Patents Issued in April 10, 2018
  • Patent number: 9936941
    Abstract: A suture manipulating instrument for passing and retrieving suture through a tissue includes a handle mechanism, an elongate shaft extending from the handle, and a working distal end. The working distal end includes a needle body, a lumen defined by the needle body, a tissue penetrating distal tip, and a lateral slot. A preformed inner member is movably disposed within the lumen of the needle. The handle mechanism is used to extend the wire from the lateral slot of the needle, and to retract the wire into the lateral slot, allowing the working end of the instrument to grasp and manipulate suture by pinning and/or trapping the suture against the needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: ArthroCare Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Weisel, Roger Pisarnwongs
  • Patent number: 9936942
    Abstract: A suturing device is provided. The suturing device may include at least one needle configured to engage a suture for deployment, at least one release mechanism coupled to the needle configured to release an engaged suture upon deployment, and a drive mechanism operatively coupled to the needle and configured to advance the needle from a retracted position to an extended position during engagement, and retract the needle from the extended position to the retracted position during disengagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Surgimatix, Inc.
    Inventors: Wai N. Chin, Adam Saban, James Orrico, Gary M. Kobylewski, Jafar S. Hasan
  • Patent number: 9936943
    Abstract: A suture passing device includes a grasping mechanism and cannula having a sharp edge on a distal end. The grasper mechanism includes a hollow shaft slidably disposed within the cannula, with a first jaw fixedly secured thereto, and a second jaw pivotally coupled thereto, to pivot between a closed position wherein the second jaw engages the first jaw, and an open position. The slidable shaft permits the jaws to occupy a retracted position within the cannula, and an extended position. A plunger is slidably disposed within the hollow shaft, and pivotally coupled to the second jaw. A first handle is secured to the shaft, while a second handle is secured to the plunger, for jaw engagement/disengagement. The device also include means for locking sliding travel of the shaft relative to the cannula, after a full cycle of the slidable travel of the jaws between the extended and retracted positions has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventors: Nicholas Mancini, Jaimie Mancini
  • Patent number: 9936944
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: EndoEvolution, LLC
    Inventors: John C. Meade, Jerry R. Griffiths, Francis J. DiFrancesco, Richard Clark
  • Patent number: 9936945
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for surgical suturing with thread management. An illustrative apparatus for tissue suturing includes a cartridge having a suturing needle having a pointed end and a blunt end, the suturing needle capable of rotating about an axis, a reciprocating needle drive, and an actuator capable of releasably engaging the needle drive to rotate the needle. A method for suturing tissue is provided that includes placing a suturing device having a cartridge containing a suturing needle to span at least one tissue segment, activating an actuator to cause rotational movement of the suturing needle through the at least one tissue segment, and deactivating the actuator to stop an advancing movement of the suturing needle to cause a suturing material to be pulled through the at least one tissue segment forming a stitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: EndoEvolution, LLC
    Inventors: John C. Meade, Niall G. Deloughry, Gerald I. Brecher, James H. Bleck
  • Patent number: 9936946
    Abstract: A suture passer includes a stylet and a cannula having an open distal end defining a cannula outer diameter. The stylet has a proximal segment configured for receipt within the cannula and including a suture retention notch, and a distal segment having an expanded outer diameter substantially matching the cannula outer diameter. The distal segment of the stylet terminates at a distal cutting edge. The suture passer includes a retracted position in which the proximal segment of the stylet is received within the cannula through the open distal end and a shoulder defining a transition between the proximal segment and the distal segment abuts the open distal end of the cannula, and an extended position in which the suture retention notch is distally disposed relative to the open distal end of the cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Joshua Haines, Amro Kamel, Brian Feng, Jeff Melsheimer
