Patents Issued in July 5, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180185068
    Abstract: A spinal longitudinal connecting member includes a soft stabilization assembly segment having a tensioned cord and a hard rod segment. A connector in fixed engagement with the hard rod also captures the tensioned cord of the soft segment, the connector being in fixed or sliding relation with the tensioned cord. The connector places the soft assembly segment in lateral or off-set and staggered relation to the hard rod segment. The connector may be integral to a bone anchor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Roger P. Jackson
  • Publication number: 20180185069
    Abstract: Embodiments herein are generally directed to extendable rods for use in orthopedic assemblies. In some embodiments, these implants may be used in conjunction with procedures to treat spinal deformities, including, but not limited to, early onset scoliosis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Bobby Lynch, Kurt Faulhaber
  • Publication number: 20180185070
    Abstract: A coupling assembly for coupling a rod to a bone anchoring element includes a receiving part with an accommodation space defining an opening for inserting and accommodating a head of the bone anchoring element, and a pressure element having a cap portion configured to hold the head. In an inserting position, the cap portion of the pressure element is expandable in the accommodation space of the receiving part, and a first retaining element is configured to prevent the pressure element from moving towards a first end of the receiving part. In a pre-locking position, the head is held in the cap portion of the pressure element and is pivotable in the receiving part, while the cap portion is restricted from expanding to prevent removal of the head, and where a second retaining element is configured to prevent the pressure element from moving from the pre-locking position towards the inserting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Lutz Biedermann, Wilfried Matthis
  • Publication number: 20180185071
    Abstract: An anterior cervical plate system is provided. The cervical plate includes a retention ring with a deflectable flange that is upwardly spaced from the top surface of the ring and configured to prevent an inserted bone fastener from backing out of the plate. The plate includes a locking pin having a camming surface and a blocking surface. When the camming surface is moved into position adjacent to the flange, the flange is free to flex out of the way of a bone screw being inserted into or removed from the plate. When the blocking surface is positioned adjacent to the flange, outward deflection of the flange is prevented to retain the bone screw inside the plate. The locking pin is rotated through a camming surface to bring a blocking surface against the flange deflecting the flange onto the head of the bone screw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Moti Altarac, Joey Reglos, John Fredrick Stephani
  • Publication number: 20180185072
    Abstract: A rod reducer assembly is provided and is selectively mountable to a pedicle screw assembly. The pedicle screw assembly includes a pedicle screw housing that defines a rod-receiving recess. The pedicle screw assembly includes an extension assembly that is coupled to the pedicle screw housing by a frangible member. The rod reducer is configured to reduce a spinal rod into the rod-receiving recess of the pedicle screw assembly. The rod reducer assembly may include a derotation sleeve configured to inhibit the frangible member from breaking while manipulating a spinal bone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Josh Rubin, Geneva Goldwood, Daniel Genovese, Olivia Angus, Robert J. Tokash, Ashok Biyani, Peter Bono, Anthony Cucchi, Kornelis Poelstra, Michael Selby, Robert Kuru
  • Publication number: 20180185073
    Abstract: An implant for fixation of a bone includes a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and a longitudinal axis defined between the proximal end and the distal end. A plurality of blades are disposed on the shaft, and are helically twisted about the longitudinal axis. At least one of the blades has a variable blade width that increases in a direction along the longitudinal axis. A mechanism for coupling the implant to a second fracture fixation implant may be provided separately or in combination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Christoph Andreas ROTH, Harry T. HALL, IV
  • Publication number: 20180185074
    Abstract: The present application relates to an eye socket covering grid that includes a curved main body with an external closing edge, a lower side which, in the implanted state, is facing the bone or bones forming the eye socket, and an upper side distant from the lower side, wherein at least one optically identifiable linear channel for representing at least one insertion vector is formed on the upper side. The application also relates to a method for producing such an eye socket covering grid, in particular an eye socket covering grid adapted in a patient-specific manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Frank REINAUER, Oliver SCHEUNEMANN
  • Publication number: 20180185075
