Patents Issued in April 17, 2018
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Patent number: 9943290Abstract: Provided are an ultrasound probe and a communication method of the ultrasound probe capable of selecting an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus and/or a wireless communication method that are most appropriate in an environment in which a plurality of ultrasound diagnosis apparatuses exist. A method of communicating with an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus, performed by the ultrasound probe, includes operations of obtaining a plurality of pieces of information about ultrasound diagnosis apparatuses; displaying an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus list, based on the plurality of pieces of information about the ultrasound diagnosis apparatuses; receiving an input for selecting an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus from the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus list; and wirelessly transmitting ultrasound image data to the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus, wherein the ultrasound image data is generated by the ultrasound probe.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.Inventors: Gil-ju Jin, Mi-Jeoung Ahn
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Patent number: 9943291Abstract: A cassette (2600) for use with a medical waste collection system (30). The cassette includes a housing (2602, 2612) shaped to be removably attached to a receptacle (1699) integral with the housing. A sleeve (2640) is attached to the cassette so as to be located forward of the housing. The sleeve is formed with a void space. A fitting (2664) for collection to a suction line is attached to the sleeve. A screen (2714) is removably fitted in the sleeve void space. The screen is fitted in the sleeve void space when it is desirable to catch tissue that may be entrained in the fluid stream from the suction line.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: STRYKER CORPORATIONInventors: Brian VanderWoude, Brian MacLachlan, Stephen Isham, Stephen Reasoner, David Hershberger, Chad Drake, Benjamin Edinger
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Patent number: 9943292Abstract: The present invention relates to a biopsy instrument, comprising the following components: i. a guide element (1) comprising a spring-elastic distal (2) region and a proximal (3) region; ii. a biofunctionalized element (4) arranged between the distal and the proximal region of the guide element and whose surface has detection molecules, and iii. a stabilizing element (5) connected to the proximal region of the guide element. The invention further relates to the use of said biopsy instrument for enriching specific sample material from the body as well as to a biopsy kit and the use of the same for enriching specific sample material.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: OGENO GMBHInventor: Ulrich Pison
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Patent number: 9943293Abstract: A handheld device for extracting tissue samples includes a needle arrangement and control arrangement. The needle arrangement has a cutting needle, a sample extraction needle, and a first end for inserting into tissue. The cutting needle has a cutting edge for cutting the tissue sample. The sample extraction needle has a side opening for receiving the tissue. The control arrangement has a vacuum chamber in fluid communication with the sample extraction needle. The vacuum chamber has a first member and a second member that move relative to each other. The first member is mechanically connected to the cutting needle. The handheld device is configured so that movement between the first and second members to increase volume of the vacuum chamber thereby reduces pressure in the sample extraction needle, induces movement between the cutting needle and the sample extraction needle to expose the side opening.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2012Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: TeesuVac ApSInventor: Tomas Gundberg
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Patent number: 9943294Abstract: A tool for deploying an anchor sleeve onto an implantable device includes handle and base members, which may be fitted together by an operator. The operator may select the handle member from a plurality thereof included in a kit; and the base member, also included in the kit, includes a rail segment with which a gripping portion of the selected handle member may be engaged, for example, via guidance from a marked portion of the base member. Once engaged, a deployment tip of the base member is located to move a mounted anchor sleeve from a tubular member of the handle member and onto a body of the device. The tubular member of some tools has a laterally offset distal end portion, on which the corresponding anchor sleeve is mounted; thus, kits including this type of handle member, may include a converter for the base member to facilitate engagement therewith.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Bruce A. Behymer, Michael J. Kern, William V. Ferris, Jr., Thomas C. Bischoff
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Patent number: 9943295Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for harvesting at least a portion of a blood vessel, such as the radial artery in the upper extremity and the saphenous vein in the lower extremity. In certain embodiments, an endoscopic surgical system includes a blunt tip trocar (BTT) for insertion into an incision in the extremity, a cannula for insertion through the BTT, a bisector/bipolar device, and an endoscope. The endoscope may have a dissection tip at its distal end for dissecting tissue from the blood vessel and, with the tip removed, may provide a visual field at its distal end. The endoscope is sized to fit into the cannula and provides visualization of the blood vessel during bisection with the bisector/bipolar device.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Inventor: Debra A. King
