Patents Issued in April 24, 2018
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Patent number: 9949703Abstract: An x-ray imaging apparatus revolves a digital radiation detector and a radiation source about an imaging area where a subject is positioned to be imaged. A housing encloses the source and the detector, and includes an open housing gap to allow movement of the subject into the imaging area by moving through the open gap. A housing extension may be deployed to close the housing gap and to enclose the detector as it revolves. Shielding assemblies prevent exterior access into the housing.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: Anthony Dirisio, Joseph E. Stagnitto, Michael A. Litzenberger, William C. Wendlandt, Peter A. Newman
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Patent number: 9949704Abstract: A system for patient imaging is provided. The system includes an imaging system and a parameter generator to determine parameters of at least a first phase of an injection procedure. The imaging system includes a scanner that has at least one x-ray tube. The parameter generator is programmed to determine at least one of the parameters on the basis of a voltage to be applied to the at least one x-ray tube during an imaging procedure. A method of controlling an injector system is also provided, and the method includes determining injection parameters, at least one of which is determined on the basis of a voltage to be applied to an x-ray tube during the imaging procedure, as well as controlling the injector system at least in part on the basis of the determined injection parameters.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2012Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: BAYER HEALTHCARE LLCInventors: John F. Kalafut, Corey A. Kemper
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Patent number: 9949705Abstract: A device for slot scanning phase contrast x-ray imaging, includes an x-ray emitter, a plurality of x-ray gratings, a patient couch, and an x-ray detector. Position marker elements are arranged and configured in the beam path of the x-ray emitter such that the position marker elements are visible in an x-ray image. In the x-ray image, a relative position of an object on the patient couch in relation to an x-ray beam fan of the x-ray emitter may be established from a location and a distance of the position marker elements from one another.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Jörg Freudenberger
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Patent number: 9949706Abstract: Provided are an image processing device, a radiography system, an image processing program, and an image processing method which can generate a tomographic image used for radiographic interpretation and a tomographic image suitable for generating a composite two-dimensional image from a projection image obtained by tomosynthesis imaging. A frequency processing unit and a tomographic image generation unit generate a first tomographic image which is emphasized according to a spatial frequency and is used for radiographic interpretation, on the basis of the projection images obtained by tomosynthesis imaging, and generate a second tomographic image which is emphasized according to the spatial frequency and on which the degree of emphasis is different from the degree of emphasis on the first tomographic image, on the basis of the projection image. A two-dimensional image generation unit combines a plurality of second tomographic images to generate a composite two-dimensional image.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: FUJIFILM CORPORATIONInventor: Wataru Fukuda
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Patent number: 9949707Abstract: A radiographic imaging system, which includes a plurality of radiographic imaging apparatuses each configured to acquire a radiographic image and a processing unit configured to combine a plurality of the radiographic images acquired from the plurality of radiographic imaging apparatuses to generate a stitched image, includes a correction image data determination unit configured to determine correction image data based on an irradiation condition of radiation to be emitted from the radiation source, and an image correction unit configured to correct an area of the stitched image corresponding to an area in which the plurality of radiographic imaging apparatuses overlap, by using the correction image data.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Norihiko Miyachi
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Patent number: 9949708Abstract: A radiation imaging apparatus acquires a radiation image from radiation detected by a radiation detection unit, corrects a first pixel that is a correction target in the radiation image by referring to a second pixel other than the first pixel, calculates an evaluation value that evaluates an increase in a noise level caused by correcting the first pixel, and performs processing of reducing the noise level for the first pixel after the correction based on the calculated evaluation value.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Naoto Takahashi