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fixing bone plate, which comprises a plate body. The plate body is provided with a plate main part and a locking portion passing through the plate body. The plate main part is connected to the locking portion at the corresponding two ends of the plate body. The fixing bone plate also comprises an attachment portion. The attachment portion is provided with a bone attachment surface. The attachment portion is disposed on the other side of the locking portion. The plate body can be manufactured by using a metal laser additive manufacturing technique or a 3D metal printing technique. The fixing bone plate can be accurately positioned and stably combined with a human bone according to morphological characteristics of bones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: CHENG XIN SHE
  • Publication number: 20180185076
    Abstract: A screw insertion system has a screw having a threaded shaft and a head. The head has a conically tapered outer surface, the taper increasing in distance from a central longitudinal axis of the screw from a free end of the head towards a larger diameter adjacent the connection between the head and the threaded shaft. The conically tapered head outer surface has preferably two helically extending partially rounded threads. The head has a drive element for engaging a driver. A tubular screw holder has an outer surface and internal bore extending between a leading end and a trailing end for receiving the screw. The leading end having a conically tapered inner threaded portion for engaging the conically tapered outer thread of the screw head. The tubular screw holder outer surface having a diameter less than or equal to the maximum diameter of the conically tapered head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Nils Zander, Manfred Wieland
  • Publication number: 20180185077
    Abstract: The invention features bone screws having a threaded screw body and a screw head attached to one end of the screw body, the bone screw further including: a) an interior channel extending longitudinally through the screw head and through at least a portion of the screw body, wherein the interior channel has a width of less than 5.0 millimeters; and b) a plurality of radially-disposed delivery channels connecting the interior channel to the exterior of the screw body, each delivery channel having exterior openings. The invention further features devices that include a bone screw and a delivery manifold detachably attached to the screw head of the bone screw. In addition, the invention features methods of treating a patient having a bone defect by using a bone screw described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas A. Russell, Todd A. Glover, Samuel A. Houston, John R. Pepper
  • Publication number: 20180185078
    Abstract: Embodiments of an inter-laminar vertebral implant apparatus for insertion and/or implantation between laminar of adjacent superior and inferior vertebrae sized and configured for implantation into such inter-laminar space, the apparatus configured to be located between adjacent laminar and including an engagement mechanism for operatively coupling the apparatus to the adjacent laminar and for preventing migration of the apparatus once implanted. Various inter-laminar implant apparatus configurations may be employed to conform to the anatomy of a patient's spine to be treated. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Seon Joo Na, Jongwoo Kim
  • Publication number: 20180185079
    Abstract: A bone positioning guide may include a main body member, a shaft, and a bone engagement member. The shaft can be movably connected to the main body member and have the bone engagement member rotatably coupled to its distal end. The bone engagement member can have a surface configured to engage a bone. The main body member can also include a tip opposite the bone engagement member for engaging a second bone. In use, the bone engagement member may be positioned in contact with a medial side of a first metatarsal while the tip is positioned in contact with a lateral side of a different metatarsal, such as a second metatarsal. The shaft can then be moved to advance the bone engagement member toward the tip, causing realignment of the first metatarsal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: W. Bret Smith, Paul Dayton, Sean F. Scanlan, F. Barry Bays, Carlos Eduardo Gil, John T. Treace
  • Publication number: 20180185080
    Abstract: Various embodiments relate to a mini cable tensioner for introducing tension on a cable, the mini cable tensioner including a tensioning tube, a tensioning grip, including a collet opener as an internal structure of the tensioning grip, a tensioning unit, including a collet axially positioned in a cone sheath, a tensioning rod having a proximal end connected to an end stop nut and a distal end connected to the cone sheath, a tensioning nut rotatable on the tensioning rod, an inner spring configured to actuate the collet in a first direction, and an outer spring configured to actuate the tensioning rod in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Simon M. BOSSHARD, This AEBI, Martin ALTMANN
  • Publication number: 20180185081
    Abstract: Compositions and formulations for use with devices and systems that enable tissue cooling, such as cryotherapy applications, for alteration and reduction of adipose tissue are described. Aspects of the technology are further directed to methods, compositions and devices that provide protection of non-targeted cells (e.g., non-lipid-rich cells) from freeze damage during dermatological and related aesthetic procedures that require sustained exposure to cold temperatures. Further aspects of the technology include systems for enhancing sustained and/or replenishing release of cryoprotectant to a treatment site prior to and during cooling applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Michael P. O'Neil, Leonard C. DeBenedictis, George Frangineas, JR.