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Patent number: 9943296Abstract: A surgical method and apparatus of repairing a tear, cut or defect in the body tissue, specifically the dura or vascular wall, is disclosed. An inner plate is placed on the tissue's inner surface in a position completely overlapping the tissue defect. An outer plate is placed on the tissue's outer surface in a position completely overlapping the defect and aligned with the inner plate. The inner and outer plates have perimeters larger than the perimeter of the defect and include coiled ribs. The inner plate is coupled to the outer plate such that the peripheral edges of the body tissue defect are securely clamped between the inner and outer plates to provide a watertight repair to the tissue defect.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Inventors: Rob K. Rao, Mike Y. Chen
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Patent number: 9943297Abstract: A soft tissue repair system is provided for covering or filling openings in the annulus of an intervertebral disc. The soft tissue repair system uses a single plug or a combination of a first plug and a second plug. The second plug is a flowable plug such as an adhesive material or a material that hardens to a flexible plug material. Each plug is configured to close the opening in the annulus and can be positioned within the opening, over the opening at the exterior surface or over the opening at the interior surface. The plug can also be combined with a clamping mechanism that engages the annulus to secure the plug in the opening.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2011Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.Inventors: Jody L. Seifert, David C. Paul, Sean Suh, Colm McLaughlin, Marcin Niemiec, Aditya Ingalhalikar, Daniel Davenport, Jamie Carroll, Chad Glerum, Edward Dwyer, Noah Hansell, Mark Weiman, Douglas Cahill, Adam Friedrich, Michelle Kofron, Vipin Kunjachan, Ed Reilley, Damien O'Halloran, William S Rhoda, Brian Malm
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Patent number: 9943298Abstract: Among other things, there is disclosed devices for closing an internal opening, e.g. a hole in a blood vessel, that includes a shape memory function. Particular substances have been found to provide advantages in use, and in particular forms of closure structures.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLCInventors: Cleon Stanley, Ram H. Paul, Jr.
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Patent number: 9943299Abstract: Disclosed is an adjustable occlusion device for use in a body lumen such as the left atrial appendage. The occlusion device is removably carried by a deployment catheter. The device may be enlarged or reduced to facilitate optimal placement or removal. Methods are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Atritech, Inc.Inventors: Alexander K. Khairkhahan, Andrew G. C. Frazier, Alan R. Klenk, Marc S. Kreidler, Stewart M. Kume, Darrell H. Ogi, Chad C. Roue, Erik J. van der Burg, Dino DeCicco, Michael D. Lesh
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Patent number: 9943300Abstract: A device for closing an aperture in a vessel wall, the aperture having an external opening in an external region of the vessel wall and an internal opening in an internal region of the vessel wall. The device includes a covering member positionable inside the vessel against the internal opening of the aperture and having a dimension to prevent egress of fluid through the aperture. First and second retainers are positionable external of the vessel and have a tip of a smaller transverse dimension and facing in a direction toward the covering member for advancement toward the covering member. A flexible connecting member operatively connects the covering member and the first retainer and moves the first retainer toward the covering member.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Rex Medical, L.P.Inventors: James F. McGuckin, Jr., John D. Leedle, James S. Tarmin, Thanu Anidharan
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Patent number: 9943301Abstract: Technology disclosed herein relates to retractors and methods of use for surgical procedures, and in particular, spinal surgical procedures. In one embodiment, a surgical retractor includes a pair of pivotable armatures and a translatable armature. A body for supporting the armatures is provided, with a handle connected thereto. The handle includes a first rotary actuator, wherein a rotation of the first rotary actuator moves the pair of pivotable armatures in opposite arcuate directions, and a second rotary actuator, wherein a rotation of the second rotary actuator translates the translatable armature in a linear direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2016Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Zimmer Biomet Spine, Inc.Inventors: Randall G. Mast, Alan Burkholder, Andrew Schifle, Adam Kanter, David O. Okonkwo
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Patent number: 9943302Abstract: A medical device for wound closure, e.g., repairing perforations and tissue wall defects. The medical device has a barbed elongate body and an outer member. The medical device may further include a foam structure. The medical device may also include an inner member which may be a tissue scaffold. A method for closing tissue is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: Steven Bennett
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Patent number: 9943303Abstract: A method of passing suture through a pledget is disclosed. A first suture tail is passed through a first suture engaging loop extending out of a first aperture in the pledget on a distal side of the pledget. A second suture tail is passed through a second suture engaging loop extending out of a second aperture in the pledget on the distal side of the pledget. The first and second suture tails are drawn proximally through their respective pledget apertures by pulling a handle coupled to the first and second suture engaging loops on a proximal side of the pledget.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: LSI Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Jude S. Sauer
