Patents Issued in April 19, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180103920
    Abstract: An operation panel display device for a medical X-ray photography apparatus may include: a display panel including a photography mode selection region where a plurality of photography mode selection images corresponding to a plurality of X-ray photography modes are displayed; an operation receiver that receives a selection operation to select one of the photography mode selection images displayed on the display panel; a processor that performs display processing of the selected photography mode selection image displayed on the display panel in response to the selection operation received through the operation receiver; and an illustration display region included in the display panel where an illustration image corresponding to the selected photography mode selection image is displayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Yutaka ITO, Yoshito SUGIHARA, Shinya YAMAMOTO, Susumu KIRIMURA
  • Publication number: 20180103921
    Abstract: A method of using PET imaging includes using PET images obtained using a radiotracer for the determination of the progressive course of regional brain PET activities for a progressive neurodegenerative disease (e.g., MCI, AD, and CTE). The method may be used for the automatic staging of neurodegenerative disease for a particular patient/subject based on regional intensity and spatial patterns of the brain signals measured by PET imaging. The method may also be used to diagnose or classify the disease of a patient among multiple possibilities based on PET imaging profiles (e.g., for separating or distinguishing CTE from AD).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Sung-Cheng Huang, Koon-Pong Wong, Gary W. Small, Jorge R. Barrio
  • Publication number: 20180103922
    Abstract: A method for providing corrected x-ray images of a recording object and a correspondingly configured x-ray system are provided. In the method, a first x-ray image recorded prior to introducing a contrast agent and a second x-ray image of the recording object recorded after introducing the contrast agent are provided. A ring correction for eliminating ring artifacts is applied to the first x-ray image and the second x-ray image in each case. In order to provide corrected x-ray images with an improved image quality, provision is made with the ring correction of the first x-ray image for a ring image, which contains artifact data extracted from the first x-ray image, to be obtained and stored and for the ring correction of the second x-ray image for the ring image obtained with the ring correction of the first x-ray image to be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Oxana Grünwald
  • Publication number: 20180103923
    Abstract: A communication channel for an X-ray imaging system may operatively couple a first imaging component to a second imaging component. The communication channel may include a first connector configured to couple to the first imaging component, a second connector configured to couple to the second imaging component, and a first authentication module configured to authenticate with the second imaging component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Michael Meiler, Steven Emmett Hebeler
  • Publication number: 20180103924
    Abstract: In order to appropriately reduce time until scanning can be started after preparation in both an operation console and a scan room is completed, art X-ray CT apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, a rotation disk, an image calculation device, a display device, a system control device, an operation console instruction device that, instructs the system control device to prepare, start, and stop scanning in an operation console, and a scan gantry instruction device that instructs the system control device to prepare, start, and stop scanning in a scan room, in which the system control device includes a scanning preparation control unit that, performs some scanning preparation processes among a plurality of scanning preparation processes on the basis of an instruction for scanning preparation from the operation console instruction device or the scan gantry instruction device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Masato NAKAYAMA
  • Publication number: 20180103925
    Abstract: It is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide an ultrasound imaging apparatus of transmitting/receiving an ultrasound signal to/from an ultrasound probe, and successively changing inductance using a plurality of inductors for impedance matching between the ultrasound probe and a main body during a transmission/reception time period of the ultrasound signal, and a control method of the ultrasound imaging apparatus. The ultrasound imaging apparatus may include an ultrasound probe; a signal transceiver configured to transmit/receive an ultrasound signal to/from the ultrasound probe; and a variable inductor device configured to successively change inductance for impedance matching with the ultrasound probe during a transmission/reception time period of the ultrasound signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Nam-Woong KIM, Yong-cheol HYEON
  • Publication number: 20180103926
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a storage and a control unit. The storage stores transmission/reception conditions for a first ultrasound probe among a plurality of ultrasound probes. Upon receipt of a second switching instruction to switch a second ultrasound probe to the first ultrasound probe after a first switching instruction to switch the first ultrasound probe to the second ultrasound probe, the control unit applies the transmission/reception conditions stored in the storage to the first ultrasound probe when the time between the first switching instruction and the second switching instruction is less than a predetermined time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Koichi MORIKAWA, Hironobu Hongou, Gen Nagano, Kenichi Unayama, Satoshi Kamiyama