  • Patent number: 9936947
    Abstract: Suture locking clamps for securing prostheses such as heart valves or annuloplasty rings with sutures and without knots improve the ease of implantation. The clamps have opposed clamp halves separated by a slot opening to one side and surrounded by a biasing member such as one or more C-clip springs. Sutures pass laterally into the slot which is held open by a retention member positioned between the clamp halves. The locking clamp slides along the sutures into position, the tension of the sutures is adjusted, and the retention member removed to allow the biasing member to clamp the sutures between the clamp halves. A delivery tool used to deliver and deploy the locking clamps contains a number of clamps within a delivery tube in a stack and bonded together for safety and a common retention member. The tool has a longitudinal channel on one side for entry of sutures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Brian S. Conklin, Louis A. Campbell, Salvador Marquez, Donald E. Bobo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9936948
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods to improve safety and efficiency in an operating room comprise providing a suture package that holds new suture needles and needle receptacles for storing used needles. The devices can be safely worn for the surgeon to self-dispense new suture needles in the near surgical field and to secure the used needles into a needle trap or a needle retainer located on his extremity, on his operative instruments or on the surgical drapes. The device may provide automated and/or simplified needle counting both during use and after removal from the surgical field. The device may be configured for ergonomic and efficient use so as to minimize the actions and motions of the surgeon to dispense and secure the needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Sharp Fluidics LLC
    Inventors: Josef E. Gorek, Kenneth B. Trauner, Douglas G. Rimer
  • Patent number: 9936949
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an end effector, a shaft assembly including a translating drive member, and a drive assembly. The end effector includes a distally advancing cutting member and staple driver. The translating drive member is operable to actuate the end effector. The drive assembly is in communication with the translating drive member and includes a motor, a rotary drive member, a first link, and at least one toggle link. The rotary drive member is in communication with the motor. The first link is in communication with the rotary drive member. The at least one toggle link is in communication with the first link and the translating drive member. The rotary drive member is operable to convey linear motion to the first link. The first link is able to convey linear motion to the translating drive member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: John P. Measamer, Christopher C. Miller, Brian F. DiNardo, Richard F. Schwemberger, Johnny H. Alexander, III
  • Patent number: 9936950
    Abstract: Implantable materials for use with end effectors like surgical stapling devices, and methods associated with the operation of such end effectors, are provided herein. In one exemplary embodiment, a staple cartridge assembly includes a cartridge body and a hybrid adjunct material. The cartridge body has a plurality of staple cavities configured to seat staples therein. The hybrid adjunct material is releasably retained on the cartridge body and configured to be delivered to tissue by deployment of the staples in the cartridge body. The material includes a biologic tissue membrane, a synthetic substrate layer, and at least one compressible elastic member configured to compress when a compressive force is applied thereto, and to provide a spring back force when the compressive force is removed. Other implants, devices, and methods for surgical stapling are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Tamara S. Widenhouse
  • Patent number: 9936951
    Abstract: A surgical device including an end effector that is configured and adapted to receive an interchangeable tip is disclosed. Also disclosed are several interchangeable tips that are configured and adapted for different surgical procedures. The interchangeable tips facilitate the performance of different surgical procedures while using the same device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Elizabeth Hufnagel, Gregg Krehel, Jason Iceman, Erik Carlson, Ramiro Cabrera, Kenneth Whitfield
  • Patent number: 9936952
