Patents Issued in March 20, 2018
  • Patent number: 9918845
    Abstract: Augments systems and methods for attaching two or more augments to an underside (50) of a tibial baseplate (16) are disclosed. An augment system (100) can include a first augment (102) having a superior surface (106) and an inferior surface (108), the superior surface configured for attachment to the underside of the tibial baseplate. The augment system can include a second augment (104) having a superior surface (110) and an inferior surface (112), the superior surface configured for attachment to the inferior surface of the first augment. The first and second augments can be formed of different materials. One or more additional augments can be used with the first and second augments, and the augment system can be stacked on a resected surface of the tibia. In an example, the augment that directly contacts the resected surface of the tibia can be formed of a porous material, such as to facilitate bone growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith A. Roby, Timothy A. Hoeman, John Chernosky, Ray Zubok
  • Patent number: 9918846
    Abstract: A system and method of implanting a distal wrist implant relative to a host bone is presented. A distal radial component having a body including a first connection portion couplable to a stem is coupled to a second prosthetic coupled to a medial surface of the body. The second prosthetic replaces at least a portion of the sigmoid notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventor: Andrew K. Palmer
  • Patent number: 9918847
    Abstract: An intersomatic implant to be inserted into the intervertebral space is defined by two adjacent vertebrae, comprising a body having an upper face and a lower face, parallel to each other. The peripheries of the faces are connected by a vertical peripheral wall. Each of the faces has substantially the shape of a triangle with rounded angles, and each face includes three bearing surfaces located at the three rounded angles of the triangle. At least one of the upper and lower faces is provided with guiding means for the insertion of the implant into the intervertebral space. The guiding means comprises a plurality of ridges directed along an arc of circle, the center of which would be located in the anterior region external to the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: ADSM
    Inventors: Pierre Roussouly, Radwan Hilmi, Clement Silvestre, Pierre Vallese, Jean-Charles Roussouly, Christophe Roy
  • Patent number: 9918848
    Abstract: A spinal implant comprises an implant body extending between an anterior surface and a posterior surface and includes a first vertebral engaging surface and a second vertebral engaging surface. The implant body includes an inner surface that defines at least one cavity that is oriented to implant a fastener oblique relative to a lateral axis of a subject body and adjacent an intervertebral space of the subject body. The implant body includes an oblique surface that defines at least one opening disposed in substantial alignment with the at least one cavity. Systems and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Lindsey G. Waugh, Anthony J. Melkent, Jonathan E. Blackwell, Thomas E. Drochner, Carrie L. Gowan, Bret Matthew Wilfong, Thomas A. Carls, Richard A. Hynes, D. Hal Silcox, III, John A. Cowan, Jr., Jean-Pierre Mobasser
  • Patent number: 9918849
    Abstract: Implants, systems and methods of making and using thereof are described herein. The implants are formed from one or more coils, preferably a plurality of coils. Optionally the coils are included in a set or group of more than one coil. Optionally, the implant is symmetric about one or more planes. Typically an implant includes at least two coils (or sets or groups of coils) that are adjacent to each other intersect with each other at one or more intersection regions. Two or more coils may intersect at a plurality of intersection regions, optionally along an array of intersection regions, within the implant or on the outer side wall of the implant. Optionally, the implants include one or more plates to aid in fixation and/or insertion. The implants may be used in a variety of different spaces in the body that require bone growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: INSTITUTE FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL SCIENCE AND EDUCATION, LTD.
