Patents Issued in February 5, 2019
  • Patent number: 10194950
    Abstract: A bone screw includes an elongate shaft extending longitudinally between a proximal end and an opposing distal end The shaft bounds a first passageway at least partially extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The shaft is comprised of a radiolucent material. A core is disposed within the first passageway of the shaft. The core can be comprised of a radiolucent or radiopaque material. A head is either integrally formed with or secured to the proximal end of the shaft or the proximal end of the core. The head can also bound a second passageway that extends through the head and is aligned with the first passageway. The core can also be disposed within the second passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Innovasis, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Felix, David N. McKean, David A. Hershgold
  • Patent number: 10194951
    Abstract: A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an integral shank head receivable in a one-piece receiver having an upper channel for receiving a longitudinal connecting member and a lower cavity cooperating with a lower opening. A compression insert (some with an independent tool lock, lock and release feature and/or friction fit feature) and a split retaining ring articulatable with respect to both the shank head and the receiver (prior to locking) cooperate with the receiver to provide for pop- or snap-on assembly of the shank with the receiver either prior to or after implantation of the shank into a vertebra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventors: Roger P. Jackson, James L. Surber
  • Patent number: 10194952
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an implant having a protrusion. The protrusion aids in the insertion and placement of the implant as well as the spinal fixation element. In certain embodiments the protrusion may be configured as a guide for the insertion of the spinal fixation element as well as closure mechanisms for connecting the spinal fixation element to the implant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Lawrence Ramsay, Sara Dziedzic, Michael Mahoney
  • Patent number: 10194953
    Abstract: A spinal rod extension includes a rod portion, a connector portion, a lip, and a connector. The connector portion is mounted to the rod portion. The connector portion is configured for insertion through a screw head of an existing pedicle screw that is used to secure an existing spinal rod. The lip is mounted to the rod portion, and is configured to engage at least a portion of an end of the existing spinal rod. The connector is configured to secure the connector portion to the existing spinal rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: Seth K. Williams
  • Patent number: 10194954
    Abstract: Methods and devices for treating spinal deformities are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a low-profile spinal anchoring device is provided for receiving a spinal fixation element, such as a tether, therethrough. The device generally includes a staple body that is adapted to seat a spinal fixation element, a fastening element for fixing the staple body to bone, and a locking assembly for coupling a spinal fixation element to the staple body. In one embodiment, the locking assembly includes a washer that is adapted to couple to the staple body such that the spinal fixation is disposed therebetween, and a locking nut that is adapted to engage the staple body to mate the washer to the staple body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: DEPUY SYNTHES PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Hassan A. Serhan, Michael A. Slivka, Matthew Hannen, Peter O. Newton, Michael Nilsson
  • Patent number: 10194955
    Abstract: Devices and methods for placing an implant between two bone portions are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method comprises disposing a portion of a flexible member through a first bone portion, through an aperture in a trial implant, and through a second bone portion. The trial implant can be withdrawn to enable an implant to be coupled to the flexible member. The method includes applying tension to the flexible member to urge the implant into the space between two bone portions. In some embodiments, the two bone portions are facets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Spinal Elements, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Blain, Gregory Martin, Charles C. Newton, Hyun Bae
  • Patent number: 10194956
    Abstract: Implantable devices are provided for stabilizing adjacent vertebrae and the lumbosacral region of a patient. The devices can comprise an interspinous flexible spacer body having a substantially U-shape comprising a superior section, inferior section, and a midsection extending therebetween. The superior and/or inferior sections can include a pair of lateral walls configured to engage a spinous process of a vertebra. Fixation caps can be provided for securing a spinous process of a vertebra to the flexible spacer body. To secure the flexible spacer body between the lumbar vertebra and an adjacent vertebra, an anchor assembly is provided. Also provided are methods of using the implantable devices to stabilize a patient's spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Paradigm Spine, LLC