    Abstract: An introducer assembly can be releasably coupled to a surgical instrument and includes a collar, a tip, and an elongated body portion disposed between the collar and the tip. The tip may be configured to releasably engage a dissecting device. The collar may releasably couple the introducer assembly to a shaft of a surgical fastener applying apparatus. The tip may have an opening to receive a distalmost end of an end effector of a surgical fastener applying apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Todd Demmy
  • Patent number: 9936953
    Abstract: An end effector for use by a surgeon to staple an anatomical structure of a patient during a minimally invasive procedure includes an anvil and a cartridge. The ends of the cartridge are coupled to the ends of the anvil. Each of the anvil and the cartridge is insertable through a trocar. The end effector is operable from outside the patient. A stapling device includes the end effector coupled to a manipulator via a shaft. The manipulator is accessible to the surgeon. The surgeon uses a clamping mechanism to selectively move the anvil and the cartridge to clamp the anatomical structure. A flexible member extends through the shaft and is coupled to at least one of the anvil and the cartridge and to the clamping mechanism. Operating the clamping mechanism withdraws the flexible member (46) from the end effector and clamps the anatomical structure between the anvil and the cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Standard Bariatrics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Thompson, Ben Thompson, Richard P. Nuchols, Mark Steven Ortiz, James Wampler
  • Patent number: 9936954
    Abstract: Devices and methods for sealing staples in tissue using a plurality of adjunct segments are described herein. In one embodiment, an end effector for a surgical instrument is described that can include first and second jaws, where the first jaw has a cartridge body removably attached thereto and the cartridge body has a plurality of staple cavities configured to seat staples therein. The second jaw can have an anvil with a plurality of staple forming openings formed therein, and at least one of the first and second jaws can be movable relative to the other jaw. The end effector can also include a plurality of sealing adjunct segments coupled to one another and at least one of the first and second jaws such that a staple ejected from the cartridge body passes through one of the plurality of sealing adjunct segments and tissue disposed between the first and second jaws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael J. Vendely, Jason L. Harris
  • Patent number: 9936955
    Abstract: A system for occluding a hollow structure, the system comprising: a plurality of occluders; and an applicator for storing the plurality of occluders and serially delivering the occluders so as to occlude the hollow structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: AMSEL MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Arnold Miller, Raanan Miller, Nir Lilach, William Edelman
  • Patent number: 9936956
    Abstract: Surgical and percutaneous devices for closing tissue, for example, the left atrial appendage, may have an elongate body with a stiffened proximal portion, a flexible middle portion, a distal portion, a closure element with a loop having a continuous aperture therethrough, and a suture loop. The closure devices may have a malleable member attached to the elongate body that may be configured to retain a curve after a force is applied to the malleable member. System and methods for closing the left atrial appendage may utilize a closure device and a curved guide device, and the closure device and curved guide device may be self-orienting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: SentreHEART, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory W. Fung, Alan L. Bradley, Robert L. Clark, III, Russell Pong, Russell A. Seiber
  • Patent number: 9936957
    Abstract: Disclosed is a micro-coil assembly including a micro-coil unit which is inserted into an aneurysm or other vascular malformation of a patient and prevents inflow of blood by inducing thrombus, a coil pusher unit which is arranged adjacent to the micro-coil unit and delivers the micro-coil unit to the aneurysm or other vascular malformation of the patient, a tensile wire which is relatively movably arranged in the coil pusher unit, a tie which connects the micro-coil unit and the tensile wire, and a tie cutting unit which is arranged adjacent to the coil pusher unit such that at least a part of the tie cutting unit is movable between a setting position for maintaining the tie in a tied state and a cutting position for cutting the tie, and cuts the tie when moved to the cutting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: INCUMEDx, Inc.
