Patents Issued in December 13, 2018
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Publication number: 20180353214Abstract: Correction of a scoliotic curve in a spine comprises the steps of implanting an expanding rod isolated completely under the skin and attached to selected portions of the scoliotic curve of the spine at opposing ends of the rod; and producing a controlled force by means of expansion of the rod over at an extended time period under external control until a desire spinal curve is obtained. An incremental force is generated to stretch the scoliotic curve of the spine between the selected portions where attachment of the rod is defined. The controlled force is provided steadily for at least one month or alternatively 1-3 months. Multiple rods may be employed each associated with a different scoliotic curve of the spine or a different portion of the scoliotic curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: P. Douglas Kiester
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Publication number: 20180353215Abstract: An external adjustment device includes at least one permanent magnet configured for rotation about an axis with a first handle extending linearly at a first end of the device and a second handle at a second end of the device, the second handle extending in a direction substantially off axis to the first handle. The external adjustment device further includes a motor mounted inside the first handle and a first button located in the proximity to one of the first handle or the second handle, the first button configured to be operated by the thumb of a hand that grips the one of the first handle or second handle. The first button is configured to actuate the motor causing the at least one permanent magnet to rotate about the axis in a first direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Shanbao Cheng, Michael Moeller, Jeffrey Schwardt
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Publication number: 20180353216Abstract: A spinal fixation construct for aligning vertebral bodies includes a bone screw, a spinal rod, a flexible member, and a fixation member. The spinal rod is disposed within a saddle portion of a housing of the bone screw, and includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. The spinal rod is formed from a first material having a first modulus of elasticity. The flexible member is coupled to the spinal rod, and includes an elongated body having a first end portion and a second end portion. The flexible member is formed from a second material having a second modulus of elasticity that is different from the first modulus of elasticity. The fixation member includes a threaded body portion and a head portion defining a hole therethrough. A portion of the flexible member extends through the hole of the head portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: K2M, Inc.Inventors: Gregory Mundis, JR., Han J. Kim, John Ferguson, Michael Barrus
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Publication number: 20180353217Abstract: A spinal implant comprises a fastener including a head and defining a longitudinal axis. A member is configured for disposal of the head and defines an inner groove configured for disposal of a band that is engageable with the head to connect the fastener and the member. The member is moveable relative to the longitudinal axis. The member defines a passageway configured for disposal of a tether. Systems, spinal constructs, surgical instruments and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Molly K. Rice, Dennis G. Crandall
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Publication number: 20180353218Abstract: Occipital-cervical fixation equipment comprising: an occipital plate able to be fixed to an occipital portion of the skull of a patient; at least two longitudinal lateral bars able to be arranged in a sagittal direction alongside the spinous processes of the vertebrae of the patient, each longitudinal lateral bar extending between an occipital end portion and a vertebral end portion; a first fixation means configured to fix the occipital end portion of each longitudinal lateral bar and the occipital plate; a second fixation means configured to fix the longitudinal lateral bars to a patient's vertebra; a transverse connector; the third fixation means configured to fix the occipital end portion of the longitudinal central bar to the occipital plate; and the fourth fixation means configured to fix the lateral end portions of the cross bar respectively to one of two longitudinal lateral bars. Other aspects are disclosed and claimed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Meinrad Fiechter, Michele Incandela, Massimiliano Martis, Francesco Siccardi
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Publication number: 20180353219Abstract: A coating layer, for example PEEK or titanium foil, shields a bone implant surface from wearing interactions with surfaces of bone and/or other implants. The coating prevents shedding particles which are difficult to distinguish from evidence of potentially dangerous conditions, for example, microorganism contamination and/or degenerating tissue. Methods and structures for securing a coating layer are described. Other uses and implementations of coating layers are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Carbofix In Orthopedics LLCInventors: Mordechay BEYAR, Oren GLOBERMAN, Ronen SHAVIT