    Inventors: Frank T. Trautwein, Gary L. Lowery, Guntmar H. Eisen, Rudolf Bertagnoli, Marc R. Viscogliosi, David I. Biondo
  • Patent number: 10194957
    Abstract: Devices and methods for bending or cutting implants are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, an instrument can convert a rotational input force (e.g., supplied by a powered driver tool) into movement of a first rod holder with respect to a second rod holder. Such movement can form a bend in a rod or other implant held by the first and second rod holders. Various mechanisms for converting this movement are disclosed, such as a worm drive mechanism and a conical gear mechanism, as are various types of rod holders, including orbiting rollers, lid-type rod holders, fixed and pivoting half-pipe rod holders, and full-pipe rod holders. In some embodiments, the instrument can also be used for cutting, for example by rotating a cutting wheel with respect to a cutting plate to cut a rod or other implant inserted through openings formed in the cutting wheel and the cutting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medos International Sarl
    Inventors: Renaud Rouge, Jakub Galkowski, Thibault Chandanson
  • Patent number: 10194958
    Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a first arm connected with a longitudinal element and a first spinal construct. The first arm is connected with the longitudinal element and includes a body engageable with a first spinal construct and rotatable relative to the first arm in a first orientation and a second orientation. A second arm is axially translatable relative to the first arm and includes a body engageable with a second spinal construct and is rotatable relative to the second arm in a first orientation and a second orientation. The bodies include locks. In some embodiments, spinal constructs, implants, systems and methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Warsaw Othopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Dustin Bobbitt, David A. Mire
  • Patent number: 10194959
    Abstract: A multi-stage minimally invasive surgical procedure and associated instruments are disclosed. First, the surgical site is prepared. After preparation, the bone screws or anchors are attached to the bone. Subsequent to insertion of the screws, a rod or connecting member is positioned within the yoke portion of the bone screw. Caps are then placed in a pre-lock position within the yokes. The bone screws may be compressed together or distracted along the rod or connecting member, thereby setting the final spacing of the bones or bone segments. Finally the caps are moved to a final lock position to fix the screws to the rod or connecting member to maintain the bones in position relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Pioneer Surgical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew P. Gephart, Matthew N. Songer, Ernest N. Corrao, Phillip J. Berman
  • Patent number: 10194960
    Abstract: Systems and instruments that allow vigorous compression of two bone structures while minimally impeding visual access to the surgical site are disclosed. This is achieved by use of a sleeve member that connects a stanchion to a lever. The system includes a stanchion member, a sleeve member dimensioned to at least partially encircle the stanchion member, and a compression lever. The sleeve and the lever form a pivot point to allow the compression lever to rotate relative to the stanchion member when the sleeve is reversibly placed around the stanchion member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.
    Inventors: Conrad Tyler Hammann, Scott Lish
  • Patent number: 10194961
    Abstract: Osteoarthiritis (OA) is the most common disease affecting human joints. Mechanical stress through the joint is one of the most important independent etiological factors. The present invention provides a prosthesis that by passes some of the stress from the joint without destroying the joint surface. It allows may provide a full range of joint movement, while sharing the load with the physiological joint, thereby maintaining the viability of the physiological joint surface. In addition, the prosthesis can accommodate native soft tissue structures in or around the joint, such as ligaments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: Pranesh Kumar
  • Patent number: 10194962
    Abstract: Implants for the fusion or fixation of two bone segments are described. For example, the implants can be used for the fusion or fixation of the sacroiliac joint. The implants can have a matrix structure, have a rectilinear cross-sectional area, and have a curvature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: SI-Bone Inc.
