Patents Issued in August 16, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180228522
    Abstract: An orthopedic drill bit includes a cutting head formed to include diametrically opposed cutting lips leading to a central point and away to a radiused periphery to center said bit. The drill includes flutes extending from a cutting end, said flutes having a dulled periphery to prevent out of round holes. The flute design increases in width progressively from the tip up the shank, to maintain an adequate and unrestricted space for chips to easily move upward, preventing the chips from being compressed into a smaller opening while maintaining the tapered depth of the flutes for strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Gary REED
  • Publication number: 20180228523
    Abstract: A pectus bar stabilizer insertion tool can include a first handle, a second handle, a first head, a second head, and a locking shaft. The first handle can include a first distal portion. The second handle can include a second distal portion, and the second handle can be pivotably coupled to the first handle. The first and second handles can be moveable between an open position and a closed position. The first head can be coupled to the first distal portion and can be engageable with a first portion of a stabilizer. The first head can include a driver engageable with a lock of the stabilizer. The second head can be coupled to the second distal portion and can be engageable with a second portion of the stabilizer. The locking shaft can be coupled to the driver and operable to lock and unlock the stabilizer to a pectus bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Isabella Balzano, Saddy Garcia, Jayden Garfield
  • Publication number: 20180228524
    Abstract: A pectus bar pectus bar assembly can include a pectus bar and a stabilizer. The pectus bar can include a first portion including a first periphery and a second portion opposite the first portion. The stabilizer can include a stabilizer body including a recess engageable with the second portion. The stabilizer can also include a locking cam rotatable within the body to secure the stabilizer to the first portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Saddy Garcia, Jayden Garfield
  • Publication number: 20180228525
    Abstract: A system for bending an implant includes a drill guide extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end, the drill guide including a distal portion having a first threading extending therealong to engage a threading along an interior of a bone fixation element receiving hole of an implant and a proximal portion having a second threading extending therealong and a bending pin extending longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end including a recess extending proximally therefrom, the recess sized and shaped to receive the proximal portion of the drill guide and including a corresponding threading therealong for engaging the second threading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: George DOUDOUKJIAN, Michael McGurk
  • Publication number: 20180228526
    Abstract: The fluid connecting system comprises a connecting piece (16) that consists of a single injection-molded part of plastic material, said part accommodating a coaxial first fluid conveying arrangement (15), as well as an also coaxial second fluid conveying arrangement (17) and providing several adhesive reservoirs that allow a pressure-resistant gluing of the two fluid conveying arrangements (15, 17) to each other by a reliable safe process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Marcus Adler, Hanna Andel
  • Publication number: 20180228527
    Abstract: A method of modifying a tissue includes providing an electrochemical reaction in the tissue by the use of an anodic electrode and a cathodic electrode wherein at least one of the anodic and cathodic electrodes is in contact with the tissue; and setting a concentration of electrochemically generated chemical agents that affect the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Brian Jet-Fei Wong, Michael G. Hill, Dmitry E. Protsenko, Bryan M. Hunter
  • Publication number: 20180228528
    Abstract: Systems and methods to confirm safe delivery of treatment energy to a patient by identifying a presence of a fault in an energy delivery pathway and identifying a location of the fault within the device. The system includes a processing unit configured to calculate blood impedances external to the device based on known impedance characteristics of the device, and then to calculate impedances within the device during energy delivery based on the calculated blood impedances. The processing unit prevents the delivery of energy in an energy delivery pathway that is determined to be compromised. The processing unit is also configured to compare times for two different frequencies to travel a predetermined distance, the difference in the times corresponding to a location of a fault within the energy delivery pathway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Steven J. FRAASCH, Catherine R. CONDIE, Trenton J. REHBERGER, Mark T. STEWART, Qin ZHANG
