Patents Issued in June 21, 2018
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Publication number: 20180168541Abstract: An ultrasound endoscope includes: an insertion portion; an ultrasound functional unit including an ultrasound transducer; an endoscope functional unit that at least includes an imaging optical system; and a balloon locking portion configured to connect the ultrasound functional unit and the endoscope functional unit, the balloon locking portion having a groove shape that can lock a balloon. A first plane passes, in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the insertion portion, through a first end portion of the ultrasound transducer near the endoscope functional unit, the first plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion, and the first plane is positioned closer to a proximal end than a second plane passing through a second end portion of the balloon locking portion near the ultrasound functional unit, the second plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the insertion portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventor: Toshihiro KITAHARA
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Publication number: 20180168542Abstract: An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes: a two-dimensional (2D) array ultrasound probe configured to emit focused beams onto a plurality of focusing points and detect echo signals; and a processor configured to determine the plurality of focusing points on a cross-section of interest and acquire shear wave elasticity data with respect to the cross-section of interest based on the detected echo signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: SAMSUNG MEDISON CO., LTD.Inventors: Gil-ju JIN, Deok-gon KIM, Sun-mo YANG, Hyoung-ki LEE
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Publication number: 20180168543Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for fast volume contrast imaging in C-plane (VCI-C) and Omniview acquisition.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Stefan Denk, Harald Deischinger
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Publication number: 20180168544Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for coupling a flexible transducer to an object are described. A transducer positioning device may include an inflatable bladder and a strap. The inflatable bladder may apply a force to a transducer array to maintain its position against the object when inflated. The strap may hold the bladder against the transducer array. Once in place, the bladder may be inflated with a fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventor: RICHARD EDWARD DAVIDSEN
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Publication number: 20180168545Abstract: A yoke for use with infrasonic sensing elements, where the yoke is Y shaped, flexible, and assists in positioning, on a human subject, the sensing elements appropriately on the carotid arteries and on the heart.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: CVR GLOBAL INC.Inventors: Bret KLINE, Peter BAKEMA
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Publication number: 20180168546Abstract: An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes: an ultrasound probe; an imaging unit that transmits and receives an ultrasound beam to and from a subject using the ultrasound probe and converts a received signal output from the ultrasound probe into an image to generate an ultrasound image of the subject for each frame; a part determination unit that determines an imaging part of the subject using the ultrasound image generated by the imaging unit; a probe state determination unit that determines whether the ultrasound probe is in an aerial emission state or a contact state with the subject; and an apparatus control unit that controls the part determination unit such that part determination is not performed in a case in which the probe state determination unit determines that the ultrasound probe is in the aerial emission state and the part determination is performed in a case in which the probe state determination unit determines that the ultrasound probe has been changed from the aerial emission state to the cType: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Tetsurou EBATA
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Publication number: 20180168547Abstract: A swivel device includes a base, a first gear fixed to the base, a tray configured to relatively rotate with respect to the base, a second gear fixed to the tray and engaged with the first gear so as to rotate together with the tray wherein the second gear has a smaller diameter than the first gear, a stopper wheel coaxially fixed to the second gear, and a stopper configured to stop rotation of the stopper wheel to fix a position of the tray.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: NamHoon Kim, SeungHoon Kim
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Publication number: 20180168548Abstract: Exemplary embodiments provide systems and methods for portable medical ultrasound imaging. Preferred embodiments utilize a tablet touchscreen display operative to control imaging and display operations without the need for using traditional keyboards or controls. Certain embodiments provide ultrasound imaging system in which the scan head includes a beamformer circuit that performs far field sub array beamfonning or includes a sparse array selecting circuit that actuates selected elements. Exemplary embodiments also provide an ultrasound engine circuit board including one or more multi-chip modules, and a portable medical ultrasound imaging system including an ultrasound engine circuit board with one or more multi-chip modules. Exemplary embodiments also provide methods for using a hierarchical two-stage or three-stage beamforming system, three dimensional ultrasound images which can be generated in real-time.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Alice M. Chiang, William M. Wong, Noah Berger