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Patent number: 9949709Abstract: Techniques for suppression of motion artifacts in medical imaging include obtaining projections at different times within a time interval from a medical imaging system operating on a subject. A stationary projection is determined for a first subset of the projections in which a signal source and detector array of the imaging system are in a first configuration relative to the subject. An image of the subject based on the stationary projection is displayed. For any subset, the stationary projection is a minimum value for each pixel among the subset of projections if a signal passing through a moving object of interest inside the subject is expected to cause an increase in a pixel value. Alternatively, the stationary projection is a maximum value for each pixel among the subset of projections if the signal passing through the object of interest is expected to cause a decrease in a pixel value.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: University of Maryland, BaltimoreInventors: Byong Yong Yi, Nilesh N. Mistry, Xinsheng Cedric Yu, Giovanni Lasio
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Patent number: 9949710Abstract: Disclosed herein are an X-ray imaging apparatus and a control method for the same. The control method for the X-ray imaging apparatus includes acquiring a mask image by irradiating an object with X-rays, determining a movement of the object based on the mask image, generating a plurality of X-ray images of mutually different energy bands when the movement of the object is detected, and generating a single X-ray image of a single energy band when the movement of the object is not detected, and acquiring a blood vessel X-ray image based on the generated X-ray image.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Dong Goo Kang, Young Hun Sung, Seok Min Han
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Patent number: 9949711Abstract: An X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the present embodiment comprises a gantry and a tube current setting circuitry. The tube current setting circuitry set tube currents for the respective imaging regions. To be specific, the tube current setting circuitry calculate X-ray absorption index values in the respective imaging regions, based on scanogram image data, determine tube current values corresponding to the X-ray absorption index values for the respective imaging regions, and correct the tube current values of the respective imaging regions except for a reference region based on a relative relationship between an X-ray absorption index value of the reference imaging region and tube current values of the other imaging regions.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventors: Takahiro Goto, Naruomi Akino, Yoshinori Uebayashi, Hiroki Taguchi
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Patent number: 9949712Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the presence of pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the central nervous system (CNS) includes a digital computer, a speaker unit and a microphone unit. The digital computer is programmed with generally available software which is capable of generating a spectrum of sound and receiving microphone data. The software is able to receive microphone signals and represent resulting data in graphical form showing sound intensity in dB as a function of frequency in kHz. An operator places the speaker and the microphone on the subject's body so that sound travels through at least a portion of the CNS, runs the software, and collects the resulting sound propagation data. If the propagation of sound through the CNS is indicative of altered CSF or CNS, then a disease state is suspected.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Inventors: John William Millard, Curtis Lane Prichard
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Patent number: 9949713Abstract: A system for monitoring cleaning and sanitization efforts of care givers using stethoscopes including one or more sanitizing and cleaning stations capable of cleaning and sanitizing a head portion of a stethoscope presented thereto. The system includes an identification apparatus operably associated with each of a plurality of stethoscopes. The identification apparatus serves to identify a particular stethoscope and, thus, a particular care provider. An apparatus for detecting each time a particular stethoscope is presented to a sanitizing and cleaning station for effecting a cleaning and sanitization event forms part of the system. An analysis unit is operably connected to each identification apparatus and detecting apparatus and is configured for calculating the cleanliness and sanitization level of each stethoscope as a function of the number of cleaning and sanitization events detected by the detecting apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: CLEAN SCOPE, LLC.Inventors: Alvin J. Schonfeld, Ryan A. Schonfeld
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Patent number: 9949714Abstract: The disclosure provides a method, an electronic apparatus, and a computer readable medium of constructing a classifier for disease detection. The method includes the following steps. A codebook of representative features is constructed based on a plurality of disease-irrelevant data. Transfer-learned disease features are extracted from disease-relevant bio-signals according to the codebook without any medical domain knowledge, where both the disease-irrelevant data and the disease-relevant bio-signals are time-series data. Supervised learning is performed based on the transfer-learned disease features to train the classifier for disease detection.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: HTC CorporationInventors: Meng-Hsi Wu, Edward Chang