    Inventor: Ho Chang Kang
  • Patent number: 9936958
    Abstract: A tissue closure device includes a first clip including a first longitudinal element extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end and a first pair of arms extending laterally from the first longitudinal element, the first pair of arms movable between an open configuration in which free ends of the first pair of arms are separated from one another and a closed configuration in which the free ends of the first pair of arms extend toward one another, the first pair of arms being biased toward the closed configuration, and a sliding element extending from a proximal end to a distal end and longitudinally movable relative to the first clip so that when a portion of the sliding element is received between the first pair of arms, the first pair of arms is moved from the biased closed configuration to the open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Smith, Michelle Fater, Shawn Kerr, Priya Khanchandani, Dylan Murphy, Kevin Wilcox, Daniel R. Quinn, Michael E. Zupkofska, Kenny J. King, Rachael A. Rheaume, Kerry L. Grant, John A. Hingston, Brian Gaffney
  • Patent number: 9936959
    Abstract: A hemostatic device includes a flexible band adapted to be wrapped around a patient's limb at a site on the limb where bleeding is to be stopped, a portion for securing the band in a wrapped state to the limb, a curved plate which is made of a material more rigid than the band and at least a portion of which is curved toward the inner peripheral side thereof, a main balloon which is provided on the inner peripheral side of the curved plate and which inflates when a fluid is introduced therein, and a pressing member which is provided between the curved plate and the main balloon so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with the balloon and which is adapted for pressing against the balloon. The device provides an excellent hemostatic effect and prevents numbness and poor circulation in areas peripheral to the site of attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Satoshi Wada, Shigeki Numata, Hiroshi Yagi
  • Patent number: 9936960
    Abstract: An orthopedic reamer includes a drive train having a drive shaft, a reamer head connector driven by the drive shaft and a locking structure surrounding at least a portion of the drive shaft; and a handle assembly configured to detachably connect to the locking structure. The handle assembly includes a grip; a connecting structure connected to the grip that is configured to slide over the locking structure; a bridge connecting the grip to the connecting structure; a stop having a first interface feature connected to the bridge between the grip and the connecting structure; and a knob assembly at least partly surrounding the bridge having a second interface feature that is mateable to the first interface feature. The knob assembly is configured to prevent detachment of the handle assembly from the locking structure unless the second interface feature is mated with the first interface feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Symmetry Medical Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Stuart Weekes
  • Patent number: 9936961
    Abstract: Surgical feedback systems and methods include a surgical tool having a functional tool and a handle for manipulation by a surgeon in a surgical environment. At least one sensor connected to the surgical tool generates a signal indicative of an acoustic signal and/or a vibration signal generated by the functional tool. The signal may be modified and supplied to an output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Dennis Chien, Michael O'Neil, Mark Hall, Riley Hawkins, Roman Lomeli
  • Patent number: 9936962
    Abstract: A patient-specific guide tool for guiding an object toward a glenoid face of a scapula of a patient for implantation of a shoulder prosthetic device is disclosed. The guide tool includes a guide portion that includes a guide surface. The guide surface is configured to guide movement of the object toward the glenoid face. Furthermore, the guide tool includes a patient-specific portion that is operably coupled to the glenoid portion. The patient-specific portion includes at least one patient-specific surface that is three-dimensionally contoured and that is configured to nest and closely conform to a corresponding surface of the scapula to thereby position the guide surface at a predetermined position relative to the glenoid face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Biomet Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin P. Heilman, Nathan A. Winslow, John M. McDaniel, Gregory J. Denham
  • Patent number: 9936963
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a stone fragment suction device. An apparatus includes a steerable access sheath having a proximal end and a distal end, a tip at the distal end, and a suction conduit positioned within a central lumen of the steerable access sheath from the distal end to the proximal end, the steerable access sheath containing an outer lumen surrounding the central lumen with one or more channels therethrough, an outer circumference of the outer lumen and an outer circumference of the central lumen forming concentric circles, the steerable access sheath further including a radiopaque material at the distal end or along a length of the steerable access sheath to enable tracking with a remote fluoroscopic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Gyrus Acmi, Inc.