  • Publication number: 20180228529
    Abstract: Catheterization is carried out by bringing an electrode that is disposed on a distal portion of a catheter into contact with tissue, wherein the electrode has an area that falls within a range of 0.01-25 mm2. A power generator delivers pulses of radiofrequency power through the electrode to the tissue. While applying the pulses temperatures at the distal portion of the catheter are recorded. A rate of change of the temperatures is calculated and tissue thickness estimated based on the rate of change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Assaf Govari, Israel Zilberman, Andres Claudio Altmann
  • Publication number: 20180228530
    Abstract: An end effector of an electrosurgical device may include one or more electrodes and a movable electrode scraper having a plurality of features in mechanical communication with a surface of the one or more electrodes and configured to move across the surface of the electrodes thereby removing biological debris adhering to the surface of the electrodes. The electrosurgical device may include a diverter in mechanical communication with the one or more electrodes. The scraper may also be configured to move across the surface of the diverter. The scraper may be operated by the action of an extendable mechanism in mechanical communication with a shaft of the electrosurgical device. An end effector of an electrosurgical device may include one or more electrodes and a movable electrode sleeve configured to movably cover the one or more electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: David C. Yates, David A. Witt, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, John A. Weed, III, Chad P. Boudreaux
  • Publication number: 20180228531
    Abstract: An end-effector assembly includes opposing first and second jaw members, at least one of which is movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to at least a second position closer to one another wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes an electrically-conductive, tissue-engaging structure extending along a length thereof. Each electrically-conductive, tissue-engaging structure is configured to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy for conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue grasped between the opposing first and second jaw members to effect a tissue seal. The end-effector assembly includes a split electrode including a first electrode portion and a second electrode portion spaced apart from the first electrode portion and electrically-isolated therefrom by a gap defined therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: JAMES S. CUNNINGHAM, PAUL R. ROMERO
  • Publication number: 20180228532
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a reusable component and a limited-use component. The reusable component includes a first electrical contact. The limited-use component is releasably engagable with the reusable component. The limited-use component includes a second electrical contact configured to electrically couple to the first electrical contact to establish electrical communication between the reusable component and the limited-use component. The second electrical contact is movable from a first position, wherein the second electrical contact is positioned to electrically couple to the first electrical contact upon engagement of the limited-use component and the reusable component to one another, to a second position, wherein the second electrical contact is positioned to inhibit electrical coupling to the first electrical contact upon engagement of the limited-use component and the reusable component to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: William O. Reid
  • Publication number: 20180228533
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating a patient's mucus hypersecretion condition are disclosed herein. Certain implementations may involve a method for reducing mucus secretion in an upper airway of a patient to treat at least one of post nasal drip or chronic cough. The method may include advancing a treatment delivery portion of an energy-based treatment device into a nostril of the patient. The treatment delivery portion may contact mucosal tissue of the upper airway without piercing the mucosal tissue. The treatment delivery portion may deliver treatment to at least one tissue selected from the group of the mucosal tissue and another tissue underlying the mucosal tissue to modify a property of the at least one tissue and thus treat at least one of post nasal drip or chronic cough in the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Aerin Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Scott J. WOLF, Andrew FRAZIER
  • Publication number: 20180228534
    Abstract: A medical instrument includes an inflatable balloon and first and second electrodes. The inflatable balloon is coupled to a distal end of a catheter. The first and second electrodes have respective first and second shapes that are interleaved with one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: BIOSENSE WEBSTER (ISRAEL) LTD.
