Patents Issued in December 27, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180368805
    Abstract: A medical device that includes an array of ultrasound elements and an integrated circuit, proximal to the ultrasound elements, having a thickness of less than 40 ?m, and having an array of ultrasound element driving-and-receiving contacts, matching the array of ultrasound elements and collectively electrically connected to each of the ultrasound elements. The integrated circuit also having a set of input-output signal contacts, the set being collectively switchable into contact with any one of a set of predefined blocks of driving-and-receiving contacts, and a set of control contacts, wherein inputs received by the control contacts collectively command some aspect of chip operation. The medical device further includes a set a protective covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Andreas Hadjicostis
  • Publication number: 20180368806
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a main body housing, an arm, a device, a table, and an avoiding mechanism. The arm is mounted to the main body housing so as to be capable of ascending and descending and pivotable about a predetermined axis. The device is supported by the arm so as to be capable of ascending and descending and pivotable according to the movement of the arm. The table has a surface which is positioned in a descending direction of the arm and the device, and an object is placed on the surface. The avoiding mechanism changes a relative position between the object and a support position of ascending and descending movement of the arm such that interference between the object and at least one of the arm and the device due to the descending movement of the arm is avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shingo TOYODA, Hideo Onodera, Shinichiro Kikuchi, Teruki Hagihara, Tomohiro Fujita
  • Publication number: 20180368807
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ultrasound-based system for localizing a medical device within the field of view of an ultrasound imaging probe. A localization system is provided that includes at least three ultrasound emitters that are arranged on a frame; and a position triangulation unit. The frame is adapted for attachment to an ultrasound imaging probe. The position triangulation unit determines a spatial position of the ultrasound detector relative to the at least three ultrasound emitters based on signals received from an ultrasound detector that is attached to the medical device. The frame includes a detachable reference volume comprising a background volume and an inclusion or void.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Stefan VAN DE PAS, Hendrik Roelof STAPERT
  • Publication number: 20180368808
    Abstract: Provided are an ultrasonic device and a device for generating mechanical vibration. The ultrasonic device includes an ultrasonic probe and the device for generating mechanical vibration, where the device for generating mechanical vibration includes a vibration generator (1), a damping component (2), and a pressure component (3); the damping component (2) is fixed between the vibration generator (1) and the pressure component (3); the ultrasonic probe is connected to the pressure component (3); and the vibration generator (1) is configured to generate a vibration when a pressure value detected by the pressure component (3) falls into a preset range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Qiang Wang, Jinhua Shao, Jin Sun, Houli Duan
  • Publication number: 20180368809
    Abstract: An ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic detecting device provided with the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic probe includes: an ultrasonic transducer array configured to transmit and receive ultrasonic waves; a conducting device disposed at the front end of the ultrasonic transducer array, and the conducting device includes a fluid chamber filled with fluid. The fluid chamber has an opening and an energy receiving port which are in communication with each other, and the opening is disposed on a front surface of the conducting device and covered by an elastic film; an energy applying device, connected to the energy receiving port to apply energy to the fluid within the fluid chamber to make the elastic film vibrate so as to generate a shear wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Junwei Mao
  • Publication number: 20180368810
    Abstract: A method of determining a position of a target using a metric comprises receiving a plurality of ultrasound signals representative of ultrasound energy received from the target and, for each of a plurality of different foci, adjusting the ultrasound signals in dependence on the focus and determining a value of the metric using the adjusted ultrasound signals. The method further comprises using the determined values for the metric for the different foci to determine a position of the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Heriot-Watt University
    Inventors: Vassilis Sboros, Paul Allan Dalgarno, Konstantinos Diamantis, Alan Greenaway
  • Publication number: 20180368811
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes at least one circuitry, and control circuitry. The at least one circuitry is used for an ultrasound scan. The control circuitry is configured to reset the at least one circuitry upon receipt of a stop instruction to stop the ultrasound scan and to stop supply of a clock to the at least one circuitry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Canon Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuyuki NAKAUCHI, Yoshitaka WATANABE, Shigeru AKIYAMA, Taketoshi NAGAI, Jaeho CHOI, Yasuhiro TAKAHASHI
  • Publication number: 20180368812
    Abstract: An ultrasound imaging apparatus and a control method thereof. The ultrasound imaging apparatus may include: a display; a communication unit; and a processor configured to be operatively connected to the display and the communication unit. The processor may obtain a first ultrasound image of a subject and a result of an analysis of the first ultrasound image. The processor may also control the display to display a user interface, which allows selection of an operating mode of the ultrasound imaging apparatus, based on the result of the analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hyungjoo KIM, Yeongkyeong SEONG
