Patents Issued in September 27, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180271554
    Abstract: A cardiac ablation method including the following steps: inserting a treatment catheter into an atrium of a heart, the treatment catheter including an ultrasound emitter; positioning the ultrasound emitter to face heart tissue within the left atrium outside of a pulmonary vein; emitting ultrasound energy from the ultrasound emitter while rotating the ultrasound emitter about a rotation axis; and ablating heart tissue with the ultrasound energy to form a lesion outside of a pulmonary vein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Hira V. THAPLIYAL, David A. Gallup, James W. ARENSON
  • Publication number: 20180271555
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a housing, an ultrasonic transducer and generator assembly disposed in the housing, a shaft extending from a distal end of the housing, and an end effector assembly coupled to the shaft and operatively connected to the ultrasonic transducer and generator assembly. The ultrasonic surgical instrument further includes a handle assembly having a first set of power contacts formed thereon and being removably attachable to the housing, a power receiving mechanism having a second set of power contacts formed thereon, and a power cable electrically connected between the first and second power contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: JOHN T. LOPEZ, MATTHEW A. SCHANING
  • Publication number: 20180271556
    Abstract: A device suitable for use in a body lumen and comprises an elongated control member having a distal and a proximal end, and a radially expansible member disposed at or near the distal end and adapted for collection and/or shearing of matter (i.e. thrombus) from a wall of the body lumen (i.e. a vein or an artery). The radially expansible member has a proximal end and a distal end and is adjustable between a contracted orientation and an expanded orientation. The elongated control member comprising a proximal arm connected at or adjacent to the proximal end of the radially expansible member and a distal arm connected at or adjacent to the distal end of the radially expansible member such that movement of one arm relative to the other arm effects adjustment of the diameter or radial strength of the radially expansible member. The device comprises a control mechanism operatively connected to both arms and adapted to provide resistance to the movement of one arm relative to the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: National University of Ireland Galway
    Inventors: Mark BRUZZI, Saeid KASIRI GHAHI, Paul HENEGHAN
  • Publication number: 20180271557
    Abstract: A surgical cannula assembly includes an elongate cannula member having a plurality of longitudinal ribs extending along the longitudinal axis with adjacent longitudinal ribs defining a longitudinal channel therebetween, a fluid port mounted adjacent the proximal end of the cannula member and configured for coupling to a source of inflation fluids, a conduit positioned within at least one longitudinal channel of the cannula member and in fluid communication with the fluid port, and an expandable balloon mounted adjacent the distal end of the cannula member and in fluid communication with the conduit. The expandable balloon is configured to transition from an initial unexpanded condition to an at least partially expanded condition upon passage and entry of inflation fluids from the fluid port, through the conduit and within an internal volume of the expandable balloon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Oksana Buyda, Christopher Tokarz, Amanda Adinolfi
  • Publication number: 20180271558
    Abstract: An access device for placing a medical article within a body space includes a needle, a dilator, and a sheath. The dilator can be coaxially and slideably disposed about the needle, and the sheath can be coaxially and slideably disposed about the dilator. The access device can further include a inner member coaxially disposed between the needle and dilator. The needle can include a fenestration in fluid communication with a space between the needle and inner member. When the needle punctures a blood vessel, the fenestration allows blood to flow into the space between the needle and inner member to provide a visual indicator to a physician or healthcare professional that the needle is in a vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Steven F. Bierman, Richard A. Pluth, Tu Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20180271559
    Abstract: A multilayer material with an outside abrasive layer wrapped around a hollow cylindrical tube that may be used for sanding or exfoliating. The multilayer abrasive material is a continuous roll that is inserted inside the hollow cylindrical tube, wherein a leading edge of the material extends from inside the tube to outside the tube via an elongated slot in an upper part of the body of the tube. The lower part of the body of the tube is a knurled handle. The multilayer material is comprised of a sticky side that adheres to the outside of the tube, and an abrasive side that may be used for sanding or exfoliating. A user may hold the handle of the tube, and use the upper portion of the tube, with the multilayer material attached, to sand or exfoliate, as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventor: JASON BERGER
  • Publication number: 20180271560