    Inventors: Bret W. Schneider, Roxanne Simon, Derek Lindsey, Scott A. Yerby
  • Patent number: 10194963
    Abstract: An orthopedic screw includes a main body having a torqueing end, an inner chamber formed therein, and at least two mating features separated by a separation gap, the separation gap extending into the inner chamber, at least one of the at least two mating features having a first tapered portion with an increasing width and a second tapered portion with a decreasing width; and a support member removably placed in the inner chamber of the main body and having a support portion at least partially filling the separation gap between the at least two mating features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: SMed-TA/TD, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory C. Stalcup, Troy D. Knapp, Travis Geels
  • Patent number: 10194964
    Abstract: A bone material comprising a coherent mass of cartridge milled and demineralized bone fibers is provided, the coherent mass having no binder disposed in or on the coherent mass. In some embodiments, a bone material comprising a lyophilized coherent mass of cartridge milled and demineralized bone fibers is provided, the lyophilized coherent mass having no binder disposed in or on the coherent mass. In some embodiments, a method of making an implantable bone material is provided, the method comprising drying a coherent mass of cartridge milled and demineralized bone fibers, the coherent mass having no binder disposed in or on the coherent mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly W. Schlachter, Daniel A. Shimko, Kerem N. Kalpakci, Erick Vasquez, David R. Kaes, Subhabrata Bhattacharyya
  • Patent number: 10194965
    Abstract: Methods of filling bone cavities are provided. The methods use a bone cement mixing and delivery device that includes a shaft extending along an axis from a first end to a second end and including a passageway. The first end includes an adapter having a first opening that is in communication with the passageway. The second end includes a second opening that is in communication with the passageway. The shaft includes a mixing portion between the first and second ends. A connector includes a central portion that that is coupled to the adapter. The central portion includes a channel that is in communication with the first opening. The connector includes first and second ports that extend from the central portion. The first port includes a first lumen that is in communication with the channel. The second port includes a second lumen that is in communication with the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Holding Company Sàrl
    Inventors: Neil S. Sasaki, Samuel Lee, Ankit K. Mehta, Craig E. Lauchner
  • Patent number: 10194966
    Abstract: Systems and methods for bone cement removal using real-time acoustic feedback, such as during a drilling process in a revision arthroplasty, are discussed. A system for bone cement removal may include a processor to perform operation comprising receiving digital frequency data from the microphone, comparing at least a portion of the digital frequency data to a plurality of frequency signatures, and determining, based at least in part on the comparing, whether the portion of the digital frequency data is representative of a cut bone frequency or a cut bone cement frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Blue Belt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Cedric Corpa de la Fuente
  • Patent number: 10194967
    Abstract: Disclosed are various instruments and implants used in minimally invasive spine surgery. Disclosed is a cannulated probe, a guide wire handle; a guide wire handle having a locking mechanism, an all-in-one guide wire tool; a retractor flex rod passage; or a tab break tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Atlas Spine, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew G. Baynham
  • Patent number: 10194968
    Abstract: A system and method for bending a surgical rod using an automated bending system includes receiving an indication of a plurality of line segments defined on the rod and an indication of an angle measurement to be formed between at least two adjacent ones of the plurality of line segments. Bending parameters to perform on the rod to form the angle measurement between the at least two adjacent ones of the plurality of line segments are determined and operation of the automated bending system is controlled using the bending parameters to create an angle having the angle measurement between the at least two adjacent ones of the plurality of line segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Dignity Health
    Inventors: Neil R. Crawford, Nicholas Theodore
  • Patent number: 10194969
    Abstract: The present application relates to a torque limiter (1) comprising a handle (2) with a mono-block cylindrical handle-body. The cylindrical handle-body includes a central through bore (3) having an axis (B) at a right angle to a longitudinal axis (A) of the cylindrical handle-body as well as a first pocket (4) and a second pocket (5). The first pocket (4) is arranged on a first side and the second pocket (5) is arranged on a second side of said cylindrical handle-body opposite of said first side. The first pocket (4) and the second pocket (5) are arranged along said longitudinal axis (A) and intersect each other in the area of said central through bore (3), each of said first pocket (4) and said second pocket (5) comprising at least one magnet (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b; 35). Further, the torque limiter (1) comprises a mono-block shaft (20) having a central shaft (21) removably arranged in said central through bore (3), said central shaft (21) having a drive (23) arranged at a first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: 41medical AG