  • Publication number: 20180368813
    Abstract: An ultrasonic imaging method includes activating a transmit aperture within a multi-element transducer array, transmitting one or more ultrasonic beams along scan direction(s) that span the region of interest, for each transmit event, receiving ultrasound echoes from each element of a receive aperture, grouping the receive channel echo data into two or more sets corresponding to different receive sub-apertures, combining each sub-aperture data set to generate partially focused echo-location data for one or more reconstruction lines, and storing all the sub-aperture echo data sets during a storage period in a format that can be retrieved for later analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Larry Y.L. Mo, Glen W. McLaughlin, Brian Derek DeBusschere, Ting-Lan Ji, Albert Gee, David J. Napolitano, Ching-Hua Chou, Robert W. Steins
  • Publication number: 20180368814
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards an electronic module positioned in a multifunctional disposable hygiene apparatus of a user, wherein the electronic module comprises of: a plurality of sensors enabled to sense a plurality of parameters of a discharge and read a pressure generated due to a seating pattern of the user; and an embedded dipstick configured to conduct a test of a plurality of blood parameters from the discharge; a network device of a user comprising an application and in communication with the multifunctional disposable hygiene apparatus, wherein the application is configured to receive a data comprising data comprising the plurality of parameters of a discharge and pressure generated due to the seating pattern of the user and the plurality of blood parameters from the discharge from the electronic module; a remote data centre in communication with the user's network device configured to store and process the data received from the user's network device and tran
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Parag R. Kudtarkar
  • Publication number: 20180368815
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a body fluid state diagnostic system and body fluid state diagnostic method using the same, the system and method enabling a user to perform self-diagnosis and identify the diagnostic result as well as enabling reconfirmation and a diagnosis through a specialized medical institution, whereby the user may quickly and accurately identify the body state of the user, and may conveniently access specialized medical technologies of the specialized medical institution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: JONGROMEDICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ji Hoon KIM
  • Publication number: 20180368816
    Abstract: A testing device for body fluid analysis includes: a sheet unit having a sheet of which a first surface receives body fluid of a user to be deposited thereon; a contact unit having a magnifying lens group for magnifying the body fluid deposited on the sheet, the contact unit being provided with a first side at which the magnifying lens group is placed to face the first surface of the sheet and being provided with a second side at which a guide facing an observation means is placed; and a light source unit placed to face a second surface of the sheet unit in a direction facing the contact unit with the sheet unit in between, the light source unit having a light source providing light to the sheet unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: JONGROMEDICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ji Hoon KIM
  • Publication number: 20180368817
    Abstract: Configurable absorbent articles with improved bodily exudate separation and sampling are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Amy Lynn TALLY, Susan Joy LUDWIG, Donald Carroll ROE, Jacob Alan BARNHORST, Jennifer Joan GUSTIN, Kristian R. SANTA HORNEDO
  • Publication number: 20180368818
    Abstract: Provided is a toilet device that obtains a more detailed estimation result of a health condition. A toilet device (1) includes a toilet body (10) that includes a toilet bowl part (11), a camera (20) that photographs feces discharged and falling into the toilet bowl part (11) in time series and acquires a plurality of still images of the feces, and a fecal properties estimation part (30) that estimates a change in property of the feces from the plurality of still images acquired by the camera (20). The toilet device (1) estimates the change ire the property of the feces from the still images of the feces photographed in time series by the camera (20). Therefore, it is possible to obtain more detailed information on a user's health condition, in particular, the health condition of a digestive system (an intestinal environment).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: LIXIL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Koji OGURI, Emi UEDA, Michitarou MAKI, Haruyuki MIZUNO, Haruki KAWANAKA, Atsushi ISOMURA, Chizuru HONDA
  • Publication number: 20180368819
    Abstract: A smart bio-fluids diagnostic monitoring system and a method of monitoring healthiness according to our invention comprise of a semi-portable potty/commode that conserve water having provision for managing waste disposal with built-in self-service health lab and a monitor that connects to the internet to show instant personal health reports. It's matched with a big data platform and personal data control for mass medical research and financial program to benefit 3rd worlds and medical conglomerates. It's a solution with personal, commercial and social implications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Gautam Gogineni
  • Publication number: 20180368820
    Abstract: An asymmetric occlusion device for occluding an opening in a body tissue where part of the opening is defined by a partial inadequate rim. The asymmetric occlusion device includes a waist portion having a distal end extending to a proximal end. The waist portion is of non-woven material extending around a longitudinal axis opening. The occlusion device further includes a pair of asymmetric occluder disks attached to the waist. The asymmetric distal and proximal occluder disks are formed of shape memory material. The asymmetric occluder disks include a short arm extending from the waist and an extended arm extending from the waist. The extended arm exceeds the length of the first short arm. The density of the first short arm exceeds the density of the second extended arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Occlutech Holding AG