    Inventors: Robert Morris, William Duffield, Edward McShane, Megan Stauffer
  • Patent number: 9918850
    Abstract: The embodiments provide a spinal implant that is configured for midline insertion into a patient's intervertebral disc space. The spinal implant may have a body and the body comprises one or more apertures. The apertures receive fixation elements, such as a screw and the like. The fixation element may comprise one or more anti-backout features, such as a split ring. In addition, at least some of the apertures are designed to permit a predetermined amount of nutation by a fixation element. The apertures that allow nutation enable the fixation element to toggle from one position to another, for example, during subsidence of the implant in situ. Some of the apertures may be configured to rigidly lock with the fixation elements. Moreover, the spinal implant may include features, such as one or more bores, that can accommodate imaging marks to help guide a surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: CENTINEL SPINE, LLC
    Inventors: John S. Thalgott, David T. Stinson, Anthony J. Fennell, John Parry, John J. Viscogliosi
  • Patent number: 9918851
    Abstract: A spinal fusion implant including a body and a jacket is disclosed. The jacket includes at least two radiopaque markers extending therefrom for use in determining the position of the implant after placement between intervertebral bodies. Methods of implanting and evaluating positioning of the implant are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Stryker European Holdings I, LLC
    Inventors: Steven Willis, Robert Cipoletti
  • Patent number: 9918852
    Abstract: A system and method for spinal fusion comprising a spinal fusion implant of non-bone construction releasably coupled to an insertion instrument dimensioned to introduce the spinal fusion implant into any of a variety of spinal target sites, in particular into the thoracic region of the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Luiz Pimenta, Jared Arambula, Benjamin VerHage, Troy Woolley, Patrick Miles
  • Patent number: 9918853
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for treating a proximal humeral fracture. A system according to one embodiment includes a longitudinal member configured to be received within the humeral shaft. The system includes a jig assembly configured to be coupled to the longitudinal member, wherein the jig assembly includes at least one hole defined therethrough that is configured to guide placement of at least one hole in the humeral shaft, and wherein the hole formed in the humeral shaft is configured to align with at least one hole in the humeral implant such that the jig assembly is configured to locate the position of the humeral implant in the humeral shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: ENCORE MEDICAL LP
    Inventor: Gordon I Groh
  • Patent number: 9918854
    Abstract: A method of aligning implant components includes placing a first implant component in bone, followed by: coupling a first intermediate member to the first implant component; coupling a first alignment member to the first intermediate member; rotating the members as a unit to place the first intermediate member in an alignment position; removing the first alignment member from the first intermediate member; coupling a second alignment member to a second intermediate member; coupling the second intermediate member to the first intermediate member and rotating the second alignment member and the second intermediate member as a unit relative to the first intermediate member to provide a desired orientation of the second intermediate member. An alignment system for aligning first and second members includes a first alignment member having an offset channel dimensioned to receive the first member, and a second alignment member having a channel dimensioned to receive the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry Keith Bonin, Jr., David Edward Chreene, Alexander Iwan Seidl, Claude Mathieu, Daniel Zimmerman, Francis X. Mendoza
  • Patent number: 9918855
    Abstract: A device is provided to allow adaptation of a prosthetic or robotic foot in the medial-lateral direction, including pronation and supination of the foot using a series of articulations. Articulations are permitted in the disclosed device due to linkage systems positioned at various locations of the prosthetic foot. In particular, the device includes multiple connected linkage systems each including upper and lower portions with an articulating contact surface designed for load carriage and stability. The point of contact between the contact surfaces of each linkage system comprises the position-dependent instantaneous center of rotation of the upper portion with respect to the lower portion. The device also includes a platform coupled between the linkage systems and a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: University of Washington
    Inventors: Murray E. Maitland, Katherine M. Steele
  • Patent number: 9918856
    Abstract: A spacer including a first part made from a first shape memory material, and a second part made from a second shape memory material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Universite Grenoble Alpes
    Inventors: Denis Favier, Pierre Mozer, Yohan Payan, Gabriel Antherieu, Nathanael Connesson
  • Patent number: 9918857
    Abstract: A scaffold strut is shaped to improve hemocompatibility. After laser cutting, the scaffold is placed on a work piece and its struts are shaped by flame polishing or brushing. The abluminal surfaces and luminal surfaces can have corners rounded. The strut can have a sloped surface on its luminal side without reducing strut thickness needed for strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: ABBOTT CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Jamey Jacobs, Stephen Pacetti