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Publication number: 20180353220Abstract: A bone fastener includes a shaft. The shaft includes a wall that defines a longitudinal cavity and a plurality of openings in communication therewith. The openings are disposed in axial alignment along the shaft and the wall is closed exclusive of the openings. In some embodiments, systems, spinal constructs, surgical instruments and methods are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Robert M. Loke, Julien J. Prevost, Thomas J. Stinchfield
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Publication number: 20180353221Abstract: A prosthetic implant for restoring lamina after a laminectomy. The implant is generally a lamina-sized construct having a hollow interior. The lamina removed during the laminectomy may be converted to autologous bone that may then be placed inside the hollow interior of the implant. The implant may then be secured to the spine at the site of the laminectomy so that lamina restoration can occur as the hollow interior of the implant solidifies with bone growth.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Graham Mouw
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Publication number: 20180353222Abstract: A method of repairing a pars fracture includes docking a needle guide on a lamina of the pars, inserting a needle at least partially through the needle guide, inserting a stylet at least partially through the needle, inserting a guidewire at least partially through the needle, removing the needle from the needle guide, removing the needle guide, positioning a screw assembly in contact with the lamina and co-axially with the guidewire, rotating an elongated portion of the screw assembly with respect to the lamina to move the screw assembly distally with respect to the lamina such that a distal end of the elongated portion of the screw assembly travels through an interior portion of the pars and into a superior portion of the pars, and approximating the distal end of the elongated portion of the screw assembly and a collar of the screw assembly to approximate the interior portion of the pars and the superior portion of the pars.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: K2M, Inc.Inventors: Lester Wilson, Brandon Moore, Alex Artaki
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Publication number: 20180353223Abstract: A holding device includes a cylindrical main body portion having an outer cross-section equal to or less than a cross-section defining the inner wall of an upper portion and a pair of locking pieces protruding outward from the distal end portion of the main body portion in the direction of the central axis along a direction perpendicular to the central axis at the positions of a pair of slots while the main body portion is positioned within the inner wall of the upper portion when viewed from the direction of the central axis. The pair of locking pieces have such a shape as to be contained within the outer shape of the head portion while being positioned within the pair of slots.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2015Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Masato Otsubo, Tobimaru Takata, Yuichi Sato
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Publication number: 20180353224Abstract: A screw insertion instrument includes a handle, a driving assembly, and a stylet. The driving assembly extends distally from the handle and includes a knob, a tubular body extending distally from the knob, and a driver including an elongated body extending through the knob and the tubular body. The elongated body has a proximal region operably coupled to the handle and a distal region extending distally beyond the tubular body and engageable with a pedicle screw. The stylet includes an elongated body positionable through first and second longitudinal bores defined through the handle and the driver, respectively. A proximal portion of the stylet is positionable adjacent the handle and a distal portion of the stylet extends distally beyond the driver and is positionable through a third longitudinal bore defined through the pedicle screw such that the distal portion of the stylet extends distally beyond the pedicle screw.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: K2M, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Kam, Josh Rubin, Olivia Angus, Mary Hayles
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Publication number: 20180353225Abstract: Instruments, apparatus and procedures for performing surgical operations are provided. A sleeve for performing surgical procedures may include an elongate main body; a channel extending within a length of the elongate main body; and a retainer configured and dimensioned to releasably retain a fixation member in the sleeve at a predetermined orientation and predetermined distance from a distal end of the sleeve. An assembly for performing surgical procedures may include a sleeve comprising: an elongate main body, a channel extending within a length of the elongate main body; a fixation member having been preloaded in the sleeve; and a bone fastener comprising: a shaft configured to engage bone, a tulip configured to receive a rod, a retention feature and extended tabs extending from the tulip.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Wagdy Asaad, Mohammad Saeid Asadollahi
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Publication number: 20180353226Abstract: An intramedullary nail is suggested comprising a nail shaft with a lateral recess, with an expansion element being arranged in that recess, and an adjustment screw for adjusting the position and orientation of the expansion element relative to the nail shaft. A threaded bore may be formed in the nail shaft, wherein the threaded bore extends through the nail shaft and into the recess and is adapted to receive the adjustment screw.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2015Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Stryker European Holdings I, LLCInventors: Nils Zander, Lars Metz