    Inventors: Assaf Govari, Yehuda Algawi, Andres Claudio Altmann
  • Publication number: 20180228535
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treatment of heart failure, hypertension and renal failure by stimulating the renal nerve. The goal of therapy is to reduce sympathetic activity of the renal nerve. Therapy is accomplished by at least partially blocking the nerve with drug infusion or electrostimulation. Apparatus can be permanently implanted or catheter based.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Howard R. Levin, Mark Gelfand
  • Publication number: 20180228536
    Abstract: A method of determining a candidate ablation location using historical ablation data includes generating a database including a plurality of ablation records, and generating a set of probability parameters describing each ablation record. The method also includes developing an algorithm based upon the probability parameters for the ablation records. For a candidate ablation procedure, the method includes receiving patient parameters associated with a patient receiving the candidate ablation procedure, and determining at least one candidate condition associated with the patient and a respective probability associated with each candidate condition. The method further includes applying the algorithm to determine at least one candidate ablation location based upon the respective probabilities associated with the at least one candidate condition, and displaying the at least one candidate ablation location on a visual interface of a cardiac mapping system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Srijoy Mahapatra
  • Publication number: 20180228537
    Abstract: The present invention provides a medical device with a balloon-stent assembly comprising a stent, a balloon within the stent, and an ablation member. The medical device can be useful for a combined procedure of balloon angioplasty, radiofrequency ablation, and stent placement. The invention exhibits numerous merits such as simpler and precise operation, and a single device for multiple applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Shanghai Golden Leaf Medtech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yonghua Dong, Meijun Shen
  • Publication number: 20180228538
    Abstract: Tissue cutting systems and methods of tissue cutting are provided. In one example, the tissue cutting system includes a first device and a second device adapted for coupling to a power supply. The first device includes a conductive probe. The second device includes a conductive material, for example, as part of an expandable structure, having an outer surface area of conductive material that may be larger than a surface area of the conductive probe. The conductive probe and the conductive material are deployed along opposite sides of a body tissue, such as an aortic dissection flap. Selective electrical power is applied to the conductive probe and the conductive material to cut the body tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Cook Medical Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Blayne A. Roeder, Rebecca A. Roeder, Sean D. Chambers, Jillian Noblet, Zachary Berwick, Matthew J. Phillips, Ghassan Kassab, Joshua F. Krieger, Jarin A. Kratzberg
  • Publication number: 20180228539
    Abstract: Catheter apparatuses, systems, and methods for achieving renal neuromodulation by intravascular access are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed to a treatment device having a multi-electrode array configured to be delivered to a renal blood vessel. The array is selectively transformable between a delivery or low-profile state (e.g., a generally straight shape) and a deployed state (e.g., a radially expanded, generally helical shape). The multi-electrode array is sized and shaped so that the electrodes or energy delivery elements contact an interior wall of the renal blood vessel when the array is in the deployed (e.g., helical) state. The electrodes or energy delivery elements are configured for direct and/or indirect application of thermal and/or electrical energy to heat or otherwise electrically modulate neural fibers that contribute to renal function or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Vincent Ku, Robert Beetel, Andrew Wu, Denise Zarins, Maria Aboytes
  • Publication number: 20180228540
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided to concentrate energy delivery in non-superficial target tissue within a trigone region of a human bladder wall to modulate bladder function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Amphora Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Sachs, Edwin J. Hlavka
  • Publication number: 20180228541
    Abstract: An irrigated ablation catheter includes a tip electrode with a thin shell and a plug, defining a plenum chamber. The tip electrode has an inlet of a predetermined size and noncircular shape, and a predetermined number of outlet fluid ports having a predetermined diameter in the shell wall. The tip electrode thus considers a diffusion ratio of total fluid output area to fluid input area, and a fluid port ratio, and considers a fluid inlet aspect ratio where the fluid inlet has a noncircular radial cross-section. The plenum chamber has a narrow proximal portion opening to a wider distal portion so that fluid pressure decreases while fluid velocity increases thereby increasing turbulence which decreases momentum for a more uniform distribution of fluid in the tip electrode. Extending distally from the plug is a baffle member shaped to diffuse fluid entering the tip electrode and to house an electromagnetic position sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Clark, Christopher J. Birchard