    Inventors: Tom Overes, Robert Frigg
  • Patent number: 10194970
    Abstract: A vapor delivery system and method is provided that includes a number of features. In one embodiment, a method comprises inserting a vapor delivery needle into tissue of a patient, activating a flow of vapor from a vapor generator through vapor delivery ports of the vapor delivery needle to cause condensed liquid to exit vapor delivery ports of the vapor delivery needle, generating vapor in the vapor generator, delivering a dose of vapor through the vapor delivery ports of the vapor delivery needle into the tissue, and after the dose of vapor is delivered, re-activating the flow of vapor from the vapor generator through the vapor delivery ports of the vapor delivery needle to prevent a vacuum from forming in the vapor delivery needle. Vapor therapy systems are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: NxThera, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Noel Hastings, Michael Hoey, Steven Carlson, Matthew Byrne
  • Patent number: 10194971
    Abstract: A system and method for applying energy, particularly high-frequency (HF) energy, such as radiofrequency (RF) electrical energy, to a living body can include a cannula hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: COSMAN MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas John Wegrzyn, III, Eric Cosman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10194972
    Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to systems and methods for providing a drive signal to a surgical device for treating tissue. A surgical generator may deliver the drive signal according to a first composite load curve. The surgical generator may receive a first tissue measurement indicating a property of the tissue at a first time during the delivery of the drive signal, receive a second tissue measurement indicating the property of the tissue at a second time during the delivery of the drive signal after the first time, and based on the first and second tissue measurements, determine a difference in the property of the tissue between the first time and the second time. When the difference in the property of the tissue exceeds a difference threshold, the generator may deliver the drive signal according to a second composite load curve that is more aggressive than the first composite load curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: David C. Yates, Eitan T. Wiener, Mark A. Davison
  • Patent number: 10194973
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of generating electrical signal waveforms by a generator. The generator includes a digital processing circuit, a memory circuit in communication with the digital processing circuit, the memory circuit defining a lookup table, a digital synthesis circuit in communication with the digital processing circuit and the memory circuit, and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) circuit. The method includes storing, by the digital processing circuit, phase points of a digital electrical signal waveform in the lookup table defined by the memory circuit, wherein the digital electrical signal waveform is represented by a predetermined number of phase points, wherein the predetermined number phase points define a predetermined wave shape. Receiving a clock signal by the digital synthesis circuit. Retrieving, by the digital processing circuit, a phase point from the lookup table. Converting, by the digital processing circuit, the retrieved phase point to an analog signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: Eitan T. Wiener, David C. Yates
  • Patent number: 10194974
    Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument, in particular for argon plasma coagulation, includes a handpiece 10, an electrode (11) connected to the handpiece (10), a shaft (12) which surrounds the electrode (11) and is held in the handpiece (10), and an operating mechanism (13), which comprises at least one rotary knob (14) arranged on the handpiece (10). The shaft (12) is axially movable relative to the electrode (11) and a shear force can be applied to it by operating the rotary knob (14). The handpiece (10) has a brake device which exerts a braking force on the shaft (12), and the operating mechanism (13) forms a transmission gear (15) which is connected to the shaft (12) for transferring the shear force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Erbe Elektromedizin GmbH
    Inventors: Udo Kirstgen, Thorsten Rombach, Tobias Alberstetter, Elmar Ahlburg, Volker Buntrock
  • Patent number: 10194975
    Abstract: Unintended current flow or plasma discharge has been observed in known illuminated electrosurgical devices having a metallic tubular heat sink surrounding a conductive electrode and an illumination element, and having a distal outer edge that abuts against the light emitting element. An insulating, shielding or other isolating element that prevents or discourages unintended plasma formation between the distal outer edge and nearby patient tissue can reduce the potential for tissue damage to a patient or injury to a surgeon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC ADVANCED ENERGY, LLC
    Inventor: David Hubelbank
  • Patent number: 10194976