  • Publication number: 20180103927
    Abstract: A headset for placing on a head of a subject includes a device and a cover over the device. At least a portion of the cover is made from a see-through material such that a portion of the head of the subject is viewable through the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Raymond Chung, Michael Costa, Trevor Dunlop, Roman Flores, II, Robert Hamilton, Matthew Hutter, Michael O'Brien, Leo Petrossian, Shankar Radhakrishnan, Mina Ranjbaran, Lane Stith, Matthew Sylvester, Corey Thibeault, Seth J. Wilk, Jay Yonemoto, Jan Zwierstra
  • Publication number: 20180103928
    Abstract: A headset for placing on a head of a subject is provided. The headset includes a device including a probe. The headset further includes at least one adjustable mechanism configured to adjust a fit of the headset such that the device is aligned with an acoustic window of the head of the subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Michael Costa, Trevor Dunlop, Roman Flores, II, Robert Hamilton, Matthew Hutter, Michael O'Brien, Leo Petrossian, Shankar Radhakrishnan, Lane Stith, Seth J. Wilk, Jan Zwierstra
  • Publication number: 20180103929
    Abstract: A medical input device for receiving an input of a command signal is provided. The medical input device includes: a main body unit that is a housing; a track ball housed in the main body unit and provided rotatably; an opening forming member configured to form at least an opening having a diameter smaller than that of the track ball, the track ball partially protruding through the opening; and a moving member having an inclined surface on which the track ball is configured to ride, the moving member being movable in a direction of approaching the track ball or in a direction of receding from the track ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshihiro KITAHARA
  • Publication number: 20180103930
    Abstract: Provided are a method and apparatus for processing a medical image. The apparatus includes: a data obtainer configured to obtain raw data generated by imaging an object; and a processor configured to determine motion correction parameters used to reconstruct an image to be used to obtain motion information based on motion characteristics of the object, obtain the motion information by using the image reconstructed based on the determined motion correction parameters, and reconstruct a tomography image from the raw data by using the motion information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Ji-young CHOI, Kyoung-yong LEE, Duhgoon LEE
  • Publication number: 20180103931
    Abstract: Automatic detection of valve disease from analysis of Doppler waveforms exploiting the echocardiography annotations is provided. In various embodiments, a frame is selected from a medical video. The selected frame depicts a valve of interest. A Doppler envelope is extracted from the selected frame. Based on the frame and the Doppler envelope, one or more measurements indicative of a disease condition are extracted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Mohammadreza Negahdar, Tanveer Syeda-Mahmood
  • Publication number: 20180103932
    Abstract: A system and method for identifying a characteristic of a region of a subject, such as whether a region is cancerous, which includes an ultrasonic imaging device that acquires a first and second set of time series data from a region of a subject during a first and second time period. The system includes a comparison device (120) that receives first and second sets of time series data (116, 118) and computes differential data (119) therebetween at one or more features. A processing device (130) receives the differential data and inputs the differential data into a classifier (132) trained with reference differential data concerning the one or more features as well as an identification of the ground truth concerning the region. A determination device (136) is configured to determine whether the region contains the characteristic based on an output from the classifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Amir Mohammad Tahmasebi Maraghoosh, Purang Abolmaesumi
  • Publication number: 20180103933
    Abstract: Systems and methods (the “utility”) presented herein provide for the assessment of acousto-electrical probes, such as their connections (e.g., transducer leads) and their response characteristics. For example, the utility may provide for readily evaluating transducer leads that have been broken and/or detached from transducers within an ultrasound probe. Due to the increasing complexity of ultrasound probes, identification of broken and/or detached transducer leads also becomes increasingly complex. Being able to identify such disconnected transducer leads may enable a person to repair, or “reterminate”, these transducer leads leading to a potentially substantial cost savings, the least of which being incurred by avoiding total replacement of an ultrasound probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Nickolas Markoff, Christopher M. Cone
  • Publication number: 20180103934
    Abstract: A fluid sample collection device includes at least one fluid conduit penetrator, and a container and penetration fitment with a valved opening penetration into the container, the valved opening penetration being configured to seal the container and includes a valve configured to accept through the valve the at least one fluid conduit penetrator to effect a transfer of fluid into and out of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: George D. Ealovega, Elizabeth Hatz