    Abstract: A medical apparatus having a bar, the bar having a slot extending laterally along the bar; and a plurality of hooks, wherein the bar is an arch bar that is configured to be attached to a mandible or a maxilla. Such medical apparatuses may also have a plurality of arch bar fasteners, wherein each arch bar fastener is a bone screw having a threaded shaft and a compound head, the compound head having a threaded bore configured to receive a set screw. The medical apparatus may be used in methods to fixate a maxillary or mandibulary arch, or to aid in reducing a fracture of the mandible or maxilla.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Marcus
  • Publication number: 20180271561
    Abstract: External fixation systems, and methods for immobilizing joints or fractured bones. An external fixation system may include one or more clamp assemblies connected to one or more rod assemblies at polyaxial joints. Each rod assembly may be length adjustable, and may include a one-way locking mechanism to provisionally lock the length of the rod assembly, and additional locking mechanisms to permanently lock the length of the rod assembly. The system may be deployed pre-assembled as a unit to immobilize a joint or fracture. Another external fixation system further includes a spanning member extending transverse to the rod assemblies. Two or more external fixation systems may be deployed in a stacked configuration on one set of bone pins to immobilize two joints and/or fractures. The systems may be provided in kits including guiding instrumentation, bone pins and pin clamping assemblies for connecting the bone pins to the external fixation systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas Myers, Robert V. O'Toole, Jason W. Nascone, Douglas M. Lorang, Andrew Fauth, Daniel J. Triplett
  • Publication number: 20180271562
    Abstract: The present invention generally is directed toward a spinal fixation system whereby a coupling element allows the physician to selectively lock or unlock either the connection between the coupling element and a fastener, such as to allow for repositioning of the coupling element, or the connection between the coupling element and an elongate rod. The locking or unlocking of these connections may be made independently and as desired by the physician.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Andrew Iott, Andrew Lee, Lawrence R. Binder, David C. Paul
  • Publication number: 20180271563
    Abstract: A translating polyaxial bone anchor for anchoring a connecting rod to a spinal vertebra comprises a fastener having a bone engaging portion and a head, the head defining a socket. An insert is captively retained in the socket and configured for swiveling polyaxial movement therein. The insert includes an elongate connecting element defining an axis, the connecting element projecting outwardly from and through the socket. A yoke having at one end a rod receiving channel for receiving a connecting rod is coupled to the fastener by a coupling member. The coupling member couples the yoke to the insert connecting element for joint polyaxial movement relative to the fastener and for translational movement of the yoke in a direction transverse to the axis of the connecting member. A fastening element is supported by the yoke for securing the connecting rod between the fastening element and the coupling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Dimitri Protopsaltis, Troy D. Drewry
  • Publication number: 20180271564
    Abstract: Bone fixation apparatus and spinal implants are disclosed herein. The spinal implants including a body with a first end and a second end, a first attachment portion at the first end, wherein the first attachment portion includes a first opening with at least one lip, a second attachment portion at the second end, wherein the second attachment portion includes a second opening with at least one lip, and an intermediate portion connecting the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. Surgical methods for inserting the bone fixation apparatus and spinal implants into a patient are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: REVIVO MEDICAL, LLC
    Inventors: Glenn Patrick SANDERS, Eric H. LEDET, Gary MITTLEMAN
  • Publication number: 20180271565
    Abstract: An interspinous process having a narrowed distal portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Hassan Serhan, Alexander Michel DiNello, William Christianson
  • Publication number: 20180271566
    Abstract: The invention relates to a medical instrument for temporarily coupling to at least two instruments, comprising a first coupling device for temporarily coupling to a first shank- or sleeve-shaped instrument and a second coupling device for coupling to a second shank- or sleeve-shaped instrument, wherein the first coupling device and the second coupling device are arranged or formed so as to be pivotable relative to each other, which medical instrument comprises a main body on which the first coupling device is guided and held so as to be pivotable about a point of rotation that in particular is spatially remote from the main body, which medical instrument comprises a first guide device for guiding a movement of the first coupling device along a circular path, wherein the first guide device is arranged or formed at least partially on the main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Kay Fischer, Stephan Lindner, Sven Krüger
  • Publication number: 20180271567