    Inventors: Elaheh Malakan Rad, Ziyad Mousa Hijazi
  • Publication number: 20180368821
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a handle assembly, a power source coupled with the handle assembly, and a control circuit coupled with the handle assembly and the power source. The handle assembly, the power source, and the control circuit are configured to drive an end effector of a shaft assembly coupled with the handle assembly to perform an operation on tissue. The control circuit is configured to receive life deduction event data. The control circuit is configured to determine an end of life for the power source based on the life deduction event data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David C. Yates, Jason L. Harris, Michael J. Vendely
  • Publication number: 20180368822
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a handle assembly and a battery pack. The handle assembly includes a housing and a first control circuit located within the housing. The battery pack assembly includes a power supply and a second control circuit. The power supply is configured to selectively transition from a first state to a second state. The power supply is configured to energize the first control circuit of the handle assembly in the first state. The power supply is configured to not energize the first control circuit of the handle assembly in the second state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael J. Vendely
  • Publication number: 20180368823
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a steering mechanism. The steering mechanism comprises a handle at a proximal end of the surgical instrument. The handle includes a plurality of controls for controlling a movement of the surgical instrument. The steering mechanism also comprises a hub that rotatably mates with the handle and a housing positioned about the hub. The handle, the housing, and the hub communicate with each other to provide at least a first degree of freedom and a second degree of freedom. An articulation region is at a distal end of the surgical instrument. A movement of the steering mechanism handle in one and only one of the first or second degrees of freedom relative to at least one of the housing or the hub translates to a movement of the articulation region in a single plane of motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Michael Salvatore Castro
  • Publication number: 20180368824
    Abstract: The present invention relates devices capable of continuous and simultaneous expression of components of a multi-part biomedical composition with variable mixing ratios. The device has at least two syringes that contain the inter-reactive components of the multi-part biomedical composition. At least the barrel of the first syringe has a first retention compartment having a cross-sectional area dimension that is larger than the cross-sectional area of a second retention compartment. The first piston has a cross-sectional dimension that matches the inside cross-sectional dimension of the small dimensioned retention compartment, while a ring-shaped gasket is located within the large dimensioned retention compartment and has an outside cross-sectional dimension that matches an interior dimension of the large dimension retention compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Jamiolkowski, An-Min Jason Sung, Leo B. Kriksunov
  • Publication number: 20180368825
    Abstract: An implant for repairing tears in soft tissue, such as a meniscus, may include a lead anchoring member and a trailing anchoring member interlaced by a looped strand member. The lead anchoring member and the trailing anchoring member may be formed of a suture material having a diameter greater than a diameter of the strand member. The lead anchoring member and the trailing anchoring member may deform into a suture mass in response to a lead of the strand member being placed under tension to thereby cinch the looped portion. A self-locking locking knot may prevent loosening of the looped portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Roy H. Trawick
  • Publication number: 20180368826
    Abstract: The present invention provides a surgical system for securing a suture against relative movement with respect to a body tissue. The surgical system includes a fastener and medical device for positioning and securing a fastener onto a suture. The fastener includes inner and outer members that can slide together and rotate. The suture extends through the inner and outer members so that rotation of the inner member causes it to wrap the suture around it. As the suture is wound around the inner member, the fastener is drawn toward a position against the body tissue. Further rotation of the inner member allows tension to be applied to the suture. The fastener may be bonded to the suture in order to further secure the suture against relative movement with respect to the body tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Peter M. Bonutti, Matthew J. Cremens, Lawrence Crainich
  • Publication number: 20180368827
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a suture anchor including a distal body and a proximal body. The distal body defines a bounded transverse eyelet therethrough and the proximal body defines an unbounded transverse eyelet therethrough at a distal end thereof the unbounded transverse eyelet being unbounded distally. The proximal body is cannulated for receiving a proximal portion of the distal body through the cannula, whereby the eyelets are configured for alignment with one another to as to enable receiving a suture therethrough. Once the suture is received, the distal body and proximal body may be rotated relative to one another along a longitudinal axis of the suture anchor such that the eyelets are rotated out of phase with one another causing the suture to wrap around the proximal portion of the distal body and pinching the suture between an outer surface of the distal body and an inner surface of the proximal body. This has the advantage of causing the distal end of the proximal body to expand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Smith & Nephew, Inc.