    Abstract: A surgical instrument is disclosed. The surgical instrument has a handle assembly. The handle assembly has a trigger operatively coupled to a firing plate, an energy button configured to deliver energy to at least one electrode, a lockout element operatively coupled to the energy button, the lockout element configured to prevent operation of the firing plate, and a lockout disabling mechanism configured to disable the lockout element, the lockout disabling mechanism operable between a first position and a second position. When the lockout disabling mechanism is located in the first position, the lockout element is enabled and can be unlocked by the energy button, and wherein when the lockout disabling mechanism is in the second position, the lockout element is disabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventor: Chad P. Boudreaux
  • Patent number: 10194977
    Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator and an electrosurgical instrument with opposing first and second jaw members movable relative to one another between open and closed positions. The first and second jaw member include, respectively, a cutting electrode and at least a first sealing electrode separated therefrom by an insulating member, and at least a second sealing electrode. The generator includes an energy source for producing at least a cutting RF waveform, first, second and third output connections connected to the cutting electrode, first sealing electrode and second sealing electrode, respectively, and a switching circuit rapidly alternating between a first condition to direct the cutting RF waveform between the first and second output connections and hence the cutting and first sealing electrodes, and a second condition to direct the cutting RF waveform between the first and third output connections, and hence the cutting and second sealing electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: GYRUS MEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventor: Teo Heng Jimmy Yang
  • Patent number: 10194978
    Abstract: A device, system, and method for providing support to a mapping catheter during mapping or pacing and for adjusting the diameter of a distal loop portion of currently available mapping catheters. A medical device support device includes an elongate body defining a wall and an at least substantially linear proximal portion and a distal portion being transitionable between an at least substantially linear configuration and an expanded configuration, the elongate body defining a lumen extending through the proximal portion and distal portion, the lumen being entirely surrounded by the wall in the proximal portion and being partially surrounded by the wall in the distal portion. For example, the lumen may be sized to receive a mapping catheter therein such that adjustment of the configuration or diameter of the distal portion of the elongate body will likewise modify the configuration or diameter of the distal portion of the mapping catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic CryoCath LP
    Inventor: Nicolas Coulombe
  • Patent number: 10194979
    Abstract: Methods for treating preventing or decreasing the likelihood of a human patient developing hypertension and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed to methods for therapeutic renal neuromodulation that partially inhibit sympathetic neural activity in renal nerves proximate a renal blood vessel of a human patient. This reduction in sympathetic neural activity is expected to therapeutically treat one or more conditions associated with hypertension or prehypertension of the patient. Renal sympathetic nerve activity can be modulated, for example, using an intravascularly positioned catheter carrying a neuromodulation assembly, e.g., a neuromodulation assembly configured to use electrically-induced, thermally-induced, and/or chemically-induced approaches to modulate the renal nerves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Sandeep S. Brar, Minglei Liu, Manuela Negoita
  • Patent number: 10194980
    Abstract: Methods for treating preventing or decreasing the likelihood of a human patient developing hypertension and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present technology, for example, is directed to methods for therapeutic renal neuromodulation that partially inhibit sympathetic neural activity in renal nerves proximate a renal blood vessel of a human patient. This reduction in sympathetic neural activity is expected to therapeutically treat one or more conditions associated with hypertension or prehypertension of the patient. Renal sympathetic nerve activity can be modulated, for example, using an intravascularly positioned catheter carrying a neuromodulation assembly, e.g., a neuromodulation assembly configured to use electrically-induced, thermally-induced, and/or chemically-induced approaches to modulate the renal nerves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Sandeep S. Brar, Minglei Liu, Manuela Negoita
  • Patent number: 10194981
    Abstract: Systems and methods for performing RF ablation while monitoring the procedure using low coherence interferometry (LCI) data are described. A catheter includes a distal section, a proximal section, a multiplexer, and a sheath coupled between the distal section and the proximal section. The distal section includes several interconnected optical ports configured to transmit exposure radiation toward a sample and receive radiation that have been reflected or scattered from the sample. The interconnected optical ports are formed on a substrate having rigid sections and flexible sections arranged around the distal section. A holder maintains the interconnected optical elements in a fixed spatial relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: MEDLUMICS S.L.