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Publication number: 20180168549Abstract: An illustrative device for creating images based on ultrasonic pulses comprises an ultrasonic transducer configured to transmit and receive ultrasonic pulses; and a mirror comprising at least two facets configured to reflect the ultrasonic pulses, wherein the mirror is configured to rotate. The ultrasonic transducer and the mirror are positioned in a probe head. A first facet of the mirror reflects the ultrasonic pulses from the ultrasonic transducer during a first range of rotation of the mirror and a second facet of the mirror reflects the ultrasonic pulses from the ultrasonic transducer during a second range of rotation of the mirror.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventor: Trygve Burchardt
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Publication number: 20180168550Abstract: It is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide an ultrasound imaging apparatus capable of recommending a probe adequate for an organ of a patient to be diagnosed to allow a user to replace an existing probe to efficiently and precisely diagnose the patient and a method of controlling the same. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, an ultrasound imaging apparatus comprising: a first ultrasound probe configured to obtain an ultrasonic image of an object by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals; a second ultrasound probe of a different type from the first ultrasound probe; a display portion configured to display an ultrasonic image obtained by at least one of the first ultrasound probe and the second ultrasound probe; and a controller configured to derive information of the object based on an ultrasonic image obtained by the first ultrasound probe and guide replacing the first ultrasound probe with the second ultrasound probe based on the information of the object.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Won Ik HEO, Eun Ho YANG, Ae Ri YOUN, Jin JEON
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Publication number: 20180168551Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system is operated to acquire an ultrasound image of a region of the body containing suspect anatomy such as a suspected lesion. A body marker template (104, 106) of the region of the body is displayed on a touchscreen display of the imaging system. The operator records the location of the suspect anatomy by touching a corresponding point on the body marker template displayed on the touchscreen display. The mark (120 a, 120 b) on the template can be finely adjusted by one or more controls on the imaging system control panel. The body marker template can also record a graphic indicating (120 c) the orientation of the ultrasound probe relative to the body when the suspect anatomy was imaged. A report generator produces a report containing both the ultrasound image of the suspect anatomy and the body marker template with the indicated location of the suspect anatomy.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Patty Jackson, Cedric Chenal
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Publication number: 20180168552Abstract: A medium of interest is interrogated according to ultrasound elastography imaging. A preliminary elasticity-spatial-map is formed. This map is calibrated against a reference elasticity-spatial-map that comprises an array (232) of different (240) elasticity values. The reference map is formed to be reflective of ultrasonic shear wave imaging of a reference medium. The reference medium is not, nor located at, the medium of interest, and may be homogeneous. Shear waves that are propagating in a medium are tracked by interrogating the medium. From tracking locations on opposite sides of an ablated-tissue border, propagation delay of a shear wave in the medium and of another shear wave are measured. The two shear waves result from respectively different pushes (128) that are separately issued. A processor decides, based on a function of the two delays, that the border crosses between the two locations.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: William SHI, Ajay ANAND, Sheng-Wen HUANG, Shriram SETHURAMAN, Hua XIE
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Publication number: 20180168553Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a transmission beam former and a transmitting circuit. The transmission beam former generates a transmission pulse. The transmitting circuit supplies an ultrasound transducer with the transmission pulse received from the transmission beam former as a drive signal. The supply of a clock necessary for the generation of the transmission pulse is stopped during a substantial reception period of echo signals from the ultrasound transducer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: Toshiba Medical Systems CorporationInventor: Teruki HAGIHARA
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Publication number: 20180168554Abstract: The present invention relates to an adaptive medical image transmission device and method which consider communication state and residual power. The adaptive medical image transmission method induces an image receiving device to post-process a result of medical image processing performed by a medical image transmission device by: receiving medical image data by means of a probe; sensing communication throughput indicative of a communication state between the image transmission device and the image receiving device; variably determining a data rate required to transmit data on the basis of a preset data rate based on the sensed communication throughput; performing medical image processing by selecting a signal path which satisfies the determined data rate with respect to the medical image data; and transmitting the result of the medical image processing to the image receiving device according to the determined data rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2015Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: SOGANG UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATIONInventors: Tai-Kyong SONG, Woo Kyu KONG, Sun Mi YEO, Gi-Duck KIM, Jaejin LEE, Jeeun KANG, Hong Ho PARK, Yeongnam LEE