    Inventors: Kester J. Batchelor, Jyue Boon Lim, Kurt G. Shelton, Alexander Carroux, Koji Shimomura, Shweta Bhola, Christopher A. Cook
  • Patent number: 9936964
    Abstract: A retrieval device may include a sheath including a distal end and a proximal end, and an end effector at the distal end. At least a portion of the end effector may be movable relative to the sheath between extended and retracted states. The end effector may include a support member extending from the distal end of the sheath, and a movable member extending from the distal end of the support member. The device may include a handle assembly at the proximal end of the sheath, having an actuation member for transitioning the end effector between the extended and retracted states. The device may include a biasing member coupled to at least one of the actuation member and the sheath that may control a force, exerted by one of the movable members and the support member on the other, generated by relative movement between the movable and support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. H. Chu, Kimberly DeGraaf, Peter J. Pereira
  • Patent number: 9936965
    Abstract: A snare for deployment or retrieval of an implantable medical apparatus. The snare includes a shaft, and a tip distal of the shaft. The tip includes an extendable member capable of self-centering the implantable apparatus during a deployment or retrieval. The extendable member is selectively receivable in the tip, distally extendable from the tip, and rotatable relative to the tip. An activatable handle is engaged with the shaft. A wire has an end engaged with the handle and an end engaged with the tip. Upon activation, the wire is urged in a proximal direction, resulting in a flexure of the tip. An elongated mechanism has a proximal portion engaged with the handle, and a distal portion engaged with the tip extendable member. The elongated mechanism is configured for selectively controlling the receiving, deploying, and rotating of the extendable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Louis B. Goode, Chun Kee Lui, Michael Wayne Emmert, Robert Booker
  • Patent number: 9936966
    Abstract: An end effector actuation system includes a shaft assembly having an outer shaft with an internal lumen and an actuation rod slidably received in the lumen, the outer shaft having a distal end portion that is compressible only when the actuation rod is absent from the lumen in the distal end portion, a locking boss provided on the distal end portion; and an end effector assembly having a receiving opening and a retention pocket, wherein the receiving opening is sized to receive the compressed distal end portion of the outer shaft and the retention pocket is sized to receive the locking boss when the distal end portion is uncompressed due to the presence of the actuation rod in the lumen of the distal end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: TELEFLEX MEDICAL INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Salvatore Castro
  • Patent number: 9936967
    Abstract: An object removal tool including a basket device having a basket section; a sheath on the basket device, where the sheath is adapted to longitudinally slide on the basket device; and a control connected to the basket device and the sheath. The control is configured to longitudinally move the sheath on the basket device to close the basket section on an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Gyrus ACMI, Inc.
    Inventors: Nison Galperin, Carlo A. DiRusso
  • Patent number: 9936968
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a dissecting tip for use in a surgical stapler or instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Todd Demmy, Paul Scirica, Lee Ann Olson
  • Patent number: 9936969
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for generating ultrasonic waves focused on a focal zone (5) in order to carry out biological lesions, comprising the activation of a plurality of ultrasonic transducer elements (3). According to the invention: a target zone, in which homogenization of the supply of energy of the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic transducer elements is desired, is chosen, the focusing effect and the acoustic attenuations of the ultrasonic waves on their path between the target zone and the ultrasonic transducer elements (3) are determined, the focusing effect and the acoustic attenuations of the ultrasonic waves are compensated, with ultrasonic transducer elements (3) at least some of which have non-identical emission surfaces such that in the target zone, the supply of energy of the ultrasonic waves emitted by the different ultrasonic transducer elements (3) is more or less identical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignees: EDAP TMS FRANCE, INSERM (INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA SANTE ET DE LA RECHERCHE MEDICALE)
    Inventors: Jeremy Vincenot, David Melodelima, Emmanuel Blanc, Jean-Yves Chapelon
  • Patent number: 9936970
    Abstract: The present invention is directed in various methods, devices and systems relating to rotational atherectomy. More specifically, an oscillating driver is connected to a drive shaft, or torque transfer tube, with abrasive element mounted thereon. The result provides a rotational working diameter for the rotating abrasive element that is larger than its resting diameter. Generally, the preferred abrasive element is concentric in profile and/or with center of mass collinear with the drive shaft's rotational axis. However, eccentric abrasive elements, both in terms of offsetting center of mass and/or geometric eccentricity may also be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Peter Higgins
  • Patent number: 9936971
    Abstract: A cartilage trimmer according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia, a guide pin connected to a cutter with a blade projecting from only one side of the guide pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: ARTHREX, INC.