  • Publication number: 20180185082
    Abstract: An ablation applicator for an ablation device for ablating tissue of a blood vessel having a tubular body defining an inner lumen to which an ablation medium is conductable, a control mechanism for converting the tubular body between a passive operation mode for inserting the ablation applicator into the blood vessel and an active operation mode for ablating tissue of the blood vessel, and an ablation medium supply line for supplying the ablation medium to the inner lumen and positioned within the inner lumen and having a number of openings for passing the ablation medium from the ablation medium supply line to the inner lumen for thermally contacting the ablation medium with the tubular body wherein at least some of the openings are distributed along the ablation medium supply line with a predetermined spacing between neighboring openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Gerald Fischer, Florian Hintringer
  • Publication number: 20180185083
    Abstract: Devices and methods for controlling ablation therapy are provided herein. In one embodiment, an ablation device is provided that includes an elongate body having proximal and distal ends, and an inner lumen extending therethrough. The inner lumen can be configured to receive fluid therein and to deliver fluid to the distal end of the elongate body. The device can also include an ablation element positioned at a distal end of the elongate body that is configured to heat surrounding tissue, and a heater element disposed within the inner lumen adjacent to a distal end of thereof, the heater element being configured to heat fluid flowing through the inner lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Michael G. Curley
  • Publication number: 20180185084
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a reusable component and a disposable component selectively separable from and engagable with the reusable component. The disposable component includes an end effector and a mechanical actuator operable to induce mechanical movement of the end effector. The reusable component is configured for providing electrosurgical energy to the disposable component when engaged with the disposable component. A physical mating feature is configured to maintain engagement between the reusable and disposable components when the reusable and disposable components are engaged, and an electrical mating feature is configured to transmit electrical energy between the disposable and reusable components when the disposable and reusable components are engaged. All mechanical motion resulting from operation of the mechanical actuator may be contained within the disposable component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: CHRISTOPHER A. DEBORSKI, RUSSELL D. HEMPSTEAD, KEIR HART
  • Publication number: 20180185085
    Abstract: Methods and devices for treating nasal airways are provided. Such devices and methods may improve airflow through an internal and/or external nasal valve, and comprise the use of mechanical re-shaping, energy application and other treatments to modify the shape, structure, and/or air flow characteristics of an internal nasal valve, an external nasal valve or other nasal airways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Scott J. Wolf, Andrew Frazier
  • Publication number: 20180185086
    Abstract: A coaptive surgical sealing tool may be similar to an ordinary hemostat with long (50, 60, 70 or 80 mm) thin jaws for sliding into the liver parenchyma, without tearing the larger blood vessels. The jaws are spring loaded and are designed for uniform compression, and to avoid closing too quickly. The jaws are capable of sealing a 50, 60, 70 or 80 mm sealing length, in a single bite, although it can also seal shorter lengths as well. The tool can be used with existing RF/bi-polar cautery generators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Gagandeep Singh
  • Publication number: 20180185087
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology relate to a bipolar electrosurgical device for a laparoscopic environment, as well as methods for the use of such a device. Embodiments of the device may include a set of opposing jaws comprising at least one bipolar electrode pair disposed thereon, the set of jaws configured to deliver radiofrequency energy to a target tissue. Embodiments of the set of jaws, when closed, may have a diameter no greater than about 5 mm. The device may further include a shaft with a diameter that may be no greater than about 5 mm. Each of the jaws has a tissue-facing surface of each jaw that may include a complementary self-aligning configuration with respect to the longitudinal axis of the other jaw. Embodiments of the device may further include a pinless rotation assembly formed from rotatably cooperative features of the first jaw and the second jaw that connect the jaws together and enable the jaw set to pivot between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Erik Walberg, Brandon Loudermilk