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Publication number: 20180168555Abstract: A multi-synchronization power supply and an ultrasound system with the same are disclosed. The multi-synchronization power supply includes a microprocessor configured to receive frequency information indicative of a plurality of frequencies and to output a control signal based on the frequency information; a clock signal generating unit configured to receive a reference synchronization clock signal and to generate a plurality of synchronization clock signals corresponding to the plurality of frequencies by frequency-dividing the reference synchronization clock signal based on the control signal; and a plurality of DC-DC converters configured to receive the plurality of synchronization clock signals and a reference DC voltage, and to generate a plurality of DC voltages from the reference DC voltage based on the plurality of synchronization clock signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: SeogMin Kim, HanSang Ji
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Publication number: 20180168556Abstract: We disclose a device and method for collecting a urine sample as a user urinates into a toilet. The device further conducts analytical measurements which may include spectral, colorimetric, and chemical assays. The user need only urinate normally into the toilet. A urine collection trap, which includes a vertical slit, may capture a urine sample which has a volume in the microliter range. Pumps may divert the urine from the vertical slit into a conduit that is connected to spectral analysis devices and other devices for analyzing the urine sample. The disclosed device is both convenient and prevents unsanitary urine spills.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: David R. Hall, Dan Allen, Jared Reynolds, Joshua Larsen, Terrece Pearman
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Publication number: 20180168557Abstract: A specimen collection container having a separation chamber includes a first chamber, a second chamber, and a valve located between the first chamber and the second chamber. In an open position, the valve permits fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber. In a closed position, the valve maintains fluid isolation between the first chamber and the second chamber. A fluid stream passes from the first chamber to the second chamber through the valve permitting a predetermined volume of fluid to pass from the first chamber to the second chamber. When the predetermined volume of fluid passes to the second chamber, the valve transitions from the open position to the closed position so that additional fluid of the fluid stream received by the first chamber is maintained in the first chamber in fluid isolation from the predetermined volume of fluid contained in the second chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Robert G. Ellis, Keith A. Moskowitz, Craig A. Gelfand, Raymond T. Wasek, Bradley M. Wilkinson, Jean-Bernard Alla, Kenneth Louis Lee
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Publication number: 20180168558Abstract: Present invention solved the problem of complications occurred during transrectal prostate biopsy, mostly infectious and bleeding complications. Thus, the prostate biopsy needle according to the invention comprising a cannula (1), a pointed stylet (2), which is mounted slidably in the cannula (1), handles (3a, 3b) for the biopsy gun, which are located on the back side of the needle. An inner surface (4) of the cannula (1) and/or an outer surface (5) of the cannula (1) and/or a surface of the stylet (2) is coated with at least one active layer (6) comprising a biologically active agent, wherein the active layer (6) preferably forms a biodegradable structure enabling controlled release of the biologically active agent.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: DEBN SP.ZO.O.Inventors: Marcin Sieczkowshi, Artur Gibas, Marcin Matuszewski
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Publication number: 20180168559Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide for a system that can be used to improve a cancer related clinical workflow compared to the current cancer related clinical workflow. This object is achieved by an image guided system configured for supporting a combined biopsy and treatment procedure using image guidance to bring a needle from a defined location to a predetermined end location in a subject of interest. The image guidance system comprises a medical imaging system (580) configured for acquisition of medical images of a region of interest (403) in the subject of interest, wherein the medical images are used to determine a current position of the predetermined end location (404). The image guidance system further comprises needle guidance system (402, 403) configured for defining a needle position in space and thereby defining the defined location (405, 406) and configured for guiding a biopsy and treatment needle into the region of interest.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Guillaume Leopold Theodorus Frederik HAUTVAST, Jacek Lukasz KUSTRA
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Publication number: 20180168560Abstract: A biopsy device includes a cutting cannula mechanism having a cutting cannula and an inner stylet mechanism having an inner stylet coaxial with the cutting cannula. A cocking mechanism is configured to cock the cutting cannula mechanism and the inner stylet mechanism by retracting each of the cutting cannula and the inner stylet in a proximal direction to a cocked position. A trigger device is configured to fire at least one of the inner stylet mechanism and the cutting cannula mechanism to advance a respective at least one of the inner stylet and the cutting cannula from the cocked position in a distal direction. A selector assembly includes a selector switch having an exterior tab accessible by a user. The selector assembly is configured to select between at least two user selectable operating modes and at least two user selectable firing distances.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventor: Martin Victor Shabaz
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Publication number: 20180168561Abstract: A surgical instrument can be introduced to the abdominal cavity through a current trocar puncture to place a suture in the deep facia and peritoneum of the anterior abdominal wall. The instrument is lightweight and easy to use, and can be operated quickly and efficiently to close the trocar puncture wound in a simple and economical manner. The instrument is used to suture the deep facia and peritoneum of the anterior abdominal wall on opposite sides of the trocar puncture wound inside the abdomen to close the trocar puncture wound.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: University of Missouri-ColumbiaInventors: Roger de la Torre, Jaya Ghosh, Ellie Koehly, Yaw Sarpong
