Abstract: A patient imaging system for creating visual representations for analysis includes an imaging source and a patient support disposed proximate the imaging source configured to receive and support the patient. An imaging device is disposed adjacent to the patient support and incorporates at least one detector, one or more slats cooperating with the at least one detector and a collimator disposed between the one or more slats and patient support having a plurality of links adjustably positionable on the collimator. The plurality of links receive and support imaging plates that may be adjusted to provide a variety of image settings such that the imaging device and imaging source define a pre-determined imaging volume in an imaging region for the patient positioned in the imaging system.

Abstract: There are provided a radiation-irradiation device and a monitor image display method for the radiation-irradiation device that allow a device operator to confirm a situation on the front side in a traveling direction in a case in which the device operator makes a radiation-irradiation device holding a radiation source travel and also allow the operator to confirm a situation around a subject in a case in which the device operator takes a radiation image.

Abstract: The present invention relates to goggles, in particular radiation protection goggles, for receiving at least one radiation protection material which protects the eyes of a patient from radiation being harmful to the eyes, in particular ?-radiation and/or x-ray radiation and/or gamma radiation. The goggles comprise: two goggle frames, each having a continuously circumferential side wall structure completely enclosing an area around the respective eye of the patient, a length-adjustable connection element between the two goggle frames in the area of the patient's nose in order to change the distance between the two goggle frames relative to one another, and at least one length-adjustable holding element for fixing the two goggle frames at the patient's head. The side wall structures are configured for receiving at least one radiation protection material substantially completely around its circumference.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable X-ray generation device, which uses an electric field emission-type X-ray source, and is thus advantageous in reducing weight and volume and has excellent reliability in X-ray emission performance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a modulation of X-ray radiation for the purposes of imaging an object of interest. For the modulation, the X-ray radiation provided by an X-ray source (12) is in part totally reflected by a mirror (20). Thus, an X-ray radiation at an object receiving space (16) is formed by an unreflected X-ray radiation (24) and a reflected X-ray radiation (26). The mirror (20) is displaceable by an actuator (28), such that the intensity of the reflected X-ray radiation (26) can be adjusted, in particular to a density of the object to be imaged.

Abstract: An x-ray imaging device can include an x-ray detector and an optical-blocking filter. The x-ray detector has an entrance-window surface for receiving x-rays, at least one side surface, and a back surface facing in an opposite direction from the entrance-window surface. The optical-blocking filter is deposited on and fully covers at least the entrance-window surface and the side surface of the x-ray detector, wherein the optical-blocking filter blocks visible, ultraviolet, and near-infrared light.

Abstract: A system and method of X-ray imaging includes an X-ray emitter that projects X-rays. An X-ray receiver that receives X-rays from the X-ray emitter to produce a plurality of projection images. A filter with at least one filter leaf absorb at least a portion of the X-rays from the X-ray emitter to define a limited field of view within a full field of view with the X-rays being attenuated in at least one attenuated portion of the full field of view. A processor reconstructs a three dimensional image based upon the projection images of the full field of view. The limited field view is located within the reconstructed three dimensional image. At least one corrective parameter is determined from the reconstructed three dimensional image. A three dimensional image is reconstructed based upon the limited field of view and the at least one corrective parameter.

Abstract: A method includes receiving, from a volumetric imager, a first image including a target of a patient. The method further includes receiving a second image including the target of the patient. The method further includes tracking, by a processing device, a position of the target using the first image and the second image.

Abstract: The present approaches relates to the use of silicon-based energy-discriminating, photon-counting detectors, such as for use in X-ray based imaging including computed tomography. The described approaches address the resolution and classification of X-ray photons affected by Compton scatter, which may be detected as having energy levels below their proper level due to collision or deflection events.

Abstract: A method includes determining a first set of positions for a volumetric imager and determining a second set of positions for a linear accelerator (LINAC), during radiation treatment delivery. The method further includes determining a set of radiation beam directionalities of the LINAC, wherein for each of the second set of positions for the LINAC a radiation beam corresponds to a radiation beam directionality. The method further includes generating instructions for the volumetric imager based on the first and the second set of positions, the radiation beam directionalities, and a treatment time constraint to avoid a collision between the volumetric imager and the LINAC and between the volumetric imager and the radiation beam, wherein the instructions include physical locations of the volumetric imager and timing values corresponding to the physical locations. The method further includes operating the volumetric imager during the radiation treatment delivery according to the set of instructions.