  • Publication number: 20180228542
    Abstract: A medical device is disclosed for delivering energy to a body lumen. The device includes an elongate member including a proximal portion and a distal portion adapted for insertion into a body lumen; and an energy delivery device disposed adjacent the distal portion of the elongate member, the energy delivery device including at least one elongate electrode arm, wherein the elongate electrode arm is configured to transition between a first configuration and a second configuration different than the first configuration. The at least one elongate electrode arm includes an active region configured to contact and deliver energy to the body lumen. When the elongate electrode arm is in the first configuration, at least a portion of the active region of the elongate electrode arm extends radially inward toward a longitudinal axis of the energy delivery device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew K. Hollett, Craig McGreevy
  • Publication number: 20180228543
    Abstract: Microwave ablation devices and systems and method including the devices are provided. The microwave ablation device includes a cable assembly operably coupled to an energy source, a feedline in electrical communication with the cable assembly, a balun disposed on the feedline, an outer tubular member through which the feedline at least partially extends, and an inflatable barrier disposed on the outer tubular member proximal to the balun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Kathy E. Rooks
  • Publication number: 20180228544
    Abstract: A system for monitoring ablation size is provided and includes a power source including a microprocessor for executing at least one control algorithm. A microwave antenna is configured to deliver microwave energy from the power source to tissue to form an ablation zone. An ablation zone control module is in operative communication with a memory associated with the power source. The memory includes one or more data look-up tables including data pertaining to a control curve varying over time and being representative of one or more electrical parameters associated with the microwave antenna. Points along the control curve correspond to a value of the electrical parameters and the ablation zone control module triggers a signal when a predetermined threshold value of the electrical parameter(s) is measured corresponding to the radius of the ablation zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: JOSEPH D. BRANNAN
  • Publication number: 20180228545
    Abstract: Disclosed systems, methods, and devices may include a system for removing a kidney stone from a ureter. The system may have an inner shaft extending coaxially within an outer shaft, a stone retention member shaft having a stone retention member and extending coaxially within the inner shaft, a wall protection member coupled to the outer shaft and the inner shaft, and a handle coupled with proximal ends of the outer shaft, the inner shaft, and the stone retention member shaft. The handle may include an eversion mechanism coupled to the inner shaft and configured to actuate the inner shaft, thereby everting the wall protection member to form a pocket adapted to receive a kidney stone. The system may also include a retention member mechanism coupled to the stone retention member shaft and configured to actuate the stone retention member shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Raymond Arthur Bonneau, David Gal
  • Publication number: 20180228546
    Abstract: A thermal treatment planning system including a processing device and an image display device is provided. The processing device obtains a medical condition setting, and performs a curve fitting operation according to a plurality of surgical situation information provided by a surgical parameters database and the medical condition setting, so as to obtain a surgical evaluation information corresponding to the medical condition setting. The image display device displays the surgical evaluation information. If the surgical evaluation information is reliable, the processing device optimizes the plurality of surgical context information in the surgical situation database based on the surgical evaluation information. In addition, a thermal treatment planning method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Metal Industries Research & Development Centre
    Inventors: Yu-Jie Lan, Tung-Chieh Yang, Tsung-Chih Yu
  • Publication number: 20180228547
    Abstract: A method of surgically positioning an electrode array at a desired implantation location relative to a nerve. A temporary probe electrode is temporarily positioned adjacent to the nerve and at a location which is caudorostrally separate to the desired implantation location of the electrode array. The implanted position of the probe electrode is temporarily fixed relative to the nerve. During implantation of the electrode array, electrical stimuli are applied from one of the temporarily fixed probe electrode and the electrode array, to evoke compound action potentials on the nerve. Compound action potentials evoked by the stimuli are sensed from at least one electrode of the other of the temporarily fixed probe electrode and the electrode array. From the sensed compound action potentials a position of the electrode array relative to the nerve is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Saluda Medical Pty Ltd