  • Publication number: 20180185088
    Abstract: A method of sealing bowel tissue includes grasping bowel tissue between first and second electrically-conductive surfaces, applying a clamping pressure to the grasped bowel tissue in a range of about 1 kg/cm2 to about 2.5 kg/cm2, supplying energy to at least one of the first and second electrically-conductive surfaces such that the energy is conducted between the first and second electrically-conductive surfaces and through the grasped bowel tissue to seal the grasped bowel tissue, and monitoring one or more parameters during the supplying of energy to the electrically-conductive surface(s). Instruments, end effector assemblies, generators, and systems suitable for this purpose are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: SHOBHIT ARYA, LEI SU, ARA W. DARZI, GEORGE B. HANNA
  • Publication number: 20180185089
    Abstract: An energy treatment instrument includes a first grasping piece, and a second grasping piece which opens or closes relative to the first grasping piece and which grasps a blood vessel between the first grasping piece and the second grasping piece. In accordance with the kind of blood vessel grasped between the first grasping piece and the second grasping piece, an actuation state of the energy treatment instrument is switched between a first mode to coagulate a blood vessel of a circulatory system, and a second mode to coagulate a blood vessel of a pulmonary circulation in contrast to the first mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi HAYASHIDA, Satomi SAKAO, Tatsuro YAMAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20180185090
    Abstract: Devices and systems for the selective positioning of an intravascular neuromodulation device are disclosed herein. Such systems can include, for example, an elongated shaft and a therapeutic assembly carried by a distal portion of the elongated shaft. The therapeutic assembly is configured for delivery within a blood vessel. The therapeutic assembly can include one or more energy delivery elements configured to deliver therapeutic energy to nerves proximate a vessel wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Paul COATES
  • Publication number: 20180185091
    Abstract: A system for controlled sympathectomy procedures is disclosed. A system for controlled micro ablation procedures is disclosed. Methods for performing a controlled surgical procedure are disclosed. A system for performing controlled surgical procedures in a minimally invasive manner is disclosed. Systems and methods for accessing target tissues as part of a neuromodulation procedure from within a lumen are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Landy Toth, Roy Martin
  • Publication number: 20180185092
    Abstract: An apparatus for treatment of a subcutaneous fat region includes a source of electromagnetic radiation generating electromagnetic radiation having a non-fat selective wavelength. A delivery system is coupled to the source of electromagnetic radiation and is configured to deliver the electromagnetic radiation to the subcutaneous fat region for at least 300 seconds. A controller is configured to adjust an average power density based on a thickness of skin overlying the subcutaneous fat region, and to cause necrosis of at least one fat cell in the subcutaneous fat region. The non-fat selective wavelength is 950 nm to 1090 nm, 1100 nm to 1160 nm, 1,300 nm to 1625 nm, or 1,800 nm to 2,200 nm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Kevin Schomacker, James C. Hsia
  • Publication number: 20180185093
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a ureteroscope and a method for dusting stones in a body cavity with a laser fiber. The ureteroscope includes a flexible probe and a handle. The flexible probe includes a working channel that accommodates the laser fiber in a distal end of the flexible probe at a working position to be deflected against a target stone for dusting. The handle includes a plurality of control switches and a laser fiber feeder and retraction module. The control switches are configured to provide digital control signals to control a motor assisted movement of the laser fiber in the working channel. The motor assisted movement of the laser fiber includes one of a feeding movement and a retracting movement. The laser fiber feeder and retraction module is configured to control one of the feeding movement and the retracting movement of the laser fiber in the working channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Pavan MISRA, Gunalan SELVAM, Brijesh BABU, Sandesh GAVADE
