Abstract: Biocompatible stiffness enhanced pliable electrically conductive filaments configured for contact with living tissue and electrical communication with such tissue. The pliability of the filaments allows the distal end of the filaments to remain at the original site of penetration into the tissue despite the movement of the tissue relative to their surrounding environment. To temporarily stiffen the filaments, a soluble stiffness enhancing coating is disposed over the filaments. The coating may be in the form of a liquid which dries to a solid state after being applied to the filaments and renders the filaments sufficiently rigid such that under appropriate force, the filaments are capable of penetrating into dense tissue. Once in place, the stiffness enhancing coating dissolves due to contact with body fluids, the filaments, in the absence of such a coating, return to their initial pliability.

Abstract: A mobile phone holder for monitoring a physical feature and a physical feature monitoring method are provided. The mobile phone holder includes an annular member and a base connected to the annular member. The annular member is configured to collect physical feature data of a user, and the base is configured to acquire a physical feature parameter in accordance with the physical feature data, and control to display the physical feature parameter.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining a non-apparent attribute of an object having a sensor portion with which the object makes contact and to which the object applies pressure. The apparatus has a computer in communication with the sensor portion that receives signals from the sensor portion corresponding to the contact and pressure applied to the sensor portion, and determines from the signals the non-apparent attribute. The apparatus has an output in communication with the computer that identifies the non-apparent attribute determined by the computer. A method for determining a non-apparent attribute of an object.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for creating a probabilistic healthcare value profile for a patient.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing a biosignal is disclosed. The apparatus may extract reference points from a waveform of a biosignal, determine a pulse direction of the biosignal based on the extracted reference points, and determine a feature point of the biosignal based on a feature point determining method corresponding to the determined pulse direction of the biosignal.

Abstract: Methods, devices, apparatuses and systems are disclosed for performing mammography, such as utilizing tomosynthesis in combination with breast biopsy.

Abstract: A method is for local improvement of the image quality of an imaging X-ray acquisition. In an embodiment, the method includes localizing an imaging region of a structure; selecting an environment of the imaging region; setting an acquisition parameter for the environment of the imaging region, wherein the acquisition parameter for the environment of the imaging region is different from a region outside of the environment of the imaging region; and acquiring an image dataset.

Abstract: A method is provided. The method includes partially supporting a subject to be imaged on a board extending from a mobile patient transport into a gantry bore of a stationary computed tomography (CT) imaging system while partially supporting both the subject and the board with a cradle extending from a table. The method also includes acquiring a single imaging volume, during an imaging scan with the stationary CT imaging system, without moving the subject.

Abstract: A patient-supporting device is disclosed. The patient-supporting device includes a fastening assembly that fastens the patient-supporting device to a structural member, a support member configured to receive a body part of a patient, and a height adjustment assembly that adjusts a distance between the fastening assembly and the support member. The height adjustment assembly includes a locking assembly and an elongated member. The support member is attached to a first end portion of the elongated member. The locking assembly is stationary relative to the fastening assembly. The elongated member is guided in an aperture of the locking assembly in a longitudinal direction of the elongated member. A plurality of first snap-in recesses is disposed on a first side portion of the elongated member. The locking assembly includes a first locking member.

Abstract: In a panoramic imaging apparatus, a panoramic image is displayed on a monitor. The panoramic image is an image in which an overall dentition is in optimal focus, or an image in which a region of interest that is a portion of the image of the overall dentition is in optimal focus. Both images are reconstructed from frame data that has been collected by an initial first scan. Feature points of one or more teeth and a supporting portion that supports the tooth in the dentition in the panoramic image displayed on the monitor are designated. A length based on the positions of the designated feature points is measured in the panoramic image. The degree of loss in alveolar bone that supports the tooth is analyzed based on the measured length. The analysis information is provided to a dentist as check information regarding periodontal disease.