    Inventors: John Louis Parker, Milan Obradovic
  • Publication number: 20180228548
    Abstract: A flexible tool includes an optical fiber including a proximal region, a distal region, an intermediate portion between the proximal region and the distal region and an bending region between the proximal region and the intermediate portion, wherein the intermediate portion is constrained to have a single degree of freedom that is translational substantially along an axis defined by the optical fiber at the intermediate portion. The optical fiber may be used to provide shape sensing of the flexible tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Stephen J. BLUMENKRANZ, Vincent DUINDAM, Mark E. FROGGATT, Eric E. SANBORN
  • Publication number: 20180228549
    Abstract: The present invention relates to computer-implemented medical method of verifying an expected deformation of an elastically deformable and actuator-adjusted medical fine-adjustment unit (1), the method comprising executing, on a processor of a computer, the steps of; —acquiring model data describing a model of the fine-adjustment unit (1), the model reflecting deformation properties of the fine-adjustment unit (1); —acquiring actuator data describing an actuator position of at least one actuator coupled to the fine-adjustment unit (1); —determining, based on the model data and the actuator data, target deformation data describing a target deformation of the fine-adjustment unit (1) caused by the at least one actuator at said actuator position; —acquiring actual deformation data describing an actual deformation of the fine-adjustment unit (1) caused by the at least one actuator at said actuator position; —determining, based on the target deformation data and the actual deformation data, verification data descr
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Brainlab AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang STEINLE, Christian RABUS, Nils FRIELINGHAUS
  • Publication number: 20180228550
    Abstract: A handheld scanner is provided for use in registering a patient for a medical procedure with a medical navigation system. The handheld scanner has a housing having a main body portion having a first end and a second end and a handle portion having a first end and a second end with the second end attached to the second end of the main body portion with a bridge portion. The handheld scanner further has a circuit board contained in the housing, a processor connected to the circuit board, a light emitter contained in the main body portion and connected to the circuit board, a light detector contained in the main body portion and connected to the circuit board, and a button connected to the circuit board and located on the second end of the handle portion. The button is engageable by a thumb of a hand holding the handle portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Kyle Richard Dupont, Jakub Jankowski, Samson Ng, Leila Kheradpir, Kishan Hitesh Shah, Omar Taqreiz Ahmad Khan, Kirusha Srimohanarajah
  • Publication number: 20180228551
    Abstract: A medical instrument is disclosed. The medical instrument comprises a moveable tip, a mechanism for moving the tip, a surgical element on the tip; and a first sensing device. The first sensing device communicates one or more output signals to an image guidance system corresponding to movement in the mechanism so that a visual representation of the tip, the surgical element, or both is provided on a display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Riyad Moe
  • Publication number: 20180228552
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems, methods and apparatuses for an in vivo surgical device that uses tomographic imaging to guide the process of surgical incisions for cell, biologics and drug delivery; the image guided system guides the process of delivery with comprehensive real-time processing with the ability to seal the location of delivery and offer laser-tissue modification via a co-aligned tissue modification beam on tissue without tissue damage to adjacent critical or delicate structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas E. MILNER, Janet ZOLDAN, R.Y. Declan FLEMING, Nitesh KATTA, John RECTOR, Michael R. GARDNER, Arnold ESTRADA, Austin MCELROY, Marc D. FELDMAN
  • Publication number: 20180228553
    Abstract: Described are various embodiments of a sensored surgical tool, and surgical intraoperative tracking and imaging system incorporating same. In one embodiment, the surgical tool comprises a rigid elongate tool body having a substantially rigid tool tip to be displaced and tracked within the surgical cavity so to reproducibly locate the tool tip within the cavity. The tool further comprises one or more tool tip cameras and/or pressure sensors operatively disposed along the body at or proximal to the tool tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Yanhui BAI, Michael Frank Gunter WOOD, Cameron Anthony PIRON
  • Publication number: 20180228554