  • Publication number: 20180103935
    Abstract: A method of analysis using mass and/or ion mobility spectrometry or ion mobility spectrometry is disclosed comprising: using a first device to generate aerosol, smoke or vapour from one or more regions of a first target of biological material; and mass and/or ion mobility analysing and/or ion mobility analysing said aerosol, smoke, or vapour, or ions derived therefrom so as to obtain first spectrometric data. The method may use an ambient ionisation method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Steven Derek PRINGLE, Tamas KARANCSI, Emrys JONES, Michael Raymond MORRIS, Julia BALOG, James Ian LANGRIDGE, Zoltan TAKATS, Frances BOLT, Lajos GODORHAZY, Daniel SZALAY, Daniel SIMON, Keith RICHARDSON
  • Publication number: 20180103936
    Abstract: Disclosed is a test barrel, to prevent a test liquid in the barrel from sputtering into a connection gap due to shaking of the barrel to hence cause contamination, improve the measurement accuracy in case of multiple tests, and meanwhile improve the operability of screwing on and screwing off the entire device during use of the device. The above technical objective of this utility model is implemented by employing the following technical solution: a test barrel, comprising barrel lid and a barrel body; wherein the threaded rings are arranged on an inner wall of a side face of the barrel lid and an outer wall of an opening of the barrel body, a rotary force applying portion is arranged on an outer wall of the side face of the barrel lid, and during engagement, a liquid blocking washer is arranged between the barrel lid and the barrel body, wherein a radial width of the liquid blocking washer is greater than a thickness of the opening of the barrel body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Siyu Lei
  • Publication number: 20180103937
    Abstract: Collection devices, kits and methods related to sample collection and analysis can be used to collect and store samples (e.g., biological samples) from a variety of sources and optionally, for analysis of such samples (e.g., forensics analysis, medical diagnostics, etc.). Methods of production and use thereof are described herein. A device for collecting a sample (e.g., a sample including nucleic acid) includes an outer protective housing and a collection tip operably coupled to a carrier. The collection tip includes a hydrophilic and at least partially soluble material (e.g., hydrophilic and at least partially soluble polycaprolactone (PCL)) and is movable (e.g., retractable) from a first protected position within the outer protective housing to a second collecting position outside the outer protective housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas J. KINDT, John F. STEEL, Beverly L. Wolgast, Ryan Lamer
  • Publication number: 20180103938
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for calculating tumor detection probability of a biopsy plan and for generating a 3D biopsy plan that maximizes tumor detection probability. A capsule shaped volume is modeled to represent the volume that a biopsy core may sample. An optimization method is used to generate a 3D biopsy plan that maximizes probability of tumor detection for predefined biopsy core numbers and length. Risk of detecting insignificant tumors, also determined by size, and probability of a false negative result is automatically calculated. The present invention also includes a method to determine number and length of biopsy cores required for individual patients determined by the balance of the insignificant/significant probability of detection, prostate size and shape, based upon the previously explained 3D biopsy plan generation method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Dan Stoianovici, Doyoung Chang, Misop Han
  • Publication number: 20180103939
    Abstract: A biopsy device is configured wherein a first retraction of a charge handle moves a cannula slide and a sampling slide in unison to charge a sampling spring, to latch the sampling slide to retain the sampling spring in a charged state, and to charge a vacuum system. A second retraction of the charge handle occurs, and a return of the charge handle to the home position moves the cannula slide in a distal direction away from the sampling slide to charge the cannula retract spring and to latch the cannula slide to retain the cannula retract spring in a charged state. A third retraction of the charge handle moves the carriage assembly as a whole in the proximal direction to charge the prime pierce spring and to latch the carriage latch cover member to retain the prime pierce spring in a charged state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2015
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Chad C. Van Liere, Rory M. Schlarb
  • Publication number: 20180103940
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a surgical device. The surgical device may include: a needle device; an aspiration device, which is attached to or detached from the needle device, for tissue sampling; an injection device, which is attached to or detached from the needle device, for drug injection; and an electrode device, which is attached to or detached from the needle device, for thermal treatment. Therefore, any one of the aspiration device, the injection device, and the electrode device is attached to or detached from the needle device, thereby being capable of performing tissue sampling, drug injection, and thermal treatment. Thus, the time and costs required for tissue sampling, drug injection, and thermal treatment are reduced and foreign substances can be prevented from flowing into a surgical site in advance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: STARMED CO., LTD.