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Patent number: 9949715Abstract: Systems and method for ultrasound probe guidance are provided. One system includes a probe guide with a body having at least one engagement portion for coupling an ultrasound probe to the body. The system also includes at least one sensor configured to communicate with an ultrasound imaging system, wherein the at least one sensor coupled to the body and configured to determine at least one of a spatial position, an orientation, a probe head movement speed, a temperature, a scan speed of the body relative to an object being scanned, or a contact pressure relative to the body and the object being scanned.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventor: Xiaolei Shi
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Patent number: 9949716Abstract: An image processing method enables an elasticity image of a body including a cavity to be produced on the basis of the material(s) forming the body, wherein the method includes the steps of: receiving a deformation image illustrating a field of movement of the points of the body on the basis of a pressure difference in the body, estimating a shape function of the body from the deformation image, calculating an elasticity image of the body on the basis of the shape function, of the pressure difference and of the deformation image.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignees: Universite Joseph Fourier—Grenoble 1, Val-Chum, Limited PartnershipInventors: Jacques Ohayon, Flavien Deleaval, Guy Cloutier
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Patent number: 9949717Abstract: An ultrasound detector adapted for ultrasound detection with medical applications includes an optical waveguide, and at least one Bragg grating, created with a predetermined refractive index modulation amplitude in the optical waveguide, wherein the at least one Bragg grating includes a localized defect in periodicity so that a localized-light resonance portion is formed around the defect, and the localized-light resonance portion has spectral properties capable of being modulated in response to an ultrasound oscillation, wherein the optical waveguide is a non-amplifying optical medium, and the refractive index modulation amplitude is selected such that the localized-light resonance portion is concentrated at the defect in periodicity and the ultrasound oscillation can be sensed by the at least one Bragg grating with an acoustic sensitivity most of which being obtained over the localized-light resonance portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Helmholtz Zentrum München Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheitund Umwelt (GmbH)Inventors: Amir Rozental, Daniel Razansky, Vasilis Ntziachristos
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Patent number: 9949718Abstract: Methods and systems for controlling communication of data in an ultrasound system are provided. One method includes receiving ultrasound data from a plurality of channels of an ultrasound probe in an ultrasound system and digitally demodulating the received ultrasound data such that a data transfer rate of the digitally demodulated ultrasound data is lower than a data transfer rate of the received ultrasound data before digital demodulation. The method further includes processing the digitally demodulated ultrasound data, wherein the processing is performed using a processor of the ultrasound system.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2010Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Alexander Sokulin, Kjell Kristoffersen, Arcady Kempinski, Shabtay Eliad
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Patent number: 9949719Abstract: An ultrasound scan probe and support mechanism are provided for use in a multi-modality mammography imaging system, such as a combined tomosynthesis and ultrasound imaging system. In one embodiment, the ultrasound components may be positioned and configured so as not to interfere with the tomosynthesis imaging operation, such as to remain out of the X-ray beam path. Further, the ultrasound probe and associated components may be configured to as to move and scan the breast tissue under compression, such as under the compression provided by one or more paddles used in the tomosynthesis imaging operation.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Zhipeng Zhang, Cynthia Elizabeth Landberg Davis, Weston Blaine Griffin, Ying Mao
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Patent number: 9949720Abstract: Systems and methods for assisting the placement of a catheter within the body of a patient through the use of an ultrasound imaging system are disclosed. In particular, the systems and methods described herein enable a clinician to determine, prior to insertion of the medical device, how much of the device will be disposed within the vessel, thus enabling the clinician to choose a catheter with suitable length. In one embodiment, an ultrasound imaging system for assisting with placement of the medical device comprises a console, a probe for producing an image of a target location, and a processor. The processor provides to a user proximity information relating to the anticipated proximity of the medical device to the target location prior to insertion of the medical device. A display is included for depicting the image, target location depth, and the proximity information of the medical device to the target location.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2012Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.Inventors: Jeanette E. Southard, Jeremy B. Cox, Paul D. Morgan, Shayne Messerly