  • Patent number: 9918858
    Abstract: An endoluminal stent and associated methods for placing the endoluminal stent in a lumen of a trachea of a patient. The stent includes an elongate framework having a first open end, a second open end opposite the first open end, and a lumen extending from the first open end to the second open end. The elongate framework includes a first edge extending from the first open end to the second open end, a second edge extending from the first open end to the second open end, and an opening between the first edge and the second edge extending from the first open end to the second open end such that the stent has a C-shaped cross-section. The stent may be implanted in a trachea with the opening positioned along a posterior wall of the trachea adjacent the trachealis muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Jason Weiner, Dane T. Seddon, Sean P. Fleury
  • Patent number: 9918859
    Abstract: A vascular intervention device delivery system includes a thumbwheel rotatably mounted in a handle. A termination assembly is mechanically connected to the handle. A catheter extends through the termination assembly and has a proximal end attached to the handle, and a distal carrier segment for mounting a vascular intervention device. A retractable sheath is movable from a first position covering the distal carrier segment to a second position refracted proximally to uncover the distal carrier segment. A pull extends between the thumbwheel and the retractable sheath, and through the termination assembly. A stability sheath that receives the pull and the inner catheter has a proximal end that terminates in the termination assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Sean Cummins, Darach McGrath
  • Patent number: 9918860
    Abstract: Stent delivery systems and methods for making and using stent delivery systems are disclosed. An example stent delivery system may include a guide member having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A stent may be disposed about the distal portion of the guide member. The stent may have a wall having an opening formed therein. A pusher member may be disposed about the guide member and positioned proximal of the stent. A holding filament may be disposed at the opening and may extend to the proximal portion of the guide member. The holding filament may be configured to releasably secure the position of the stent relative to the pusher member. The holding filament may be releasable from the stent independently of movement of the guide member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Michal Weisman, Jacob Graham, Gary J. Leanna, John A. Griego
  • Patent number: 9918861
    Abstract: Devices for delivering and deploying an endoluminal prosthesis are disclosed and comprise a delivery catheter, an endoluminal prosthesis disposed at a distal end portion of the delivery catheter, and a wire. The prosthesis comprises a tubular graft having at least one fenestration. The wire extends distally from a first wire end through an axial lumen of the delivery catheter and the prosthesis, and through the fenestration in the graft. The wire extends proximally through a lumen of the prosthesis and through an axial lumen of the delivery catheter towards a second wire end. Additional devices, systems, and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Matthew S. Huser, Blayne A. Roeder
  • Patent number: 9918862
    Abstract: A duodenum internal covering membrane is disclosed. The covering membrane is made of a biocompatible material and mainly comprises an elastic ampulla and a tubular part, wherein the ampulla is positioned in the duodenal bulb, the tubular part can extend to the jejunum, the ampulla contains a wavy or V-shaped or trapezoidal or city wall-shaped elastic ring which is continuously encircled, the elastic ring is made of a memory or non-memory biocompatible material, peaks, valleys and bent angles of the elastic ring are single-circle coil springs with outward anchor hooks, the single-circle coil springs on the lower edge are penetrated and wound with recovery threads, the upper edge of the ampulla is a wavy or V-shaped or trapezoidal or city wall-shaped elastic membrane, the elastic ring and the ampulla comply with the motion of the duodenum and the bulb as a whole, and the ampulla and the tubular part can be closed up or folded into the shape of a ball or cylinder or capsule or spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Ping Wan
  • Patent number: 9918863
    Abstract: A gastric calibration tube includes an elongate member and an adjusting member. The elongate member has a length and includes a first segment and a second segment that extend along the length. The second segment includes a first side and a second side. The first and second sides are selectively movable in opposite lengthwise directions. The adjusting member is secured to one of the sides of the second segment and movable with the second segment relative to the first segment to steer the elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Rajat R. Rokde
  • Patent number: 9918864
    Abstract: A brace is provided for treating humeral fractures. The brace is secured to a patient's humerus and forearm. The brace utilizes a hinge system which enables the portion of the brace secured to the patient's forearm to rotate in a plurality of planes relative to the portion of the brace secured to the patient's humerus. The hinge system allows the brace to be adjusted to the most advantageous position for the patient. Once the brace has been adjusted to the most advantageous position, the hinge system can be locked so that the brace remains in that position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Breg, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Grant, Jeremiah D. Schillig
  • Patent number: 9918865