    Inventors: KYUNG HOON SHIN, DONG UN KIM, HYUK LIM
  • Publication number: 20180103941
    Abstract: A surgical retractor includes a pair of handles. Each handle includes a handle shaft that extends along a shaft axis lying in a first plane. A retractor arm extends from each handle shaft. Each retractor arm includes a first portion that extends along the first plane along a first axis tilted at a first angle with respect to the respective handle shaft, a second portion that extends along a second axis tilted at a second angle with respect to the first portion, and a third portion that extends along a third axis lying in a second plane. A retractor blade extends from each of the retractor arms. Each retractor blade includes a spine that extends along a fourth axis lying in a third plane. An end of the spine extends from the third portion. Fingers extend away from the spine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Agha Khan
  • Publication number: 20180103942
    Abstract: The present invention provides an operation field-securing device that secures an operation field by being deployed within the body cavity. The operation field-securing device includes at least three elongated parts extending radially in a deployed state; and curved parts, the number of which is the same as that of the elongated parts. Each pair of the two adjacent elongated parts is connected at their one ends by the curved part. Each of the curved parts is convex toward a side opposite to the elongated part. In the deployed state, the curved parts are arranged circumferentially. By deforming the curved parts, the operation field-securing device is capable of being brought into either one of a contracted state where a distance between the adjacent elongated parts is shortened by making the elongated parts close to each other and the deployed state where the distance between the elongated parts is expanded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: NIKKISO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tatsuo IGARASHI, Yoshihisa MATSUNAGA, Takuro ISHII
  • Publication number: 20180103943
    Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems provide a surgical access device comprising an internal retractor device integrated with or coupled to a body wall or wound retractor. The wound retractor retracts an opening in a body wall into a body cavity, while the internal retractor permits a user to control the positions of internal structures within the body cavity, thereby permitting a user to define a surgical field. Embodiments of the internal retractor are adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Charles C. Hart, Gary M. Johnson, Eric Nguyen, Edward D. Pingleton, Kennii Pravongviengkham, Ghassan Sakakine, Serene Wachli, John R. Brustad, Olivia Tran
  • Publication number: 20180103944
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Jude S. Sauer
  • Publication number: 20180103945
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a medical device includes a tissue anchor has a first portion and a second portion. The tissue anchor is configured to be placed within bodily tissue of a patient. The first portion of the tissue anchor includes an extension member configured to engage the bodily tissue to help retain the tissue anchor within the bodily tissue. The first portion has an inner surface and defines a cavity. The second portion of the tissue anchor has a helical ridge. The helical ridge is configured to engage the inner surface of the first portion of the tissue anchor to movably couple the second portion of the tissue anchor to the first portion of the tissue anchor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Ronald Ciulla, James M. Goddard
  • Publication number: 20180103946
    Abstract: The invention includes a needle loader that may be used with a suturing device. The needle loader includes a generally planar needle supporting surface, a hub configured and adapted for receiving a generally toroidally shaped suturing needle around the hub, and means for retaining a suturing needle in a fixed toroidal rotational position with respect to the hub about a center axis of needle rotation. Generally, a needle mounted around the hub is selectively disposable on and removable from the hub. In accordance with a further aspect, the loader may further include an opening for retaining suture material attached to a suturing needle. The opening may include a groove defined through the needle supporting surface. The needle loader may further include a guard for preventing access to the point of a suturing needle to protect the needle and/or to prevent accidental needle sticks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: John C. Meade, Gerald I. Bredher
  • Publication number: 20180103947