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Patent number: 9949721Abstract: Acoustic diodes, devices incorporating such diodes and methods of using such devices are disclosed. An acoustic diode may include a periodic acoustic grating and a uniform plate. The periodic acoustic grating may include a plurality of gratings. The uniform plate may foe separated from the periodic acoustic grating by a resonant cavity. The acoustic diode may be configured to have a first transmission efficiency for acoustic waves incident on the periodic acoustic grating that is greater than a second transmission efficiency for acoustic waves incident on the uniform plate. The acoustic waves may have a wavelength within a range of wavelengths. Devices incorporating the acoustic diode may include medical imaging devices, such as ultrasound devices, and noise reduction devices.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2013Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Nanjing UniversityInventors: Juan Tu, Bin Liang, Jianchun Cheng, Dong Zhang, Yong Li, Xiasheng Guo
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Patent number: 9949722Abstract: An ultrasound system and method that can include: a receive beamformer configured to receive signals from a transducer; a processor coupled to the receive beamformer, the processor configured to: analyze echo data reflected from a region of interest, the echo data elicited by a transmitted pulse sequence; using the echo data, determine a central tendency of a signal magnitude from regions of adherent microbubbles over time within the region of interest; determine a time series of the signal magnitude; using the time series, determine an initial signal magnitude parameter; obtain a saturated signal parameter and a residual signal parameter using the time series; and determine a relative indication of information indicative of the residual signal magnitude versus the saturated signal magnitude.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: University of Virginia Patent FoundationInventors: F. William Mauldin, Jr., Shiying Wang, John A. Hossack, Alexander L. Klibanov
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Patent number: 9949723Abstract: The medical imaging apparatus includes a storage unit configured to store a patient adaptive object model in which a statistical object model related to transformation of an object caused by a periodic movement is applied to characteristics of the object of a target patient; an image obtainer configured to acquire a first image of the target patient; and an image fuser configured to transform a second image of the target patient based on differences between a shape of the object extracted from the patient adaptive object model and a shape of the object displayed on the first image.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Young Taek Oh, Jung Woo Chang, Ja Yeon Jeong, Won-Chul Bang
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Patent number: 9949724Abstract: A specimen collection cup has a container. The container has a wall and a floor and is configured for receiving and retaining a specimen. A section of the wall is transparent. Further, the container has a tab coupled to an inside surface of the wall that creates a slot for receiving a test card having a reagent pad affixed thereto. The tab is coupled to the inside surface of the wall such that when the test card is inserted in the slot indicia on the test card is aligned with the transparent section.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc.Inventor: Larry Hartselle
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Patent number: 9949725Abstract: The present application is directed to an image-guided, vacuum assisted, percutaneous, coring, cable driven breast biopsy instrument which may be conveniently mounted to an x-ray machine wherein the biopsy instrument incorporates a rotation knob at the proximal end of the instrument to manually rotate the distal end of the probe, thus allowing the clinician to conveniently position the tissue port next to the tissue to be sampled.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Randy R. Stephens, William A. Garrison
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Patent number: 9949726Abstract: A method for conserving battery power in a biopsy apparatus having a battery, a motion detector, a timer circuit, a battery dwell circuit, and a biopsy driver assembly configured to mount a biopsy probe assembly, the biopsy driver assembly comprising an electrical assembly including at least one electrical drive configured for drivably engaging the biopsy probe assembly, the method including conserving the battery by turning off electrical power both to the timer circuit and to the electrical assembly after a predetermined time as determined by the timer circuit following a last detected physical movement of the biopsy driver assembly; and turning on electrical power from the battery to the timer circuit and to the electrical assembly when a physical movement of the biopsy driver assembly is detected.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Bard Peripheral Vscular, Inc.Inventors: Karsten Videbaek, Claus Reuber
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Patent number: 9949727Abstract: The present invention features an anti-rotation instrument system which could be used in all health professions including medical, dental, and any other specialties. The system includes an anti-rotation instrument device featuring a main handle, a first removable hand grip and a first instrumental tip. The first removable hand grip is attached to a first female screw cavity located on the main handle. One end of the instrumental tip passes through a channel located within first hand grip with an anti-rotation key located on the instrumental tip securely residing within a dent located on a distal end of the first removable hand grip having threading located on an end of the instrumental tip that is subsequently screwed into a first female screw cavity of the main handle such that the first hand grip is tightly sandwiched between the first instrumental tip and main body.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Inventor: Hung M. Thai