Abstract: A periodontal disease testing apparatus of the present invention includes: an X-ray CT scanner photographing a portion including a tooth, a gingiva, and alveolar bone within an oral cavity to generate volume data of the portion; region setting means setting a related region of a subject tooth based on the volume data; defining means defining a principal axis of the subject tooth; correcting means correcting the related region so as to align the principal axis of the subject tooth with a normal direction of a cross-section of an X-ray CT image; multi-planar reconstruction image generating means generating a multi-planar reconstruction image of the corrected related region; means for generating developed image and the like transforming a coordinate of the related region to generate a developed image and a rotated image; and navigating means indicating correspondences of a spatial coordinate among the multi-planar reconstruction image, the developed image, and the rotated image.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing X-ray scatter during breast imaging, and more specifically during tomosynthesis imaging. In one embodiment, an anti-scatter grid having a plurality of septa may be configured to be positioned relative to an X-ray imaging device such that each septum of the plurality of septa extends along a direction substantially parallel to a coronal plane of a subject during imaging of the subject using the X-ray imaging device. The X-ray imaging device may be operable in a tomosynthesis mode for imaging of a breast of the subject and may include the anti-scatter grid disposed between a breast platform and the X-ray detector. The anti-scatter grid may be configured to move in a direction substantially parallel to a sagittal plane of the subject during tomosynthesis imaging.

Abstract: A method for processing a radiographic image of a patient, executed at least in part on a host processor, initiates exposure in response to an instruction entered from an operator console and obtains radiographic image data from a digital detector that is subjected to the exposure. The obtained radiographic image data is analyzed according to a set of predefined criteria for diagnostic suitability of the image. One or more results of the diagnostic suitability analysis at the operator console is indicated and a listing of one or more corrective actions at the operator console according to the indicated results is provided.

Abstract: A mobile X-ray imaging apparatus includes a first column rotatably coupled to a main body and extending in one direction; a second column extending in the one direction and slidably coupled to the first column in an extension direction of the first column; a display provided in the main body; and a indicator arranged in one end of the second column.

Abstract: An image display system, radiation imaging system, image display control program and image display control method, which make the position of an object of interest easier to perceive, are provided. A tomographic image generation section generates a tomographic image DG. A nipple height specification section specifies the height of a nipple P as measured from an imaging plane on the basis of the generated tomographic image DG. An image display control section controls displays at a display, via an interface section, such that an information image IG is displayed together with the generated tomographic image DG. The information image IG indicates the height of the nipple P and the slice height of the tomographic image DG that is being displayed.

Abstract: A multi energy, such as dual-energy (“DE”), x-ray imaging system data acquisition and image reconstruction system and method enables optimizing the image contrast of a sample. Using the DE x-ray imaging system and its associated user interface applications, an operator performs a low energy (“LE”) and high energy (“HE”) x-ray scan of the same volume of interest of the sample. The system creates a low-energy reconstructed tomographic volume data set from the set of low-energy projections and a high-energy tomographic volume data set from the set of high-energy projections. This enables the operator to control the image contrast of selected slices, and apply the information associated with optimizing the contrast of the selected slice to all slices in the low-energy and high-energy tomographic data sets. This creates a combined volume data set from the LE and HE volume data sets with optimized image contrast throughout.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for medical image synthesis is disclosed, which synthesizes a target medical image based on a source medical image. The method can be used for synthesizing a high dose computed tomography (CT) image or a high kV CT image from a low dose CT image or a low kV image. A plurality of image patches are extracted from a source medical image. A synthesized target medical image is generated from the source medical image by calculating voxel values in the synthesized target medical image based on the image patches extracted from the source medical image using a machine learning based probabilistic model.

Abstract: Disclosed are a computing system and method for identifying and visualizing a thrombosis. The method includes: registering an acquired computer tomography (CT) image of an examinee and a computer tomography angiography (CTA) image-based average standard model to each other; identifying a candidate blood vessel region from the CT image based on the results of the registration; acquiring a volume, selected by applying a threshold value for the brightness of the CT image to the candidate blood vessel region, as a first thrombosis candidate region; acquiring at least part of the first thrombosis candidate region as a second thrombosis candidate region based on the size information of the first thrombosis candidate region; and visualizing the second thrombosis candidate region by assigning a visual effect, adapted to distinguish the second thrombosis candidate region from the remaining portion of the CT image, to the second thrombosis candidate region.