Abstract: A transport assisting method includes: setting a target position of the radiation-irradiation device where the radiation source is capable of being disposed at a radiation-irradiation position where a radiation image is capable of being taken with respect to the radiation image recording medium in a movable range where the position of the radiation source is capable of being changed by the radiation source holding unit and a work space is capable of being secured around the radiation-irradiation device; detecting a current position of the radiation-irradiation device; detecting a position of an obstacle that obstructs the transport of the radiation-irradiation device; and notifying the user of the transport assistance of the radiation-irradiation device to the target position on the basis of the target position, the current position, and the position of the obstacle.

Abstract: Novel and advantageous systems and methods for performing X-ray imaging by extracting X-ray phase-shift and/or dark-field information through a detector that has built-in G2 functionality are provided. Grating translation can be replaced by an electrical operation in the detection procedure, thereby eliminating the need for the analyzer grating and the typical mechanical stepping process.

Abstract: Novel and advantageous systems and methods for performing X-ray imaging by using an X-ray source with source grating functionality incorporated therein are provided. An electron beam can be electromagnetically manipulated such that the X-ray source emits radiation in a pattern that is the same as if the radiation had already passed through a source grating.

Abstract: Aspects of stone identification methods and systems are described. According to one aspect, an exemplary method comprises: transmitting to a processing unit, with an imaging element mounted on a distal end of a scope, image data about a stone object inside a body cavity; generating from the image data, with the processing unit, a visual representation of the stone object and the body cavity; establishing from a user input, with the processing unit, a scale for the visual representation; determining from the visual representation, with the processing unit, a size of the stone object on the scale; comparing, with the processing unit, the size of the stone object with a predetermined maximum size to determine a removal status; and augmenting, with the processing unit, the visual representation to include an indicator responsive to the removal status. Associated systems are also described.

Abstract: In part, the invention relates to processing, tracking and registering angiography images and elements in such images relative to images from an intravascular imaging modality such as, for example, optical coherence tomography (OCT). Registration between such imaging modalities is facilitated by tracking of a marker of the intravascular imaging probe performed on the angiography images obtained during a pullback. Further, detecting and tracking vessel centerlines is used to perform a continuous registration between OCT and angiography images in one embodiment.

Abstract: The medical imaging apparatus includes a scanner configured to scan the object to image the internal area of the object; a patient table configured to convey the object to the scanner; an imager which is mounted on the scanner and configured to capture an image of the object on the patient table; and a mobile display device configured to display the image of the object captured by the imager.

Abstract: A method for reducing image artifacts caused, for example, by beam hardening includes acquiring at least two projections of a transirradiated object are acquired from different perspectives by an X-ray emitter and an X-ray detector defining a projection plane. A correction model that is linear in parameters and is valid for the at least two projections is determined. At least two epipolar lines corresponding to a common epipolar plane are identified in the projection planes of the at least two projections. The parameters of the correction model are determined by optimization, taking account of data terms that are independent of the parameters. The data terms quantify a consistency condition of the at least two projections that applies to the epipolar lines. Artifact-reduced image data is determined based on the determined parameters.

Abstract: The invention relates to a model for use in an imaging technique based on an interaction of the model with an electromagnetic radiation. The model comprises a plurality of volume elements. The interaction intensities of two neighboring volume elements are distinguishable by an imaging technique. The model comprises first volume elements made of a supporting material, and second volume elements are made of a supporting material and a contrast material and exhibit a higher interaction intensity with the electromagnetic radiation than the first volume elements because of the presence of contrast material. The second volume elements have been generated by a printing method. The invention further relates to a method for fabricating the model by 3D printing.