  • Publication number: 20180185094
    Abstract: Embodiments include a catheter comprising an elongated, a laser delivery member, and a handle having an actuation mechanism coupled to the laser delivery member. In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism comprises: a body including a distal disc and at least one release arm; a plunger including a proximal disc, the plunger disposed at least partially within the body; where distally advancing the plunger includes depressing the proximal disc and the distal disc to advance the laser delivery member; and a moveable lock feature operatively connected to the body, whereupon: in a first position, the moveable lock feature is configured to prevent the at least one release arm being depressed to retain the laser delivery member in an advanced position; and in a second position, the moveable lock feature is configured to permit the at least one release arm being depressed to retract the laser delivery member to a retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Kenneth Duane Harlan
  • Publication number: 20180185095
    Abstract: Embodiments include a catheter system comprising an elongated housing having a housing channel disposed between a first proximal end and a first distal end. The first distal end includes a ramp, having an inclining proximal section and an apex section, and a nose section. The catheter system further includes a rail wire channel in communication with the ramp but not the nose section and a laser delivery member being at least partially disposed within the housing channel and movable therein. In some embodiments, the catheter system includes a rail wire fixedly attached to and terminating at the first distal end of the elongated housing, wherein the rail wire extends through the rail wire channel, and wherein the laser delivery member is slidably coupled to the rail wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Brandon Thomas Hendrick, Ali Hartley, Grant Donnelly Foy
  • Publication number: 20180185096
    Abstract: Described are methods for reversible occlusion of a body lumen by way of degradation as a result of exposure to one or more stimuli such as light. The methods include administering one or more substance(s) into a body lumen of a subject and forming a stimuli-responsive polymer mass in the body lumen from the one or more substance(s). The mass is sufficient to occlude the body lumen in a manner that prevents transport of at least one material through the body lumen and is susceptible to on-command reversal in the body lumen upon exposure to one or more stimuli. The methods include administering one or more stimuli to a polymer mass in a body lumen for a time and intensity to cause the reverse the polymer mass. The methods are particular useful for applications in which it is desirable to temporarily occlude a body lumen, such as male and female contraception.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Kevin Eisenfrats, Greg Grover, Eric Moran
  • Publication number: 20180185097
    Abstract: Customized patient-specific instruments configured to be selectively attached at predetermined locations of a patient's bone are disclosed. The customized patient-specific instruments may include a polymeric body including a bone-facing surface having a customized patient-specific negative contour shaped to match and receive a corresponding positive contour of the patient's bone at the predetermined location. The customized patient-specific instruments also include a metallic coating that defines one or more cutting slots. A method of performing an orthopaedic surgical procedure is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Jason Langhorn, Daniel D. Fritzinger
  • Publication number: 20180185098
    Abstract: A support 70 for use with tissue or bone is described, the support 70 having one or more spaced apart brace members 72, and at least one elongated linking member 80 for linking to the one or more spaced apart brace members 72. The support 70 may be provided in use in combination with a biologic glue, the biologic glue comprising a first portion containing stabilized blood product, and a second portion containing a growth factor, the first portion and the second portion comingled when or after the support is introduced to the tissue or bone in a subject in need thereof. The support 70 is fabricated by actively producing the support through an additive manufacturing process, in which the support 70 is customized specifically to the tissue or bone by creating a computer generated construct of the support 70 on a three-dimensional volume rendering of the tissue or bone, and the computer generated construct is interpretable via software directing the additive manufacturing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Applicant: Buck Medical Research LTD.
