Abstract: An information processing apparatus includes an acquiring unit, a determining unit, and a changing unit. The acquiring unit is configured to acquire determination information for determining a display layout of a screen for displaying information related to one or more biological signals. The determining unit is configured to determine a display layout corresponding to the determination information acquired by the acquiring unit. The changing unit is configured to change a display layout of the screen in accordance with the display layout determined by the determining unit.

Abstract: There is provided a method of computer tomography (CT) volume reconstruction based on baseline sinograms, the method comprising: obtaining partial scan sinograms in a number of directions smaller than the number of directions in the baseline scan; aligning baseline sinograms and partial scan sinograms utilizing rigid registration in three-dimensional Radon space, generating configuration data informative of rays to be cast in a further repeat scan in an un-scanned direction, wherein the generating configuration data comprises: identifying, from a partial scan sinogram, rays with intensities that significantly differ from intensities of corresponding rays in an aligned baseline sinogram, identifying regions of the scanned object in which identified changed rays intersect, determining scan angles and associated rays to be cast in a further repeat scan according to the identified regions; obtaining sinograms of a repeat scan performed according to generated configuration data and processing the sinograms into an

Abstract: A mobile x-ray system has a wheeled base for rollably transporting the mobile x-ray system. An x-ray source is attached to a support arm that is attached to the base. A handle on the base is provided to manually maneuver the mobile x-ray system while rollably transporting the system over a surface. A light source attached to the mobile x-ray system projects a visible pattern onto the surface in front of the wheeled base.

Abstract: Apparatus for aiming e.g. an X-ray camera, for capturing image(s) of a physiology of a patient, and related method, are shown and described. A plurality of light projectors are mounted to the X-ray camera. When projected light beams impinge upon pre-identified reference points on the physiology of the patient, a visual indicator operates to indicate that the X-ray image may be taken. The pre-identified reference points may exist within a microprocessor associated with the X-ray camera, and may be based on an image of the physiology. The microprocessor maps the reference points to small indication areas illuminated by the light projectors. When a predetermined threshold of registration of the indication areas with the reference points exists, the visual indicator operates, whereupon the human operator may operate the X-ray camera.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described for operating an imaging sensor, the imaging sensor including a multi-dimensional sensor. An electronic processor receives an output from the multi-dimensional sensor and transitions the imaging sensor from the low-power state into a ready state in response to a determination by the electronic processor, based on the output from the multi-dimensional sensor, that a first state transition criteria is satisfied and transitions the imaging sensor from the ready state into an armed state in response to a determination that a second state transition criteria is satisfied. In some implementations, the electronic processor operates the imaging sensor to capture image data only when operating in the armed state and prevents the imaging system from transitioning from the low-power state directly into the armed state.

Abstract: A compound may comprise a radio-opaque moiety that is readily identifiable by radiography, such as X-rays and the like. The compound may be configured to bind to cancerous cells and minimizes collection within healthy tissue. The compound may readily absorb a wavelength of light that is matched to a radiant energy source that emits light at or near said wavelength.

Abstract: A system and a method for acquiring image data of a subject with an imaging system is provided. The system can include a gantry that completely annularly encompasses at least a portion of the subject, with a source positioned within and movable relative to the gantry. The source can be responsive to a signal to output at least one pulse. The system can include a detector positioned within and movable relative to the gantry to detect the pulse emitted by the source. The system can also include a detector control module that sets detector data based on the detected pulse, and an image acquisition control module that sets the signal for the source and receives the detector data. The image acquisition control module can reconstruct image data based on the detector data. The signal can include a signal for the source to output a single pulse or two pulses.

Abstract: A variable PET apparatus allows structural changes of detector modules in transversal and longitudinal directions to correspond to various imaging purposes and a cross-sectional diameter of a subject while maintaining an arrangement of the detector modules to be close to a true circle. The variable PET apparatus includes: a gantry having an opening on a longitudinal axis; and detector modules supported on the gantry and arranged a predetermined distance apart from each other such that a detection ring is configured with a diameter in a circumferential direction, wherein the gantry is driven by a gantry drive member, and the detector modules are driven by a detector module drive member. According to the present invention, structural changes of the detector modules in the PET apparatus is possible to correspond to a cross-sectional diameter of a subject without additional devices, thereby improving the spatial resolution and sensitivity.

Abstract: A first sensor panel, a second sensor panel, a first circuit unit, and a second circuit unit are accommodated in a conductive housing of an electronic cassette. Of circuit substrates included in the first and second circuit units, a control substrate having a control circuit for controlling the operation of each of the first and second sensor panels is fixed to an inner surface of the housing through a metal spacer. The first and second sensor panels are attached to a front surface of a base. The base is fixed to the inner surface of the housing through a resin adhesive.