    Inventors: Marc Joseph Balboa, Geoffrey Ian Karasic
  • Publication number: 20180368828
    Abstract: A surgical suture module for a machine constructed and configured for automatic, continuous suturing for reduced or minimized scarring and reduced suturing time. A surgical suture module for continuous, subcuticular suturing. The module includes a generally circular needle with a needle shaft; a supply of thread; a thread guide; a hook with a hook shank, a holding arm mechanism; and a housing. The needle, rotationally movable between a first position and a second position, is configured to introduce the thread into a tissue. The hook is operable for hooking and lifting the thread in coordination with the needle and the holding arm mechanism is operable for pushing and catching the thread in automatic coordination with the hook. The needle, the hook, and the holding arm mechanism are held in position by the housing and the housing operable to attach to a power supply that provides power to the module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: iSuturing, LLC
    Inventors: Adel W. Mohamed, Mansour H. Mohamed, Dmitri D. Mungalov
  • Publication number: 20180368829
    Abstract: A suturing end effector includes a first jaw member, a second jaw member, and a helical needle. The first and second jaw members are moveable relative to one another between open and closed configurations. Each of the first and second jaw members defines a first row of wells that define a helical path when the first and second jaw members are in the closed configuration. The helical needle is rotatable through the helical path between retracted and extended positions. The helical needle is configured to draw a suture through tissue between the first and second jaw members when the helical needle is rotatably advanced through the helical path and configured to be independently moveable relative to the suture when retracted from the advanced position to the retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Stanislaw Marczyk, Simon R. Grover, Emily Triggs, Alistair Ward
  • Publication number: 20180368830
    Abstract: A medical securing device for securing an object with a securing member into a tissue comprises an elongated sheath with proximal and distal ends, and a securing member introduction device having proximal and distal ends. The securing member comprises first and second ends. The distal end of the securing member introduction device is configured to extend the second end of the securing member from the sheath and introduce it to or through the tissue via an introduction movement so to secure the portion of the securing member to the object and/or to the tissue. This is advantageously configured to happen without extending the securing member introduction device through the tissue whereupon no extra hole is made to the tissue by the securing member introduction device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Medtentia International Ltd Oy
    Inventors: Ger O'Carroll, Jake O'Regan, Kieran Cafferkey, Hans-Reinhard Zerkowski, Olli Keränen
  • Publication number: 20180368831
    Abstract: This disclosure includes needle holders and related methods. Some holders use or include an elongated handle having a proximal portion and a distal portion, a first jaw member coupled to the distal portion of the handle, a second jaw member pivotally coupled to the first jaw member, and a lever pivotally coupled to the handle and coupled to the second jaw member such that the lever can be actuated by a user's thumb to selectively open and close the jaw members. In some holders, the handle extends proximally beyond the lever such that the lever can be actuated by the user's thumb to selectively open and close the jaw members while the handle is grasped within the user's hand. In some holders, the handle is defined by an elongated housing defining an interior volume configured to receive at least a portion of the lever when the jaw members are closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: James ALLRED
  • Publication number: 20180368832
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes apparatuses for a surgical reloadable cartridge assembly. An example apparatus includes a lock slider and a blade lock configured to actuate radially between a first position that locks a blade in a secure position and a second position that allows the blade to move longitudinally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Applicant: Lexington Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Marecki, Otto Briner, Leon Amariglio
  • Publication number: 20180368833
    Abstract: A control system having speed management control. The control system can be in signal communication with a battery, and the battery can be coupled to a motor. The speed management control can include a pulse width modulation circuit, which can control the duration of pulses supplied from the battery to the motor. The motor can include a primary set of coils and a secondary set of coils. The control system can direct surplus current to the secondary set of coils to maximize the torque generated by the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David C. Yates, Emily A. Schellin, Jeffrey S. Swayze
  • Publication number: 20180368834
    Abstract: A device for closing a tissue opening includes a body extending from a first end to a second end and a first anchoring element connected to the first end of the body and a second anchoring element connected to the second end of the body. At least one of the first anchoring element and the second anchoring element is movable between an insertion configuration, in which the at least one of the first and second anchoring elements is insertable through a target tissue such that the body extends across a tissue opening to be treated, and an anchoring configuration, in which the first and second anchoring elements engage target tissue on a first side and a second side, respectively, of the tissue opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Laura E. Christakis, Sean P. Fleury, Liam K.P.M. Rolle, Colby Harris, Paul Smith