    Abstract: A suture tensioning device that deters over-tensioning or under-tensioning of suture thread(s) is presented. The suture tensioning device includes an engagement portion and a tensioning portion. Optionally, the suture tensioning device also includes a detent portion. The tensioning portion has a tension limiter, which can be a protrusion, a wheel with a clutching mechanism, a spring, etc. A suture can be immobilized in the engagement portion of the suture tensioning device, and the tension can be increased or decreased by moving the tensioning portion. The tension limiter limits the movements of the tensioning portion so that the tension of the suture(s) can be set to a desirable level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Anthony Nobles, Christian Fankhänel, Robert Scheller
  • Publication number: 20180103948
    Abstract: Surgical methods for cutting and fastening tissue are disclosed. The methods may include employing a surgical end effector that includes a pair of jaws wherein an upper jaw is movable relative to a lower jaw that supports a surgical fastener cartridge. The methods may include manipulating the end effector to a compact configuration to facilitate its insertion through a trocar port and then manipulating and actuating the end effector to treat target tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20180103949
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support base (1?) for a suture thread having two opposite sides (12, 14) and comprising on one side (12) thereof a storage channel (2) for a suture thread in a wound position, and a holding zone (4) of one end of the suture thread, the holding zone (4) being surrounded by the storage channel (2), the support base (1) being characterized by having a through-opening (5) between the two sides (12, 14) thereof, the through-opening (5) extending into the holding zone (4) and continuing from the holding zone (4) in such a way as to intersect the storage channel (2), and a shutter (8) moving between an open position for uncovering the through-opening (5) between the two sides (12, 14) thereof, and a closed position for at least partially opening the through-opening (5), the moving shutter (8) being configured to project, in the open position thereof, from the side (14) of the base (1?) which is opposite to the side (12) on which the storage channel (2) is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2015
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas HALFON, Caroline CAMEDDA
  • Publication number: 20180103950
    Abstract: A surgical fastener cartridge is provided and includes a cartridge body having a tissue contacting surface that includes a plurality of fastener retention slots. A plurality of surgical fasteners is operatively disposed in the plurality of fastener retention slots. A plurality of pushers is operably associated with the plurality of surgical fasteners. Each pusher is configured for ejecting an associated surgical fastener towards a depression in an anvil. An actuation sled is housed within the cartridge body and includes a plurality of cam wedges. The plurality of cam wedges configured to sequentially contact the plurality of pushers such that a surgical fastener that is ejected closer to a cut line produces a greater compression force to stapled tissue than a surgical fastener ejected further from the cut line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Stanislaw Marczyk
  • Publication number: 20180103951
    Abstract: A surgical stapler includes a jaw assembly at a distal end connected to a handle assembly that is configured to control the stapler and actuate the deployment of staples. The surgical stapler successfully eliminates intermediate caming portions commonly known as pushers that are located between the staples and a translating slider. The staples are located in pockets at an angle such that the base of the staple is parallel to an angled caming surface of the slider. The translating slider comes into direct contact with staples during deployment as the slider moves through each staple pocket where staples are partially supported by recesses along the slider pathway. The staples are deployed at an angle against the anvil surface. Because there are no pushers, a great deal of space is saved resulting in a much smaller diameter surgical stapler that is particularly suitable for laparoscopic stapling applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Timothy M. Hopkins, Donald L. Gadberry, Matthew M. Becerra, Babak Jasemian, Gary M. Johnson, Steven E. Decker
  • Publication number: 20180103952
    Abstract: A fastener cartridge assembly for use with a surgical instrument is disclosed. The fastener cartridge assembly can include a cartridge body, a plurality of fasteners removably stored within the cartridge body, and an implantable layer. The fastener cartridge assembly and/or the surgical instrument can include a lockout system configured to deactivate the fastener cartridge assembly and/or surgical instrument in the event that the implantable layer is prematurely removed from the fastener cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Taylor W. Aronhalt, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael J. Vendely, Emily A. Schellin, Mark S. Zeiner
  • Publication number: 20180103953