    Inventors: Marc Stoll, Robert Benedict
  • Patent number: 9936972
    Abstract: A method for automatically monitoring the penetration behavior of a trocar held by a robotic arm and monitoring system is provided. The method and system automatically monitors the penetration behavior of a trocar held by a robotic arm and/or an instrument guided through the trocar into a body cavity through an incision in the surface of the body of a patient during a surgical procedure. At least one measured value is recorded, by which a change in a force effect on the surface of the body of the patient may be determined, and automatic evaluation of the measured value with regard to a reference measured value is conducted. Comparison of the change in the measured value or the change in the force effect with a threshold value is made, and an indication in the event of the threshold value being exceeded is outputted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Lutz Blohm, Michael Martens, Philip Mewes
  • Patent number: 9936973
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for inserting prosthesis implants into a patient pocket. The apparatus has two openings including a prosthesis opening and a proximal opening. The prosthesis bag is a container with a wide sealed distal end and passage to a narrow apex. The apparatus reduces infection; eases insertion and placement of a cohesive silicone gel implant; and reduces complications. In use, the prosthesis bag is placed through the patient incision while allowing the bag to be manipulated to force the prosthesis into a surgical pocket of a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Robert G. Anderson
  • Patent number: 9936974
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present invention comprise a laparoscopic uterine manipulator device assembly. The laparoscopic uterine manipulator assembly comprises a laparoscopic control device configured for insertion into the abdomen-pelvic cavity of a patient. The laparoscopic uterine manipulator assembly further comprises a uterine manipulator device, the uterine manipulator device configured for insertion and advancement through a vaginal and uterine cavity. A primary member of a device coupling mechanism of the uterine manipulator device is mechanically engaged with a secondary member of the device coupling mechanism of the laparoscopic control device, resulting in the construction of an assembly comprising the laparoscopic control device and the uterine manipulator device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Jerome V. Ponder
  • Patent number: 9936975
    Abstract: In embodiments of the invention, there is provided an external fixation system comprising a first plate and a second plate and connectors therebetween. Some or all of the connectors may be adjustable in length or angular position or both. Angular adjustment may comprise a fixed amount of friction and an adjustable amount of friction, and the permitted angular deflection can vary around the perimeter of the angular joint. An adjustable-length connector may comprise a tiltable nut that can either engage or not engage a threaded rod to provide both coarse adjustment and fine adjustment. Tactile or audible feedback may be provided. Other accessories may include: provisional alignment clamps to position parts of the patient's body; a K-wire alignment guide; a K-wire support post; a universal fixation bolt; a plurality of half-pins that can be used with a common support post or block; and a resilient retention device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Integra Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Siemer, Brian Schumacher, James Spitler, Paul Cooper
  • Patent number: 9936976
    Abstract: A fixation system for fixing a bone fracture has a plurality of blocks, needles and rods that snap together in a framework around the fracture. The needles are inserted through the bone on opposite sides of the fracture and the blocks are snapped onto the ends of the needles. Rods are snapped onto the blocks on both sides of the finger to keep the finger in place. Each block has two channels located on opposite sides and extending perpendicular to each other. The channels are structured so that a rod or needle having a diameter equal or slightly greater than one of the channels can be snapped into and retained by the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: PBD, Patent & Business Development AG
    Inventor: Heinz Buerger
  • Patent number: 9936977
    Abstract: A revisable orthopedic anchor and method of use for removably securing an anchor in bone, such as compromised or degenerated bone, is described herein. In one embodiment, the anchor makes use of dual probes and vector divergence of the distal tips of the probes to achieve superior bone purchase and pull-out resistance. In such an embodiment, the probes can be inserted one at a time into a hole formed in, for example, the pedicle bone. After the probes are inserted and joined at the proximal end, they have a greater pull-out resistance than a threaded anchor. Removing the anchor involves separating the proximal heads and reversing the implantation process. As a result of the unique bone anchor design disclosed herein, the devices and methods of the present invention allow for less complicated implantation and removal of orthopedic anchors, all while providing enhanced bone purchase when implanted in a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John Riley Hawkins, Alexander Grinberg, Michael Michielli