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Patent number: 9949728Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides a device for occluding an aperture in a body, for example, a patent foramen ovale (PFO), including a first side adapted to be disposed on one side of the septum and a second side adapted to be disposed on the opposite side of the septum. The device has an elongated, low-profile delivery configuration and a shortened, radially expanded deployment configuration. The first and second sides are adapted to occlude the aperture upon deployment of the device at its intended delivery location. The device also includes a radially expandable center portion. In some embodiments, the center portion includes a plurality of ribs provided by slits in device. The ribs expand radially when the device is deployed. The expandable center portion facilitates the positioning of the device in the aperture. The device can be secured in the deployed configuration using a catch system.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.Inventor: Ryan Cahill
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Patent number: 9949729Abstract: A medical device for keeping open of a wound during surgery is described. It comprises a surgical retractor, a mechanical retracting system a force element for automatically winding an elongate wire-like element to apply tension to the elongate wire-like element.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: MEDENVISIONInventors: Wouter Foulon, Bastiaan Winnelinckx, Kristoff Corten
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Patent number: 9949730Abstract: Embodiments of a circumferential retractor having an attached supporting, manipulating or positioning tool are described. The retractor optionally includes a sealing member associated with an external member of the retractor and an external support structure that may be used with the retractor and positioning tool as needed.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Applied Medical Resources CorporationInventors: Charles C. Hart, Boun Pravong, Kennii Pravongviengkham, Eduardo Bolanos, Tina Talwar, Tracy Breslin
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Patent number: 9949731Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed in which a distraction sleeve can be attached to a bone anchor assembly to lock or limit the polyaxial degree of freedom of the bone anchor assembly and facilitate true parallel distraction. In some embodiments, the distraction sleeve can lock polyaxial movement of the bone anchor assembly without directly engaging the shank of the bone anchor assembly, without directly engaging the exterior of the receiver member of the bone anchor assembly, and/or without requiring that a rod or closure mechanism be installed in the bone anchor assembly. The distraction sleeve can be preloaded onto the bone anchor assembly prior to inserting the bone anchor assembly using a selectively detachable driver, thereby providing simplified, streamlined insertion and facilitating use with protection and/or retraction sheaths. Countertorque tubes, torque wrenches, and other related instrumentation are also disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Medos International SàrlInventors: Seetal Erramilli, Grant Mellor, Frank Spratt
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Patent number: 9949732Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for repairing a meniscus includes a suture including a first anchor, a second anchor, and a flexible portion connecting the first anchor and the second anchor. The flexible portion includes a self-locking slide knot between the first anchor and the second anchor. The system also includes a needle having a longitudinal extending bore, an open end, and a slot adjacent the open distal end, the first anchor and the second anchor are positioned entirely within the bore and slot. The system further includes a pusher configured to be movable within the bore of the needle. The pusher is configured to discharge the first anchor and the second anchor individually and sequentially through the open distal end of the needle.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Ivy Sports Medicine, LLCInventors: Nadine Beverly Nelson, Stephen Vaughan Harris
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Patent number: 9949733Abstract: An all-suture suture anchor system includes an all-suture anchor, an inserter, and a specially designed drill. The drill is used to enlarge the hole and create a pocket under the bone surface from the pre-drilled hole. The created pocket is intended to accommodate the expansion of the anchor when deployed into the bone, generating a true mechanical interference under the bone surface. The anchor is loaded on the inserter and placed at full length vertically inside the drilled hole. While holding the inserter on top of the drilled hole, so that a feature on the inserter keeps the anchor to a desired depth below the bone surface, tension is applied to the suture limb that is connected to the bottom end of the anchor. This tensioning step causes the length of the anchor to contract vertically and the anchor is simultaneously expanded circumferentially to fill the pocket previously created by the drill.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Cayenne Medical, Inc.Inventors: Hoang P. Nguyen, Derek J. Harper, Kevin N. Baird