    Abstract: A surgical instrument can include an anvil and, in addition, a staple cartridge support configured to support a staple cartridge. In various embodiments, the jaw can be moved toward the staple cartridge to deform staples contained within the staple cartridge. The anvil can be configured to be translated and/or rotated as the anvil is moved toward the staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, the anvil can be configured to float and adjust such that the anvil is moved downwardly in a level manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Joseph E. Young, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Publication number: 20180103954
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can include a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, wherein the shaft defines an axis, and a disposable loading unit which is assembled to the shaft in a direction which is transverse to the shaft axis. Such a connection between the disposable loading unit and the shaft can prevent, or at least inhibit, the disposable loading unit from being unintentionally displaced proximally and/or distally relative to the shaft of the surgical instrument. The surgical stapling instrument and/or disposable loading unit can further include a threaded collar and/or detent assembly configured to hold the disposable loading unit in place. In various embodiments, a disposable loading unit can include a lockout feature which can prevent, or at least inhibit, an expended disposable loading unit from being reassembled to the elongated body of the surgical instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: William B. Weisenburgh, II, Jerome R. Morgan, Kyle P. Moore, Mark H. Ransick, Steven G. Hall, Randall J. Tanguay, Jeffrey D. Messerly, Galen C. Robertson, Andrew M. Zwolinski, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Thomas W. Huitema, Glen A. Armstrong, Shailendra K. Parihar, Donna L. Korvick, Richard W. Timm, Kevin R. Doll, Bret W. Smith, William D. Kelly, Ronald J. Kolata, Joshua R. Uth, Charles J. Scheib, Geoffrey C. Hueil, Mark S. Ortiz, Douglas B. Hoffman, Patrick A. Weizman, Dean B. Bruewer, Gregory B. Blair, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180103955
    Abstract: A fastener cartridge can comprise a support portion, a tissue thickness compensator positioned relative to the support portion, and a plurality of fasteners positioned within the support portion and/or the tissue thickness compensator which can be utilized to fasten tissue. In use, the fastener cartridge can be positioned in a first jaw of a surgical fastening device, wherein a second jaw, or anvil, can be positioned opposite the first jaw. To deploy the fasteners, a staple-deploying member is advanced through the fastener cartridge to move the fasteners toward the anvil. As the fasteners are deployed, the fasteners can capture at least a portion of the tissue thickness compensator therein along with at least a portion of the tissue being fastened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Chester O. Baxter, III, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Jerome R. Morgan, Joseph E. Young
  • Publication number: 20180103956
    Abstract: Provided is a defect hole closing material that has almost no fear of long-term failure and allows minimally invasive treatment for an atrial septal defect. The defect hole closing material is formed of two tubular bodies (a first tubular part and a second tubular par) having a stitch-like structure of a bioabsorbable material, has a sandglass shape, figure-of-eight shape, double spindle shape, or peanut shape, and includes a coil spring of which both ends are respectively engaged with a first end part and a second end part and that is passed through the insides of the first tubular part and the second tubular part from the first end part side to the second end part side via a substantially middle part. When pushing the defect hole closing material out of a catheter, the action of the coil spring causes the first tubular part and the second tubular part to come close with the substantially middle part as a center and expand tube diameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: GUNZE LIMITED
    Inventors: Yuki SAKAMOTO, Toshiharu SHINOKA, Hirotsugu KUROBE
  • Publication number: 20180103957
    Abstract: A microcatheter system is disclosed which includes a microcatheter body and a microcatheter extension and/or a microcatheter hub. The microcatheter body includes a plurality of distal zones and a proximal zone. The outside diameter of each of the distal zones is progressively greater than an immediately adjacent and more distal zone. The outside diameter of the proximal zone has an outer diameter at a distal end thereof that is at least as great as the outer diameter of any zone of the plurality of distal zones and increases from the distal end to a proximal end of the distal zone. The inside diameter is constant throughout the microcatheter system. An internal connection assembly comprising a probe and a receptacle join adjacent parts of the microcatheter system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Paul Saphier
  • Publication number: 20180103958