    Abstract: A system for treating a bone fracture includes an intramedullary nail sized and shaped to be inserted through a medullary canal of a bone to extend across a fracture site of the bone, the intramedullary device extending from a first end to a second end and including a plurality of openings extending laterally therethrough, the openings sized and shaped to receive bone fixation elements therethrough, and an insertion device including a base portion and a handle portion extending therefrom, the base portion integrally formed with the intramedullary nail and connected thereto via a plurality of connection points which, when a force is exerted thereon, break to disconnect the insertion device from the intramedullary nail, the base portion including a plurality of guide channels extending therethrough, each of the guide channels being aligned with a corresponding one of the openings of the intramedullary nail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Yvonne SCHUMACHER, Robert FRIGG, Alfred NIEDERBERGER, Daniel FLURI, Andreas APPENZELLER, Beat SPÖRRI
  • Publication number: 20180271568
    Abstract: A rotational correction system includes an implant having first and second sections, the implant having a rotatable permanent magnet disposed in a housing of the first section, the rotatable permanent magnet mechanically connected to a nut operatively coupled to the second section. A keyed portion is interposed between the nut and one or more non-linear grooves disposed on an inner surface of the housing. An external adjustment device having at least one rotatable magnet configured to rotate the rotatable permanent magnet of the implant is part of the system. Rotation of the rotatable permanent magnet of the implant in a first direction effectuates a clockwise change in the rotational orientation of the first section relative to the second section and rotation of the rotatable permanent magnet of the implant in a second direction effectuates a counter-clockwise change in the rotational orientation of the first section relative to the second section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventor: Scott Pool
  • Publication number: 20180271569
    Abstract: The orthopedic systems are patient-specific and provided with two types of features for positioning and/or fixing the plate to the bone or bone fragments. A method for generating bone plates comprises: generating a model of the bone defect or envisaged osteotomy based on one or more images of the bone and the surgical plan; designing based on said model a model corresponding to the envisioned repair of said bone defect/envisaged result of the osteotomy; generating a bone plate based on the information above, comprising: one or more patient-specific features corresponding to the surface of a bone fragment in the area close to the defect; and one or more fixation features whose position and/or orientation is such that the fixation elements will enter the bone in areas suitable for fixing the bone plate to each bone fragment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederik VERSTREKEN, Wilfried VANCRAEN, Bram LENAERTS
  • Publication number: 20180271570
    Abstract: An expandable bone plate assembly is provided having a top plate portion and a bottom plate portion. A back side of the top plate portion has a longitudinally extending blind slot. A transversely extending counterbore extends through front back sides of the top plate portion. A transversely extending bore extends through the front and back sides of the bottom plate portion. The bone plate assembly also includes a pin with a pin head and a pin shaft depending from the pin head. The pin shaft is disposed within the transversely extending bore of the bottom plate portion and has an outer diameter greater than the minor diameter of the transversely extending bore. The pin head is disposed against the longitudinally extending blind slot of the top plate portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: John Franklin Cummins, John Lawrence Walker, Eric Graham
  • Publication number: 20180271571
    Abstract: Internal fixation devices are provided that include a plate having a rotatable screw lock mounted in a recess of the plate. The screw lock has a lock head including a laterally extending flange that has an outer edge that is below the upper surface of the plate. In a locked position, a portion of the upper surface of the plate covers at least a part of the lock head to reduce the likelihood of the screw lock being pushed off the plate. Further, in a locked position, the laterally extending flange obstructs passage of a screw through a corresponding screw hole. Such obstruction hinders screw migration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffrey Johnson, John Lawrence Walker, John Franklin Cummins
  • Publication number: 20180271572
    Abstract: The present application provides miniature and micro-scale conformable chain mail devices for skeletal fixation, stabilization, and repair, and methods of manufacture and use thereof. The structural devices comprise a conformable sheet of interconnecting polygonal links that form a chain mail mesh having a first and a second outer surface, wherein: the interconnecting links comprise planar surfaces that combine to form the first and second outer surfaces, respectively, of the conformable sheet. Also provide are methods of using the structural device for stabilization of bone tissue, for fixation of bone tissue, as a bone graft patch or as a thin bone tissue replacement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Cari Marisa Whyne, Jacob Zachary Fishman