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Patent number: 9949734Abstract: Apparatus for attaching a first object to a second object, said apparatus comprising: a distal anchor comprising a generally cylindrical body, a distal end and a proximal end, wherein said distal end comprises an inclined distal end surface, and a vertical bore extending through said generally cylindrical body, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of said generally cylindrical body; a proximal anchor comprising a generally cylindrical body, a distal end and a proximal end, a top surface and a bottom surface, a first vertical bore extending through said generally cylindrical body from said top surface to said bottom surface, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the generally cylindrical body, a second vertical bore spaced distally from said first vertical bore and extending from said top surface to said bottom surface parallel to said first vertical bore, a third vertical bore spaced distally from said second vertical bore and extending from said top surface to said bottom surface parallel to said fiType: GrantFiled: August 18, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Suture Concepts Inc.Inventors: Peter Sorensen, Daniel Morgan, Bret A. Ferree, Christopher Runnells
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Patent number: 9949735Abstract: A medical device for installing sutures to close an incision in tissue or human skin is disclosed. The suturing device may provide first and second arcuate needles. Once properly positioned, the first and second arcuate needles are driven through the sub-dermal layer, or alternatively through a superficial surface, of two sections of skin to be joined. This is done in arcuate fashion and at identical and symmetrical rates of angular displacement. In so doing, the sections of skin are pushed toward one another thus assuring horizontal and vertical alignment of the two sections of skin. During the driving or retraction process of the first and second arcuate needles, a suture is positioned within both the first and second sections of skin and transformed from a planar or a multi-planar serpentine orientation to a helical orientation.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Surgimatix, Inc.Inventors: Jafar Syed Hasan, Wai Ngai Chin, Gary Michael Kobylewski
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Patent number: 9949736Abstract: Disclosed is an an apparatus for forming cogs on a surgical thread, comprising: a bobbin having a suture thread wound thereonto; first and second tension rolls for maintaining, at regular tensions, the suture thread unwound from the bobbin; a pair of friction rolls for drawing the suture thread and allowing the suture thread to pass through so as to be discharged through an outgoing side; a tension plate operating up and down, for temporarily fixing the suture thread being discharged through the outgoing side by the friction roll; and a cog-forming knife for forming cogs by rotating and simultaneously moving forward toward the suture thread fixed by the tension plate and also obliquely moving to the left or the right so as to make oblique cuts on the surface of the suture thread.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Inventor: Chun Dong Kim
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Patent number: 9949737Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a handle assembly, a surgical loading unit, and an adapter assembly coupled therebetween. The adapter assembly includes a housing, an elongated body, a switch assembly, and a switch actuator. The elongated body extends distally from the housing and is configured to be coupled to the surgical loading unit. The switch assembly is disposed within the housing and configured to communicate that the surgical loading unit is coupled to the elongated body. The switch assembly includes a substrate, a switch mounted on the substrate, and at least one wire coupled to the substrate. The switch actuator is movably disposed within the housing and configured to actuate the switch upon engagement of the surgical loading unit with the elongated body.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Earl Zergiebel, David Chowaniec, Ryan Williams, Anand Subramanian
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Patent number: 9949738Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for obtaining patent hemostasis of the radial artery by compressing the uninstrumented ulnar artery to increase radial artery flow. The device comprises a band having an inflatable bladder for applying blunt pressure to the ulnar artery. The method comprises applying a pressure to the homolateral ulnar artery and applying a pressure to the radial artery at the access site to obtain hemostasis at the access site. The method further comprises administering an anticoagulant to a patient at a dose ranging from about 20 units per kg of body weight to about 30 units per kg of body weight.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: VASOINNOVATIONS, INC.Inventor: Samir Bipin Pancholy