    Abstract: A vascular occluding device for modifying blood flow in a vessel, while maintaining blood flow to the surrounding tissue. The occluding device includes a flexible, easily compressible and bendable occluding device that is particularly suited for treating aneurysms in the brain. The neurovascular occluding device can be deployed using a micro-catheter. The occluding device can be formed by braiding wires in a helical fashion and can have varying lattice densities along the length of the occluding device. The occluding device could also have different lattice densities for surfaces on the same radial plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Aaron Berez, Quang Tran
  • Publication number: 20180103959
    Abstract: A device for treating a tissue opening includes a proximal portion including an elongated flexible member, a capsule releasably coupled to a distal end of the flexible member and including a lumen extending therethrough and a clip including a pair of arms movably housed within the capsule. A suture extending along a first one of the pair of arms and including a loop at a distal end thereof extending across an opening extending through the first one of the pair of arms. A suture grabbing element extending laterally from a second one of the pair of arms and including a hook so that, when the pair of arms are moved toward a closed configuration, the hook extends through the opening to grab the loop and draw the distal end of the suture from the first one of the pair of arms toward the second one of the pair of arms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Samuel RAYBIN, Paul Smith, Norman C. May, Naroun Suon, Matthew Jagelski, Ray Hewenson Tong, John B. Golden, Kevin James McElwee, Andrew James Whitney
  • Publication number: 20180103960
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes filter devices for deployment to body vessels where clots or emboli may need to be captured, particularly the vena cava. The filter device is of a spiral construction, having a first loop and a second loop, with a helical portion extending helically therebetween. The first and second loops assist in the filter being self-centering within a body vessel. A method of making a filter device is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Andreas Poulsen
  • Publication number: 20180103961
    Abstract: A guide device for knee replacement is configured such that during knee replacement surgery and/or knee replacement revision surgery for implanting a prosthetic knee implant, a degree of external rotation of a femur is identified and aligned through a cut surface of a proximal tibia, then a distance of a gap between the cut surface of the proximal tibia and a cut surface of a distal femur is identified during the surgery, so the degree of external rotation and the distance of the gap are identified simultaneously with one guide device, and thereby it is possible to facilitate the surgery, thereby reducing operation time and minimizing occurrence of a sequela of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Seung-Hun Oh, Seok-Ju Kim, Oui-Sik Yoo, Chan-Eol Kim
  • Publication number: 20180103962
    Abstract: A dilation introducer for orthopedic surgery is provided for minimally invasive access for insertion of an intervertebral implant. The dilation introducer may be used to provide an access position through Kambin's triangle from a posterolateral approach. A first dilator tube with a first longitudinal axis is provided. An access cannula may be introduced over the first dilator tube. A drill may be inserted through the access cannula and used to perform a foraminoplasty, Surgical instruments may pass through the access cannula to operate on an intervertebral disc and/or insert an intervertebral implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Rudolf Morgenstern Lopez
  • Publication number: 20180103963
    Abstract: A rotary medical device configured to be used to prepare a surgical site within a patient for affixing at least one fixation device via a rotary abrading element and a rotary drill bit, both of which are attachable to the same handpiece, is disclosed. By configuring the rotary medical device to operate both a rotary abrading element and a rotary drill bit, the need for a separate, single use drill and the time and human resources needed to disinfect and process the drill is eliminated, thereby saving time and cost. In at least one embodiment, the rotary medical device may include a first detachable system including a first abrading element attached to a first detachable hub, which is attachable to the handpiece, and a second detachable system including a first drill bit attached to a second detachable hub, which is also attachable to the handpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Arthrex, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bradley, William R. Beach, Philip S. O'Quinn, Stephen Michael Cottle
  • Publication number: 20180103964