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Publication number: 20180168562Abstract: A sealant is provided for sealing a puncture through tissue that comprises an elongate first section including a proximal end, a distal end, and a cross-section sized for delivery into a puncture through tissue, and a second section extending from the distal end of the first section. The first section may be formed from a freeze-dried hydrogel that expands when exposed to physiological fluid within a puncture. The first section comprises chitosan and at least one additional polymer. The second section may be formed from a solid mass of non-freeze-dried, non-cross-linked hydrogel precursors. The precursors are in an unreactive state until exposed to an aqueous physiological environment, whereupon the precursors undergo in-situ crosslinking with one another to provide an adhesive layer bonded to the first section. The second section may further comprise chitosan. Apparatus and methods for delivering the sealant into a puncture through tissue are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: ACCESS CLOSURE, INC.Inventors: ANDREAS MYLONAKIS, FLORENCIA LIM
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Publication number: 20180168563Abstract: A sealant is provided for sealing a puncture through tissue that comprises an elongate first section including a proximal end, a distal end, and a cross-section sized for delivery into a puncture through tissue, and a second section extending from the distal end of the first section. The first section may be formed from a freeze-dried hydrogel that expands when exposed to physiological fluid within a puncture. The first section comprises chitosan and at least one additional polymer. The second section may be formed from a solid mass of non-freeze-dried, non-cross-linked hydrogel precursors. The precursors are in an unreactive state until exposed to an aqueous physiological environment, whereupon the precursors undergo in-situ crosslinking with one another to provide an adhesive layer bonded to the first section. The second section may further comprise chitosan. Apparatus and methods for delivering the sealant into a puncture through tissue are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: ACCESS CLOSURE, INC.Inventors: ANDREAS MYLONAKIS, FLORENCIA LIM
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Publication number: 20180168564Abstract: A neuromodulation therapy is delivered via at least one electrode implanted subcutaneously and superficially to a fascia layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. In one example, an implantable medical device is deployed along a superficial surface of a deep fascia tissue layer superficial to a nerve of a patient. Electrical stimulation energy is delivered to the nerve through the deep fascia tissue layer via implantable medical device electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Brad C. Tischendorf, Eric H. Bonde, Phillip C. Falkner, John E. Kast, Randy S. Roles, Erik R. Scott, Todd V. Smith, Xuan K. Wei, Anthony M. Chasensky, Michael J. Ebert, Shawn C. Kelley, Gabriela C. Molnar, Richard T. Stone
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Publication number: 20180168565Abstract: An assembly for remotely manipulating a patient's spine. A compressor/distractor mechanism attaches to spinal anatomy or vertebral screws on adjacent vertebrae at a spinal surgical site on a patient's spine. A flexible cable is operatively connected to the compressor/distractor mechanism and to a control mechanism. The control mechanism manipulates the flexible cable, controlling the compressor/distractor mechanism to compress or distract the vertebrae. A rotatable surgical table with a remote control can be used in place of the compressor/distractor mechanism and the control mechanism. The rotatable surgical table can rotate the patient to place the spinal surgical site in a desired compressed or distracted position, and to place the patient in a desired orientation with respect to a horizontal reference plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Keith E. Miller, Richard Quinn Brown
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Publication number: 20180168566Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly is provided that can assume both open and closed positions, and is easily convertible from one position to the other. The retractor assembly involves an arcuate frame member that can be engaged to an arcuate connector, which together form a generally circular or elliptical retractor frame assembly. The frame member has a groove for the insertion of one or more mobile carriages that hold retractor blade posts and allow the posts to move in multiple directions. The carriages may be locked to prevent movement in one or more directions, as well.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Casey O'CONNELL, James Coleman LEE, Joel KOHN, David BANKS
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Publication number: 20180168567Abstract: The present invention relates to a suture which is firmly maintained and fixed to an operation site to stably sustain suturing or lifting effects for a long time. More specifically, the present invention provides a suture having a conic or pyramidal shape with a cut top, wherein a suture supporter comprising a communication hole penetrating the both ends is provided at one end. The suture support can have one or more portions which are cut vertically from a lower end at a lower end portion having a larger diameter between the both ends, or a part of the lower end can be removed so as to form one or more gaps formed from the end at a wall of the end portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: Y.JACOBS MEDICAL INC.Inventor: Young Jae KIM