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Publication number: 20180353227Abstract: An adjustable length orthopedic device comprising: (i) a shaft having a longitudinal axis extending from a proximal end of the shaft to a distal end of the shaft, comprising an exterior having a diameter smaller than the medullary cavity of a bone within which at least a portion of the shaft is configured to reside, wherein the shaft comprises at least a portion of an adjustability mechanism located at said proximal end; (ii) a rod comprising a proximal end having at least a portion of an adjustability mechanism complementary to the adjustability mechanism of the shaft, wherein the adjustability mechanism of the shaft and the adjustability mechanism of the rod are configured to engage with one another in an adjustable manner; and (iii) a locking mechanism positioned at the intersection of the shaft and the rod configured to prevent rotation of at least one of the shaft and the rod.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Clarkson UniversityInventors: Laurel Kuxhaus, Alexander Martin Clark, JR., Stephen C. Palin, Mark Hedgeland, Deja Robinson
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Publication number: 20180353228Abstract: A syndesmosis system includes a bone plate and an anchor. The bone plate includes a body extending between first and second surfaces. The body defines a strand-locking hole extending from the first surface to the second surface. A first locking element and a second locking element each extend from a first side wall of the strand-locking hole to a second side wall of the strand-locking hole. Each of the first anchor and the second anchor extend transverse to a central axis of the anchor hole. The anchor includes a body defining a first wing and a second wing. The first and second wings are coupled at a distal end and are biased away from a longitudinal axis of the body. The first and second wings are configured to maintain the anchor in a fixed position when inserted into a hole formed in a bone.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Wright Medical Technology, Inc.Inventor: Daniel F. McCormick
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Publication number: 20180353229Abstract: A metatarsal fixation device is provided for fixation of osteotomy or fracture of a distal metatarsal metaphysis bone of the human foot and for fixation of an associated capsule to the metatarsal head. The device includes a metallic bone plate with a series of screw holes along an elongated portion of the plate and a combination of a singular screw hole and a resilient clamp on an end of the elongated portion. The resilient clamp has two arched resilient arms extending laterally outward from an end of the elongated portion. Each arm has a plurality of spikes on an inner surface thereof providing points of contact that compress and attach a metatarsal phalangeal joint capsule portion to the medial and/or lateral aspect of the metatarsal head, thereby facilitating realignment of the metatarsophalangeal joint and respective digit. The resilient arms are biased to grasp lateral sides of a metatarsal head and any associated capsule portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Solana Surgical, LLCInventor: Douglas K. Blacklidge
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Publication number: 20180353230Abstract: A method for fixating or stabilizing a subject's mandible and maxilla includes providing multiple bone fasteners, providing two arch bars, attaching a first grouping of the bone fasteners to the subject's mandible, then securing the first arch bar to the first grouping of bone fasteners, attaching a second grouping of the bone fasteners to the subject's maxilla, then securing the second arch bar to the second grouping of bone fasteners, and then fastening the first arch bar to the second arch bar.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Jeffrey R. Marcus
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Publication number: 20180353231Abstract: A provisional engagement feature for selectively connecting a fastener such as a screw to a driving tool, the fastener incorporating a head with a recess extending therein and a projection contained within the recess for engagement with a corresponding engagement feature of the driving tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Lee A. Strnad, Christopher S. Lorkowski, Adam A. Barlett
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Publication number: 20180353232Abstract: A surgical tool of a surgical torque-transferring instrument includes a distal engagement segment or tool head which is adjoined by a tool shaft whose proximal end portion is prepared for a torque-transferring insertion into a tool mounting of the instrument. The proximal end portion is subdivided at least in a functional section for torque transmission and a functional section for axial locking which is axially spaced from the functional section for torque transmission. The functional section for axial locking, with respect to its geometry, includes parameters which are intended to be changed and cooperate according to the key/keyhole principle only with one tool mounting including corresponding geometrical mating parameters for a correct mounting of the tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: JÜRGEN BARTH, Florian kraft