Abstract: Ultrasound systems and methods for automatically determining heart chamber characteristics are provided. The systems and methods of the present invention, for example, can automatically determine chamber pressures and volumes of a patient's heart using a transthoracic or transesophageal ultrasound probe imaging the heart in 2D and/or 3D. Chamber pressures determined include the static pressure of the left ventricular end diastolic pressure, which can be used to diagnose whether a patient is suffering from congestive heart failure.

Abstract: An ultrasound grayscale imaging system includes a probe; a transmitting circuit which excites the probe to transmit multiple groups of non-focused ultrasound beams to a flow; a receiving circuit which receives echoes to obtain multiple groups of non-focused ultrasound echo signals; a signal processing unit which obtains flow data according to the multiple groups of non-focused ultrasound echo signals; an image processing unit which obtains B mode ultrasound image sequence according to the flow data; and a display device which displays the B mode ultrasound image sequence.

Abstract: A method for ultrasonic imaging comprises: emitting Doppler pulses to a target to be detected; performing a Doppler scan with Doppler pulses; receiving echo signals from the target, wherein the echo signals include Doppler pulse echo signals; processing the echo signals, wherein processing comprises an imaging step, the imaging step comprising parallel processing steps including a 2D image processing step, a flow image processing step, and a spectrum image processing step, wherein the 2D image processing step is configured for processing the echo signals to obtain 2D image signals, the flow image processing step is configured for processing the echo signals to obtain flow image signals, and the spectrum image processing step is configured for processing the echo signals to obtain spectrum image signals; and displaying the processed echo signals.

Abstract: In order to obtain a predetermined ultrasonic wave field in a homogeneous internal part of a medium masked by an aberrating barrier, an ultrasonic lens is interposed between the emitting ultrasonic probe and the aberrating barrier. The ultrasonic lens is calculated by using a model of the medium comprising a mapping of ultrasonic wave propagation properties obtained from actual imaging of the medium such that when the ultrasound probe sends a predetermined ultrasonic wave, said predetermined wave generates the predetermined objective ultrasonic wave field in the medium.

Abstract: A method and a system for producing images of a subject, such as the heart of a human being. The method may comprise acquiring ultrasound images of the subject with a catheter comprising a position sensor. The method may also comprise capturing a plurality of 4D surface registration points in the acquired ultrasound images corresponding to points on the subject. The method may also comprise registering, in space and time, a high-resolution 4D model of the subject with the plurality of 4D surface registration points. The method may also comprise displaying high resolution, real-time images of the subject during a medical procedure based on the registration of the high resolution 4D model to the 4D surface registration points. Embodiments of the present invention are especially useful in left atrium ablation procedures.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a probe holding table and a medical equipment. The probe holding table comprises a faceplate and a fixing plate for supporting the faceplate. The faceplate is rotatably connected to the fixing plate. A plurality of probe placement units for installing probes are disposed on the faceplate, and each of the probe placement units is in electrical communication with an external power. The user may turn the faceplate to take the probes on the corresponding position, in particular, when more probes need to be used, the structure of the probe holding table is simpler than the normal fixed table, and easier to take the probes. Therefore, the medical equipment adopted the above probe holding table provides with the above advantages.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a photoacoustic tomography (PAT) probe to direct light to various regions within the tissue of interest to improve image quality and remove cumbersome artifacts at their source. Particularly, a rotating PAT probe and method of using thereof to improve the photoacoustic penetration depth and signal to noise ratio in biological samples. Signal intensity at region of interest is increased by fine-tuning the fiber orientation with respect to the ultrasound transducer. Additional PA filter is used to prevent in vivo probe-skin artifacts.

Abstract: An ultrasound diagnosis device includes: an ultrasound probe which transmits an ultrasound wave toward a examinee and receives a reflected wave from the examinee; and a main device which controls the transmitting and receiving of the ultrasound waves from the ultrasound probe and is operated to receive a receiving signal obtained by receiving the reflected wave from the examinee by the ultrasound probe, to generate an ultrasound image of the examinee, and to display the ultrasound image on a display screen, wherein the ultrasound probe includes a plurality of subarrays having a plurality of element circuits transmitting and receiving ultrasound signals and a plurality of reference voltage sources, and the plurality of subarrays and the plurality of reference voltage sources have a one-to-one correspondence.