    Inventor: Monty B. BUCK
  • Publication number: 20180185099
    Abstract: A catheter procedure system includes a base and a robotic mechanism having a longitudinal axis and being movable relative to the base along the longitudinal axis. The robotic mechanism includes a robotic drive base including at least one drive mechanism, a cassette operatively secured to the robotic drive base, a rigid guide coupled to the cassette and fixed relative to the robotic mechanism and a flexible track having a distal end, a proximal end and a plurality of reflective sections. At least a portion of the flexible track is disposed within the rigid guide. The robotic mechanism also includes a position detector mounted to the robotic drive base and positioned beneath the flexible track. The position detector is configured to detect light reflected off of the reflective sections of the flexible track and to determine the position of the distal end of the flexible track based on the detected reflected light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Applicant: Corindus, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Kottenstette, Peter Falb, Timothy Deignan, Per Bergman
  • Publication number: 20180185100
    Abstract: System and methods for surgical navigation providing mixed reality visualization are provided. The mixed reality visualization depicts virtual images in conjunction with real objects to provide improved visualization to users.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Jeremy Weinstein, Andrei Danilchenko, Jose Luis Moctezuma de la Barrera
  • Publication number: 20180185101
    Abstract: A mapping image display control device includes a lung region extraction unit 11 that extracts a lung region included in a three-dimensional image, a bronchus region extraction unit 12 that extracts a bronchus region included in the lung region, a branching position information acquisition unit 13 that acquires information about a branching position of the bronchus region, a reaching position information estimation unit 14 that estimates reaching position information about a position at which an extended line of a branch included in the bronchus region reaches a surface of the lung region on the basis of the information about the branching position, and a display control unit 15 that generates a mapping image in which the reaching position information is mapped to the surface of the lung region and that causes a display apparatus 3 to display the mapping image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Kenta YAMADA
  • Publication number: 20180185102
    Abstract: A parallel-type micro robot capable of precise control while minimizing size thereof and a surgical robot system having the same are disclosed. The parallel-type micro robot includes a base plate, a work plate, a main fixing shaft module, a horizontal movement module and at least one angle-controlling module. The base plate includes a base body portion and at least one base connecting portion connected to the base body portion. The work plate includes a work body portion corresponding to the base body portion and at least one work connecting portion connecting to the work body portion to correspond to the base connecting portion. The main fixing shaft module is disposed between the base body portion and the work body portion, and coupled to the work body portion such that the work body portion is rotatable. The horizontal movement module is disposed between the main fixing shaft module and the base body portion, and moves the main fixing shaft module along first and second directions intersecting each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Sung-Mok KIM, Whee- Kim
  • Publication number: 20180185103
    Abstract: A medical treatment assisting apparatus includes a multi-joint robot, a position specification unit, an abnormality determination unit, and a control unit. The multi-joint robot has a multi-joint arm in which a plurality of arms are connected through a joint. The position specification unit specifies a treatment position that is the position of a portion of a patient to be subjected to a medical treatment in a real space. The abnormality determination unit determines whether or not a state of the treatment position based on the displacement of the treatment position specified by the position specification unit is in an abnormal state, which is predefined to indicate an abnormality. The control unit performs a safety control which increases the safety of the medical treatment when a determination result of the abnormality determination unit indicates that the state of the treatment position is in the abnormal state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Go MUKUMOTO, Tsuyoshi UEYAMA, Kazutaka TOYODA
  • Publication number: 20180185104
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a control system for user-guided robotic control of a medical device and includes an electronic control unit, a computer-readable memory coupled to the ECU, and a visualization system configured to provide a view of an anatomical model. The memory contains user interface logic configured to be executed by the ECU, and configured to obtain input from a touch screen display with respect to the view of an anatomical model. Control logic stored in the memory is also configured to be executed by said ECU and is configured to produce an actuation control signal responsive to the input to control actuation of a manipulator assembly so as to move the medical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Eric S. Olson, John A. Hauck, Nicholas A. Patronik, Cem M. Shaquer
  • Publication number: 20180185105