  • Publication number: 20180368835
    Abstract: A suturing device, in particular for suturing lacerations of the meniscus, comprising: a needle provided with a longitudinal cavity extending along a main direction; at least a first and a second member slidably inserted in the cavity and arranged in succession along the main direction; a surgical thread slidably inserted in the cavity and connected to the first and second member, wherein the the first and second member each comprise at least one pair of bodies connected together by means of a junction. Other aspects may be disclosed and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2016
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Sascha BERBERICH
  • Publication number: 20180368836
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body assembly, a shaft assembly, and an end effector. The shaft assembly includes an outer sheath and a motorized driving mechanism. The body assembly is configured to actuate the driving mechanism. The end effector includes a staple deck, an anvil, a first staple driver, and a second staple driver. The first staple driver is configured to fire a first annular array of staples of the plurality of staples against the anvil to deform the first annular array of staples at a first compressed staple height. The second staple driver is configured to fire a second annular array of staples of the plurality of staples against the anvil to deform the second annular array of staples at a second compressed staple height independent of the first staple driver. The first compressed staple height and the second compressed staple height are different.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Michael D. Auld, Brett E. Swensgard, Sol Posada, Michael J. Vendely, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180368837
    Abstract: A surgical instrument. In one form, the surgical instrument includes a housing that has an interchangeable shaft assembly removably attached thereto. The interchangeable shaft assembly includes an elongate shaft that has a surgical end effector operably coupled thereto for selective articulation relative to the elongate shaft. An articulation system is configured to selectively apply articulation motions to the surgical end effector when the articulation system is in an actuated orientation. A locking arrangement prevents detachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly from the housing when the articulation system is in the actuated orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Jerome R. Morgan, Chester O. Baxter, III, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gary W. Knight
  • Publication number: 20180368838
    Abstract: A surgical instrument. The surgical instrument has an end effector and a trigger in communication with the end effector. The surgical instrument also has a first sensor and an externally accessible memory device in communication with the first sensor. The first sensor has an output that represents a first condition of either the trigger or the end effector. The memory device is configured to record the output of the first sensor. In various embodiments, memory device may include an output port and/or a removable storage medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, John N. Ouwerkerk, Jerome R. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20180368839
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a surgical stapling anvil is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of manufacturing a first anvil member and a second anvil member. The first anvil member comprises a tissue-facing surface comprising a plurality of staple forming pockets defined therein and a longitudinal cavity comprising anvil ledges configured to be engaged by anvil-camming portions of a firing member of a surgical stapling instrument. The method further comprises the steps of polishing the ledges of the first anvil member and welding the first anvil member and the second anvil member together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Jason L. Harris, Gregory J. Bakos, Anil K. Nalagatla
  • Publication number: 20180368840
    Abstract: A surgical stapling anvil for use with a surgical instrument is disclosed. The anvil comprises an anvil body comprising a tissue-facing surface and a longitudinal cavity. The longitudinal cavity comprises a first cavity portion configured to receive at least a portion of a cutting edge of a firing member of the surgical instrument therethrough, a second cavity portion configured to receive an anvil-engaging portion of the firing member therethrough, and a third cavity portion comprising a first angular surface which flares outward relative to the second cavity portion. The anvil further comprises an anvil cap comprising a first section positioned within a portion of the second cavity portion and a second section positioned within the third cavity portion, wherein the second section comprises a second angular surface corresponding to the first angular surface, and wherein the first angular surface and the second angular surface are welded together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Anil K. Nalagatla, Jerome R. Morgan, Gregory J. Bakos, Jason L. Harris
  • Publication number: 20180368841
    Abstract: A surgical stapling anvil is disclosed comprising an anvil body including a tissue-facing surface, a plurality of staple forming pockets, and a longitudinal slot. The longitudinal slot comprises a first portion configured to receive a cutting edge of a firing member therethrough and a second portion configured to receive an anvil-camming portion of the firing member therethrough. The anvil further comprises an anvil cap welded to the anvil body, wherein the anvil cap comprises a welded portion and a non-welded portion, wherein the non-welded portion comprises a non-welded width, and wherein the non-welded width is less than or equal to about 105% of the width of the second portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Anil K. Nalagatla, Jerome R. Morgan, Gregory J. Bakos, Jason L. Harris