Abstract: An ultrasonic device includes a substrate that is provided with an opening and a partition wall surrounding the opening, a vibration portion that closes one end side of the opening, and a piezoelectric element that is provided in the vibration portion, in which, in a case where an opening width dimension of the opening is indicated by W, and a thickness dimension of the substrate is indicated by H, a ratio W/H is 0.66 to 0.92.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic device includes an ultrasonic probe and processing circuitry. The probe conducts ultrasonic scanning on a three-dimensional area of a subject and receives a reflected wave from the subject. The circuitry acquires the correspondence relation between a position in ultrasonic image data on the three-dimensional area based on the reflected wave and a position in volume data on the subject captured by a different medical-image diagnostic device. The circuitry receives, from an operator, an operation to set a position marker, which indicates the position at which blood-flow information is extracted, on a scan area of the ultrasonic image data. The circuitry causes the image generated during a rendering process on the ultrasonic image data to be displayed and causes the position marker to be displayed at a corresponding position on a display image based on at least the volume data in accordance with the correspondence relation.

Abstract: Using ultrasound frame data generated from the ultrasound echo reflected from the living tissue, the movement amount of the living tissue and its representative value are calculated. In a case where the representative value of the tissue movement amount is equal to or greater than a threshold value, a hue conversion LUT_large having a large degree of hue change is used, and an elastic image in which distortion is expressed by hue corresponding to the magnitude is generated. On the other hand, in a case where the representative value of the movement amount of the living tissue is less than the predetermined threshold value, a hue conversion LUT_small having a small degree of hue change is used to generate an elastic image.

Abstract: A control device of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a detector that detects a Doppler signal from a reception signal based on a reflected ultrasonic wave reflected on an internal portion of a subject, and a clutter component reducer that acquires a frequency spectrum based on the Doppler signal and reduces a clutter component from the acquired frequency spectrum based on symmetry of the clutter component which is distinguished from asymmetry of a blood flow component in the acquired frequency spectrum.

Abstract: An ultrasound probe, including a transducer module configured to receive an echo ultrasound signal reflected from a subject in response to a transmitted ultrasound signal, and a driver chip provided in the transducer module, the driver chip being configured to focus at least one of the ultrasound signal and the echo ultrasound signal, wherein the driver chip includes a fine analog beamformer configured to apply a fine delay and a coarse analog beamformer configured to apply a coarse delay, wherein the fine analog beamformer is arranged in a first inner region of a plurality of inner regions of the driver chip, the first inner region being located opposite to the transducer module, and wherein the coarse analog beamformer is arranged in a second inner region of the plurality of inner regions of the driver chip, the second inner region being different from the first inner region.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for powering micron-scale implantable and injectable integrated circuit (IC) chips for in-vivo sensing and acquisition of various physiological signals are provided. The disclosed subject matter includes the integration of piezoelectric transducers, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) or lead zirconate titanate (PZT), onto implantable and injectable IC chips for power transfer and data transmission using ultrasound waves generated from commercial ultrasound imaging equipment.

Abstract: A Doppler phantom includes a first reservoir, a second reservoir, a fluid line coupling the first and second reservoirs, a pressure line coupling the first and second reservoirs, and a tissue mimicking material surrounding at least the fluid line. The phantom can be positioned in first and second positions, where the first reservoir defines an elevated reservoir and the second reservoir defines a lower reservoir in the first position, where the second reservoir defines the elevated reservoir and the first reservoir defines the lower reservoir in the second position. The fluid line provides a path for fluid to travel from the elevated reservoir to the lower reservoir via gravity in either of the first or second positions, and the pressure line provides a path for gas to transfer from the lower reservoir to the elevated reservoir while the fluid travels in either of the first or second positions.

Abstract: A cat-box litter-less liner product and method for managing cat excreta, in a cat box, without litter, comprising an impermeable liner with an affixed absorbent pad, which fits into and over the sides of a cat box in use, and forms a disposable bag after use, providing the cat with a place to urinate and defecate, without the spilling of any waste or other substance from the cat box during use or when removed and disposed of. This invention solves problems associated with the use of kitty litter in a cat pan, and provides a convenient and sanitary way to obtain stool and urine samples for health evaluation and analysis, and to regularly and periodically make quick visual inspections of the cat's excreta for early detection of health problems.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to gastrointestinal (GI) tract detection methods, devices and systems.