  • Patent number: 9936978
    Abstract: An anchoring element for a stabilization device for bones or vertebrae, with which a bone or vertebra can be connected to a rod-shaped element is described. By providing for at least one degree of rotational freedom between the rod and an anchoring element that is firmly connected to the bone or vertebra, the transfer of torque (M) onto the anchoring element and can be prevented as well as loosening or even separation of the bone anchoring element from the bone or vertebra. Moreover, the invention provides a stabilization device, in which such bone anchoring elements are used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: BIEDERMANN TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Jürgen Harms, Wilfried Matthis
  • Patent number: 9936979
    Abstract: A bone anchor (100) for attaching a rod (108) to a bone has an anchor member (106) for attachment to the bone and an anchor head (104) having a U-shaped opening for receiving the rod. The bone anchor also includes a locking cap (102) that has a main body (900) and a set screw (1000). Advantageously, in one embodiment the locking cap preferably is designed such that a single tool can be used to lock the locking cap in place on the anchor body preferably with a 90° turn and preferably then drive the set screw to clamp the rod. The locking cap also preferably non-threadingly engages the anchor body. The anchor body preferably has an inclined surface on its top surface which elastically deflects extending tabs on the main body to secure the locking cap to the anchor body. A method of implantation and assembly of the bone anchor are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Peterson, Dennis Chien, Thomas Keyer, Edward McShane, Joseph Capozzoli, Pascal Hauri, Scott Kramer, David Schindler
  • Patent number: 9936980
    Abstract: A device is for fixing surgical implants in place. The device may include a central body having an axially hollow upper zone, and an axially hollow lower zone. The upper and lower zones may form a single body being open at the bottom and at the top. A central through cavity may extend inside the upper and lower zones. The upper zone may have two portions projecting axially from the upper zone, divided from each other by two through U-shaped slots and forming, in conjunction with part of the central cavity, a channel for housing a connection rod. The lower zone may include a slot for the lateral access to the central cavity of an anchoring device. The slot may be in a conformation such as to permit the lateral insertion of the anchoring device inside the central cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: MEDACTA INTERNATIONAL SA
    Inventors: Francesco Siccardi, Daniele Beretta, Meinrad Fiechter
  • Patent number: 9936981
    Abstract: A spinal fixation system includes a rod and anchor devices that include a bone engaging fastener having a head defining a spherical socket. A ball insert is placed within the socket and rotated so that the ball insert is juxtaposed with the socket. The anchor device further includes a yoke defining a yoke channel for receiving the rod and a stem engaged to the ball insert captured within the socket. A sleeve disposed between the yoke channel and the fastener head supports the rod. A set screw is operable to clamp the rod against the sleeve and draw the insert into engagement within the socket. A friction element in the form of a wave spring is disposed between the yoke and the fastener head is configured to releasably retain the yoke in at least one discrete position relative to the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: SPINE WAVE, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony James, Tawney Schwarz
  • Patent number: 9936982
    Abstract: A connector assembly for translateral linking of bilateral spinal fixation rods includes first and second components. The first component has an elongated body having first and second ends, and the first end of the first component is configured to connect to a first spinal fixation rod. The second component has an elongated body having first and second ends, and the first end of the second component is configured to connect to a second spinal fixation rod. The second end of the first component is configured to be slidably connected to the second end of the second component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: SPINEFRONTIER, INC
    Inventors: Matthew Ibarra, Craig Henshaw, Jeremy Crossgrove, Aaron Ricica, Elizabeth Elidias, Carin Campbell
  • Patent number: 9936983
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to bone implants. More specifically, the present invention relates to bone implants used for the fixation or fusion of the sacroiliac joint and/or the spine. For example, a system for fusing or stabilizing a plurality of bones is provided. The system includes an implant structure having stem portion and a head portion, the stem portion having a rectilinear cross sectional area. A tulip or saddle structure can be attached to the head portion, and a rod can be secured within the tulip or saddle structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: SI-Bone Inc.