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Publication number: 20180353233Abstract: An instrument for electrosurgical treatment including an instrument head which forms a conveying body with a gas-fillable lumen. The lumen is connected to at least one first opening and at least one second opening in the instrument head. A primary stream of gas leaves through the first opening. The second opening is arranged such that a secondary stream exits the second opening next to the primary stream and/or with additional secondary streams out of additional second openings—away from the instrument head, at least partially peripherally surrounding the primary stream. An electrode is located in the flow of gas exiting out of the first opening for igniting a plasma between the first opening and the tissue to be treated. Due to the secondary stream accompanying the primary stream, an ignition of the plasma is successful even if the instrument is at a relatively large distance from the tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Achim Brodbeck, Charlotte Herrberg, Thomas Staebler
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Publication number: 20180353234Abstract: A fluid cooling system for cooling a microwave antenna includes an energy source configured to supply microwave energy to a microwave antenna for ablating tissue, a fluid source, a centrifugal pump, and a cooling member coupled to the centrifugal pump and configured to contact the tube to cool fluid flowing through the tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: KATHY E. ROOKS, ERIC W. LARSON
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Publication number: 20180353235Abstract: An electrosurgical forceps includes first and second shafts configured to rotate about a pivot to move jaw members between an open position and a closed position. A knife deployment mechanism is operably coupled to a knife and is configured to move the knife between a retracted position and an extended position. A knife lockout is configured to move between a first position wherein the jaw members are in the open position and movement of the knife from the retracted position to the extended position is prevented, a second position wherein the jaw members are in the closed position and movement of the knife from the retracted position to the extended position is permitted, and a third position wherein the jaw members are in the closed position and movement of the knife from the retracted position to the extended position is prevented.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: RAVI SEKHAR GUTTI
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Publication number: 20180353236Abstract: An electrosurgical forceps includes a hydraulic knife mechanism adapted to increase linear movement of the cutting blade while minimizing movement of the manually manipulative actuator or trigger.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: ARIFMOHAMAD H. MUJAWAR, VAKULA YENDURU
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Publication number: 20180353237Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for pulsed electric field neuromodulation via an intra-to-extravascular approach, e.g., to effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, changes in cytokine upregulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, the ITEV PEF system comprises an intravascular catheter having one or more electrodes configured for intra-to-extravascular placement across a wall of patient's vessel into proximity with target neural fibers. With the electrode(s) passing from an intravascular position to an extravascular position prior to delivery of the PEF, a magnitude of applied voltage or energy delivered via the electrode(s) and necessary to achieve desired neuromodulation may be reduced relative to an intravascular PEF system having one or more electrodes positioned solely intravascularly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Denise Zarins, BENJAMIN J. CLARK, NICOLAS ZADNO, HANSON GIFFORD, III, ERIK THAI
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Publication number: 20180353238Abstract: An irrigated electrophysiology catheter has a tip electrode having a shell, and a support member configured to plug the shell and support one or more tip components and/or facilitate their functions. Advantageously, the support member has an electrically-conductive interface portion and an insert-molded portion, wherein the interface portion, typically constructed of a precious metal alloy, is structurally minimized, yet still configured for electrical connection with the shell and the lead wire, so as to reduce the amount and hence the cost of its manufacture, whereas the insert-molded portion is constructed of a significantly less-costly material and is readily configured with micro-complex 3-D geometry adapted to support tip structure and functions including irrigation, force sensing and temperature sensing, as a further cost savings in the manufacturing of the tip electrode by reducing materials, labor and time.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Jeffrey William Schultz
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Publication number: 20180353239Abstract: A catheter and catheter system can use energy tailored for remodeling and/or removal of target material along a body lumen, often of atherosclerotic material of a blood vessel of a patient. An elongate flexible catheter body with a radially expandable structure may have a plurality of electrodes or other electrosurgical energy delivery surfaces to radially engage atherosclerotic material when the structure expands. An atherosclerotic material detector system may measure and/or characterize the atherosclerotic material and its location, optionally using impedance monitoring.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: CORBETT W. STONE, MICHAEL F. HOEY, THOMAS A. STEINKE, RAPHAEL M. MICHEL, ARTHUR G. BLANCK, MARLENE KAY TRUESDALE, BRET HERSCHER