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Patent number: 9943304Abstract: A suture management device comprises a handle defining at least a first door cavity, a shaft extending distally from the handle, and a suture anchor coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The suture anchor is configured to couple one or more sutures to a bone. A first releasable door is sized and configured to fit within the first door cavity. The first releasable door is releasably coupled to the handle. The first releasable door defining a suture channel extending longitudinally about the circumference of the releasable door. The suture channel is configured to receive the one or more sutures therein.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Wright Medical Technology, Inc.Inventors: Lewis Pearce Branthover, Gary W. Lowery
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Patent number: 9943305Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for lifting, suspending and stiffening a patient's tissue are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of lifting and stiffening a patient's tissue includes inserting at least one suture into the patient's tissue in a first direction, pulling the suture in a second direction so as to lift and suspend the tissue in a lifted position and stiffen the tissue in the lifted position, and cutting the suture so that the tissue remains in the lifted position. Preferably, the patient's tissue is the patient's soft palate.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Zelegent, Inc.Inventors: Yosef P. Krespi, David Volpi
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Patent number: 9943306Abstract: A suture retainer is provided for supplying a surgical needle and an associated length of relatively stiff suture material to a surgical suturing apparatus. The suture retainer generally includes a body portion defining a suture tray and a loading unit positioned on the body portion. The loading unit is provided to retain a surgical needle in a position to be grasped by a surgical suturing apparatus. The suture tray retains the length of relatively stiff suture in a manner which prevents the relatively stiff suture from bending or otherwise being deformed.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2010Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventor: David Kirsch
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Patent number: 9943307Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 30, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: EndoEvolution, LLCInventors: John C. Meade, Niall G. Deloughry, Gerald I. Brecher, James H. Bleck
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Patent number: 9943308Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 30, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: EndoEvolution, LLCInventors: John C. Meade, Niall G. Deloughry, Gerald I. Brecher, James H. Bleck
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Patent number: 9943309Abstract: A surgical instrument that includes a surgical end effector that is coupled to a shaft assembly by an articulation joint. A flexible firing beam extends through the articulation joint to interface with a firing member in the surgical end effector to apply a firing motion thereto. In at least one form, the surgical instrument further includes a movable firing beam support assembly that is configured to movably contact the firing beam on each lateral side thereof as the firing beam flexes about the articulation joint.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Jason L. Harris, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Chester O. Baxter, III
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Patent number: 9943310Abstract: A buttress material for use with a surgical staple cartridge. In various forms, the buttress material comprises a buttress body that is sized to be operably received on a deck of the surgical staple cartridge. The buttress body includes at least four edges and a central portion. At least two of the edges have a plurality of edge notches formed therein. The central portion may include a plurality of cutout openings therein.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Jason L. Harris, Charles J. Scheib, Bret W. Smith, Lucia M. Casella, Jerome R. Morgan, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Patent number: 9943311Abstract: A dissecting tip is provided for use with a surgical stapler or instrument. In one embodiment, the dissecting tip is secured to the end effector of a surgical stapler, e.g., to the anvil assembly or cartridge assembly. The dissecting tip extends distally from the end effector and is configured to dissect or separate target tissue from certain tissue, e.g., adherent, connective, joined or other tissue.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2016Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Paul Scirica, Todd Demmy, Lee Ann Olson
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Patent number: 9943312Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for locking a surgical device based on loading of a fastener cartridge in the surgical device. In general, a surgical device can be configured to prevent at least one of closure of an end effector of the surgical device and firing of fasteners from the end effector when a cartridge is not fully seated in the end effector. In an exemplary embodiment, the surgical device can include a lockout element configured to prevent at least one of closure of the end effector and firing of fasteners from the end effector when a cartridge is not fully seated in the end effector. The locking element can be configured to automatically prevent firing and/or prevent closing of the end effector if a cartridge is not fully seated in the end effector.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Sol A. Posada, Mark D. Overmyer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Brian F. Dinardo, John S. Kimsey