    Inventors: Eduardo Margallo Balbás, José Luis Rubio Guivernau, Santiago Jiménez Valero, Alejandro Barriga Rivera, Justo Contreras Bermejo, Juan Lloret Soler, Juan Sancho Durá
  • Patent number: 10194982
    Abstract: A non-transitory computer-readable medium can have instructions executable by a processor. The instructions can include an electrogram reconstruction method to generate reconstructed electrogram signals for each of a multitude of points residing on or near a predetermined cardiac envelope based on geometry data and non-invasively measured body surface electrical signals. The instructions can include a phase calculator to compute phase signals for the multitude of points based on the reconstructed electrogram signals and a visualization engine to generate an output based on the computed phase signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: CARDIOINSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Rémi Dubois, Brian P. George, Charulatha Ramanathan, Qingguo Zeng, Maria Strom, Venkatesh Vasudevan, Ryan Bokan, Ping Jia
  • Patent number: 10194983
    Abstract: Methods for therapeutic renal denervation are disclosed herein. One aspect of the present application, for example, is directed to methods that block, reduce and/or inhibit renal sympathetic nerve activity to achieve a reduction in central sympathetic tone. Renal sympathetic nerve activity may be altered or modulated along the afferent and/or efferent pathway. The achieved reduction in central sympathetic tone may carry several therapeutic benefits across many disease states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Neil Barman, Howard Levin, Paul Sobotka, Mark Gelfand
  • Patent number: 10194984
    Abstract: This optical cosmetic device for bodily hair is provided with optical systems for illumination with cosmetic light for bodily hair. The value of the integral of the intensity of the cosmetic light for bodily hair in the 800 nm-1200 nm wavelength range is greater than that in the 400 nm-800 nm wavelength range. The value of the integral of the intensity of the cosmetic light for bodily hair in the 400 nm-850 nm wavelength range is less than that in the 850 nm-1200 nm wavelength range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaori Suzuki, Masato Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 10194985
    Abstract: A skin treatment device (100) comprises: —a housing (101); —a treatment action performer (110) arranged within the housing (101) for performing a treatment action on the user's skin (2); —a speed sensor (120) for sensing a relative speed between the housing and the user's skin; —a speed feedback signalling device (400); —a control device (140) receiving an output signal from the speed sensor. The control device controls the speed feedback signalling device if the output signal received from the speed sensor is outside a tolerated displacement speed range (R). The tolerated displacement speed range is adapted to the skills of the user to move the device over the skin surface with a constant speed. If the user's skills are relatively low, the control device increases the magnitude of the tolerated displacement speed range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Tess Speelpenning, Henriette Christine Marie Hoonhout, Aleksey Anatolievich Kharin, Mart Kornelis-Jan Te Velde
  • Patent number: 10194986
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are optical assemblies having thin, low profile shapes. These optical assemblies may be used with fiber coupled lasers and other light sources, including high power sources, to irradiate tissue at a wavelength suitable for inducing ablation or coagulation to a target depth, denaturation, thermal modification of a tissue, and/or preferential injury to a target tissue structure. Example optical assemblies can produce substantially uniform illumination patterns that are useful for treating superficial tissue, including the internal or luminal (e.g., esophageal) tissue. Some examples may have capability for cooling superficial tissue or skin, such as a detachable, reusable heat sink for active cooling without consumables, fluid pumps, or other cooling equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Gradiant Research, LLC
    Inventors: Kathleen McMillan, Anurag Gupta, James Patrick McGuire, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10194987
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a laser irradiation apparatus and a laser irradiation method. The laser irradiation apparatus, according to the present invention, comprises: an optical fiber which transmits a laser and has a light emitting surface; a protecting member for covering an end portion of the optical fiber including the light emitting surface; and an indication member which is identified by an X-ray and indicates the position and/or direction of the light emitting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: LUTRONIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kwang Chon Ko
  • Patent number: 10194988
    Abstract: A torque limiting instrument is disclosed configured to drive a shaft to rotate in a select direction in response to an applied torque until the applied torque reaches a predetermined threshold. Thus, when the torque limiting instrument drives a bone screw into bone, the bone screw is advanced into the bone until the torque applied to the torque limiting instrument reaches the predetermined threshold, at which point the torque limiting instrument will no longer communicate the applied torque to the bone screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Konrad Schaller, Silas Zurschmiede, Urs Hulliger, Cyril Voisard