  • Publication number: 20180368842
    Abstract: A surgical stapling anvil is disclosed comprising an anvil body comprising a longitudinal slot configured to receive a firing member therethrough and a tissue-facing surface comprising a plurality of staple-forming pockets defined therein. The anvil further comprises an anvil cap and a plurality of welds welding the anvil cap and the anvil body together. The welds comprise a shallow-welded zone comprising a first weld depth and a deep-welded zone comprising a second weld depth which is different than the first weld depth, wherein the shallow-welded zone and the deep-welded zone are configured to increase overall weld depth of the plurality of welds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Jason L. Harris, Gregory J. Bakos
  • Publication number: 20180368843
    Abstract: A surgical stapling assembly is disclosed comprising a firing member comprising a vertically extending body portion comprising two lateral sides, a first jaw engagement member configured to slidably engage a first jaw as the firing member moves through a staple-firing stroke, and a second jaw engagement member extending laterally from each lateral side of the body portion, wherein the second jaw engagement member is configured to slidably engage a second jaw as the firing member moves through the staple-firing stroke. The second jaw engagement member comprises a vertical thickness and a lateral width defined as the distance between the body portion and an outer edge of the second jaw engagement member, wherein the vertical thickness and the lateral width comprise a ratio between about 1:2 and about 1:1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gregory J. Bakos, Jerome R. Morgan, Jason L. Harris
  • Publication number: 20180368844
    Abstract: An end effector is disclosed. The end effector can include a staple cartridge comprising a staple comprising a leg. The end effector can also include an anvil comprising a tissue compression surface, wherein a plurality of pockets are defined in the tissue compression surface, and wherein the plurality of pockets comprises a pocket comprising a cup configured to form the leg. The cup can comprise a boundary surface comprising a perimeter, a depth profile defining the depth of the cup along the length thereof, a first curved sidewall extending from the perimeter toward the depth profile, and a second curved sidewall extending from the perimeter toward the depth profile. The first and second curved sidewalls can intersect the perimeter at a constant angle along a majority of the length thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Gregory J. Bakos, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180368845
    Abstract: An end effector is disclosed. The end effector can include a staple cartridge comprising a staple comprising a first leg. The end effector can also include an anvil comprising a tissue compression surface, wherein a plurality of pockets are defined in the tissue compression surface, wherein the plurality of pockets comprises a pocket comprising a first cup configured to form the first leg. The first cup can comprise a first lateral side, a second lateral side, and a bottom intermediate the first lateral side and the second lateral side, wherein the bottom defines a depth relative to the tissue compression surface, and wherein the depth varies longitudinally along the length of the bottom. The first cup can further comprise sidewalls extending from the respective lateral sides to the bottom, wherein the sidewalls are defined by entirely-curved surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Gregory J. Bakos, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180368846
    Abstract: A surgical end effector is disclosed. The end effector can include an anvil comprising a planar surface, wherein a plurality of forming pockets is defined in the planar surface. The forming pockets can include a first forming pocket comprising a first depth and a second forming pocket comprising a second depth, wherein the second depth is different than the first depth. The end effector can also include a staple cartridge comprising a stepped deck, a first driver aligned with the first pocket and movable a first distance between an unfired position and a fired position, and a second driver aligned with the second pocket and movable a second distance between an unfired position and a fired position, wherein the second distance is different than the first distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gregory J. Bakos, Jason L. Harris
  • Publication number: 20180368847
    Abstract: A surgical tool assembly is disclosed. The surgical tool assembly can include an end effector comprising an elongate channel configured to receive a fastener cartridge, and the elongate channel can comprise a brace. The surgical tool assembly can also include a shaft comprising an articulation drive assembly, wherein the articulation drive assembly comprises an articulation link pivotably coupled to the elongate channel. The articulation link comprises a pocket configured to receive the brace when the end effector is in a fully articulated configuration. The brace and the pocket can define complementary planar surfaces for resisting rotation of the brace within the pocket to resist de-articulation of the end effector when it is in its fully articulated configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gregory J. Bakos, Jason L. Harris
  • Publication number: 20180368848