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to medical braces having lacing systems for tightening of the medical braces. Some embodiments include multiple components of the lacing system integrated into a single housing piece. For example, multiple reels can be used to tighten different portions of the lacing system, and the multiple reels can be mounted onto a single housing. Also, multiple lace guides can be integrated into, or attached to, a single housing piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Michael J. Nickel, Sean T. Cavanagh, Robert E. Burns, Mark Kerns, Edward L. Weaver, II, Sherry A. Hinds, Beth E. Gramza
  • Patent number: 9918866
    Abstract: A bikini brace has an inner surface that corresponds to a digital representation of an injured limb. The bikini brace can wrap around a length of the limb in a helical manner. The body of the bikini brace may be a single piece structure that is fenestrated to provide air circulation to the injured limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: 3D SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott Summit, Kenneth B Trauner
  • Patent number: 9918867
    Abstract: A pad assembly comprises a padding defining first and second surfaces, and includes a first layer being resilient and accessible from the first surface and a second layer being resilient and underlying and secured to the first layer. The first and second removable sections are formed from at least one of the first and second layers and are arranged in a pattern and separated by edge clearances. Each of the first and second removable sections is tearable from the padding such that a residual portion of the removable section remains when at least one of the first and second removable sections is removed from the padding. The pad assembly may include a strap, and a substantially rigid or rigid shell connecting to the padding and strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventor: Zachariah J. Klutts
  • Patent number: 9918868
    Abstract: A bodily support assembly includes a bag that may insertably receive each of pair of forearms of a user. A first strap is attached to the bag and a first coupler is attached to the first strap. A second strap is attached to the bag and the second strap may be extended around a neck of a user. A second coupler is attached to the second strap and the second coupler is complementary with respect to the first coupler. Thus, the first coupler and the second coupler retain the first strap and the second strap around the user's neck thereby facilitating the bag to support the user's forearms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Richard Colonna
  • Patent number: 9918869
    Abstract: Catheter assemblies for draining urine from the urinary system of the user are disclosed herein. The catheter assemblies include an outer sleeve that houses the catheter tube and a deployable flexible container. The container is deployable through a slot in the sleeve wall and can be retracted back into the sleeve after use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Hollister Incorporated
    Inventors: Jerome Anthony Henry, Brendan Joseph Heneghan, Adam J. Foley
  • Patent number: 9918870
    Abstract: A method of treating snoring and/or OSA in a subject in need of such treatment. The method includes crosslinking proteins of the subject's soft palate tissue or pharynx tissue. The crosslinking can occur by contacting the soft palate or pharynx tissue with a crosslinking reagent. In addition, the crosslinking can occur without heating, contracting or denaturing of the tissue, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Orthopeutics, L.P.
    Inventors: Thomas P. Hedman, Pawel Slusarewicz
  • Patent number: 9918871
    Abstract: A cooling assembly is provided for cooling selected parts of the body of a patient to treat hyperthermia or to induce mild hypothermia in the treatment of strokes. The assembly includes a self-contained cooling unit containing a water supply, a battery operated refrigeration unit and circulating pump. A cooling member is connected to the cooling unit and is adapted for receiving cooled water and contacting selected parts of the patient to cool the patient. The cooling member can be a vest, wrap, blanket, chair, hood or cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Joseph G. Ferko, III
  • Patent number: 9918872
    Abstract: A system for treating uterine atony, and promoting contraction of a uterus includes a heat transference article having a chilled surface in contact with an inner or outer surface of the uterus for a length of time sufficient to promote contraction while avoiding tissue damage. A heat transference medium such as a chilled saline solution, or cold gel is introduced to the article by injection, pre-filling, immersion or other suitable means, and is circulating or non-circulating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventors: James Daniel Crowson, Jack Alfred Stecher
  • Patent number: 9918873
    Abstract: A laser system is calibrated with a tomography system capable of measuring locations of structure within an optically transmissive material such as a tissue of an eye. Alternatively or in combination, the tomography system can be used to track the location of the eye and adjust the treatment in response to one or more of the location or an orientation of the eye. In many embodiments, in situ calibration and tracking of an optically transmissive tissue structure such as an eye can be provided. The optically transmissive material may comprise one or more optically transmissive structures of the eye, or a non-ocular optically transmissive material such as a calibration gel in a container or an optically transmissive material of a machined part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: OptiMedica Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce Woodley, Javier Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 9918874