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Patent number: 9949739Abstract: A grip assembly for an embolic delivery device is described, where said grip assembly includes an integral wiping system utilizing one or more wipers. The grip assembly is constructed and arranged to allow an embolic delivery device to be inserted into the grip quickly and easily, without shifting undue attention away from the patient to the device. The wiper or wipers prevent any fluids or debris that may be present on a proximal end of the embolic delivery device from entering the interior of the grip assembly, thereby preserving a clean environment for making solid electrical connections between contacts in the grip assembly and corresponding contacts on the embolic delivery device.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: MicroVention, Inc.Inventors: Ross Tsukashima, Thomas Charles Sternweiler, Matthew J. Fitz
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Patent number: 9949740Abstract: A clip unit including: a clip main body having a first arm portion, a second arm portion, and a middle portion; a pressing tube formed in a tube shape to be capable of accommodating the clip main body, the pressing tube being provided to deform the clip main body so as to make a distal end of the first arm portion and a distal end of the second arm portion to approach to each other, as the middle portion, the first arm portion, and the second arm portion are moved toward a proximal end side of the clip unit; a locking portion configured to protrude from an inner circumferential surface of the pressing tube on the proximal end side of the pressing tube; and a first locked portion configured to protrude from a lateral surface of the first arm portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Motoi Satake, Kensuke Uesaka, Ko Kimura, Kazuya Sato, Atsushi Ban
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Patent number: 9949741Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 15, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Satoshi Wada, Shigeki Numata, Hiroshi Yagi
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Patent number: 9949742Abstract: The invention concerns an accessory for removing material, in particular a file (3) or a cutting block, for prosthesis implantation surgery, in particular for hip or knee prostheses. The invention is characterised in that it comprises at least partly one plastic part and at least one insert (4, 10, 5) made of a material harder than the bone material, in particular of metal, which is fixed to the plastic material such that if the device is brought to a temperature Ti, the insert is separated from the plastic material.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Inventor: Jean-Francois Biegun
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Patent number: 9949743Abstract: An orthopedic jig and pins therefore are disclosed that allow the pins to be pre-loaded into apertures through the jig before the jig is positioned at a desired location with respect to a bone during an orthopedic surgical procedure. At least one of the pin and/or jig includes a retention mechanism whereby the pin can be inserted into the bore and releasably restrained therein until the jig is place is the selected position and the pins driven into the bone.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: STRYKER EUROPEAN HOLDINGS I, LLCInventors: Matt Brandt, Amir Sarvestani
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Patent number: 9949744Abstract: An implant comprises an elongated plate having a first major face and at least one locking screw hole, to receive a locking fastener oriented normal to the major face. The elongated plate has a wall with a flat surface normal to the first major face. A non-locking screw hole is located between the locking screw hole and the wall. The non-locking screw hole is configured to receive a non-locking fastener oriented at an acute angle relative to the locking fastener.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2013Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Wright Medical Technology, Inc.Inventor: Daniel McCormick
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Patent number: 9949745Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are generally provided for guiding surgical devices into a desired location and orientation in a bone. In general, the devices can include an elongate guide, a sleeve having an inner lumen therethrough for seating the guide, and a locking mechanism configured to lock a position of the guide with respect to the sleeve. The guide can have a distal, bone-engaging portion that can be laterally offset from an intermediate portion of the guide by a predetermined distance and that can extend distally beyond the sleeve to contact a bony structure. The guide can thus orient and stabilize the sleeve at the predetermined distance from the bony structure to provide for the delivery of one or more surgical devices through the sleeve and into the bone at a desired location and orientation, without requiring a surgeon to actually view the surgical site.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: MEDOS INTERNATIONAL SARLInventors: Nicolas Bouduban, Patrick Burki
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Patent number: 9949746Abstract: An instrument system, associated milling or drilling guide and method include use of a trial implant of a size corresponding to an actual implant for the intervertebral space, with a milling guide mounted on the trial implant. The system also includes a cutting tool which is used to form a cutout in an adjacent vertebra.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: CENTINEL SPINE LLCInventors: Rudolf Bertagnoli, Daniel B. Murrey, John P. Furda, Marc Reichen, David Gerber