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Patent number: 9943313Abstract: A medical implant deployment system for placing an implant at a preselected site comprising a deployment system that includes a mechanical coupling assembly at the distal end of a delivery member that engages the proximal end of the implant and a release member having an extended configuration in which the release member cooperatively maintains the coupling assembly engagement with the implant proximal end and a retracted configuration where the release member allows the coupling assembly to disengage from the implant proximal end. An attachable handle assembly is provided to place the release member in the retracted configuration allowing the coupling assembly to disengage from the implant proximal end, thereby releasing the implant.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Empirilon Technology LLCInventors: Donald K. Jones, Vladimir Mitelberg
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Patent number: 9943314Abstract: Assemblies and methods for delivering an implant to a patient are disclosed. A delivery assembly can comprise an elongate tube, an outer magnetic member, and an inner magnetic member. The elongate tube extends from a proximal end portion to a distal end portion and defines a delivery lumen. The outer magnetic member can be movable along an outer surface of the tube; the inner magnetic member can be positioned within the delivery lumen and magnetically coupled to the outer magnetic member through a sidewall of the tube. The inner magnetic member can be movable through the delivery lumen when actuated by relative movement between the outer magnetic member and the tube. The delivery assembly can further comprise a syringe or an inflator/deflator couplable to a hub at the proximal end portion of the tube. The syringe or inflator/deflator can be used to urge fluid against a proximal end portion of the inner magnetic member.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2016Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Teleflex Innovations S.à.r.l.Inventors: Chad Kugler, James Murto
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Patent number: 9943315Abstract: Devices and methods for occluding the left atrial appendage (LAA) to prevent blood from clotting within the LAA and subsequently embolizing, particularly in patients with atrial fibrillation. A foam implant encapsulated with a tough thromboresistant membrane is placed via transvascular means into the LAA and anchored with adhesives and/or mechanical anchors. Tissue over- and in-growth are optimized to anchor the implant in place and provide a permanent occlusion.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Conformal Medical, Inc.Inventors: Aaron V. Kaplan, David Melanson, Carol Devellian, Andy H. Levine
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Patent number: 9943316Abstract: According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a vessel pressure control device configured for selectively applying pressure to a radial artery, the device comprising: a sensor configured to sense one or more parameters associated with blood flow through a portion of the radial artery; a pressure application element adapted to apply variable amounts of pressure to the portion of the radial artery; and a controller configured to apply logic and generate a signal to control the pressure application element in response to the one or more measured parameters, the signal controlling the pressure application element to modify or maintain the applied pressure so that at least some blood flow is maintained through the radial artery portion in an amount sufficient to reduce or prevent radial artery occlusion, and so that the applied pressure is sufficient to prevent bleeding from the portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: MOR RESEARCH APPLICATION LTD.Inventors: Ran Kornowski, Hana Vaknin Assa
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Patent number: 9943317Abstract: Methods and apparatus for performing knee arthroplasty, including, but not limited to, bicruciate retaining knee arthroplasty, are described herein. Methods and apparatus for preparing a distal femur for a femoral implant as well as methods and apparatus for preparing a proximal tibia for a tibial implant are described. These methods and apparatus, in at least some embodiments and uses, facilitate decreasing the complexity of knee arthroplasty procedures such as bicruciate retaining procedures, while maintaining, if not improving on, the safety, accuracy and/or effectiveness of such procedures.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventors: Zachary Christopher Wilkinson, Brian William McKinnon, Jeffrey Andrew Sharp, Katherine S. Anderson, Christopher F. Scifert, Mark Ellsworth Nadzadi, Scott Kennedy Laster
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Patent number: 9943318Abstract: Reciprocating rasps for the surgical preparation of the bone prior to the implantation of a glenoid or acetabular component with complex geometry are disclosed. Surgical methods for the use of such reciprocating rasps are also disclosed. Some of the methods include inserting a guide pin into the glenoid of the patient, advancing a reciprocating surgical rasp over the guide pin, reciprocating the surgical rasp so as to abrade bone tissue to form a cavity shaped to receive the glenoid component, and implanting the glenoid component in the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.Inventors: Sarah M. Anthony, Conrad L. Klotz, Kyle E. Lappin, Van A. Flamion, Gabriel M. Surma, Joanna L. Surma, Joseph P. Iannotti
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Patent number: 9943319Abstract: An instrument for preparing an acetabulum. The instrument includes a handle having a reamer coupling feature and a trial coupling feature. The instrument further includes an acetabular reamer having an outer cutting surface and an inner concave surface having an apex. The acetabular reamer has a first handle coupling feature located at the apex adapted to couple to the reamer coupling feature of the handle. A trial having an outer convex surface having an apex is also included. The outer convex surface adapted to fit inside the inner concave surface of the acetabular reamer. The trial has a second handle coupling feature located at the apex of the outer convex surface adapted to couple to the trial coupling feature of the handle.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: DEPUY IRELAND UNLIMITED COMPANYInventors: Michael Fortin, Larry McCleary, Ken Hayes