    Abstract: Method for delivering a stent coupled with a catheter, to a selected position within a lumen of the body of a patient, the method includes the procedures of: selecting a single image of the lumen, among a plurality of images of an image sequence of the lumen, receiving a position input associated with the selected image and respective of the selected position, the position input is defined in a coordinate system respective of a medical positioning system (MPS), detecting the current position of the stent in the coordinate system, according to position data acquired by an MPS sensor attached to the catheter in the vicinity of the stent, superimposing on at least one maneuvering associated image of the lumen, at least one stent representation respective of the current position, and at least one marking representation respective of the position input, according to a real-time organ timing signal of an inspected organ of the body, maneuvering the catheter through the lumen, toward the selected position, according
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Gera M. Strommer, Uzi Eichler
  • Publication number: 20180228555
    Abstract: A system for assisting a surgeon to perform an operation on a patient where surgeon employs a first surgical instrument that has a shaft and a tip. The system include a video capture device configured to capture real-time video data showing the first surgical instrument while the first surgical instrument is being used by the surgeon to perform the operation. The system also includes a display device and a computer processor. The computer processor is configured to receive real-time video data from the video capture device as a sequence of digital image frames and, for each image frame, analyze the image frame to determine the location in the image frame of the shaft of the first surgical instrument, process the image frame to overlay received overlay information on the shaft of the first surgical instrument as it appears in the image frame, and display the processed image frame on the display device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Luc Gilles Charron, Thanh Vinh Vuong
  • Publication number: 20180228556
    Abstract: An operating apparatus for a medical device and a corresponding operating method are provided. The operating apparatus includes a projector that is configured for real, virtual, or real and virtual projection of an operator surface onto a display element, and a capture facility for non-contact capturing of an interaction of an operator with the projected operator surface. A sensor system for independent detection of the interaction is arranged separately from the capture facility on the display element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Hans Schweizer
  • Publication number: 20180228557
    Abstract: A system for performing a medical procedure comprises a first assembly and a second assembly. The first assembly comprises an articulating probe assembly and a first housing. The articulating probe assembly comprises an outer probe and an inner probe. The outer probe comprises: multiple articulating outer links and a first connector. The inner probe comprises multiple articulating inner links and a second connector. The first housing comprises: a proximal portion; a distal portion; and an opening positioned in the first housing distal portion. The articulating probe is constructed and arranged to pass through the first housing opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Medrobotics Corporation
    Inventors: Ian J. Darisse, Gabriel A. Johnston, Richard Walker, Jr., Leland Witherspoon, David Warnock, Thomas Calef, Eric Daley, Stephen Tully, Amoz Cruz, Jonathan O'Keefe, JEffrey Cerier, Emily Triggs, Simon Grover, Andras Pungor, J. Christopher Flaherty, R. Maxwell Flaherty
  • Publication number: 20180228558
    Abstract: A method is for controlling a system including an imaging modality. The method includes receiving an image and/or a series of images of a portion of a patient from the imaging modality, the field of view of the image and/or of the series of images covering at least a part of an instrument; determining whether the part of the instrument is located within a defined portion of the field of view and/or in a given state selected from a plurality of first states and/or the part of the instrument executes a given movement selected from a plurality of movements; and generating a control command for performing an action depending on whether the part of the instrument is located within the defined portion of the field of view and/or the part of the instrument is in the given state and/or the part of the instrument executes the given movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Siemens Healthcare GmbH
    Inventors: Philip MEWES, Peter MOUNTNEY, Manish SAHU
  • Publication number: 20180228559
    Abstract: A surgical robot comprising a robot arm base connected to a distal robot arm link via a series of intermediate articulated robot arm links. A robot arm interface is attached to the distal robot arm link. The robot arm interface engages an instrument interface of a surgical instrument, and comprises an instrument engagement source and an instrument engagement detector. The instrument engagement detector is configured to only detect the instrument engagement source when the instrument engagement source is coupled to the instrument engagement detector by a coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Ben Brierton, Andrew Murray SCHOLAN, Simon SCHOFIELD, Ricardo Michael Henderson DA SILVA