Abstract: An image obtaining unit obtaining a plurality of projection images taken by imaging a subject with different radiation source positions. A pixel value projecting unit projects pixel values of the projection images on coordinate positions on a desired slice plane of the subject based on the positional relationship between the radiation source position with which each projection image is taken and the radiation detector, while preserving pixel values of the projection images. A pixel value calculating unit calculates a pixel value at each coordinate position of interest on the slice plane based on a plurality of pixel values of the projection images projected in a predetermined range relative to the coordinate position of interest on the slice plane to thereby generate a tomographic image of the slice plane.

Abstract: A method for improving the accuracy of a digital medical model of a part of a patient, the method includes obtaining a set of at least 2 medical images of the patient, where an element comprising a predefined geometry and/or predefined information was attached to the patient during the recording of the medical images; obtaining at least 2 tracking images taken with at least one camera having a known positional relationship relative to the medical imaging device, said tracking images depicting at least part of the element; determining any movement of the element between acquisition of the at least 2 tracking images; and generating the digital medical model from the acquired medical images, wherein the determined movement of the element is used to compensate for any movement of the patient between the acquisition of the medical images.

Abstract: Provided is a radiation phase difference imaging apparatus in which a separation distance between a phase grating and a radiation detector is optimized. The separation distance between the phase grating and a detection surface of an FPD is determined based on the magnitude of noise corruption in a self-image projected onto the detection surface. The magnitude of the effect of the noise is used as a basis for assessing the separation distance. It is determined whether a distance Zd is appropriate for imaging, based on the magnitude of noise corruption in the self-image in a self-image picture which is obtained when the distance Zd is the distance between the phase grating and the detection surface of the FPD. The separation distance can thus be optimized based on actual conditions of an actual X-ray source that emits a plurality of types of X-rays.

Abstract: A radiographic image capturing system includes the following. A radiographic image capturing apparatus includes a two-dimensional array of radiation detecting elements and a control circuit which controls reading of image data from each of the radiation detecting elements based on a predetermined capturing sequence. An image processor has first gain data to correct gains of the radiation detecting elements, and generates a radiographic image based on the corrected image data. The control circuit of the radiographic image capturing apparatus is capable of varying at least one of a reverse bias voltage and a signal line voltage to be applied to the corresponding signal line. The control circuit reads a signal value from each of the radiation detecting elements, creates second gain data based on the read signal value, and corrects the radiographic image with the first gain data and the second gain data.

Abstract: A center position of a female connector is located near to a rear surface of a housing compared with a center position of the housing in a thickness direction of the housing of an electronic cassette. An inclined surface, which is inclined relative to a side surface and the rear surface of the housing, is formed between the side surface and the rear surface. The female connector is formed on the inclined surface. Therefore, it is possible to attach an outer grid provided with a longer side panel to the housing, in comparison with the case where the center position of the female connector is made coincident with the center position of the housing in the thickness direction of the housing, without requiring any processing.

Abstract: In order to appropriately reduce time until scanning can be started after preparation in both an operation console and a scan room is completed, an X-ray CT apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, a rotation disk, an image calculation device, a display device, a system control device, an operation console instruction device that instructs the system control device to prepare, start, and stop scanning in an operation console, and a scan gantry instruction device that instructs the system control device to prepare, start, and stop scanning in a scan room, in which the system control device includes a scanning preparation control unit that performs some scanning preparation processes among a plurality of scanning preparation processes on the basis of an instruction for scanning preparation from the operation console instruction device or the scan gantry instruction device.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of use are provided for complex flow imaging and analysis that is non-invasive, accurate, and time-resolved. It is particularly useful in imaging of vascular flow with spatiotemporal fluctuations. This apparatus is an ultrasound-based framework called vector projectile imaging (VPI) that can dynamically render complex flow patterns over an imaging view at millisecond time resolution. The VPI apparatus and methods comprise: (i) high-frame-rate broad-view data acquisition (based on steered plane wave firings); (ii) flow vector estimation derived from multi-angle Doppler analysis (coupled with data regularization and least-squares fitting); and (iii) dynamic visualization of color-encoded vector projectiles (with flow speckles displayed as adjunct).