Abstract: A cannula assembly includes an outer tube having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a lumen. The outer tube defines a longitudinal axis. An inner tube is disposed within the lumen of the outer tube. A cap is connected to the proximal portion of the outer tube. The cap has a recessed portion that defines an interior wall. The recessed portion extends proximally from the lumen of the outer tube. A stopper is configured to be slidably received in the recessed portion of the cap. The stopper has a through hole located on the longitudinal axis and configured to receive the inner tube. An inner seal is interposed between the stopper and the inner tube. An outer seal is interposed between the stopper and the interior wall of the cap.

Abstract: A handheld device for extracting tissue samples includes a needle arrangement and control arrangement. The needle arrangement has a cutting needle, a sample extraction needle, and a first end for inserting into tissue. The cutting needle has a cutting edge for cutting the tissue sample. The sample extraction needle has a side opening for receiving the tissue. The control arrangement has a vacuum chamber in fluid communication with the sample extraction needle. The vacuum chamber has a first member and a second member that move relative to each other. The first member is mechanically connected to the cutting needle. The handheld device is configured so that movement between the first and second members to increase volume of the vacuum chamber thereby reduces pressure in the sample extraction needle, induces movement between the cutting needle and the sample extraction needle to expose the side opening.

Abstract: A tissue removal device includes a housing, an outer tube having a distal portion configured for transcervical insertion into a uterus, an inner tube slidably disposed within the outer tube lumen, a vacuum generation chamber disposed within the housing, a movable piston slidably disposed in the vacuum generation chamber, a collection chamber, a manual actuator moveably coupled to the housing and operatively coupled to the piston, and proximal and distal one-way valves. The outer tube has an outer tube lumen, a tissue in-take opening proximate a distal end thereof, and a proximal end coupled to the housing. The inner tube has an inner tube lumen extending from an open inner tube distal end to an open inner tube proximal end, the open inner tube distal end comprising a cutting edge configured to sever intrauterine tissue extending through the tissue in-take opening in the outer tube.

Abstract: A medical instrument including a shaft and an actuated structure mounted at a distal end of the shaft can employ a pair of tendons connected to the actuated structure, extending down the shaft, and respectively wound around a capstan in opposite directions. A passive preload system may maintain minimum tensions in the tendons.

Abstract: A tool for deploying an anchor sleeve onto an implantable device includes handle and base members, which may be fitted together by an operator. The operator may select the handle member from a plurality thereof included in a kit; and the base member, also included in the kit, includes a rail segment with which a gripping portion of the selected handle member may be engaged, for example, via guidance from a marked portion of the base member. Once engaged, a deployment tip of the base member is located to move a mounted anchor sleeve from a tubular member of the handle member and onto a body of the device. The tubular member of some tools has a laterally offset distal end portion, on which the corresponding anchor sleeve is mounted; thus, kits including this type of handle member, may include a converter for the base member to facilitate engagement therewith.

Abstract: The present subject matter provides improvements of endoscopic retrieving devices. In specific, the present subject matter provides a net element with an extra wide tail section. The present subject matter provides a new weaving pattern. The present subject matter provides a new shape of the loop. The present subject matter provides a net with a combination of net elements, such as combinations of different net geometries and/or different net materials. The present subject matter provides a new and inventive loop. The present subject matter provides an improved second end of the tubular member. The present subject matter provides a new and inventive arm.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to agents and devices for promoting hemostasis and, more particularly, to bioresorbable hemostatic pads or patches releasably supported on non-resorbable scaffolds for ease of delivery in the field. A sealant and/or hemostat delivery device comprises a resorbable hemostatic pad having a wound facing side and an opposite back side, with a hemostatic and/or wound sealing agent disposed on the wound facing side; a non-resorbable scaffold having an attachment zone on said scaffold; wherein said hemostatic pad is releasably attached with the back side to the attachment zone. The bond between the scaffold and the resorbable hemostatic pad or wound dressing is either (i) severed prior to removal of the scaffold or (ii) is weakened due to the adhesive bonding them together being moisture-deactivated, or (iii) is released by mechanical disentanglement.