    Abstract: A robotic system comprises a joint position controller and a manipulator having coupled together housings. The manipulator is adapted to hold and manipulate a device. Motors for actuating corresponding degrees of freedom of the device and sensor processing units for sensing and converting states of the motors into digitally transmittable information are housed in one or more of the housings. A remote current controller is housed in a different housing than the one or more housings for space and/or heat considerations. The remote current controller generates drive signals provided over individual signal lines to the motors by using motor commands provided by the joint position controller and by using the digitally transmittable information received from the sensor processing units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 1, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Gerard J. Labonville, Alan S. Bradley
  • Publication number: 20180185106
    Abstract: A patient side cart for a teleoperated surgical system may comprise a column extending from a base, the column having a first end connected to the base and a second end opposite the first end. The patient side cart may further include a surgical instrument manipulator arm coupled proximate the second end of the column, and an obstacle indication system comprising an illumination source mounted on the patient side cart at a height above a location the surgical instrument manipulator arm is coupled to the second end of the column, the height being measured in a direction the column extends from the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Applicant: INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Brandon D. ITKOWITZ, Michael L. HANUSCHIK, Paul W. MOHR
  • Publication number: 20180185107
    Abstract: An implant positioning device and a method of using the device are described. The positioning device includes an end effector configured to contact an implant component during a surgical procedure, the end effector connected to an actuator for imparting an impact force to the implant component during the surgical procedure, a motor mechanically connected to the actuator and configured to move the actuator to produce one or more impacts on the end effector, thereby imparting the impact force to the implant component, and a control circuit coupled to the motor. The control circuit is configured to generate at least one motor control signal, transfer the at least one motor control signal to the motor, and, as a result of the at least one motor control signal, cause the motor to move the actuator to produce one or more impacts on the end effector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Constantinos NIKOU, Branislav JARAMAZ, Benjamin Oliver MCCANDLESS
  • Publication number: 20180185108
    Abstract: Disclosed is a movement transmission chain including: a base of a driving member for driving a movable element; and three actuators controlling the base of the driving member in three movement directions orthogonal to one another, by element of three interfaces with the base of the driving member, the mid-surfaces of the three interfaces intersecting in a central region of the base of the driving member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Sebastien DEBOEUF, Fabien DESTREBECQ, Bruno FOURNIER, Philippe BENCTEUX
  • Publication number: 20180185109
    Abstract: Telerobotic, telesurgical, and surgical robotic devices, systems, and methods selectively calibrate end effector jaws by bringing the jaw elements into engagement with each other. Commanded torque signals may bring the end effector elements into engagement while monitoring the resulting position of a drive system, optionally using a second derivative of the torque/position relationship so as to identify an end effector engagement position. Calibration can allow the end effector engagement position to correspond to a nominal closed position of an input handle by compensating for wear on the end effector, the end effector drive system, then manipulator, the manipulator drive system, the manipulator/end effector interfacing, and manufacturing tolerances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Thomas R. Nixon
  • Publication number: 20180185110
    Abstract: A multi-user medical robotic system for collaboration or training in minimally invasive surgical procedures includes first and second master input devices, a first slave robotic mechanism, and at least one processor configured to generate a first slave command for the first slave robotic mechanism by switchably using one or both of a first command indicative of manipulation of the first master input device by a first user and a second command indicative of manipulation of the second master input device by a second user. To facilitate the collaboration or training, both first and second users communicate with each other through an audio system and see the minimally invasive surgery site on first and second displays respectively viewable by the first and second users.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Rajesh Kumar, Brian D. Hoffman, Giuseppe Maria Prisco, David Q. Larkin, William C. Nowlin, Frederic H. Moll, Stephen J. Blumenkranz, Gunter D. Niemeyer, J. Kenneth Salisbury, JR., Yulun Wang, Modjtaba Ghodoussi, Darrin R. Uecker, James W. Wright, Amante A. Mangaser, Ranjan Mukherjee
  • Publication number: 20180185111
    Abstract: A biopsy system includes a cart and a biopsy device holder. The biopsy device holder is coupled to the cart. The biopsy device holder includes a front holder portion and a rear holder portion. Each holder portion defines an upper support and a lower support. The upper support is configured to support a first biopsy device in lieu of the second biopsy device. The lower support is configured to support a second biopsy device in lieu of the first biopsy device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: David Shuart, Jordan Rebellino, Andrew Robinson, Jodi Hafemeister, Gary Wagner, Rachel Choung, Emmanuel Tanghal, Umashankar Chockalingam