Abstract: A method of providing an ultrasound image via an ultrasound apparatus including a medical tool that is inserted into an object, the method includes: obtaining a plurality of steering images corresponding to a plurality of steering angles, selecting one of the plurality of steering images based on brightness information of the medical tool in each of the plurality of steering images, detecting a steering angle corresponding to the selected steering image, obtaining an ultrasound image including the medical tool by using the detected steering angle, and displaying the obtained ultrasound image on a screen.

Abstract: Multi-source, multi-type image registration is provided. Images are received from a plurality of image devices, and images are received from a medical imaging device. A pre-existing diagram of a probe of the medical imaging device is received. A four-dimensional model is determined based on the received images from the image devices. A pose of the probe of the medical imaging device is determined based on the pre-existing diagram of the probe and the received images from the image devices. The plurality of images from the medical imaging device are registered with the four-dimensional model based on a common coordinate system and the determined pose of the probe.

Abstract: According to some embodiments of the invention, a robot-assisted ultrasound system includes a first ultrasound probe, a robot comprising a manipulator arm having a tool end, and a second ultrasound probe attached to the tool end of the manipulator arm. The robot-assisted ultrasound system further includes a robot control system configured to control at least one of a position or a pose of the second ultrasound probe based on a contemporaneous position and pose of the first ultrasound probe, and an ultrasound processing and display system configured to communicate with at least one of the first and second ultrasound probes to receive and display an ultrasound image based on the first and second ultrasound probes acting in conjunction with each other.

Abstract: A probe for an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which is used for performing a test upon a subject is provided. The probe includes a case which forms an exterior of the probe, a piezoelectric object which is provided on an inside of the case and which generates an ultrasonic wave, a sound absorbing layer which is provided at a rear surface of the piezoelectric object and which prevents the ultrasonic wave from being delivered to a rear portion of the piezoelectric object, an acoustic matching layer which delivers the generated ultrasonic wave to a subject by matching a sound impedance of the piezoelectric object with a sound impedance of the subject, and a sound lens which concentrates the generated ultrasonic wave and radiates the concentrated ultrasonic wave toward the subject.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe, scanning unit, ultrasonic image data generation unit, layout setting unit, and display unit. The ultrasonic probe includes transducers. The scanning unit scans an object with an ultrasonic beam via the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic image data generation unit generates data of ultrasonic images based on outputs from the scanning unit. The layout setting unit sets a specific display layout based on an aspect ratio of a display frame of the ultrasonic image or a size of the ultrasonic image and the number of ultrasonic images for simultaneous display. The display unit displays the ultrasonic images in accordance with the set display layout.

Abstract: An ultrasound image diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasound probe, a transmitter and an image generator. The ultrasound probe transmits ultrasound to a subject and generates a reception signal. The transmitter drives the ultrasound probe to transmit ultrasound that satisfies the following requirements: a wave packet duration is equivalent to or more than the length of 1.5 waveforms at the lower limit frequency of the ?6 dB transmission bandwidth of the ultrasound probe; signal intensity of frequency components in the ?6 dB transmission bandwidth has a standard deviation of 6 or less; and lower limit frequency components in the ?6 dB transmission bandwidth have a signal intensity of ?8 [dB] or higher, the signal intensity being normalized with respect to the maximum intensity of 0 [dB]. The image generator extracts harmonic components from the reception signal and generates ultrasound image data.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ultrasound imaging system and a method for the measurement of a distance (58) between two points (54, 56) within a volume of a three-dimensional image (50). To avoid the commonly known fore-shortening effect, according to which a distance measured by the system is shorter than an actual distance (58) between the two points (54, 56), an in-depth control of a cursor (53) shown in the image (50) on the display as provided to the user. Further, an indication (72) may be given to the user that the cursor (53) collides with a structure (52) within the volume to allow the user to assess the movement of the cursor out of the plane shown on the display more conveniently. By this, occurrence of the fore-shortening effect may be avoided.

Abstract: A receiver for urine whether for taking sample or disposing thereof, includes an open-topped of saddle shape which approximates the configuration of thighs, labia or other convenient zone.