Abstract: This invention is directed to devices and methods for improving wound closures produced during endoscopic surgery. These methods are directed to delivering and applying a quantity of hemostatic agents in either powder, solid, liquid, or gel form onto an open wound produced e.g., by polyp removal, followed by the application of pressure. The method is implemented preferably using existing endoscopic equipment; however, modifications to existing endoscopic insertion tubes, application and tamping devices and endoscopic clips deployed from the distal end of the insertion tube during endoscopic surgery are also within the scope of this invention.

Abstract: Cheek retraction devices including an upper frame element configured to bear against and retract soft oral tissue from one or more teeth of an upper dental arch, a lower frame element configured to bear against and retract soft oral tissue from one or more teeth of a lower dental arch. The upper and lower frame elements may each include left and right frame portions wherein the upper and lower left frame portions are joined to one another to form a v-shaped hinge on one side of the frame, while upper and lower right frame portions are joined to one another to form a v-shaped hinge on another side of the frame. The v-shaped hinges on opposed sides permit the upper and lower frame elements to be at least partially folded toward each other. A posterior frame element may be provided extending between the v-shaped hinges.

Abstract: A method for securing a flexible member may include forming a bore in a bone; inserting an anchor into the bore, the anchor including a passage and being coupled to a flexible member; slideably positioning a first load distributing member along the flexible member; inserting the first load distributing member into the bore such that the flexible member engages the first load distributing member; and applying tension to a portion of the flexible member to secure the anchor and load distributing member within the bone.

Abstract: The present invention includes a braided suture article adapted to be inserted through or into a tissue so as be able to exert a force on that tissue, the braided suture material adapted to be moved from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration forming at least two loops extending substantially perpendicular to its threaded length and having a relatively rigid terminal end length that extends substantially perpendicular to the threaded length. The present invention further includes a suture placement device adapted to insert a length of suture material into or through a tissue to a space beyond a rear surface of said tissue so as to maintain said length of suture material, and a method of placing an expanding suture knot into a tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus can include a first flexible member having first and second ends and a first body extending therebetween, where the first body defines a first passage portion. A second flexible member can have first and second ends and a second body extending therebetween, where the second body defines second and third passage portions. The first end of the first flexible member passes into and through the second passage portion such that the first end extends outside of the second passage portion, and the second end of the first flexible member passes into and through the third passage portion such that the second end extends outside of the third passage portion. The first and second ends of the second flexible member pass into and through the first passage portion to form a self-locking adjustable flexible member construct.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for minimally invasive procedures in the heart. In one application, a catheter is advanced from the left atrium through the mitral valve and along the left ventricular outflow tract to orient and stabilize the catheter and enable a procedure such as a “bow tie” repair of the mitral valve. Right heart procedures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of attaching a surgical suture to a needle and testing the attachment includes dispensing a length of suture from a spool by using a first suture gripper, and using a surgical needle gripper for holding a surgical needle stationary. A leading end of the suture is inserted into and attached to a receiving end of the surgical needle. A second suture gripper is located between the first suture gripper and the spool. After the second suture gripper is closed for gripping the suture, the second suture gripper is advanced downstream toward the surgical needle to reduce the tension on the suture. The tension on the suture is reduced by moving the second suture gripper a pre-determined distance. The first suture gripper is opened for releasing the suture and the first suture gripper is moved toward the suture spool for re-grasping the suture at a location between the second gripper and the suture spool.

Abstract: A cartridge for a surgical stapler has an elongated body having a first side with a tissue clamping interface and a second side. The elongated body is configured to removably house a plurality of B-form staples, at least one of the plurality of B-form staples having a base and a leg. The elongated body has a first slot shaped to receive a translating cutting mechanism, the first slot passing through the first side and the second side. The elongated body has a second slot shaped to house at least a first one of the plurality of staples; and a third slot shaped to house at least a second one of the plurality of staples at an angle oblique to the first one of the plurality of staples.