    Abstract: System and methods for channeling a path into bone include a trocar having a proximal end, distal end and a central channel disposed along a central axis of the trocar. The trocar includes a distal opening at or near the distal end of the trocar. The system includes a curved cannula sized to be received in the central channel, and having a curved distal end configured to be extended laterally outward from the distal opening in a curved path extending away from the trocar. The curved cannula has a central passageway having a diameter configured allow a probe to be delivered through the central passageway to a location beyond the curved path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Samit Patel, Richard C. Pellegrino, Robert Flagler
  • Publication number: 20180103965
    Abstract: A bone fusion implant for fusing a first bone region to a second bone region of a mammalian bone includes a first fixing region having multiple securing means receiving holes for attaching to the first bone and a second fixing region which is connected to the first fixing region and has multiple securing means receiving holes for attaching to the second bone region, wherein a cutting tool guiding contour which specifies a severing line is formed between the first and the second fixing region. A method for the individualized production of such a bone fusion implant includes recording an actual 3D model of the mammalian bone implant in a first data set, drafting a target 3D model, and producing the bone fusion implant by way of the target 3D model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Axel Waizenegger
  • Publication number: 20180103966
    Abstract: Apparatuses and systems including an instrument for manipulating components within a knee joint of a patient are disclosed. Such manipulation can include inserting and/or removing such components to or from a bone of the knee joint. The instrument can include a handle, a body, a plunger, a detent and a collar. The handle can have a proximal end and a distal end and a longitudinal extent between the proximal end and the distal end. The body can be coupled to the handle and can extend distal of the distal end. The body can define a receptacle therein having an opening at a distal end portion of the instrument. The plunger can be moveably disposed within the body and can be moveable between a first position and a second position. The detent can be moveable by the plunger, such that with the plunger in the first position at least a portion of the detent can extend into the receptacle and with the plunger in the second position the detent can be recessed from the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Nolan C. Jones, Shanon N. Roberts, Nick Drury
  • Publication number: 20180103967
    Abstract: This preparation set comprises a drill guide (31) comprising a bearing surface (33) intended to bear against a glenoid cavity, a passage orifice (35) intended for the passage of a guide pin (36) implanted in the glenoid cavity, and first and second guide orifices (37, 38) each opening into the bearing surface (33) and each intended to guide a drill bit (38) capable of realizing a bone bore in the glenoid cavity, the first and second guide orifices (37, 38) being inclined with respect to the extension axis of the passage orifice (35) and converging in the direction of the bearing surface (33); and a compactor (42) comprising a compaction portion (45) having a generally trapezoidal shape and intended to be impacted against the glenoid cavity so as to form a bone housing in the glenoid cavity, the compactor (42) further including a passage hole (49) extending at least partially in the compaction portion (45) and intended for the passage of the guide pin (36) implanted in the glenoid cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Guillaume ROUYER, James HOFFMANN, Bruce MILLER
  • Publication number: 20180103968
    Abstract: Device for safely and precisely causing micro-injuries to the dermis to stimulate collagen production a skim remodeling. Specifically, needles on the device pierce the epidermis and basal cell layer into the dermis. The device incorporates safety features for the operator to be able to operate the device with one hand while keeping the other had free during procedures. Additionally, the device incorporates single use safety controls to help prevent cross contamination between patients.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Joseph Proctor, Tanzeel Ur Rahman, Ronald J Hegler, David J Lapeus, James Mullner
  • Publication number: 20180103969
    Abstract: A clot removal device has an expandable treatment member having a distal tip and a proximal end, a delivery wire having a distal end coupled to the proximal end of the expandable treatment member, and a flow restrictor carried along the delivery wire at a location that is separate and proximal from the expandable treatment member. The flow restrictor has a body with a distal section and a proximal section, the distal section being covered and the proximal section being uncovered. The expandable treatment member is moveable relative to the flow restrictor, and can be retracted into the distal section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: NeuroVasc Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Jianlu Ma