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Publication number: 20180353240Abstract: The invention relates to a navigation assistance system for assisting in navigating an interventional instrument within a subject. An implanted object opening model (21) and a vessel opening model (27) are generated based on a provided interventional image data set, wherein the models define a respective position, shape and dimension in a frame of reference. These models and a position, which is also provided in the frame of reference, and optionally also a shape (25) of the interventional instrument are used for generating a graphical representation showing the implanted object opening model, the vessel opening model and the provided position and optionally shape of the interventional instrument, thereby providing guidance for a physician, which allows the physician to relatively easily navigate the interventional instrument such that it is moved through the opening of the implanted object and through the opening of the vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Raoul FLORENT, Pascal Yves François CATHIER, Neriman Nicoletta KAHYA, Wilhelmus Henrica Gerarda Maria VAN DEN
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Publication number: 20180353241Abstract: A system for estimating post-virtual stenting fractional flow reserve (FFR) capable of: receiving geometrical parameters of a blood vessel segment, the geometrical parameters comprising first, second and third geometrical parameters; with a proximal end as a reference point, deriving a reference lumen diameter function and calculating a pre-virtual stenting percent diameter stenosis based on the above geometrical parameters and the distance from position along the segment to the reference point; receiving a virtual stenting location; calculating a geometrical parameter of a virtual lumen of the post virtually-stented segment, deriving a post-virtual stenting geometrical parameter difference function and calculating a percent diameter stenosis based on the third geometrical parameter, the virtual stenting location and the reference lumen diameter function; taking derivative difference functions of the post-virtual stenting geometrical parameter difference function in multiple scales; and obtaining FFR based onType: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Shengxian TU, Miao CHU, Bo XU, Bing LIU, Yazhu CHEN
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Publication number: 20180353242Abstract: A treatment plan in which a position of a heat source and a treatment order are optimized is presented. A treatment support apparatus includes a processor, and a storage device connected to the processor, in which the storage device holds image information of tissue in a living body of a treatment target, and the processor extracts a blood vessel structure of the inside of the living body from the image information, calculates positions of one or more heat sources for thermal treatment on a treatment scheduled region including at least a part of the extracted blood vessel structure on the basis of the extracted blood vessel structure, and outputs data for displaying an image including the calculated positions of the one or more heat sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Hideki YOSHIKAWA, Shigeo SUMINO
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Publication number: 20180353243Abstract: Example methods and systems may be used intraoperatively to help surgeons perform accurate and replicable surgeries, such as knee arthroplasty surgeries. An example system combines real time measurement and tracking components with functionality to compile data collected by the hardware to register a bone of a patient, calculate an axis (e.g., mechanical axis) of the leg of the patient, assist a surgeon in placing cut guides, and verify a placement of an inserted prosthesis.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Thomas D. Ferro, Scott Gill, Austin Ferro, Donald Lee, Joe Phillips
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Publication number: 20180353244Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an image processing device, an image processing method, and a surgical system with which more accurate surgical resection can be performed in a shorter time. An identifying unit identifies the type of tissue degeneration in a mid-surgery image. In accordance with the identified type of the tissue degeneration, a drawing unit draws auxiliary information for the operator, the auxiliary information being to be superimposed on the mid-surgery image. The present disclosure can be applied to an endoscopic surgical system or the like that includes a display device, a camera control unit (CCU), a light source device, a treatment tool device, a pneumoperitoneum apparatus, a recorder, a printer, an endoscope, an energetic treatment tool, forceps, trocars, a foot switch, and a patient's bed, for example.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: SONY CORPORATIONInventors: Koji KASHIMA, Tsuneo HAYASHI, Hisakazu SHIRAKI, Daisuke TSURU, Takeshi UEMORI, Kentaro FUKAZAWA, Yuki SUGIE, Kenta YAMAGUCHI
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Publication number: 20180353245Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer readable medium for schematically representing a spatial position of an instrument used in a robotic surgery system is disclosed. The instrument includes an end effector coupled to a positioning device for spatially positioning the end effector in a surgical workspace in response to input signals generated by movement of a hand controller of an input device in an input device workspace. The method involves causing a processor circuit to calculate a current three-dimensional spatial position of the instrument within the surgical workspace for current input signals received from the input device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Jefferson C. Mccloud, Daniel Bacher