  • Publication number: 20180228560
    Abstract: An operating device (42) for a robot-assisted surgery system (10) comprising a manually actuatable operating element (124) as well as an interface (100) for attaching the operating device (42) to a holding unit (50). When attached to the holding unit (50), the operating element (124) is rotatable relative to the interface (100) about three axes of rotation (106, 114, 126) running orthogonally to each other, these three axes of rotation (106, 114, 126) intersecting in a common point of intersection (150).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Nils ZIEGENSPECK, Christian TROMMER, Geralf GUDE, Thomas SCHRUMPF, Andreas KARGUTH
  • Publication number: 20180228561
    Abstract: Various exemplary methods, systems, and devices for limiting torque in robotic surgical tools are provided. In general, a surgical tool can be configured to releasably and removably couple to a robotic surgical system. The robotic surgical system can include a motor configured to provide torque to the surgical tool to drive two different functions of the surgical tool. The surgical tool can include two torque limiting mechanisms, each associated with the motor, each associated with one of the functions, and each configured to limit an amount of the torque from the motor that drives the function associated therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Michael J. Vendely
  • Publication number: 20180228562
    Abstract: A tool apparatus and a method for actuating a tool apparatus are disclosed. The tool apparatus includes an actuator housing, and an elongate tool manipulator extending outwardly from the actuator housing and having a plurality of control links extending along a length of the tool manipulator. The control links are operable to cause movement of a distal end of the tool manipulator in response to movement of the control links in an actuating direction generally aligned with the length of the tool manipulator. The apparatus also includes a plurality of actuators, each actuator being associated with at least one of the control links and being mounted in the actuator housing to facilitate a range of travel in a transverse direction substantially orthogonal to the actuating direction, and a plurality of linkages. Each linkage is associated with one of the control links and extends between the control link and the respective actuator and is operable to transmit drive forces between the actuator and the control link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Rene Robert, David Allen Zitnick
  • Publication number: 20180228563
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a surgical instrument mountable to a remotely controllable manipulator configured to operate the surgical instrument includes applying a first tension to a first tensioning element, applying a second tension to a second tensioning element, and maintaining the first and second tensions in the first and second tensioning elements while a first rotatable cylinder is locked to a second rotatable cylinder. The first tensioning element and the second tensioning element are each coupled to a distal end component of the surgical instrument and are coupled to one another such that a tension in one of the first tensioning element and the second tensioning element is transmitted at least in part to the other of the first tensioning element and the second tensioning element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Niels Smaby, Amir Chaghajerdi, James Trevor Clark, Stephen V. Gentile
  • Publication number: 20180228564
    Abstract: An organizing device for use during medical procedures is disclosed which, when used during laparoscopic or hysteroscopic surgery, enables the surgeon to keep multiple tubes, wires and cables organized. In a first embodiment, this device may have a rectangular shaped body, a top section with an integral ring at its center and a bottom section having a plurality of slots optimized for the insertion and retention of cables and tubes. The end sections contain, on one end a second integral ring, and on another a pivot point allowing a friction-closure latch mechanism to secure the slots. In a second embodiment, the device may have a donut shaped body, an integral ring at the center and a plurality of slots radially arranged at the periphery and secured through a cylindrical latching mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Maurice-Andre Recanati, Mohammad Ali E. Ozbeki, Katherine J. Kramer, Sejal Tamakuwala
  • Publication number: 20180228565
    Abstract: A sterilization wrap system with features for protecting a sterilization wrap and/or a sterilization tray of the sterilization wrap system is provided. Such features include strap or belt protectors, edge protectors, corner protectors, and/or expandable protectors, which each may provide protection of one or more areas of the sterilization wrap and/or tray when positioned against an outer surface of the wrap and/or between an inner surface of the wrap and a container for holding implements to be sterilized. A size-selectable protection system also is provided. The size-selectable protection system provides a material having a plurality of perforations such that a length of the material may be selected and detached from the rest of the material. The selected length of material may be used with a sterilization wrap system to protect a sterilization wrap and/or sterilization tray from cuts, tears, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2015