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a battery pack and a battery port. The battery pack includes a latching feature. The battery port is configured to receive the battery pack. The battery port includes a restraining feature. The restraining feature is configured to securely engage the latching feature when the battery port receives the battery pack such that the battery pack becomes fixedly attached to the battery port. At least a portion of the battery port is configured to permanently deform or break upon the removal of the battery pack from the battery port such that the surgical instrument becomes inoperable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Kevin L. Houser, Michael J. Vendely, Michael D. Auld, Brett E. Swensgard
  • Publication number: 20180368849
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body assembly, a modular shaft assembly, and a coupling detection assembly. The body assembly includes a control circuit, a battery pack operable to power the control circuit, and a first electrical contact assembly. The modular shaft assembly includes a second electrical contact assembly that is configured to operatively engage the first electrical contact assembly when the modular shaft assembly selectively couples with the body assembly. A detection trigger member is configured to activate a detection activation member such that the detection activation member communicates a first detection signal to the control circuit when the modular shaft assembly selectively couples with the body assembly. The control circuit is configured to verify operative engagement between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact in response to the control circuit receiving the first detection signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Brett E. Swensgard, Michael D. Auld, Michael J. Vendely, Sol Posada, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David C. Yates
  • Publication number: 20180368850
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body and a shaft assembly. The body includes a rotary drive output, a linear drive output, and a control module. The shaft assembly includes a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end includes a type of end effector configured to operate on tissue. The proximal end is configured to removably couple with the body assembly. The proximal end includes one or both of a rotary drive input configured to couple with the rotary drive output or a linear drive input configured to couple with the linear drive input. The shaft assembly is configured to actuate the end effector in response to movement of one or both of the rotary drive input or the linear drive input. The control module is configured to selectively actuate the rotary drive output or the linear drive output based on the type of end effector of the shaft assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris, Michael J. Vendely
  • Publication number: 20180368851
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a shaft assembly and an end effector. The shaft assembly includes an outer sheath and a staple driving mechanism. The end effector includes a staple deck, an anvil, a first staple driver, and a second staple driver. The staple deck defines a plurality of staple openings in at least one annular array. Each staple opening in the plurality of staple openings houses a staple. The anvil is configured to actuate relative to the staple deck to compress tissue between the staple deck and the anvil. The staple driving mechanism is configured to actuate the first staple driver to fire a first staple of the plurality of staples against the anvil. The staple driving mechanism is further configured to actuate the second staple driver independently of the first staple driver to fire a second staple of the plurality of staples against the anvil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Michael D. Auld, Brett E. Swensgard, Sol Posada, Michael J. Vendely, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20180368852
    Abstract: A surgical clip may include: a first leg member having an inner surface, an outer surface, and first and second side surfaces, the inner surface of the first leg member having a concave curvature; a second leg member having an inner surface, an outer surface, and first and second side surfaces, the inner surface of the second leg member having a convex curvature; at least one first tooth extending from a first lateral side of the inner surface of the second leg member; and a first channel defined between the first side surface and the inner surface of the first leg member. The first and second leg members may be configured to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and in the closed configuration, the at least one first tooth is received in the first channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: David Lee FOSHEE, Michael Dell RAMSEY
  • Publication number: 20180368853
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an apparatus, and methods of using same, for collecting blood from an umbilical cord in a sterile environment that includes an umbilical cord retaining assembly and a blood collection assembly rotatably connected to the umbilical cord retaining assembly. A cord cutting blade, which is carried by the blood collection assembly, functions to cut the umbilical cord when the blood collection assembly is rotated relative to the umbilical cord retaining assembly. After the umbilical cord is cut, blood flows by force of gravity into the blood collection region of the blood collection assembly to which a blood collection bag can be interconnected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventor: Franciscus A. Kuypers
  • Publication number: 20180368854
    Abstract: Vascular delivery systems configured to deliver an implant to a location within a vasculature can include one or more control wires controllable by a user to detach the implant from the delivery system. Control wires can cause a feature of the delivery system to mechanically engage a hub at a proximal end of an implant. Proximal or distal movement of the control wire can allow the feature to disengage from the hub, thereby allowing release of the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Stephen J. Kleshinski, Karl S. Halden