  • Publication number: 20180271573
    Abstract: Devices and methods for repairing bone fractures are described herein. A pin directing device for steering a flexible bone screw is disclosed. A fluted entry tool for penetrating into cancellous bone without penetrating the far cortex of the bone is disclosed. A flexible bone screw having a rotational position marker positioned thereon at a terminal twenty-five percent of the shaft is disclosed. A flexible bone screw comprising at least eighty percent cold work hardened alloy is disclosed. A pin bending clamp having a transverse hole in the jaws is disclosed. A flexible bone screw with a cortex climbing thread portion at the tip, which is helicoid, is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Daniel L. MARTIN, Jeremi M. LEASURE
  • Publication number: 20180271574
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for accessing and repairing a vertebral disc include a pad with a central cut-out mounted to the skin of a patient or, alternatively, a pedicle-mounted support. An incision is made and then a corridor is created using an elongated guide and a series of dilating tubes. An access to the disc space is created through the superior articular process and the facet joint using the corridor defined by the dilating tubes. Nucleus material is removed from the disc space and the vertebral endplates are prepared. The disc space may be sized to select a suitable implant, which is advanced through the corridor and into the disc space following discectomy and endplate preparation. Bone graft material may be inserted into the disc space following installation of the implant and then posterior rigid fixation may be achieved using percutaneous pedicle screws, followed by closure of the site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Joshua M. Ammerman, Laurent B. Schaller, Douglas M. Lorang, Ricardo J. Simmons, Timothy J. McGrath
  • Publication number: 20180271575
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are minimally invasive systems and method for stabilizing the spine, while preserving a degree of spinal flexion and extension of the spine at the level of the stabilized vertebrae postoperatively. The systems and methods can include an expandable anchor and rod that span an intervertebral disc. The anchor can have interstices, and ends in two adjacent vertebral bodies. The system can also include a volume of bone cement media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventor: James Earl Dix
  • Publication number: 20180271576
    Abstract: A central inflatable distractor and a perimeter balloon are inserted into the disc space in uninflated configurations. The central inflatable distractor is then expanded, thereby distracting the vertebral endplates to the controlled height of the central inflatable distractor. The perimeter balloon is then inflated with a curable substance. The perimeter balloon expands as it is filled with the curable substance and conforms to the void remaining in the disc space around the central inflatable distractor, thereby creating a horseshoe shape. Once the flowable material in the perimeter balloon has cured, the central inflated distractor can be deflated and removed. The remaining void (or inner space) is then packed with graft for fusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Roman Lomeli, Kevin Lee
  • Publication number: 20180271577
    Abstract: A system for performing ablation includes an ablation device (102) configured to ablate tissue in accordance with control parameters and configured to make measurements during the ablation process. An imaging system (104) is configured to measure an elastographic related parameter to monitor ablation progress. A parameter estimation and monitoring module (115) is configured to receive the measurements from the ablation device and/or the elastographic related parameter to provide feedback to adaptively adjust imaging parameters of the imaging device at different times during an ablation process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Shyam BHARAT, AJAY ANAND, SHRIRAM SETHURAMAN, Sheng-Wein HUANG, WILLIAM TAO SHI
  • Publication number: 20180271578
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for assessing contact between a treatment element and an area of target tissue using resistive-type and/or capacitive-type contact sensing elements. In one embodiment, a medical system for determining tissue contact includes an elongate body including a distal portion and a proximal portion and a treatment element coupled to the elongate body distal portion. The treatment element may have a first expandable element, a second expandable element, the first expandable element being within the second expandable element, and at least one contact sensing element between the first and second expandable elements. In one example, the device may include a plurality of contact sensing elements arranged in a matrix or in a plurality of linear configurations. In another example, the device may include a layer of conductive microparticles or a contact-sensing film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventor: Nicolas COULOMBE
  • Publication number: 20180271579