  • Publication number: 20180185112
    Abstract: This invention is directed to devices and methods for stereotactic access, and particularly to a frameless stereotactic access device for accessing a body cavity and methods therefor. In general, a stereotactic device may include portions or features for fixing the device to a portion of a patient's body, such as, for example, a skull, such that the device may be generally spatially fixed in relation to the patient's body or part thereof. The stereotactic device may also generally include portions or features for guiding a medical device or other device at a particular trajectory in relation to the patient's body or part thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2018
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Ashok GOWDA, Roger J. McNichols, Charles Houssiere, Manish Ahuja, Ravish Patwardhan
  • Publication number: 20180185113
    Abstract: Methods and systems for performing computer-assisted image-guided surgery, including robotically-assisted surgery. A method of displaying image data includes displaying image data of a patient on a handheld display device, tracking the handheld display device using a motion tracking system, and modifying the image data displayed in response to changes in the position and orientation of the handheld display device. Further embodiments include a sterile case for a handheld display device, display devices on a robotic arm, and methods and systems for performing image-guided surgery using multiple reference marker devices fixed to a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2017
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Eugene Gregerson, Scott Coppen, Todd Furlong, Edward Daley, Russell Stanton, Adeline Harris, Paul Sebring
  • Publication number: 20180185114
    Abstract: A method and device for ensuring better placement of an implant, such as an implant that is affixed via bone bed drilling to a recipient's skull. In particular, the technology comprises an apparatus and method of deploying the same that can lead to an improved goodness of fit of the implant. The apparatus and process of the present disclosure are particularly applicable to affixing auditory prostheses such as cochlear implants. The implant is provided with a template that has the same dimensions as the implant that is to be affixed. This template has a dye-impregnated material on its distal surface that is used during bone bed drilling to identify bony spots that have to be drilled away to get a flat surface and a better alignment of the implant with the bone bed. The template may also be provided in kit form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Christiane D'hondt, Francesca Harris, Rishubh Verma
  • Publication number: 20180185115
    Abstract: An apparatus for unclogging a surgical-suction device (21) comprising a base (22) that defines at least one hole (26). A stylet (28) extends perpendicularly from the center of the base (22) along an axis (A) for receiving the surgical-suction device (21). The stylet (28) defines an exterior and an internal chamber (32) that communicates with the hole (26) in the base (22). The stylet (28) defines at least one aperture (40) in fluid communication between the chamber (32) and the exterior of the stylet (28) for communicating with the surgical-suction device (21). A valve (60) having an open position (FIG. 1) for allowing fluid to flow through the hole (26) of the base (22) and the aperture (40) in the stylet (28) and a closed position (FIG. 2) for preventing fluid to flow through the hole (26) of the base (22) and the aperture (40) in the stylet (28).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventor: Aaron WYNKOOP
  • Publication number: 20180185116
    Abstract: A dental handpiece comprises an outer sleeve (1), a tool-holding socket (2) for holding a treatment tool (3) arranged in the handpiece, wherein the tool-holding socket (2) has a central axis about which the tool-holding socket (2) can be rotated and/or oscillated and wherein the tool-holding socket (2) is arranged to be driven by a driveshaft of the handpiece driven by a motor (10) housed in the outer sleeve (1). At least one Peltier element (5) is received in the handpiece in thermal contact with the tool-holding socket (2), the Peltier element (5) having a cool face in thermal contact with the tool-holding socket (2) to cool a treatment tool (3) held therein when the tool (3) is driven in rotation or oscillation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Abuhaimed HAMAD, Ivo KREJCI
  • Publication number: 20180185117
    Abstract: The invention relates to an injection device with an injector (12) and with a cartridge (14) that contains dental material and can be inserted into or attached onto the injector (12), said injector (12) having a piston (28) which, as it enters the cartridge (14), is intended to press the dental material out of the cartridge (14), said cartridge (14) having a collar (16) which is intended to bear on a holding projection (20) of the injector (12). The holding projection (20) is formed on a guide element (36) of the injector (12). The guide element (36) has a sensor (50) for a code (52) which is applied to the cartridge (14), and the injector (12) has a display at an area spaced apart from the holding projection (20), particularly on the top face, or obliquely on the top face, in the rear area of the injector (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Publication date: July 5, 2018
    Inventors: Reinhard GOERGE, Nora Christina KÖGEL