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Publication number: 20180168568Abstract: A combination needle holder, scissors, and smooth clamp instrument is disclosed. The instrument includes a first handle pivotally joined to a second handle defining opposite jaws at the distal end to form a gripping section and surface and at the rear of each jaw surfaces is a semicircular groove forming a circular groove when the handles are pivotally closed. The medical instrument has blades protruding out from each handle, situated at rear of the semi circular groove, and protruding from each handle in opposite direction. Adjacent to each protruding blade, situated in each handle, is a recessed groove which extends into the handle of the medical instrument and comprises the area to house and protect the opposite blade. Each handle of the present invention has a smooth surface rear of the blade and adjacent recessed groove, located on each handle, to form a smooth clamp when the handles are pivotally closed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Angela Signorelli Ali, Karim Nizar Ali
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Publication number: 20180168569Abstract: A suturing device uses an inflatable balloon coupled to multiple arms and needles to place sutures at appropriate positions. In preferred embodiments the suturing device includes an elongated body having a working end, a controlling end, and a lumen. The elongated body is coupled to an arm having a distal end with a needle target, which is used to place a suture in an appropriate position relative to the aperture. An inflatable balloon is positioned in an area enclosed by the arm, such that inflating the balloon physically moves a needle towards the needle target.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2017Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Anthony Nobles, Amelie Schisler
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Publication number: 20180168570Abstract: A suture body includes: a suture thread having a first end and a second end and fixed to a living tissue; a suture needle connected to the first end; and a thread fixing member connected to the second end. The thread fixing member includes: a rod-shaped protruding portion; and an elastic member having an outer circumferential surface and arranged so that the thread fixing member is in contact with the outer circumferential surface at a predetermined contact pressure. The suture body is configured so that the suture thread can enter between the protruding portion and the elastic member by elastically deforming the elastic member. The suture body further includes a base body to which the protruding portion and the elastic member are fixed. The protruding portion and the elastic member are arranged in an area surrounded by an outer diameter of the base body.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Kosuke MOTAI, Tetsuyuki SAKAMOTO
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Publication number: 20180168571Abstract: A suture member includes: a suture needle of which a distal end is sharp; a suture thread which includes a first end portion and a second end portion, of which the first end portion is connected to the suture needle, and which sutures the tissue; a first loop portion which has a ring shape, through which the suture needle is capable of passing, and which is connected to the second end portion; and a second loop portion which has a ring shape, through which the suture needle is capable of passing, which is connected to the second end portion, and which is provided to separate from the first loop.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventor: Kosuke MOTAI
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Publication number: 20180168572Abstract: A cartridge of a surgical instrument includes a housing, a lead screw mounted for rotation in the housing, a drive member operatively coupled with the lead screw, and a knife member. The knife member is driven distally by the drive member and is configured to cut when moved distally. During an initial distal movement of the drive member, the knife member is coupled with the housing to restrain the knife member from moving distally. Subsequent to the initial distal movement of the drive member, the drive member drives the knife member toward the distal end.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.Inventor: William Burbank
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Publication number: 20180168573Abstract: Systems, devices and methods to improve safety and efficiency in an operating room comprise providing a suture package that holds new suture needles and needle receptacles for storing used needles. The devices can be safely worn for the surgeon to self-dispense new suture needles in the near surgical field and to secure the used needles into a needle trap or a needle retainer located on his extremity, on his operative instruments or on the surgical drapes. The device may provide automated and/or simplified needle counting both during use and after removal from the surgical field. The device may be configured for ergonomic and efficient use so as to minimize the actions and motions of the surgeon to dispense and secure the needle.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Josef E. GOREK, Kenneth B. TRAUNER, Douglas G. RIMER
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Publication number: 20180168574Abstract: Convertible surgical tissue staplers and applications thereof, having small sizes and high suitability for introduction and delivery through small surgical incisions or cuts, natural orifices, or laparoscopic ports, followed by deployment to full operational configurations. Convertible surgical tissue stapler may be a linear tissue stapler such as endo cutter stapler. Linear tissue stapler includes: elongated body having longitudinal axis; and stapling head, including first and second members, at least one with rows of tissue fasteners. Convertible from delivery configuration, whereby members are consecutively arranged lengthwise, with overall diameter smaller than minimal inner diameter, to deployment configuration, whereby members are juxtapositionally arranged, with overall diameter equal to or greater than minimal inner diameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2015Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Simon ROBINSON, Inbal LOITNER, Yehuda BACHAR, Ronny WINSHTEIN