    Abstract: A micro-sized CAP (?CAP) employed to target glioblastoma tumors in the murine brain. Various plasma diagnostic techniques were applied to evaluate the physics of helium ?CAP such as electron density, discharge voltage, and optical emission spectroscopy. The direct and indirect effects of ?CAP on glioblastoma (U87MG-RedFluc) cancer cells in vitro were investigated and indicate that ?CAP-generated short- and long-lived species and radicals [i.e. hydroxyl radical (OH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), nitrite (NO2-), et al] with increasing tumor cell death in a dose-dependent fashion. Translation of these findings to an in vivo setting demonstrates that intracranial ?CAP is effective at preventing glioblastoma tumor growth in the mouse brain. The ?CAP device can be safely used in mice, resulting in suppression of tumor growth. These initial observations establish the ?CAP device as a potentially useful ablative therapy tool in the treatment of glioblastoma.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Michael Keidar, Zitong Chen, Jonathan Sherman, Colin N. Young, Hayk Simonyan, Jerome Canady
  • Publication number: 20180271580
    Abstract: Described embodiments include a method that includes inserting an ablation catheter into a Eustachian tube of a subject, and, using the ablation catheter, while the subject is awake, passing an ablating signal, which is audible to the subject, through epithelial cells that line the Eustachian tube, while controlling an amplitude of the ablating signal responsively to a loudness of the ablating signal as perceived by the subject. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Vadim Gliner, Yaron Ephrath, Andres Claudio Altmann
  • Publication number: 20180271581
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention include minimally invasive tissue modification systems. Embodiments of the systems include a minimally invasive access device having a proximal end, a distal end and an internal passageway. Positioned among the distal ends of the devices are a visualization element and an illumination element. Also provided are methods of using the systems in tissue modification applications, as well as kits for practicing the methods of the invention. Internal tissue visualization devices having RF-shielded visualization sensor modules are also provided. Minimally invasive RF tissue modulation devices are provided. In some aspects, the devices include a hand-held control unit and an elongated member. In some aspects, RF tissue modulation devices are provided and include an adapter that operably couples to a hand-held medical device. The adapter generates RF energy for delivery to a plasma generator on an elongated member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Xiaolong OuYang, James S. Cybulski, Eric Schultz, Fred R. Seddiqui
  • Publication number: 20180271582
    Abstract: An integrated gas-enhanced electrosurgical generator. The generator comprises a high frequency power module, a low frequency power module and a gas module. The high frequency power module adapted to generate an electrical energy having a band of frequencies centered around a first frequency, wherein the electrical energy has a first power as the first frequency and a second power lower than the first power at a second frequency lower than the first frequency. The low frequency power module having an input connected to an output of the high frequency module. The low frequency module comprises a resonant transformer comprising a ferrite core, a primary coil and a secondary coil, the secondary coil having a larger number of turns than the primary coil, wherein the resonant transformer has a resonant frequency equal to the second frequency. The gas module is adapted to control a flow of an inert gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: U.S. Patent Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Jerome Canady, Alexey Shashurin, Michael Keidar, Taisen Zhuang
  • Publication number: 20180271583
    Abstract: An inventive system and method for touch free operation of an ablation workstation is presented. The system can comprise a depth sensor for detecting a movement, motion software to receive the detected movement from the depth sensor, deduce a gesture based on the detected movement, and filter the gesture to accept an applicable gesture, and client software to receive the applicable gesture at a client computer in an ablation workstation for performing a task in accordance with client logic based on the applicable gesture. The system can also comprise hardware for making the detected movement an applicable gesture. The system can also comprise voice recognition providing voice input for enabling the client to perform the task based on the voice input in conjunction with the applicable gesture. The applicable gesture can be a movement authorized using facial recognition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Asaf Merschon, Assaf Govari, Andres Claudio Altmann, Yitzhack Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20180271584
    Abstract: An electrosurgical device is provided and includes a handset having a shaft extending therefrom. The electrosurgical device includes a pair of electrodes disposed at a distal end of the shaft. One or more sensors are in operable communication with the pair of electrodes to detect a pressure applied thereto. The amount of electrosurgical energy that is transmitted to the pair of electrodes is proportional to the amount of pressure that is applied to the pair of electrodes and detected by the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: JOE D. SARTOR, ARLEN K. WARD