    Abstract: An ophthalmological laser system for photodisruptive irradiation of ocular tissue, including a crystalline lens or a cornea. The system includes an ultra-short pulse laser, the radiation of which is focusable as illumination light via an illumination beam path including a scanner unit and focusing optics. A control unit is programmed to execute determining irradiation control data for photodisruptions at irradiation points in an interior of the ocular tissue distributed three-dimensionally and non-equidistantly to create at least one predetermined target incision. The laser system then irradiates the ocular tissue according to the determined irradiation control data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Manfred Dick, Matthias Reich, Dieter Grebner
  • Patent number: 9918875
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a contact lens assembly and to an ophthalmic treatment apparatus comprising same. The contact lens assembly according to the present invention comprises: a housing arranged on the cornea of an eyeball so as to guide the treatment beam radiated onto the eyeball; and a reflection unit arranged inside the housing so as to radiate the treatment beam guided to the inside of the housing to a plurality of irradiation points along the outer circumferential direction of the eyeball around the pupil of the eyeball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: LUTRONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tae Ho Ha, Jong Woong Lee
  • Patent number: 9918876
    Abstract: A tear-off capture system includes an eye protector with a base lens. The eye protector has a retention mechanism mounted on one side, and a support mechanism that supports the eye protector on the head of a wearer. A two-tabbed stack of laminated tear-off lenses mounts to the eye protector via an adhesive. The stack mounts so that the first tab of the stack aligns with the first side of the eye protector and the second tab engages with the retention mechanism. Via the second tab and the retention mechanism, released tear-off layers are directed toward the second side of the eye protector away from the base lens. A capturer helps hold the initially released tear-off layer to the eye protector. An exposed tacky surface on each released tear-off helps hold the subsequently removed tear-off layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Racing Optics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart E. Wilson, Stephen S. Wilson, Maxwell C. Klein
  • Patent number: 9918877
    Abstract: Provided is a container for a welding helmet. The container includes an outer box and a removable insert wedge that is removable from the outer box. The removable insert wedge includes a tongue portion, extending through a headband of the welding helmet, and attached to the welding helmet. The outer box forms an opening in at least one vertical side of the outer box, thereby enabling the welding helmet and a lens of the welding helmet to be accessed from outside of the outer box through the opening. The opening is sized to prevent removal of the insert wedge and attached welding helmet through the opening without damaging the outer box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: LINCOLN GLOBAL, INC.
    Inventor: Timothy Keller
  • Patent number: 9918878
    Abstract: The present invention describes an earwax removal device having varying structures to provide different earwax removal capabilities. In all designs, the overall contour of the earwax-extracting member resembles the dimensions of the external auditory canal and is flexible enough to conform to it during insertion. Each engages and collects wax using the pressure of insertion and rotation effects. Embodiments include a club-like member having multiple protrusions and extractions to collect wax along its sides, and an opening in the tip that leads to a channel to collect wax; a flexible spiral member to compress when the device is inserted in an ear and thereby extract wax as it expands when the device is removed; a screw-like structure to laterally move wax and grind as it rotates; a multi-channel structure to cut and collect wax simultaneously; and a shovel-like structure to effectively shear and scrape wax from an ear canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Steven Burres
  • Patent number: 9918879
    Abstract: An improved skin substitute is presented comprised of a silicone layer backed up with a woven nylon fabric layer, the silicone layer possessing a regular pattern of slits that permit the porosity of the skin substitute to be adjusted by clinicians by means of applying tension to the skin substitute that differentially opens the slits. A variety of therapeutic substances can be applied to the skin substitute to promote healing, including aloe and other medicinal preparations. The skin substitute is directed at chronic wound treatment and hernia repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: E. Aubrey Woodroof
  • Patent number: 9918880
    Abstract: Provided is an apparatus that includes a scaffold with a gel or liquid composition deposed on at least a portion of a luminal surface, the gel or liquid composition adapted to include microbubbles. Also provided is a system that includes a source of reduced pressure, the above scaffold, a manifold adjacent the scaffold, and a conduit for providing fluid communication between the manifold and the source of reduced pressure. Additionally provided is a method that includes implanting the above scaffold at the tissue site and disrupting a substantial portion of the microbubbles to induce fluid flow to the scaffold. Further provided is an apparatus that includes a scaffold that comprises a slowly degradable material and a quickly degradable material. Additionally provided is a system for coupling nerve tissue and a microchip assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry D. Swain, Michael E. Manwaring, Douglas A. Cornet, Braden King-Fung Leung