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Patent number: 9943320Abstract: An apparatus for removal of a femoral implant may include a handle portion and a cutting blade opposite the handle portion. The cutting blade may include a cutting edge, wherein the cutting edge includes a non-linear shape to substantially match at least a portion of a profile of the femoral implant to be removed.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Zimmer, Inc.Inventors: Gregg Klein, Harlan Levine, Timothy A. Hoeman, Ray Zubok, Robert G. Deluca, Natalia Fridshtand, Scott V. Cron
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Patent number: 9943321Abstract: Methods and devices to remove thromboembolic material from the human body using rotational energy and aspiration are disclosed. A thromboembolic removal system includes an extraction device and drive unit. The extraction device is introduced to the treatment area and activated by the drive unit to separate, break apart, loosen or soften thromboembolic material and to facilitate its aspiration outside the patient.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Penumbra, Inc.Inventor: Henry Nita
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Patent number: 9943322Abstract: A device may include a distal assembly including a first plurality of legs, a second plurality of legs, and a distal tip, and further include a first driver and a second driver, a proximal end of at least one leg of the first plurality of legs may be coupled to the first driver, and a proximal end of at least one leg of the second plurality of legs may be coupled to the second driver. The medical device may include a first longitudinally extending hollow member movably positioned along the first driver and a second longitudinally extending hollow member movably positioned along the second driver. Movement of the first longitudinally extending hollow member relative to the first driver may converge legs of the first plurality of legs, and movement of the second longitudinally extending hollow member relative to the second driver may converge legs of the second plurality of legs.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: Man Minh Nguyen
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Patent number: 9943323Abstract: The devices and methods described herein relate to improved structures for removing obstructions from body lumens. Such devices have applicability in through-out the body, including clearing of blockages within the vasculature, by addressing the frictional resistance on the obstruction prior to attempting to translate and/or mobilize the obstruction within the body lumen.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2016Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: COVIDIEN IPInventors: Brian Martin, Martin Dieck
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Patent number: 9943324Abstract: A surgical instrument providing a passage to upper and lower portions of the flexor retinaculum, comprises: a hollow cannular needle having an end capable of penetrating the skin; and a blunt rod which enters the cannular needle and moves under the skin in correspondence to the passage, wherein the cannular needle can move along the blunt rod moved under the skin so as to provide the passage to upper and lower portions of the flexor retinaculum.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2011Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Inventor: Jong Ha Park
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Patent number: 9943325Abstract: A surgical apparatus comprises a body, an ultrasonic transducer, a shaft, and an end effector. The ultrasonic transducer is operable to convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. The body comprises a pivotal trigger. The shaft couples the end effector and the body together. The end effector comprises a clamp arm and an ultrasonic blade in acoustic communication with the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic blade is operable to deliver ultrasonic vibrations to tissue. Pivotal movement of the trigger causes movement of the clamp arm. The trigger includes a compliant feature configured to limit the amount of force delivered to tissue by the clamp arm. The flexible feature may comprise a flexible band, living hinge, a series of living hinges, or a flexible tab.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Craig N. Faller, Ryan M. Asher, John B. Schulte, Randal T. Byrum, Jose D. Vasquez, Thomas C. Gallmeyer, Benjamin M. Boyd, Amy L. Marcotte, Jacob S. Gee, Jonathan T. Batross
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Patent number: 9943326Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a housing, a waveguide extending distally from the housing, an end effector coupled to the distal end of the waveguide, an ultrasonic transducer retained within the housing, and a controller. The ultrasonic transducer is coupled to the proximal end of the waveguide and configured to produce mechanical motion for transmission along the waveguide to the end effector. The controller is configured to control an amplitude of the mechanical motion of the ultrasonic transducer in accordance with at least one amplitude value. The at least one amplitude value is adjusted according to an age of the ultrasonic transducer to compensate for aging of the ultrasonic transducer. Methods for controlling the amplitude of the mechanical motion of an ultrasonic transducer to compensate for aging of the ultrasonic transducer are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventors: Anthony B. Ross, David J. Van Tol