  • Publication number: 20180271585
    Abstract: An electrosurgical pencil for use in performing surgery on a surgical site includes a main body forming a handle grippable by user and having open front and rear ends. The pencil has a vent tube open at its forward end, and slidably mounted in the body. The tube is adjustable independently from a retracted position to various extended positions. An elongate electrode is mounted in the tube and independently slidable therein. The electrode is adjustable manually in its longitudinal direction from a retracted position to extended positions. A first conducting strip can be mounted in the vent rube in contact with the electrode. A second conducting strip can be mounted in the main body and is in sliding contact with the first strip in order to provide power to the electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventor: Leonard Ineson
  • Publication number: 20180271586
    Abstract: Surgical access devices are provided having jaw assemblies that maintain a uniform spacing between the jaws and are electrically isolated from each other in a closed configuration. The devices provided for generally include one or more electrically insulative stops associated with a tissue engaging surface of one of the jaws, with the stops being configured to engage the tissue engaging surface of the opposed jaw. The stops set a uniform spacing between the jaws in the closed configuration, and provide electrical isolation. The stops can be disposed in intermediate, proximal, and/or distal portions of the jaw(s), and can be disposed at multiple locations of the jaw(s). The stops can come in many different forms and can be associated with jaws using a variety of techniques. Further, other embodiments, as well as methods for clamping tissue by providing a uniform gap between jaws during each closure stroke, are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Ellen Renner, Kris Kallenberger
  • Publication number: 20180271587
    Abstract: An energy treatment instrument includes: an end effector provided at a distal end of a support portion; a handle main body supporting the support portion; a movable handle attached to be movable with respect to the handle main body for operating the end effector; and a switch provided on a side surface of the handle main body, and capable of changing an ON/OFF status of an energy output from the end effector when operated in a direction substantially along a longitudinal axis of the support portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akinori KOBAYASHI, Yuki KAWAGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20180271588
    Abstract: A forceps includes a pair of shaft members, a pair of jaw members each including a distal body and a proximal flange, and a pair of electrode plates. The proximal flanges are engaged with the respective shaft members and pivotably coupled to each other such that pivoting the shaft members pivots the distal jaw bodies. The electrode plates each includes a tissue-contacting portion disposed on the distal body of the respective jaw member and a proximal extension portion extending at least partially through the proximal flange of the respective jaw member. The tissue-contacting portion and proximal extension portion of the first electrode plate are disposed in perpendicular planes relative to each other. Likewise, the tissue-contacting portion and proximal extension portion of the second electrode plate are disposed in perpendicular planes relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: REID T. THOMSON, GRANT T. SIMS, JEFFREY R. TOWNSEND
  • Publication number: 20180271589
    Abstract: A microneedle treatment apparatus includes a microneedle treatment head, which further includes a housing having a receiving chamber and a treatment port communicating with the receiving chamber; a microneedle device disposed in the receiving chamber and including a microneedle base and at least one microneedle fixed to the microneedle base and extending toward the treatment port; and a cold end conducting portion fixed in the receiving chamber and including a contact end exposed to the treatment port and a heat-conducting end which conductively connects to the contact end and a cold output end of a cooling output device. The microneedle treatment apparatus can perform cold treatment through the contact between the cold end conducting portion and the treated area, so that the side effect of microneedle therapy can be reduced. A variable frequency RF treatment system includes an inverter circuit, an impedance matching circuit and a controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: Shenzhen Peninsula Medical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiaobing LEI, Yongsheng LIANG
  • Publication number: 20180271590
    Abstract: A catheter probe configured with a capability to present a larger tissue contact area or “footprint” for larger, deeper lesions, without increasing the french size of the catheter, especially its distal section, includes an elastically deformable electrode configured to adopt a neutral configuration and a tissue contact configuration. The deformable electrode comprising a hollow porous tube with a distal portion having a closed distal end, and a proximal portion defining an opening to an interior of the tube, where the distal tip end is received in the tube through the opening and the distal section is generally surrounded by tube, with the proximal portion being affixed to an outer surface of the distal section. In some embodiments, the closed distal end is shaped with a bulbous portion that can spread and widen to provide a larger surface contact area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Shubhayu Basu, Mario A. Solis