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Publication number: 20180353246Abstract: A remote control apparatus according to one or more embodiments includes a manipulator that supports surgical equipment; a display configured to display an image captured by an endoscopy; a display supporting arm that includes a joint and a locking mechanism and supports the display, the locking mechanism is configured to lock the joint; an operation handle that allows an operator to operate the manipulator; and an unlocking mechanism configured, in response to an operation by the operator, to unlock the locked joint of the display supporting arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: MEDICAROID CORPORATIONInventors: Kazuki ISHIHARA, Shiro HORITA
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Publication number: 20180353247Abstract: A remote control apparatus to remotely control a patient-side system including medical equipment and an endoscope to capture an image of a surgery site according to an embodiment includes: an operation handle with which an operator controls the medical equipment; and an operation pedal section. The operation pedal section includes: plural pedals configured to be pressed down to execute functions concerning the medial equipment; and a base on which the plural pedals are arranged, the plural pedals being arranged at locations not overlapping each other in a planar view. The plural pedals include first height pedals with upper ends thereof located at a first height position and second height pedals with upper ends thereof located at a second height position, which is different from the first height position. The first height pedals are arranged alternately with the second height pedals.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: MEDICAROID CORPORATIONInventors: Kazuki ISHIHARA, Shiro HORITA
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Publication number: 20180353248Abstract: A tool for positioning a workpiece with a surgical robot. The tool comprises a mount adapted to attach to the surgical robot. A first assembly is provided and extends along an axis. A pivot bearing is coupled to the mount and supports the first assembly for rotation and translation about the axis and for at least partial articulation relative to the mount. A second assembly is provided and comprises an interface adapted to attach to the workpiece. One of the first assembly and the second assembly comprises a coupler and the other of the first assembly and the second assembly comprises a receiver shaped to engage the coupler to align the second assembly and the first assembly along the axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: MAKO Surgical Corp.Inventors: David Gene Bowling, Paul Shiels, Jevin Scrivens, Greg Starr
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Publication number: 20180353249Abstract: A robot arm comprising a joint mechanism for articulating one limb relative to another limb about two non-parallel rotation axes, the mechanism comprising: an intermediate carrier attached to a first one of the limbs by a first revolute joint having a first rotation axis and to a second one of the limbs by a second revolute joint having a second rotation axis; a first drive gear disposed about the first rotation axis and fast with the carrier, whereby rotation of the carrier relative to the first limb about the first rotation axis can be driven; a second drive gear disposed about the second rotation axis and fast with the second one of the limbs, whereby rotation of the second one of the limbs about the second rotation axis relative to the carrier can be driven; at least one of the first and second drive gears being a sector gear.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Keith Marshall, Luke David Ronald Hares, Thomas Bates Jackson, Steven James Randle
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Publication number: 20180353250Abstract: A robotic module for driving an elongate flexible medical member includes: movable drive members alternately positioned in a drive configuration in which the drive members are sufficiently close together to be able to drive the elongate flexible medical member, and in a free configuration in which the drive members are sufficiently far apart so as to no longer be able to drive the elongate flexible medical member, a control member controlling movement of the movable drive members into the drive configuration in which the elongate flexible medical member is driven, and a reverse movement into the free configuration, a stress sensor measuring stress on at least one of the drive members, and a user interface linked to the stress sensor so as to receive the measured stress from the stress sensor and suitable for providing a signal representative of the measured stress to the user of the robotic module.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Bruno FOURNIER, Julien MAUREL, Sébastien DEBOEUF, Phillippe BENCTEUX
