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2017Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Coloplast A/SInventor: Jeffrey Brian Taylor
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Patent number: 9878137Abstract: A method of preparing a substantially planar microdevice comprising a plurality of reservoirs is provided. In general, the method comprises forming a plurality of microdevices comprising a plurality of reservoirs from a planar layer of a biocompatible polymer. The method also comprises depositing one or more bioactive agents into the reservoirs. The microdevice is configured to attach to a target tissue and release the bioactive agent in close proximity to the tissue.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Tejal A Desai, Hariharasudhan D. Chirra
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Patent number: 9878138Abstract: This invention relates to an ingestible drug delivery device configured for wireless communication with other ingestible drug delivery devices.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Pop Test Abuse Deterrent Technology LLCInventors: Randice Lisa Altschul, Neil David Theise, Razvan Andrei Ene, Myron Rapkin, Rebecca O'Brien
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Patent number: 9878139Abstract: This invention relates to an ingestible drug delivery device configured for wireless communication with other ingestible drug delivery devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2017Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Pop Test Abuse Deterrent Technology, LLCInventors: Randice Lisa Altschul, Neil David Theise, Razvan Andrei Ene, Myron Rapkin, Rebecca O'Brien
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Patent number: 9878140Abstract: A surgical access device includes a seal housing and a roller disposed in the housing and defining a working channel. The roller may be stationary or moveable within the seal housing to form both a zero seal in the absence of an instrument, and an instrument seal in the presence of an instrument. Rotation of the roller is contemplated and low-friction surfaces are discussed to reduce instrument insertion forces. Multiple rollers, wiper elements, low-friction braid, pivoting elements and idler rollers are contemplated. The rollers will typically be formed of a gel material in order to facilitate the desired compliance, stretchability and elongation desired.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Applied Medical Resources CorporationInventors: Scott V. Taylor, Henry Kahle
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Patent number: 9878141Abstract: Seal systems and devices for delivering a biologic construct repair for shoulder and joint surgery into an arthroscopic workspace, including a pinch to open seal that uses fluid pressure to self-seal against a curved surface when closed.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Cannuflow, Inc.Inventor: Theodore R. Kucklick
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Patent number: 9878142Abstract: Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method of assembling an intravascular device is provided that include positioning a first tubular member around a plurality of conductors and a core member such that the plurality of conductors and the core member are at least partially positioned within a lumen of the first tubular member, the first tubular member including an opening extending along a length of the first tubular member in communication with the lumen; positioning a first conductive member around the first tubular member; advancing a first of the plurality of conductors through the opening of the first tubular member, longitudinally between the first tubular member and the first conductive member, and through to a position adjacent to the first conductive member; and electrically coupling the first of the plurality of conductors to the first conductive member.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2014Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: VOLCANO CORPORATIONInventor: David H. Burkett
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Patent number: 9878143Abstract: A luer adapter includes a body including an inner surface defining a lumen and first and second ends. Each end is adapted to connect to a medical device. An antimicrobial material is positioned at least on a portion of the inner surface. A barrier is positioned between the lumen and the antimicrobial material and permits the passage of the antimicrobial material therethrough upon exposure to moisture. The barrier may include hydrophilic material.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: Michael Sansoucy
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Patent number: 9878144Abstract: A connector which couples to an outlet conduit to decrease an outlet conduit passageway pressure differential between outlet conduit opposing first and second ends, whereby the connector includes a mixing chamber having a first inlet port in fluidic communication with a connector first open end and the mixing chamber; an outlet port in fluidic communication with the mixing chamber and a connector second open end; and a second inlet port in fluidic communication with the connector second open end and the mixing chamber. Additionally, a connector including a connector internal surface defining a connector passageway which communicates between connector first and second open ends; and a sensor module operatively coupled to the connector passageway to sense a parameter of a first fluid flowing in a first fluid flow path through the connector passageway.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: WilMarc Holdings, LLCInventors: Paul C. Ciccone, William A. Coulson, Marcia Coulson
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Patent number: 9878145Abstract: An apparatus comprising a conduit clamping device with a closing mechanism for closing and opening passage of fluid or air in a flexible conduit is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a movable arm or disk that is connected to a manipulation arm or a knob; a conduit in form of a tube, that is laid flat against an abutment or protrusion; and a guide structure that constrains the movable arm or disk between the guide structure and the tube and being designed such that movement of the arm or disk will control the compression of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: DENTSPLY International Inc.Inventors: Niels Erik Holm, Erik Andréen, Bengt Daniel Envall