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Patent number: 9949747Abstract: A system includes a cartridge having an elongate body extending from a first end to a second end and having a top side and a bottom side. The cartridge defines a first hole adjacent to the first end that extends through the cartridge from the bottom side to the top side. The top side of the cartridge defines a pair of parallel slots that extend perpendicular with respect to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Each slot of the pair of parallel slots is equidistant from a central axis defined by the first hole.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Microport Orthopedics Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Paul Stemniski, Sarah Lancianese, Richard Obert
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Patent number: 9949748Abstract: A tissue retrieval system can contain and withdraw excised tissue specimens from within a body cavity. The tissue retrieval system can include a tissue retrieval bag, a foldable actuator, and an introducer. The foldable actuator can be foldable between an insertion configuration for placement through an access device without the aid of a grasper or applicator, and a deployed configuration for supporting the tissue retrieval bag in an open state. The actuator can have a foldable handle to facilitate withdrawal from the body cavity. After insertion of the tissue specimens into the retrieval bag, the retrieval bag is then cinched closed to prevent spillage of its contents and to prevent contamination of the body cavity and body cavity wall during withdrawal of the retrieval bag from within the body cavity.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2015Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Applied Medical Resources CorporationInventors: Scott V. Taylor, Henry Kahle
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Patent number: 9949749Abstract: A method for capturing an object in a cavity in a patient is described. The method includes advancing a ureteroscope into the cavity containing the object. A basket is advanced through a working channel of the ureteroscope. The basket is opened within the cavity and is positioned so as to enclose the object. Then, two actions are performed simultaneously. The basket is collapsed while simultaneously the basket tool is advanced forward so that the object remains within the basket, ideally near the center of the basket, as the basket closes around the object. Once the object is captured, the basket is retracted to remove the object out of the cavity. Further, this process may be automated by having the method carried out by robotic arms acting in tandem, with one or more robotic arms advancing the basket tool or ureteroscope, and another robotic arm collapsing the basket.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Auris Surgical Robotics, Inc.Inventors: David P. Noonan, Joseph A. Urban, Jr., Varun Agrawal
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Patent number: 9949750Abstract: Medical devices and methods for using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a tubular member having a lumen defined therein and a proximal end. A shaft may extend through the lumen. The shaft may have a distal end and a proximal end. An end effector may be attached to the distal end of the shaft. A handle may be coupled to the proximal end of the tubular member. The handle may include a base, a first hub member attached to the base, a second hub member coupled to the first hub member, and a cap attached to the second hub member.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventors: Man M. Nguyen, Gary S. Kappel, Gerald R. Heller, Lawrence E. Stanton
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Patent number: 9949751Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument has a shaft and a probe head, the shaft and the probe head have a lumen or channel and a longitudinal axis and the probe head having a distal end face. The probe head has at least one operative surface engageable with organic tissues for the application of ultrasonic vibratory energy to the tissues. The end face is oriented at least partially transversely to the axis. The lumen or channel has a first outlet opening in the end face and at least one second outlet opening in a lateral surface of either the shaft or the probe head at a position spaced from the end face. The probe head has a plurality of teeth extending laterally from the end face, in two rows on opposing side of the end face.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2014Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: MISONIX, INC.Inventor: Dan Voic
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Patent number: 9949752Abstract: The present application pertains generally to medical systems and methods for creation of an autologous tissue valves within a mammalian body. In some embodiments, a system for creating an endoluminal valve from a blood vessel wall is provided. The system includes a tubular assembly having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, a distal portion with a distal end, and a first lumen extending from the proximal end to a distal port located proximate the distal portion. The distal portion can have a supporting surface that extends in a longitudinal direction and is offset from a surface of the tubular assembly proximal the distal port. The system can further include a tissue dissection probe disposed within the first lumen.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2016Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventors: Fletcher T. Wilson, Rhunjay James Yu