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Publication number: 20180353251Abstract: A robotic surgical instrument comprising: a shaft; an articulation at a distal end of the shaft for articulating an end effector, the articulation driveable by a pair of driving elements; and an instrument interface at a proximal end of the shaft, the instrument interface comprising an instrument interface element for driving the pair of driving elements, the instrument interface element displaceable over a first displacement range, the instrument interface element comprising a body receivable in a drive assembly interface element of a robot arm when the robotic surgical instrument engages with the surgical robot arm, the drive assembly interface element displaceable over a second displacement range, the length of the body in the displaceable direction being greater than one of the maximum travel of the body over the first displacement range and the maximum travel of the drive assembly interface element over the second displacement range.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Rebecca Anne Cuthbertson, Ben Robert Chaplin, Keith Marshall, Luke David Ronald Hares, Nikki Priyam Su-Ling Phoolchund
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TRANSLATIONAL INSTRUMENT INTERFACE FOR SURGICAL ROBOT AND SURGICAL ROBOT SYSTEMS COMPRISING THE SAME
Publication number: 20180353252Abstract: Surgical instruments for use in a surgical robot are provided herein. The instruments are preferably part of a translational instrument interface and are removably coupled to the surgical robot. In one aspect, the translational instrument interface has a slave hub mounted on a distal end of the slave unit, a sterile shield insertable within the slave hub, and an instrument having an end-effector for contacting tissue insertable within the sterile shield. The instrument may be disposable after a single use. The handle of the surgical robot is preferably coupled to the translational instrument interface such that actuation at the handle causes movement of the end-effector for performing surgery.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: DistalMotion SAInventors: Julien CHASSOT, Michael FRIEDRICH -
Publication number: 20180353253Abstract: A robotic system and methods are provided. The robotic system comprises a tool and a manipulator with links for moving the tool. A controller implements a virtual simulation wherein the tool is represented as a virtual volume interacting with a virtual boundary defined by a mesh of polygonal elements. The controller computes a reactive force responsive to penetration of polygonal elements by the virtual volume. The reactive force is computed based on a penetration factor being a function of a geometry of the virtual volume bound relative to a geometry of the polygonal element. The controller applies the reactive force to the virtual volume to reduce penetration of the polygonal element by the virtual volume. The controller commands the manipulator to move the tool in accordance with application of the reactive force to the virtual volume to constrain movement of the tool relative to the virtual boundary.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: MAKO Surgical Corp.Inventor: David Gene Bowling
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Publication number: 20180353254Abstract: A method for positioning an input device of a workstation for use by a seated user in controlling a robotic surgery system is disclosed. The input device is operable to generate input signals representing a position of a hand controller moveable within an input device workspace. The method involves determining a vertical position of the hand controller within the input device workspace for an input signal received from the input device while a seated user's hand is grasping the hand controller in an initialization position defined with respect to the user's body. The method also involves determining a user ergonomic height of the input device based on the vertical position of the hand controller at the initialization position, and causing a platform of the workstation on which the input device is mounted to move vertically with respect to a base of the workstation to position the input device at the ergonomic height.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Thomas Andrew Lutzow, Daniel Bacher
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Publication number: 20180353255Abstract: Laparoscopic instruments and methods of use are disclosed for measuring the distance between first and second portions of a target within a patient. The device includes a shaft, a ball, and a measuring member. The shaft has a distal end configured to extend into the patient. The ball is flexibly connected to the measuring member and configured for relative movement towards and away from the distal end of the shaft. The measuring member is slidable with respect to the shaft in response to relative movement between the ball and the distal end of the shaft and includes indicia thereon, whereupon a portion of the measuring member extends out of shaft so that the indicia provides an indication of the distance between the first and second portions of the target. One embodiment of the device is spring biased to automatically retract the ball after a measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Christopher L. Radl, Steven C. Moulden
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Publication number: 20180353256Abstract: A sponge reconciliation system for maintaining an inventory of articles used during a medical or surgical procedure, where, in the event an article for which the status needs to be reconciled is left in a patient, the system generates a record that the article is in a partially reconciled state and when a subsequent procedure is performed, the scanner employed during the procedure has the records of the partially reconciled articles associated with the patient.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Stryker CorporationInventors: Brian Stewart, Michael Roux, Thomas Armentrout