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Publication number: 20180168575Abstract: A method is disclosed. The method can comprise obtaining a first staple cartridge and obtaining a second staple cartridge, wherein the first staple cartridge and the second staple cartridge comprise the same length and the same width. The method can further comprise inserting the first staple cartridge into a channel comprising a keyed profile, wherein complete insertion of the first staple cartridge into the channel is prevented by the keyed profile. Additionally, the method can comprise inserting the second staple cartridge into the channel, wherein complete insertion of the second staple cartridge into the channel is permitted by the keyed profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Robert J. Simms, Jason L. Harris, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Nichole Y. Kwee
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Publication number: 20180168576Abstract: A surgical end effector including a first jaw that is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge therein and a second jaw that is movably supported relative to the first jaw between open and closed positions. A firing member is supported for axial movement within the first jaw along a shaft axis between a starting position and an ending position. A firing member lockout system is movable between an unlocked position wherein the firing member lockout system is out of engagement with the firing member and a locked position wherein the firing member lockout system is configured to prevent the firing member from being distally advanced from the starting position unless an unfired staple cartridge comprising a cam assembly that is located in an unfired position is supported within the first jaw. The firing member lockout system is configured to be moved from the unlocked position to the locked position when the second jaw is moved to the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Morgan R. Hunter, Taylor W. Aronhalt, Austin E. Wise, James A. Vandewalle, Darwin L. Schultz, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Robert L. Koch, JR., Mark D. Overmyer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris
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Publication number: 20180168577Abstract: A surgical tool assembly. The tool assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw that is movably supported on the first jaw for selective movement relative to the first jaw between an open position and a closed position. The tool assembly further includes a shaft assembly that defines a shaft axis. The shaft assembly includes an axially movable closure member that is configured to apply an initial closure motion to a cam surface on the second jaw in a first closure direction that is normal to the cam surface and an additional closure motion to the cam surface in a second closure direction that is parallel to the shaft axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Taylor W. Aronhalt, Douglas B. Hoffman, Austin E. Wise, James A. Vandewalle, Adam D. Hensel, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris
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Publication number: 20180168578Abstract: A surgical tool assembly that includes an axially movable closure member and an axially movable firing member that is movable between an unfired position and a fired position. The tool assembly includes a second jaw that has a mounting portion and mounting walls that are movably mounted to a first jaw. The mounting portion defines a cam area that is configured for engagement by the movable closure member to move the second jaw from an open position to a closed position. The mounting walls define an open-topped parking area for accommodating the firing member therein when in the unfired position. A protective cap member is attached to the mounting walls such that it covers at least a portion of the open topped parking area.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Taylor W. Aronhalt, Douglas B. Hoffman, Austin E. Wise, Morgan R. Hunter, Lauren S. Weaner, Adam D. Hensel, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Publication number: 20180168579Abstract: A surgical tool assembly that includes first and second jaws. The second jaw includes a second jaw body portion and a second jaw mounting portion that is movably coupled to the first jaw. A closure member that has at least one opening cam formed thereon is axially movable in response to closing and opening motions. The opening cam is configured to movably engage a corresponding cam surface that is formed on the second jaw body portion to move the second jaw to an open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Taylor W. Aronhalt, Douglas B. Hoffman, Darwin L. Schultz, Austin E. Wise, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris
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Publication number: 20180168580Abstract: A surgical tool assembly that includes a elongate shaft assembly that defines a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is movably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly by a distal support link that is pivotally coupled to the surgical end effector to define an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. The distal support link is pivotally and axially movably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly to facilitate selective articulation of the surgical end effector relative to the elongate shaft assembly about the articulation axis between a first unarticulated position and articulation position located on one side of the shaft axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Morgan R. Hunter, Austin E. Wise, Darwin L. Schultz, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Publication number: 20180168581Abstract: A surgical instrument that includes a surgical end effector that is articulatable relative to an elongate shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The second jaw is movable between an open position and closed positions when a closure member is moved in a closing direction. An articulation lock is configured to move from a locked configuration wherein the end effector is prevented from articulating and an unlocked configuration wherein the end effector is articulatable. The articulation lock is configured to move from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration when the closure member is moved from the open position in the closing direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Morgan R. Hunter, Austin E. Wise, Douglas B. Hoffman, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Publication number: 20180168582Abstract: A surgical instrument that includes an elongate shaft that has an end effector coupled thereto for selective articulation relative to the shaft. At least one articulation link operably interfaces with a source of articulation motions and is coupled to the end effector for applying articulation motions thereto. An articulation lock member corresponds to each articulation link and is configured to laterally move into locking engagement with the corresponding articulation link from an unlocked position that is laterally adjacent to the corresponding articulation link. An actuation system operably interfaces with each of the articulation lock members to selectively laterally move each articulation lock member from the unlocked position into locking engagement with the corresponding articulation link.