  • Patent number: 10194989
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an arthroplasty jig is disclosed herein. The method may include the following: generate a bone model, wherein the bone model includes a three dimensional computer model of at least a portion of a joint surface of a bone of a patient joint to undergo an arthroplasty procedure; generate an implant model, wherein the implant model includes a three dimensional computer model of at least a portion of a joint surface of an arthroplasty implant to be used in the arthroplasty procedure; assess a characteristic associated with the patient joint; generate a modified joint surface of the implant model by modifying at least a portion of a joint surface of the implant model according to the characteristic; and shape match the modified joint surface of the implant model and a corresponding joint surface of the bone model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Howmedica Osteonics Corporation
    Inventors: Ilwhan Park, Charlie W. Chi, Stephen M. Howell
  • Patent number: 10194990
    Abstract: One variation of a method for augmenting a surgical field with virtual guidance content includes: accessing a scan representing a tissue of a patient; combining the scan with a generic virtual anatomical model to define a custom virtual anatomical model of the tissue; defining a cut trajectory along an intersection between a virtual model of a surgical implant and the custom virtual anatomical model of the tissue; aligning a virtual cut surface to the cut trajectory to locate the virtual model of the surgical guide relative to the custom virtual anatomical model; accessing an image of a surgical field; detecting the tissue in the image; aligning the custom virtual anatomical model to the tissue detected in the image; defining a target real location for a real surgical guide in the surgical field; and generating a frame depicting the target real location of the surgical guide in the surgical field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Arthrology Consulting, LLC
    Inventors: Derek Amanatullah, Matthew L Hasel, Ian Börk, Sarah M Hegmann
  • Patent number: 10194991
    Abstract: A system and process for performing orthopedic surgery is provided that uses a patient's existing implant as a registration tool in an orthopedic surgical procedure. The systems and processes may be used with computer assisted systems or navigation systems to aid in the removal of bone, bone cement, or a bone prosthesis, typically a bone prosthesis used in hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, and the like. The removal of the prosthesis may be done by conventional methods, with navigation systems, robotic assistance or articulating hand held systems. The removal of bone and/or bone cement may be performed with navigated systems, robotic systems, articulating hand-held systems and combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: THINK SURGICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Patrick Bonny, Joel Zuhars, Michael E. Hoppe
  • Patent number: 10194992
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for displaying an image of a tracked tool on a user interface, wherein at least a portion of the tool is hidden from view in any image on a user interface at any point during a procedure. The tool may include a cutting tool having jaws for clamping a material and a knife for cutting the clamped material, and superimposing an indicator of a knife position on the display during and/or after cutting. The knife position may include a location and/or orientation of the knife, including any or all of a pre-cut, cut-complete, cut-incomplete and an exposed position. The disclosed systems and methods allows a user to view the knife position in applications where the knife may not be visible to a user, which is particularly useful for clamping and cutting a body tissue with a robotic surgical system in minimally invasive procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: David Robinson
  • Patent number: 10194993
    Abstract: A system for aiding surgery on a patient is described including a display device and a storage device that stores an image of at least a portion of the anatomy of the patient, including one or more surgical navigation markers positioned on the patient, for display on the display device. An analyzer is adapted to receive positional data of a probe based on positioning of the probe relative to the one or more markers on the patient. Based on the positional data, the analyzer outputs correctional data to adjust an alignment of the image on the display device to match locations of said one or more markers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Spinal Developments Pty Ltd, A.T.F The Spinesr Unit Trust
    Inventors: Gregory James Roger, Davor Saravanja
  • Patent number: 10194994
    Abstract: A system and method for obtaining an OIS coordinate frame comprising an electronic control unit configured to determine a local 3D electric field loop, create a zero mean version of E(t) over a depolarization interval, compute an ? value at each of a plurality of time intervals, compute an initial estimate of ? from a cross product of E and the ? value for each of the plurality of time intervals, average the initial estimate of ? from each of the plurality of time for a best estimate of ?, determine a plurality of â(?) values and using the corresponding {circumflex over (n)}(?) values, compute a composite match score, and choose at least one best value for â and a best value for {circumflex over (n)}.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc.