  • Patent number: 9918881
    Abstract: A method of folding a pant-like disposable absorbent garment includes providing a garment defining first and second waist side regions, a waist center region positioned therebetween, and a crotch region longitudinally below the waist center region. In particular embodiments, the method further includes folding the garment along a transversely extending fold line so as to bring the crotch region into superposed relation with the waist center region; providing a trough having a floor and first and second side walls; placing the waist center region in the trough; and, while the garment is in the trough, folding the garment along longitudinally extending first and second fold lines so as to position the first and second waist side regions, respectively, over the waist center region. The first and second fold lines are adjacent the first and second side walls, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley Schoon, Brian R. Vogt, Stephen A. Kolasinski
  • Patent number: 9918882
    Abstract: A tampon applicator includes an outer tube for containing at least a part of an absorber therein, a first inner tube and a second inner tube. The second inner tube is telescopically received within the first inner tube. The first inner tube and the second inner tube are connectable to each other during use to push out the absorber from the outer tube. At least a part of the first inner tube and at least a part of the second inner tube overlap with each other in an overlap region outside the outer tube. A color difference between the outer tube and the overlap region is higher than a color difference between the overlap region and the second inner tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: UNICHARM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yukihiro Ito, Kenta Taniguchi, Kouichi Yamaki, Azusa Matsushima, Akie Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 9918883
    Abstract: An absorbent article having an outer cover with an interior surface and an opposite exterior surface, an absorbent core positioned adjacent the interior surface of the outer cover, and a wetness indicator graphic located on the outer cover. The wetness indicator graphic has a permanent graphic defining at least one non-printed area and a changing graphic located within the at least one non-printed area of the permanent graphic such that the permanent graphic and the changing graphic together give the appearance of a uniform graphic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: ASSOCIATED HYGIENIC PRODUCTS LLC
    Inventor: Charles F. Schroer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9918884
    Abstract: In one example, a sensor system of a patient monitoring system includes a voiding sensor that includes an electrical circuit configured to be transitioned from a first impedance state to a second impedance state in response to a voiding event in an absorbent region of an absorbent article worn by a patient. The sensor system also includes one or more processors configured to: determine, based on whether the impedance state of the electrical circuit is open or closed, that the voiding event has occurred; and generate, based at least in part on the occurrence of the voiding event, patient status data of the patient. The sensor system also includes a communication module configured to wirelessly transmit, via a relay module, the patient status data to a remote monitoring device that is distinct from the relay module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: KPR U.S., LLC
    Inventors: Harish Patel, Robert Gaines, Vishal Narvekar, Richard Gahan
  • Patent number: 9918885
    Abstract: A scooter lift having a wireless remote control that only signals the lift to raise or lower a platform when the remote control is positioned behind the automobile. The remote control only transmit signals if it has a clear line of sight with a transmitter eye located on the back of the control box for the scooter lift. An accelerometer prevents lowering of the platform when it detects motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Tyrone Soklaski
  • Patent number: 9918886
    Abstract: A seat assist device is described. The seat assist device includes a base, a lift platform having a front portion and a rear portion, with the front portion of the lift platform being pivotally connected with the base. A lifting arm is connected with the rear portion of the lift platform. The lifting arm extends from the lift platform to project beyond the front potion of the lift platform, with the lifting arm terminating in handles for grasping by a user. A lift bar is pivotally connected between the base and the lifting arm, whereby a user sitting upon the seat assist device can press downward on the handles to cause the rear portion of the lift platform to rise and, in doing so, assist the user in rising from a seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: SPLANE DESIGN ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Robson Lindsay Splane, Jr., David A. Chen
  • Patent number: 9918887
    Abstract: A medical toilet bed system including a bed frame defining a bed frame aperture and a cover coupled to the bed frame and operable to translate from an open position exposing the bed frame aperture and a closed position substantially sealing the bed frame aperture. The medical toilet bed system also includes a medical toilet configured to be disposed underneath the bed frame having a toilet seat defining a toilet seat aperture configured to substantially align with the bed frame aperture, a toilet bowl coupled to the toilet seat, and an expandable lifting member coupled to the toilet bowl. The medical toilet bed system also includes an elongated medical toilet railing disposed a distance below the bed frame and above a ground surface for receiving the medical toilet thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Anthony Franklin Wolter, III