Abstract: A medical imaging system a magnet unit includes a main magnet and a first housing. In an embodiment, the main magnet is arranged inside the first housing and includes coil elements and at least one coil carrier, the magnet unit defining an examination opening. The first radiation unit is embodied to irradiate the examination object and is arranged on the side of the magnet unit. The magnet unit includes a first region, transparent to radiation emitted by the first radiation unit radially to the examination axis. The first radiation unit is embodied to emit radiation through the first region of the magnet unit in a direction of the examination opening and is furthermore embodied to rotate about the examination opening.

Abstract: An apparatus has an upright gantry. A tube arm assembly and a compression arm assembly are rotatably coupled to the gantry. The tube arm assembly independently rotates relative to the compression arm assembly. A controller disposed on the gantry is operably connected to at least one of the tube arm assembly and the compression arm assembly.

Abstract: A medical image processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry configured: to sequentially acquire X-ray images; to set a unit number of frames used as a unit during image processing; and to sequentially generate images in each of which a pixel value of each pixel expresses either the largest pixel value or the smallest pixel value among corresponding pixels in X-ray images corresponding to the unit number of frames, on the basis of the X-ray images corresponding to the unit number of frames including each of new X-ray image that is sequentially acquired and at least one X-ray image acquired before the new X-ray image.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods to assist physicians in decision making for stroke patients. In particular the systems and methods can be used to assist physicians to decide on whether a patient with an acute ischemic stroke has a large vessel occlusion (LVO) and should be transferred from a community hospital to a larger hospital to undergo an endovascular thrombectomy procedure.

Abstract: A computed tomography (CT) system includes a rotatable gantry having an opening to receive an object to be scanned, an x-ray tube having an anode, the x-ray tube positioned on the gantry to generate x-rays from a focal spot of the anode and through the opening, a pixelated detector positioned on the gantry to receive the x-rays from which CT projection data is generated, and a computer. The computer programmed to acquire step-and-shoot (SAS) full scan CT projection data for a first scan and for a first rotation, and for a second scan and for a second rotation, wherein the first scan is axially offset from the second scan, interpolate across the first and second scans to generate interpolated projection data, and reconstruct an image based on the interpolated projection data.

Abstract: When generating a tomographic image using a measuring X-ray CT apparatus that is configured to emit X-rays while rotating a specimen that is arranged on a rotary table and reconstruct a projection image thereof to generate a tomographic image of the specimen, an amount of geometric error that is included in the projection image is obtained in advance and stored; the projection image is corrected using the stored amount of geometric error; and a tomographic image is reconstructed using the corrected projection image.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, systems and methods to determine an indication of contractility of a heart of a patient using received physiologic information, and to determine blood pressure information of the patient using the heart sound information and the determined indication of contractility of the heart. The system can include an assessment circuit configured to determine an indication of contractility of a heart of the patient using first heart sound (S1) information of the patient, and to determine blood pressure information of the patient using second heart sound (S2) information of the patient and the determined indication of contractility of the heart.

Abstract: Connectors permits acoustic and digital stethoscope transmissions. Connectors include first and second pieces for the stethoscope chest piece and earpiece channels. The first piece has a moveable inner element with openings and includes a channel in line with the chest piece channel to provide an acoustic mode of functioning. The openings are collinear with the inner element channel and the extruded channels. The extruded channels and inner element channel may be arrayed in a line and have diameters that successively decrease. A transducer inside the inner element blocks sound from the first extruded channel, and a second transducer is inside the inner element on the other side of one of the openings. For an electronic mode of functioning, the first transducer is in line with the chest piece extruded channel and the second transducer is in line with the earpiece extruded channel. A switch may switch between the modes.

Abstract: An intraluminal imaging device (102) includes a flexible elongate member (15) sized and shaped for insertion into a vessel of a patient, the flexible elongate member including a proximal portion and a distal portion; an imaging assembly (110) disposed at the distal portion of the flexible elongate member; a plurality of wires (330) extending along a length of the flexible elongate member and in communication with the imaging assembly; and a guide member (350) positioned at the proximal portion of the imaging assembly and comprising a plurality of conductive members, wherein the plurality of wires are in communication with the imaging assembly via the plurality of conductive members. Associated devices, systems, and methods are also provided.