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Mark D. Overmyer
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Publication number: 20180168583Abstract: A surgical tool assembly that includes an elongate shaft that has an end effector coupled thereto for selective articulation relative to the shaft. A first articulation link operably interfaces with a source of articulation motions configured to selectively axially move the first articulation link a first axial distance in a first articulation direction. A second articulation link operably interfaces with the surgical end effector to apply articulation motions thereto. An articulation stroke multiplier operably interfaces with the first articulation link and the second articulation link such that when the first articulation link is axially moved the first axial distance in the first axial direction, the articulation stroke multiplier moves the second articulation link another first axial distance in the first axial direction that is greater than the first axial distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Morgan R. Hunter, Austin E. Wise, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
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Publication number: 20180168584Abstract: An anvil for a surgical end effector is disclosed. The anvil can include a staple-forming surface, wherein pockets are defined in the staple-forming surface. The pockets can be aligned with staples in a staple cartridge. Moreover, the pockets can define a perimeter in the staple-forming surface, and the perimeter of at least one pocket can be nested with the perimeter of at least one other adjacent pocket. For example, an extended landing zone of a first pocket can extend into a receiving peninsula of a second, adjacent pocket.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Jason L. Harris, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gregory J. Bakos, Janna B. Volz, Mark S. Zeiner
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Publication number: 20180168585Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a staple cartridge that defines a stepped deck. The surgical instrument further includes a staple comprised of seamless unitary structure. The staple is configured to be formed and/or stamped from a sheet of material. The staple includes a base and staple legs. A staple drive surface is integrally formed in the base, and a sled is configured to directly contact the staple drive surface to directly drive the staple.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Gregory J. Bakos
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Publication number: 20180168586Abstract: A staple cartridge assembly includes staple pockets, staples deployable from the staple pockets into tissue, and staple drivers movable from a starting position to deploy the staples into the tissue. The staple drivers comprise deformable retention features configured to maintain the staple drivers at the starting positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Jerome R. Morgan
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Publication number: 20180168587Abstract: The present utility model provides a cartridge assembly comprising a cartridge having a plurality of staple-containing slots for containing surgical staplers; a stapler driver with a plurality of tips for driving the surgical staplers; and a casing for housing the stapler driver, wherein the casing is provided with openings for delivering a medium in its side area corresponding to the plurality of tips.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Applicant: Ethicon LLCInventors: Siliang Chen, Venkataramanan Mandakolathur Vasudevan
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Publication number: 20180168588Abstract: Interlock assemblies for attaching a loading unit to a surgical stapling instrument are provided. The interlock assemblies are formed on a proximal end of a shell member and on a distal end of an adapter assembly. The interlock assemblies may include a collar member for selectively securing the shell member to the adapter assembly. The collar member may be mounted on the shell member or on the adapter assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2018Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Christopher Penna, Patrick Mozdzierz, Paul Scirica, Justin Williams
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Publication number: 20180168589Abstract: Methods for selectively attaching a shaft assembly to a handle of a surgical instrument and an arm of a surgical robot are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Robert L. Koch, JR., Mark D. Overmyer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris
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Publication number: 20180168590Abstract: A shaft assembly is disclosed which is selectively attachable to a variety of surgical systems, such as a handle of a surgical instrument and an arm of a robotic system, for example. The shaft assembly comprises, one, a firing member operably couplable with the surgical systems which is configured to perform a firing stroke and, two, a manually-operable crank for retracting the firing member after a portion of the firing stroke has been performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2016Publication date: June 21, 2018Inventors: Mark D. Overmyer, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jeffrey S. Swayze