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Patent number: 9943327Abstract: Surgical tool are disclosed that include a first tip and a second tip. The first tip and the second tip can have a first configuration, an intermediate configuration, and a second configuration. In the first configuration the tool operates as forceps and in the second configuration the tool operates as scissors. In the intermediate configuration the tool operates as a probe. The tips can be brought together to transition between the first configuration and the intermediate configuration. The tips can be rotated to transition between the intermediate configuration and the second configuration. Method are disclosed that include the step of providing a tool having a first tip extending distally and a second tip extending distally, moving at least one of the first tip and the second tip toward the other of the first tip and the second tip, and rotating the first tip and the second tip.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Divyze, Inc.Inventor: Ryan D. Smith
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Patent number: 9943328Abstract: Unitary endoscopic vessel harvesting devices with an elastic force are disclosed. In some embodiments, such devices comprise an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, a tip disposed at the distal end of the elongated body; and cutting unit having an elastic force, a first cutting portion and a second cutting portion, the first cutting portion and the second cutting portion being moveable in a longitudinal direction relative to the elongated body to capture a blood vessel between the first cutting portion and the second cutting portion, and being rotatable relative to one another circumferentially about the tip to cut the captured blood vessel, and a biasing member engaged with the cutting unit to bias at least one cutting portion toward the other cutting portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Saphena Medical, Inc.Inventors: Mark J. Orphanos, Albert K. Chin, Michael Glennon
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Patent number: 9943329Abstract: A tissue-removing catheter includes a cutting element. A radially innermost portion of the leading radial wall of a raised element of the cutting element may be spaced a radial distance from the longitudinal axis that is less than 66% of the radius of the annular cutting edge. The cutting element may be extendable through the window during operation such that as the cutting element is being rotated about its longitudinal axis, less than an entire radial portion of the leading radial wall passes through the window. A plurality of abrading members may be formed on at least the central portion of the inner surface of the cutting element to abrade hardened tissue as the cutting element is rotating about its longitudinal axis. A radially outermost portion of the leading radial edge of the raised element may be spaced apart radially from an inner surface of the cutting element.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2012Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Ethan A. Guggenheimer, Lucas Schneider, Thomas McPeak, Benjamin Fruland
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Patent number: 9943330Abstract: A tissue-removing catheter for removing tissue from a body lumen includes an elongate catheter body configured for insertion into the body lumen and a tissue-removing element. A side opening in the distal portion of the catheter body is defined by opposite first and second side edges, a proximal edge extending between the first and second side edges, and a distal edge opposite the proximal edge and extending between the first and second side edges. The side opening window has a longitudinal axis extending between the distal and proximal edges. The tissue-removing element is configured to move between a tissue-removing position, in which the tissue-removing element is exposed through the side opening window, and a neutral position, in which the tissue-removing element is positioned inside the distal portion of the catheter. The distal edge is asymmetric about the longitudinal axis of the side opening window.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Jason Kessler, Lucas Schneider
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Patent number: 9943331Abstract: A method of an extraction of follicular cells which is based on a principle of a hair extraction from a skin of mammals by the help of an extraction device, when during the extraction remains preserved also the root part of the hair surrounded by follicular cells, where the essence of the invention is that at least one hair from a sampling point of the skin is sucked in by the help of vacuum which is led form a body of the extraction device into an interspace of a two-cone collet fixed partly to the body and partly to an arbor where is subsequently by the interspace closing between its inner cone and an outer cone by the help of a counter pressure of the arbor this hair grasped and after it extracted from the skin.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: UNIVERZITA PALACKEHOInventors: Martin Mistrik, Jiri Bartek
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Patent number: 9943332Abstract: An insertion device may include a device housing configured to be operatively engaged with and disengaged from a base, and engageable with an actuation device, the device housing having a carrier body supporting a piercing member. The carrier body moveable by a carrier body of the actuation device at least between a retracted position and an advanced position. The device housing having a section for supporting a portion of the carrier body of the device housing, the section moveable relative to the carrier body of the device housing to provide sufficient clearance to allow the carrier body of the device housing to be moved by the carrier body of the actuation device.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.Inventors: Colin A. Chong, Eric M. Lorenzen, Rafael Bikovsky, Arsen Ibranyan