Abstract: A biopsy device includes a body, a needle, a cutter, and a tissue sample holder. The needle extends distally from the body. The cutter is longitudinally translatable relative to the needle and defines a cutter lumen. The tissue sample holder includes a rotatable member, an individual sample tray, and one or more bulk sample trays. The rotatable member defines a single chamber partially divided by a plurality of tray protrusions extending radially inwardly from a cylindrical wall of the rotatable member. The individual sample tray includes a single sample chamber that is configured to receive a single tissue sample. The bulk sample tray is configured to receive a plurality of tissue samples.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a system, method, and device for analyzing, localizing and/or identifying tissue types. The method includes analyzing, localizing and/or identifying one or more tissue samples, characterized in that the method comprises: (a) generating gaseous tissue particles from a site in the one or more tissue samples, (b) transporting the gaseous tissue particles from the site to an analyzer, (c) using the analyzer for generating tissue-related data based on the gaseous tissue particles, and (d) analyzing, localizing and/or identifying the one or more tissue samples based on the tissue-related data. The invention can either be used in close conjunction with a surgical procedure, when one or more surgical tools are an integrated part of ionization, or as a separate mass spectrometric probe for the analysis of one or more tissue parts.

Abstract: A marker delivery device includes a cannula with a first end, a second end, a marker exit near the second end, a handle into which the cannula extends or to which the cannula is attached, the cannula being capable of receiving a plunger and rod that are operable to deploy a marker from the marker exit, the marker delivery device further including a tapered adaptor portion attached to or surrounding the cannula and abutting the handle. The tapered adaptor portion is configured to engage a plurality of different sleeves for differing biopsy devices. Various aspects offer improved ease of removal from commercially available biopsy devices due to its “pinch release” feature. Various aspects of the device allow use with multiple commercially available biopsy devices so as to ensure proper positioning of the devices for marker deployment.

Abstract: A sterile cover assembly is for a biopsy device. The biopsy device includes a reusable holster including a housing and driving mechanism. The driving mechanism is for driving a cutter in a needle of a probe. The housing is adapted to releasably couple to the probe. The sterile cover assembly includes a sleeve and a flexible sterile cover. The sleeve is configured to receive at least a portion of the housing of the reusable holster. The sterile cover is coupled to the sleeve and is configured to cover the housing of the holster.

Abstract: A needle assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a cannula, a trocar insertable through the cannula, the trocar including a shaft extending longitudinally between a proximal portion and a tip portion and a groove formed in the shaft and extending from near the tip portion at least partially toward the proximal portion.

Abstract: A method for collecting a tissue specimen from a target site within a patient includes rotating an elongated tubular section about a longitudinal axis to provide a desired aperture orientation of a tissue receiving aperture; applying a vacuum within the elongated tubular section to draw tissue at the tissue site through the tissue receiving aperture of the elongated tubular section into the interior thereof; advancing an elongated tissue cutting member longitudinally within the elongated tubular section to cut a tissue specimen from the tissue extending into the elongated tubular section; and applying a vacuum to the proximal end of the elongated tissue cutting member for transporting a cut tissue specimen through the inner lumen of the elongated tissue cutting member to discharge the cut tissue specimen directly from the proximal end of the elongated tissue cutting member into a tissue collection device.

Abstract: A biopsy device includes a drive unit configured to receive a disposable unit having a needle carrier. The drive unit is configured to move a cutting element such that the needle carrier is driven a predetermined distance to move a needle-shooting mechanism to a cocked configuration. A user-actuatable control is configured to release the needle-shooting mechanism to cause the needle-shooting mechanism to shoot a biopsy needle simultaneously with the cutting element by an amount of the predetermined distance.

Abstract: Various exemplary methods and devices for auto return of articulated end effectors are provided. In general, a surgical device can include an end effector configured to articulate. The device can include an actuator configured to be actuated to move the end effector from an articulated position to an unarticulated position. In at least some embodiments, the actuator can also be configured to be actuated to move the end effector from the unarticulated position to the articulated position. In at least some embodiments, the device can include the actuator and include another actuator configured to rotate the end effector about a longitudinal axis of an elongate shaft having the end effector at a distal end thereof. In at least some embodiments, the device can include the actuator and include another actuator configured to articulate the end effector from the unarticulated position to the articulated position.