  • Patent number: 9918888
    Abstract: A locking mechanism (100) includes one or more casters (102,103,104,105) coupled to a frame (101). A lift mechanism (106,107) is distally extendable from the frame to elevate the casters. A pivoting bar (108) is pivotable relative to the frame to distally extend the lift mechanism from the frame. A foot pedal (113) is pivotable relative to the pivoting bar between a closed position and an angularly displaced open position. When in the angularly displaced open position, the foot pedal can extend distally from the pivoting bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Medline Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Tiffanie Boggs, Matthew Zlotow, Lisa Bauer, Jeff Hunt
  • Patent number: 9918889
    Abstract: A disposable bedpan having a bedpan with a base and a sidewall. The sidewall has at least one lateral support. A cover has a cover base. The cover mounts upon the bedpan when assembled to support a user thereon. The bedpan collects human waste. The bedpan and the cover are for a single use, thus disposable. A plurality of the bedpan is stackable upon one another, and a plurality of the cover is stackable upon one another to be volumetrically efficient for carrying, transporting, and/or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Gustavo Guillermo Pinus
  • Patent number: 9918890
    Abstract: A system for securing and manipulating a patient during a medical procedure comprises a support assembly coupled to a bed and configured to support a patient's leg. In addition the system comprises a rail coupled to the support assembly. The rail has a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end opposite the first end. In addition, the system comprises a perineal post movably mounted to the rail and oriented in a generally vertical direction. The post assembly is configured to move axially along the rail between a first position and a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Innovative Orthopedic Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stefan Kreuzer, Joseph W. Pieczynski, II
  • Patent number: 9918891
    Abstract: The invention provides a container for a funerary box. Embodiments include a tray, a jacket, retaining straps, and detachable lift handles. The tray is configured to retain fluids and also cooperate with the jacket and retaining straps to fully protect and conceal the funerary box. Preferred materials selections for the tray and jacket result in a relatively lightweight container. In embodiments of the invention, the container is configured such that the lift handles can be disposed in alternative locations on the container to facilitate handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: VKM International, Inc.
    Inventor: David Hallam
  • Patent number: 9918892
    Abstract: An external structural brace apparatus and method for supporting a user on a surface and for the user to ambulate along the surface to relieve shoulder, armpit, hand, foot, and wrist loads, the apparatus includes first and second support beams that each have a telescoping cantilever beam that contacts the surface. The first and second support beams have a primary pivotal couple at one end to one another with a mechanism to create opposite symmetrical movement of the beams. An attachment element supports the user at their torso has a secondary pivotal connection to the first and second beams and third and fourth user handles that are pivotally attached to the first and second beams are for grasping by the user to extend and retract the telescoping cantilever beams to and from the surface at reduced and increased extension and retraction rates for user ease of ambulating along the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: John Threlfall
  • Patent number: 9918893
    Abstract: A crutch handle is positionably adjustable to a crutch at an offset angle to provide an ergonomic position of a user's hand. The crutch handle has a curved adjustment adapter on both a first and second end of a handle-grip portion of the crutch handle. A fastener slot extends through the first and second adjustment adapters to allow a fastener to extend though and secure the handle to the crutch at an offset angle. The handle-grip has a fastener opening on at least one of the first or second ends to allow the fastener to be positioned along the handle-grip portion of the handle. A conventional crutch may be adapted with this angle adjustable crutch handle with the fasteners being in apertures that are aligned across the crutch support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventor: Steven Wanderman
  • Patent number: 9918894
    Abstract: A method for retarding or reversing progression of myopia of a viewer includes providing an object in front of the viewer; providing a transparent layer between the viewer and the object; and providing a primary image on the transparent layer, the transparent layer allows the viewer to see the object as a secondary image simultaneously with the primary image, wherein the secondary image is focused in front of the central region of the retina. A method for reducing hyperopia of a viewer includes providing an object in front of the viewer to provide a primary image; providing a transparent layer between the viewer and the object; providing a secondary image on the transparent layer, the transparent layer allows the viewer to see the primary image simultaneously with the secondary image, wherein the secondary image is focused behind the central region of the retina. Other systems are also described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Inventors: Siu Yin Lam, Yan Yin Tse, Chi Ho To