    Inventors: D. Curtis Deno, Ram K. Balachandran, Stéphane Massé
  • Patent number: 10194995
    Abstract: Systems and methods for registering and tracking multiple anatomical structures, e.g., multiple vertebrae, as a single functional unit for surgical procedures are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the system can include a bone bridge for attaching a navigation marker to multiple vertebrae and for limiting or preventing movement between the multiple vertebrae. Various ways of attaching the bone bridge are disclosed, including fasteners that extend through gaps or throughholes formed in the bridge, bridges having a jaw portion that clamps the underlying bone, and bridges formed of adhesive or cement and directly attached to the bone. Various adjustment features are also disclosed, including joints that allow the position and/or orientation of the bridge to be adjusted in one or more degrees of freedom, and bridges that include telescoping portions or other features for adjusting a length of the bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Medos International Sarl
    Inventors: Masashi Neo, J. Riley Hawkins, Aniruddha Raina
  • Patent number: 10194996
    Abstract: Systems, methods and a sensor alignment mechanism are disclosed for medical navigational guidance systems. In one example, a system to make sterile a non-sterile optical sensor for use in navigational guidance during surgery includes a sterile drape having an optically transparent window to drape the optical sensor in a sterile barrier and a sensor alignment mechanism. The alignment mechanism secures the sensor through the drape in alignment with the window without breaching the sterile barrier and facilitates adjustment of the orientation of the optical sensor. The optical sensor may be aligned to view a surgical site when the alignment mechanism, assembled with the sterile drape and optical sensor, is attached to a bone. The alignment mechanism may be a lockable ball joint and facilitate orientation of the sensor in at least two degrees of freedom. A quick connect mechanism may couple the alignment mechanism to the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: INTELLIJOINT SURGICAL INC.
    Inventors: Armen Garo Bakirtzian, Andre Novomir Hladio, Richard Tyler Fanson, Eric Ryterski
  • Patent number: 10194997
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for avoiding collisions between a manipulator arm and an outer patient surface by moving the manipulator within a null-space. In response to a determination that distance between an avoidance geometry and obstacle surface, corresponding to a manipulator-to-patient distance is less than desired, the system calculates movement of one or more joints or links of the manipulator within a null-space of the Jacobian to increase this distance. The joints are driven according to the reconfiguration command and calculated movement so as to maintain a desired state of the end effector. In one aspect, the joints are also driven according to a calculated end effector displacing movement within a null-perpendicular-space of the Jacobian to effect a desired movement of the end effector or remote center while concurrently avoiding arm-to-patient collisions by moving the joints within the null-space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Arjang M. Hourtash, Pushkar Hingwe, Bruce M. Schena, Roman L. Devengenzo
  • Patent number: 10194998
    Abstract: Telerobotic, telesurgical, and/or surgical robotic devices, systems, and methods employ surgical robotic linkages that may have more degrees of freedom than an associated surgical end effector in space. A processor can calculate a tool motion that includes pivoting of the tool about an aperture site. Linkages movable along a range of configurations for a given end effector position may be driven toward configurations which inhibit collisions. Refined robotic linkages and methods for their use are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Intuitive Surgical Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Nowlin, Paul W. Mohr, Bruce M. Schena, David Q. Larkin, Gary S. Guthart
  • Patent number: 10194999
    Abstract: A shaft for a medical instrument includes a controlled curvable portion or a hinge, an uncontrolled flexible portion, and a shaft coupling device for the releasable mechanical connection of the shaft to a maneuvering device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Karl Storz SE & Co. KG
    Inventors: Uwe Bacher, Sabine Zahler, Martin Leonhard