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Patent number: 9878146Abstract: Anchors for use with implantable medical leads include an elastic body containing one or more rigid bodies that have longitudinal free edges. The longitudinal free edges run from end to end to define full length slots. Partial length slots may also be included within the one or more rigid bodies. The full length and partial length slots allow for deflection of the rigid bodies against the body of an implantable medical lead to hold the anchor in place on the lead. The full length slots allow a blade to pass through and cut a slit in the elastic body which allows the anchor to be removed from the lead.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Olson, Thomas C. Bischoff, Michael J. Kern
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Patent number: 9878147Abstract: A medical microelectrode includes an elongate electrode body including a tip section, a main body section and, optionally, a coupling section. The tip section, the main body section and, optionally, the coupling section are embedded in a first electrode matrix element, which is substantially rigid, biocompatible and soluble or biodegradable in a body fluid. Additionally the microelectrode includes a dissolution retarding layer on the first electrode matrix element and/or a second electrode matrix element disposed between the first electrode matrix element and the electrode. Upon dissolution or biodegradation of the first electrode matrix element a drug comprised by the first electrode matrix element or the second electrode matrix element is released into the tissue. Also disclosed are bundles and arrays of the electrodes and their use.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: NEURONANO ABInventors: Fredrik Ek, Nils Danielsen, Jenny Eriksson Linsmeier, Per Petersson, Jens Schouenborg
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Patent number: 9878148Abstract: An electrical stimulation lead includes a cog-shaped conductor guide disposed either at the proximal end or the distal end of the lead. The cog-shaped conductor guide includes a central core and multiple protrusions extending outwards from the core. Conductor tracks are defined within the cog-shaped conductor guide between adjacent protrusions. Electrodes are provided along the distal end of the lead, terminals are provided along the proximal end of the lead, and conductors couple the electrodes to the terminals. An elongated lead body extends from the electrodes to the terminals of the lead. Each of the conductors has an end portion positioned within one of the conductor tracks of the cog-shaped conductor guide.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2013Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Jacob B. Leven, Anne Margaret Pianca, John Michael Barker, Geoffrey Abellana Villarta, Milad Girgis
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Patent number: 9878149Abstract: A neurostimulation paddle lead, method of neurostimulation, and neurostimulation system are provided. The neurostimulation paddle lead carries a plurality of electrodes comprising at least four columns of electrodes having a spacing between two inner electrode columns less than a spacing between the inner electrode columns and adjacent outer electrode columns. The inner electrode columns may also be longitudinally offset from the outer electrode columns. The methods and neurostimulation systems steer current between the electrodes to modify a medial-lateral electrical field created adjacent spinal cord tissue.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Michael A. Moffitt, Dongchul Lee, Kerry Bradley, David K. L. Peterson
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Patent number: 9878150Abstract: Methods of treating acute heart failure in a patient in need thereof. Methods include inserting a therapy delivery device into a pulmonary artery of the patient and applying a therapy signal to autonomic cardiopulmonary fibers surrounding the pulmonary artery. The therapy signal affects heart contractility more than heart rate. Specifically, the application of the therapy signal increases heart contractility and treats the acute heart failure in the patient. The therapy signal can include electrical or chemical modulation.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic FoundationInventors: Sandra Machado, Marc Penn, Ali R. Rezai
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Patent number: 9878151Abstract: A leadless intra-cardiac medical device (LIMD) includes an electrode assembly configured to be anchored within a first wall portion of a first chamber of a heart. The electrode assembly includes an electrode main body having a first securing helix, an electrode wire segment extending from the body, and a first segment-terminating contact positioned on the electrode wire segment. The device further includes a housing assembly configured to be anchored within a second wall portion of a second chamber of the heart. The housing assembly includes a body having a second securing helix, a housing wire segment extending from the body, and a second segment-terminating contact positioned on the housing wire segment. The device also includes a connector block that electrically connects the electrode wire segment to the housing wire segment by retaining the first and second segment-terminating contacts.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.Inventors: Gene A. Bornzin, John W. Poore, Zoltan Somogyi, Xiaoyi Min
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Patent number: 9878152Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for electrical stimulation of muscle tissue. Electrodes (12) of an electrode array (13) are activated in accordance with a sequence of activation patterns, each pattern defining a subset of the electrodes (12) to be activated, each subset consisting of at least one electrode (12), by providing an electrical muscle stimulation signal to the muscle tissue via the subset of electrodes (12). Alternately with said activating of electrodes (12), a response signal associated with the respective activation pattern is received from a sensor (30; 12). Optionally, at least one electrode (12) is then selected for stimulation, corresponding to a location determined as being suitable for stimulation, and the muscle tissue is stimulated. The process may be repeated in order to track the location suitable for stimulation in a dynamic situation. Optionally, the orientation of body part is estimated from the measured response signals.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Alexander Franciscus Kolen, Agathe Melanie Puszka