  • Publication number: 20180271591
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for treating hypertension, e.g., via a pulsed electric field, via a stimulation electric field, via localized drug delivery, via high frequency ultrasound, via thermal techniques, etc. Such neuromodulation may effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, action potential attenuation or blockade, changes in cytokine up-regulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, neuromodulation is applied to neural fibers that contribute to renal function. In some embodiments, such neuromodulation is performed in a bilateral fashion. Bilateral renal neuromodulation may provide enhanced therapeutic effect in some patients as compared to renal neuromodulation performed unilaterally, i.e., as compared to renal neuromodulation performed on neural tissue innervating a single kidney.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Denise Zarins, Hanson Gifford, III, Mark Deem, Douglas Sutton, Howard R. Levin, Mark Gelfand
  • Publication number: 20180271592
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for providing treatment to a tissue in body lumens are described. The system may include a catheter, an expansion member coupled with a distal portion of the catheter, an ablation structure including one or more longitudinal electrode segments, and an ablation structure support coupled to the ablation structure configured to at least partially unfurl as the expansion member expands and furl as the expansion member contracts. The ablation structure may include multiple separately wired and/or separately controlled longitudinal electrodes, longitudinal electrode zones, or both, such that each longitudinal electrode or longitudinal electrode zone may be selectively enabled or selectively disabled. In some instances, one or more springs are coupled to the ablation structure configured to promote unfurl or furl around the expansion member. In some instances, one or more protection elements are be positioned along the catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Christopher L. BAGLEY, Allen D. JAMESON, Hillary K. HUSZAR, Mark A. MAGUIRE, David S. UTLEY
  • Publication number: 20180271593
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to bipolar ablation systems. A bipolar electrode system for ablation therapy is disclosed, including a pressure-sensitive conducting composite layer and a pair of electrodes in electrical conductive contact or communication with the pressure-sensitive conducting composite layer. Energy (e.g., ablation energy) is delivered via the pressure-sensitive conductive composition when sufficient pressure is applied to transform the pressure-sensitive conductive composite to an electrical conductor. An electrically insulative flexible layer, which may include a passageway for a fill material is also disclosed. In some embodiments, the systems can also be used for targeted delivery of compounds, such as drugs, using a bipolar electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Saurav Paul, Harry A. Puryear, Riki Chou Thao, Hong Cao
  • Publication number: 20180271594
    Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include apparatuses, systems, and methods for positioning electrodes within a body. In an illustrative embodiment, an apparatus for slidably moving multiple features relative to a sheath insertable into a body and positionable relative to a reference point includes a primary actuator configured to move a primary electrode to a first position. A secondary actuator is configured to move a secondary electrode to a second position. A shrouding device is configured to selectively prevent access to the secondary actuator until the primary actuator has been manipulated to extend the primary electrode to the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: Spiration, Inc., d/b/a Olympus Respiratory America
    Inventors: Taylor N. Tyson, Madeline C. Graham, Christine N. Jurevicius
  • Publication number: 20180271595
    Abstract: A medical device is disclosed, including a handle assembly; an elongate body coupled to the handle assembly, the elongate body defining a guide wire lumen therethrough; and a substantially semi-circular electrode array coupled to the elongate body. The device may include a substantially rigid shaft extending distally from the elongate body and defining a lumen therethrough, the shaft including a substantially rigid segment, and a flexible coil coaxial with and extending distally from the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Timothy J. CORVI, Ricardo D. ROMAN
  • Publication number: 20180271596
    Abstract: Tissue may be cut and extracted from an interior location in a patient's body using a probe or tool which both effects cutting and causes vaporization of a liquid or other fluid to propel the cut tissue through an extraction lumen of the cutting device. The cutting may be achieved using an electrosurgical electrode assembly, including a first electrode on a cutting member and a second electrode within a cutting probe or tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED, INC.