    Inventors: Ali H. Mesiwala, Mark A. Reiley, Paul Sand, Bret W. Schneider, Scott A. Yerby
  • Patent number: 9936984
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for treating the vertebral column. An integrated fixation plate and spacer having a retaining structure within the screw holes of the fixation plate to resist backout of screws attaching the fixation plate to the bone is provided. A movable joint may be provided between the fixation plate and spacer. In some embodiments, a screw hole insert is also provided to resist shear forces acting between the screw and fixation plate. In some embodiments, an integrated fixation plate and spacer system is provided, comprising two or more integrated fixation plate and spacer implants, wherein the fixation plates of each implant has a complementary configuration to allow attachment of the implants at adjacent intervertebral spaces. Alternative fixation systems are also contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Spinal Elements, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Blain
  • Patent number: 9936985
    Abstract: An interspinous process spacer includes a main body, a first wing, and a screw. The main body includes a first securing member extending from a top portion of the main body that engages a first vertebra and a bottom portion of the main body that engages a second vertebra. The first wing pivotably couples to a distal portion of the main body and includes a second securing member extending parallel to the first securing member to form a first clamp. The screw is positionable within the main body and includes a distal end that positions the first wing between a first position and a second position. The first clamp includes a first diameter in the first position and a second diameter in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Alphatec Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: William Reimels
  • Patent number: 9936986
    Abstract: A guide assembly includes a spinal screw assembly having a bone screw and a spinal rod holder; and a spinal rod guide having first and second elongated arc portions defining a pair of longitudinal slots extending along the first and second arc portions, each of the first and second arc portions further defining at least one recess extending transversely from each of the longitudinal slots, the at least one recess configured to receive at least a portion of a reduction tool to enable reduction of a spinal rod received within the spinal rod holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Life Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Butler, Danish Siddiqui, Daniel Predick
  • Patent number: 9936987
    Abstract: A locking sleeve for receiving and locking the legs of a pedicle screw includes a stop ring provided on an inner side of a locking sleeve and resting on an upper edge of the legs, limiting the accommodation depth of the legs in the locking sleeve, and a plurality of groove blocks on the inner side of the locking sleeve which can be inserted between the legs of the pedicle screw for defining a fixed distance between the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Aesculap AG
    Inventors: Barbara Gnoth, Denis Ricci, Janina Ackermann
  • Patent number: 9936988
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a body having an actuator and being connectable with a pressurized fluid source. A first member is connected with the body and the fluid source. The first member is configured for connection with an implant disposable between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration. A second member defines a cavity configured for disposal of the first member and the expandable implant. The second member is connected with the actuator for selective translation relative to the first member to position the implant in the contracted configuration. Systems, implants and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren L. Davis, Eric C. Lange
  • Patent number: 9936989
    Abstract: A bone support fixating device with a longitudinally slotted hip screw which permits operative compression of the fracture and holds this compression yet allows sliding as further compression of the fracture occurs under forces of weight bearing; comprising a hollow cylindrical shaft with a screw portion at its upper proximal end and four equally spaced longitudinal grooves at its lower distal end, having three equally distant angled holes between the ends, through which three wires can be inserted, the three ‘elastic’ proximally curved wires, welded, glued or crimped distally, can be inserted into the hip screw collectively called the ‘tri-wire’; The proximal end has the wires curved outward, with all three wires equally spaced; upon pushing the tri-wire into the hip screw, the wires goes through the angle holes in the hip screw and provides three projections equally spaced; which improves the rotational stability of the proximal fracture fragment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: GENERAL SURGICAL COMPANY (INDIA) PVT LIMITED
    Inventor: Subhash Chandra Halder
  • Patent number: 9936990
    Abstract: A bone peg configured for cooperation with a threaded aperture on a bone plate for use in stabilizing a fracture of a bone can include a head portion and a shaft portion. The head portion can have a head threaded portion that incorporates head threads having a first pitch. The shaft portion can extend from the head portion to a distal end of the bone peg. The shaft portion can include (i) a shaft threaded portion that incorporates shaft threads having a second pitch, (ii) a first unthreaded portion and (iii) a second unthreaded portion. The shaft threaded portion is disposed intermediate the first and second unthreaded portions. The first unthreaded portion axially offsets the head threaded portion from the shaft threaded portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Biomet C.V.
    Inventors: Marcus Bourda, Edward Mebarak, Victor Alvarez, Cesare Cavallazzi