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Patent number: 9878153Abstract: Apparatus for external activation of paralyzed body parts by stimulation of peripheral nerves which comprises a soft apparel provided with multi-pad electrodes on one side and activating means on the other side, wherein the activating means are adapted to allow activation and control of a delivered electrical pulse to each multi-pad electrode separately.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2009Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: FUNDACION TECNALIA RESEARCH & INNOVATIONInventors: Dejan Popovic, Neboj{hacek over (s)}a Male{hacek over (s)}ević, Thierry Keller
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Patent number: 9878154Abstract: Provided herein are methods and devices useful for inhibiting or treating urological conditions, such as overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms including bladder overactivity, urinary frequency, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, interstitial cystitis (IC), urinary retention, and pelvic pain; gastrointestinal conditions, such as fecal incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and constipation; and sexual conditions, such as premature ejaculation, erectile disorder, and female sexual arousal disorder by non-invasive transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the foot.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2010Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher EducationInventor: Changfeng Tai
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Patent number: 9878155Abstract: Described is a system for augmenting team performance via individual neurostimulation. An assessment is generated for each team member of a team while the team member is performing a behavioral task using neuroimaging data. A target brain state is selected in team members for team performance enhancement. The target brain state is associated with specific brain regions, and the system determines a HD-tCS neurostimulation needed to reach the specific brain regions to induce the target brain state in the team members. The determined HD-tCS neurostimulation is applied to the team members while simultaneously sensing, via real-time neuroimaging, neural activity in each team member while the team member performs a behavioral task. Team performance is enhanced by adjusting the HD-tCS neurostimulation of each team member, based on the sensed neural activity, to direct each team member toward the target brain state.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLCInventors: Matthew E. Phillips, Matthias Ziegler
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Patent number: 9878156Abstract: An exemplary system includes 1) a stimulation management facility configured to direct an electro-acoustic stimulation (“EAS”) system to concurrently apply acoustic stimulation to a patient by way of a loudspeaker and electrical stimulation to the patient by way of an electrode, and 2) a fitting facility communicatively coupled to the stimulation management facility and configured to detect an interaction between the acoustic stimulation and the electrical stimulation, and set one or more control parameters governing an operation of the EAS system based on the detected interaction. Corresponding systems and methods are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Advanced Bionics AGInventors: Smita S. Agrawal, Leonid M. Litvak
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Patent number: 9878157Abstract: An input sound signal is processed to generate band pass signals that each represent an associated band of audio frequencies. Stimulation timing signals are generated for each band pass signal, including for one or more selected band pass signals using a timing function defined to determine a mapped instantaneous frequency by adjusting instantaneous frequency based on a frequency relation factor representing a relationship between: (1) the range of audio frequencies for the band pass channel, and (2) a patient-specific, channel-specific range of stimulation rates defined based on patient-specific pitch perception measurements to enhance patient pitch perception within the range of audio frequencies for the band pass channel, and iii. generate the stimulation timing signal for the selected band pass signal at the mapped instantaneous frequency of the selected band pass signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbHInventor: Dirk Meister
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Patent number: 9878158Abstract: An electrical neuromodulation system and method of meeting a therapeutic goal for a patient using a neuromodulation device. A modulation parameter value is varied by a step size. The neurostimulation device instructs the neuromodulation device to deliver electrical energy to at least one electrode in accordance with the varied modulation parameter value. A therapeutic feedback indicator is compared to a threshold in response to the delivery of the electrical energy. Whether the therapeutic goal has been met is determined based on the comparison, and the previous steps are repeated to determine the modulation parameter value at the resolution of the step size that minimizes energy consumption of the neuromodulation device required to meet the therapeutic goal when delivering the electrical energy to the electrode(s) in accordance with the varied modulation parameter value.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Bradley Lawrence Hershey, Kerry Bradley
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Patent number: 9878159Abstract: An implant unit according to some embodiments may include a flexible carrier, at least one pair of modulation electrodes on the flexible carrier, and at least one implantable circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes. The at least one pair of modulation electrodes and the at least one circuit may be configured for implantation through derma on an underside of a subject's chin and for location proximate to terminal fibers of the medial branch of the subject's hypoglossal nerve, such that an electric field extending from the at least one pair of modulation electrodes can modulate one or more of the terminal fibers of the medial branch of the hypoglossal nerve.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventor: Adi Mashiach