    Inventors: AARON GERMAIN, KYLE KLEIN, MICHAEL D. WALKER, CSABA TRUCKAI, JOHN H. SHADDUCK
  • Publication number: 20180271597
    Abstract: A method and system for aesthetic skin treatment. The system includes a treatment energy source for generating a treatment beam and a treatment beam deflecting mechanism configured to direct the treatment beam to a treated skin area. One or more video cameras configured to capture a treated skin area and communicate captured treated skin area image to a processor. Based on a captured treated skin area the processor constructs a three-dimensional representation of the captured skin area and controls a treatment energy beam deflecting mechanism to deflect the treatment energy beam to follow the three-dimensional representation of the captured skin area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 1, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Shmulik Eisenmann, Itai Kadosh, Einat Kirdron, Vladimir Goland, Carmit Gabay-Mader
  • Publication number: 20180271598
    Abstract: A laser ablation catheter includes a distal tip, and the distal tip includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis. A first orientation indicator is formed on the body, and a second orientation indicator is formed on the body. The second orientation indicator is disposed relative to the first orientation indicator such that when the distal tip is viewed in a first side view, the second orientation indicator and the first orientation indicator overlap and visually contrast with the body. A third orientation indicator is formed on the body, and the third orientation indicator disposed relative to the second orientation indicator such that when the distal tip is viewed in a second side view, the third orientation indicator and the second orientation indicator overlap and visually contrast with the body. The second side view and the first side view are substantially 90 degrees apart about the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffery David Payne, Donald R. Sandmore
  • Publication number: 20180271599
    Abstract: A laser ablation catheter includes a distal tip, and the distal tip includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis. A first orientation indicator is formed on the body, and the first orientation indicator has an alphanumeric shape. A second orientation indicator is formed on the body. The second orientation indicator is disposed relative to the first orientation indicator such that when the distal tip is viewed in a first side view, the second orientation indicator and the first orientation indicator overlap, appear as the alphanumeric shape, and visually contrast with the body. The second orientation indicator is configured such that when the distal tip is viewed in a second side view, the second orientation indicator appears as the alphanumeric shape and visually contrasts with the body, the second side view and the first side view being substantially 90 degrees apart about the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Jeffery David Payne, Donald R. Sandmore
  • Publication number: 20180271600
    Abstract: Embodiments of a medical device and related methods of use are provided for extracting tissue. The device may include an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. Two or more channels may extend through the elongate member from the proximal end to the distal end, and a morcellating device may be included in one of the channels. In addition, one of the channels may be configured as a return channel for extracting the morcellated tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Applicant: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey W. ZERFAS, Troy GARDNER, Christopher W. GREEN, Jeffrey C. SMITH, Christopher L. OSKIN, Kenneth J. DAIGNAULT
  • Publication number: 20180271601
    Abstract: A method of implanting a hip joint prosthesis into a patient can include obtaining image data of hip joint anatomy of the patient. Physical activities that the patient desires to participate in subsequent to implanting the hip prosthesis can be determined. A size and an initial placement of the hip joint prosthesis based on the image data can be determined. A desired range of motion of the hip joint prosthesis based on the determined physical activities can be determined. A plan can be created comprising a desired implanted location of the hip joint prosthesis and based on the desired range of motion. The plan can be incorporated onto a guide. The plan can be executed with the guide thereby implanting the hip joint prosthesis into the patient at the desired implanted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Jason Meridew, William Jason Slone, Mark Scrafton, John White, Seth Nash
  • Publication number: 20180271602
    Abstract: A system and method for developing customized apparatus, such as guides, for use in one or more surgical procedures is disclosed. The system and method incorporates a patient's unique anatomical features or morphology, which may be derived from capturing MRI data or CT data, to fabricate at least one custom apparatus or guide. According to a preferred embodiment, the customized apparatus comprises at least one patient-specific surface and or contour, which may be derived from MRI or CT data. Apparatus may be matched in duplicate and oriented around the patient's own anatomy, and may further provide any desired axial alignments or surgical instrument insertional trajectories. In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus may further be aligned and/or matched and/or nested with at least one other apparatus during the surgical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: George Frey, Geoff Lai, Caleb Voelkel
  • Publication number: 20180271603
    Abstract: An intelligent surgical tool control system, comprising a tool management system; an indicating means to indicate at least one surgical event; a communicable database for storing, for each item of interest, its identity, its present 3D position and at least one previous 3D position; and at least one processor to identify, from a surgical event, an output surgical procedure. The tool management system can comprise a maneuvering mechanism to maneuver a surgical tool in at least two dimensions; and a controller to control at least one of activation and deactivation of a surgical tool and articulation of a surgical tool. The indicating means can indicate a surgical event selected from movement of a moving element and presence of an item of interest, where movement is determinable if the current 3D position of the moving element is substantially different from a previous 3D position of the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2016
    Publication date: September 27, 2018
    Inventors: Tal NIR, Gal ATAROT, Motti FRIMER