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Wendy TAKKEN, Ajay HOUDE, Audra WRIGHT, Khoa LIEN, Joe CESA, Anthony Stephen SPENCER, Paige O'SHEA
  • Publication number: 20180228566
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for performing spinal reconstructive surgery, including measuring spinal length in the Y-axis at the middle column, measuring intervertebral spacing in the Y-axis at the middle column, measuring intervertebral tension applied to the posterior longitudinal ligament, establishing the height of intervertebral spacers along the Y-axis at the middle column based on one or more of such measurements, measuring intervertebral rotation around the Y-axis, and measuring flexion-extension or anterior-posterior rotation around the X-axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Paul C. McAfee
  • Publication number: 20180228567
    Abstract: A counter assembly is supported in a handle assembly of a clip applier. The counter assembly includes a counting mechanism, a ratchet mechanism, and an actuator. The counting mechanism is positioned to rotate within the handle assembly and includes indicia visible through the handle assembly. The ratchet mechanism is rotationally coupled to the counting mechanism and prohibits multidirectional rotation of the counting mechanism. The actuator includes a protrusion projecting therefrom. The actuator is positioned to translate between a proximal position and a distal position, wherein the protrusion of the actuator engages the counting mechanism to rotate the counting mechanism, in a first direction, to adjust the indicia of the counting mechanism, which is visible through the handle assembly. In the proximal position, the protrusion of the actuator is disposed proximal of the counting mechanism. In the distal position, the protrusion of the actuator is disposed distal of the counting mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Jacob C. Baril, Brandon L. Calavan, Matthew A. Dinino
  • Publication number: 20180228568
    Abstract: A medical guidance apparatus includes a base assembly including a base ring having an inner circumference defining an opening; and a guide rotateably mateable with the base assembly, the guide including: a frame comprising: an inner circumference defining an opening; and an outer circumference, wherein, in a configuration where the guide is mated with the base assembly, the opening of the frame overlays the opening of the base ring; a gap extending from the inner circumference of the frame to the outer circumference of the frame; and an arc member including a first end integrally formed with the frame and a second end integrally formed with the frame, wherein the first end of the arc member is diametrically opposed to the second end of the arc member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Takahisa Kato, Luke McDonald Hydrick, Eric Penman Bogner, Barret Daniels, Hitoshi Nakamura, Devashree Desai, Federico Perego
  • Publication number: 20180228569
    Abstract: The invention relates to a surgical light comprising a plurality of lights associated with a light group which lights each produce a light beam extending along a longitudinal axis and are oriented and are arranged in relation to each other in such a way that the longitudinal axes of the light beams of the lights intersect in a common focal plane, wherein the lights of the light group can be supplied with current independently of each other such that a light field geometry produced by the lights in an illumination plane arranged at a distance from the focal plane can be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Applicant: Karl Leibinger Medizintechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Joachim STRĂ–LIN
  • Publication number: 20180228570
    Abstract: The present invention includes markers for use in implants that have a variable lucency or radiolucency. The use of a variably lucent marker can provide a surgeon a quick indication of the implant's alignment during implantation. A variably lucent marker can also provide a doctor or technician a quick indicator of an implant's position during post-operation imaging. The variably lucent markers can be used in any implant that has some level of lucency when viewed through an imaging device. The variably lucent markers can be used in the lattice with increased or optimized lucency disclosed herein or in other structure known in the art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2018
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher L. Jones, Ian Helmar, Lucas Diehl, Jason Tinley, Kevin D. Chappuis, John F. Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20180228571
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for the cleaning of an endotracheal tube while a patient is being supported by a ventilator connected to the endotracheal tube for the purpose of increasing the available space for airflow or to prevent the build up of materials that may constrict airflow or be a potential nidus for infection. In one embodiment, a mechanically-actuated endotracheal tube cleaning device is configured to removably receive a visualization member to provide cleaning of the endotracheal tube under direct visualization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Publication date: August 16, 2018
    Inventor: Brad Eugene Vazales