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Publication number: 20180353257Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an illumination device for illuminating a body cavity in a surgical space during a surgical procedure.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Ngian Chye TAN, Wah Siew TAN, Min Hoe CHEW, Hiang Khoon TAN, Pankaj Pandurang SUNKERI, Siang-Long Richard LIEU, Wei Ling Fiona LOKE, Iyer Narayanan GOPALAKRISHNAN
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Publication number: 20180353258Abstract: An illuminated surgical retractor, comprising a metal blade having a top surface and a bottom surface, a metal handle extending from a proximal end of the blade, and a plastic illumination housing assembly comprising at least one light source, at least one battery and an activation device for energizing the light source, and the illumination assembly being permanently and non-releasably attached to the metal handle and/or blade.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Matthew Traub, Douglas McConnell, Jeffrey Ralph Swift
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Publication number: 20180353259Abstract: Provided herein are systems, devices, assemblies, and methods for localization of a tag in a tissue of a patient. For example, provided herein are systems, devices, and methods employing an implantable tag that emits sidebands at defined frequencies upon activation by a magnetic field generated by a remote activating device, and a plurality of witness stations configured to detect such sidebands. Also provided herein are herein are systems, devices, and methods employing a detection component that is attached to or integrated with a surgical device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Daniel W. van der Weide, Noah van der Weide, Eric N. Rudie, David Miel
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Publication number: 20180353260Abstract: 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 method for cleaning endotracheal tubes comprises inserting a cleaning device within an endotracheal tube while a cleaning member is in a compressed position, radially expanding the cleaning member to an expanded position within the endotracheal tube, and withdrawing the cleaning device from the endotracheal tube with the cleaning member in the expanded position.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Brad E. Vazales, Arthur Bertolero, Ken Watson, James M. Gracy
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Publication number: 20180353261Abstract: A coupling device for detachably connecting a medical or dental instrument to a drive unit or a supply hose for transfer of at least one of data, energy, a driving movement and a working medium between the drive unit or the supply hose and the instrument includes a first coupling element and a second coupling element. One of the coupling elements includes a coupling recess and the other includes a coupling protrusion insertable therein. One of the coupling elements includes a positioning element and the other includes an indentation into which the positioning element can be inserted to position the coupling elements in a defined angular position about a shared axis. One of the coupling elements includes a memory unit for storage of data and the other includes a transfer unit, so that data can be transferred from the memory unit by the transfer unit to the other coupling element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: W&H Dentalwerk Bürmoos GmbHInventors: Michael Mangelberger, Christof Baier, Wolfgang Tannebaum
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Publication number: 20180353262Abstract: A self-heating electric plugger/syringe needle (10/70) with the conductive element (50) on the external surface of the needle (10/70) is described. The needle (10/70), which can be divided into shank (30) and tip (20) portions, is hollow and is made of an electrically resistive material. A conductive element (50) located on the external surface of the needle runs along the length of its shank (30) and the length of its tip (20). An insulating material (60) located between the conductive element (50) and the external surface of the needle runs along the length of the shank (30). The conductive element (50) contacts the tip (20) of the needle, causing the needle to self-heat when electric current is supplied. A method for filling a root canal using the self-heating electric plugger/syringe needle (10/70) is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: L. Stephen Buchanan
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Publication number: 20180353263Abstract: A method for evaluating the shape of an orthodontic aligner worn by a patient. Acquisition of at least one two-dimensional image of teeth of the patient as “updated image.” At least one updated image as “aligner image,” at least partially representing the aligner in a service position. At least one updated image as “dentition image,” representing the teeth. If the dentition image is different from the aligner image, conversion of the dentition image so that it represents the teeth as seen under the acquisition conditions used during the acquisition of the aligner image. Determination, for each of a plurality of teeth represented on the dentition and aligner images, of interior and exterior tooth outlines representing the outline of the free end of the tooth on the dentition and aligner images. Comparison of the interior and exterior tooth outlines, followed by determination of at least one score according to the comparison.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Philippe SALAH, Thomas Pellissard, Guillaume Ghyselinck, Laurent Debraux