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Patent number: 9943333Abstract: The present invention relates to an agent for activating mammalian sperm and a method for activating sperm by use of the activating agent. More specifically, the present invention relates to a sperm activating agent containing endo-?-galactosidase and/or FGF, which accelerate motility of mammalian sperm, for use in in-vitro fertilization and artificial insemination by husband and a sperm activating method by adding endo-?-galactosidase and/or FGF.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignees: NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION, HAMAMATSU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINEInventors: Kazuhiro Sugihara, Michiko Fukuda
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Patent number: 9943334Abstract: A kit having instructions for use for performing uterine lavage in a female patient includes a uterine lavage catheter configured for insertion into a woman's uterus to remove viable blastocysts from the uterus, and one or more first containers having a sufficient dosage amount of a GnRH antagonist to cause desynchronization of the endometrium of the patient prior to, during and/or following recovery of viable blastocysts from the uterus.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Previvo Genetics, Inc.Inventors: Sandra Ann Carson, John E. Buster, Moses Cesario, Steven Paul Woodard
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Patent number: 9943335Abstract: A method of retrieving a pair of previously implanted magnets from a patient's body includes maneuvering a guide catheter, which includes a guide magnet affixed to its distal end, toward the implantation site of the implanted magnets. The guide magnet is magnetically coupled to one of the implanted magnets in an orientation in which a through hole of the guide magnet is in register with through holes of the first and second implant magnets. An elongate capture member is slid through the lumen of the guide catheter until one of a proximal segment and a distal segment extends through the through holes of the guide magnet and the implanted magnets. An abutment segment of the elongate capture member, which separates the proximal segment and the distal segment is maneuvered into contact with the magnets. Then, the abutment segment, the guide magnet and the implanted magnets are moved as a group away from the implantation site.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Cook Medical Technologies LLCInventors: Shaun Davis Gittard, Kanishka Ratnayaka
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Patent number: 9943336Abstract: A load control device can be attached to bones on either side of an articulated joint in order to control the forces and loads experienced by the joint. The device comprises an apparatus for controlling the load on articular cartilage of a human or animal joint and includes: a first fixation assembly for attachment to a first bone; a second fixation assembly for attachment to a second bone; a link assembly coupled to the first fixation assembly by a first pivot and coupled to the second fixation assembly by a second pivot, the first and second fixation assembly thereby each being angularly displaceable relative to the link assembly. The apparatus enables a clinician to effectively control the environment of cartilage in a joint during a treatment episode.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: MOXIMED, INC.Inventor: Edward Draper
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Patent number: 9943337Abstract: External fixator assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. An external fixator system may include a plurality of fixator assemblies configured to connect a plurality of pins, for example, positioned on opposite sides of a fractured bone, with one more rods. The fixator assemblies may include a plurality of clamp assemblies which are configured to rotate relative to one another when the fixator assembly is in an unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2016Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.Inventors: Sergio Muniz, David R. Jansen, Barclay Davis
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Patent number: 9943338Abstract: A coupling assembly for coupling a rod to a bone anchoring element, and including a receiving part having a first end, a second end, and an accommodation space having an opening at the second end for inserting a head of the bone anchoring element, a pressure element insertable from the first end, positionable in the accommodation space, and configured to hold the head, the pressure element having at least one spring portion extending circumferentially around the pressure element and being radially compressible, and a rod receiving element separable from the pressure element, wherein in a first position, the spring portion is configured to engage an engagement structure at an inner wall of the receiving part to prevent movement of the pressure element towards the first end, and wherein the rod receiving element is configured to move the pressure element from the first position towards the second end.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: BIEDERMANN TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KGInventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis, Dimosthenis Dandanopoulos, Achim Schünemann
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Patent number: 9943339Abstract: An osseous anchorage implant comprising an attachment structure adapted to receive and be attached to at least one bar is disclosed. The implant is made up of an osseous anchor and an attachment head bearing the attachment means. The attachment head is suitably traversed by a channel that is adapted to receive the bar. The attachment head comprises a clamp that is adapted to clamp the bar against an inside support wall of the channel. The implant is further characterized by the attachment means and the support wall enabling the rotation of the bar about a first axis that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bar. The clamp comprises a moving clamping face, that is adapted to contact the bar, and that is borne by a support head. The bar is enabled to be introduced into the channel from a side of the channel.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2017Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: LDR MedicalInventors: Jacques Beaurain, Joel Delecrin, Herve Chataigner