Abstract: A surgical retrieval apparatus includes an elongate tubular member having a drive rod slidably disposed therein. A support member is operably coupled to a distal end of the drive rod. A pouch is attached to the support member and has a closed end and an open end. The pouch may be releasably coupled to the support member. An end effector is repositionable with respect to a longitudinal axis of the tubular member. The support member may include an expandable member.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting tissue migration comprises positioning an open area of a hood against or adjacent to a tissue region. The method also comprises displacing an opaque fluid with a transparent fluid from the open area. The method includes engaging a portion of the tissue region within the open area via an end effector advanced through the open area and which grasps onto the portion. The end effector includes a tapered section, tapered along its entire length, through which a lumen extends. The tapered section includes threads extending from a surface of the tapered section in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The tissue region is pierced while displacing the opaque fluid with the transparent fluid through the distal opening of the hood and while maintaining engagement of the portion of the tissue region such that distal movement of the tissue is inhibited.

Abstract: Provided is a retractor that makes it possible to reduce operation costs, is less likely to cause damage to surgical incision sites, do not reduce workability, and also makes it possible to easily maintain the desired surgical field and to change the surgical field or widen or narrow the area of the surgical field, depending on the surgical situation. The retractor 1 for holding a surgical incision open and maintaining a surgical field during an operation includes a belt-shaped body A made of a wire; and a connecting part B that is provided at one end portion of the belt-shaped body A and capable of being connected to another end portion or an intermediate portion of the belt-shaped body A so that the belt-shaped body A can be formed into a loop of a desired size.

Abstract: A positioning device is configured to selectively position or otherwise manipulate one or more organs within the body of a subject. The positioning device includes a shaped expandable element that is configured to be selectively transitioned between an unexpanded, or collapsed, state and an expanded state. While in the expanded state, the expandable element repositions or otherwise manipulates an organ. Systems that include positioning devices are also disclosed, as are methods for positioning or otherwise manipulating organs.

Abstract: A system and method for performing surgical procedures within a body cavity, e.g. abdomen, uses a magnetized device is utilized to allow a surgeon to control intra-abdominal organs and objects. The system and method allows a surgeon to perform an intra-abdominal procedure without the need to position surgical tools inside of the body cavity. Additional surgical ports are not necessary as the magnetized device allows the surgeon to retract or position various objects within the abdomen.

Abstract: A fixing device for suture threads to be inserted into a bone tissue comprises: a first portion (11) provided with at least a first eyelet (10), slot or eye, through which at least a first suture thread (4) can be threaded; at least a second portion (12) destined to be coupled stably in a transosseus seating or hole (5) afforded in a cortical part thereof. The second portion (12) is elastically deformable in order to enable effective coupling to the seating or hole (5).

Abstract: Systems and methods for soft tissue to bone repairs, without knot tying. Soft tissue repair systems include self-cinching constructs with a fixation device, a flexible strand with multiple flexible limbs, and a shuttle/pull device attached to the flexible strand to shuttle the multiple flexible limbs through the flexible strand and form a locking splice.

Abstract: The technology includes an anchor assembly for tissue repair having an open helical coil sleeve and a tip structure. The tip structure includes an aperture for passing a suture and a suture capture member for capturing a suture. The technology also includes an anchor driver for installing an anchor into bone. The anchor driver includes an outer shaft and a sleeve advancement member for advancing the sleeve as well as an inner shaft and a suture capture advancement member for advancing the suture capture member. The technology also includes a system for tissue repair having an anchor assembly and an anchor driver for installing the anchor assembly into bone.

Abstract: Certain embodiments relate to method of passing a suture through a material using a suture passer. In certain embodiments, the suture passer includes a housing defining a linear motion axis, a needle mounted for translation along the motion axis, and a foot mounted to the housing. The foot has a distal portion with a proximal facing surface extending along a distal portion axis crossing the motion axis and a distal facing surface, the distal portion including an opening in the proximal facing surface aligned with the motion axis and able to receive the needle in the second position. In certain embodiments, a method includes positioning a distal portion of the foot of the suture passer behind the material, extending the needle through the material and into the opening in the distal portion, and retracting the needle to retrieve a bight of suture from the distal portion proximally through the material.