Abstract: An imaging catheter assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the imaging catheter assembly includes a flexible elongate member comprising a distal portion and a proximal portion; a tip member coupled to a distal end of the distal portion of the flexible elongate member, wherein the tip member includes a tubular body comprising a closed distal end, an opened proximal end, and a proximal curved top outer wall extending from the proximal opened end and tapering into a distal flat top outer wall towards the closed distal end; and an imaging component mounted within the tip member. In one embodiment, the imaging catheter assembly includes a flexible elongate member; a tip member coupled to a distal end of the flexible elongate member, wherein the tip member includes a cylindrical body and a uniform outer diameter; and an imaging component mounted within the tip member.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for imaging the spinal anatomy and cord blood flow of a subject. A device for use with an ultrasound console is provided and includes a catheter sized to be positioned within one of epidural and intrathecal space of the subject. The device also includes a plurality of imaging transducer elements spaced apart along a length of the catheter and a tether coupled to a proximal end of the catheter and configured to be coupled to the ultrasound console. The plurality of imaging transducer elements are configured to be controlled by the ultrasound console through the tether.

Abstract: Disclosed is an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus including an improved actuator to compensate for a weight of an input/output device. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a main body, an input/output device coupled to the main body and configured to receive information from a user or output information received from the main body, and a connection device to connect the main body and the input/output device, wherein the connection device includes a shaft having a shaft body, a link frame having a frame body and a shaft coupling portion extending from the frame body to be coupled with the shaft, and an actuator including a torsion spring having a first end supported by the shaft and a second end supported by the link frame, so as to compensate for a weight of the input/output device.

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: An ultrasonic device may include an electromechanical ultrasonic system defined by a predetermined resonant frequency, the electromechanical ultrasonic system having an ultrasonic transducer coupled to an ultrasonic blade. A method of compensating power delivered to the ultrasonic device may include determining an articulation angle of an articulatable ultrasonic blade coupled to the ultrasonic transducer, adjusting a complex impedance of the ultrasonic transducer to compensate for power lost as a function of the articulation angle, and adjusting, a power applied to the ultrasonic transducer based on the articulation angle. The ultrasonic device may include a generator and a control circuit configured to effect the method.

Abstract: Devices for sampling gastro-intestinal material are disclosed. In one arrangement a device comprises a capsule body. The capsule body has a sample input valve. A suction mechanism is provided that is capable of generating a partial vacuum within the capsule body and thereby drawing gastro-intestinal material into the capsule body through the sample input valve. An actuator actuates the suction mechanism. The actuator comprises a dissolvable element and is configured so that the dissolvable element dissolves in a predetermined region of the gastro-intestinal tract and the dissolving of the dissolvable element causes actuation of the suction mechanism. The suction mechanism comprises a biasing member restrained by the dissolvable element prior to actuation of the suction mechanism. The dissolving of the dissolvable element releases the biasing member.

Abstract: A test subject takes a component collection tool with his/her fingers, and rolls the tool between pads of the fingers several times to transfer components attached on a skin surface to a surface of the tool. The component collection tool is immersed in a predetermined solvent to allow the components on the skin surface to be dissolved in the solvent. Bligh-Dyer method may be used therefor, for example. From a liquid in which lipid or others are thus collected, a sample for analysis using MALDI-MS or LDI-MS is prepared and subjected to the analysis. Accordingly, components on the skin surface of the test subject can be efficiently collected and subjected to analysis with burden on the test subject being reduced.

Abstract: An end effector coupler for a surgical arm can include a body, a proximal coupler, and a tool lock. The tool lock can releasably retain a tool stem to the end effector coupler. The tool lock can include a keyed opening, a pin bore, a pin disposed in the bin bore, a biasing element located in the pin bore, and a pin release including an actuator, the pin release operable to retract the pin into to the body to disengage the pin from the tool stem allowing release of the tool stem from the keyed opening.

Abstract: An ergonomic medical device handle which allows for multiple type grip styles and reduces operator fatigue by balancing the weight of the device about a fulcrum point. More particularly a laparoscopic suction irrigation device having its tubing centrally located to allow the handle to rest comfortably and balanced on the hand in any of the commonly used grips. This dramatically reduces the fatigue associated with holding devices for long periods of time.

Abstract: A scalpel handle is uniquely shaped to provide gripping comfort while performing multiple styles of hand holds for long periods of time. There are textured surfaces to prevent slippage of fingers. The slope of the handle itself conforms to the natural curvature of the human hand. Embodiments achieve the above objectives by providing an ergonomic handle for precision surgical and dental use, among others. In some embodiments it is wider across the top surface as opposed to typical flat scalpels to provide a more efficient surface for applying pressure downwards during cutting procedures. It is also curved down and away from the blade/tool attachment area to conform to the pocket of the human hand. This ergonomically improved handle conforms to natural human hand shape, allows for better grip under stress, increased tactile feedback and cutting efficiency, and a comfortable grip during long term usage.

Abstract: A medical device is provided in which one or both ends of the device encourage the formation of tissue across substantially the entire area of the respective end that is exposed to the blood flow for reducing the risk of a thrombotic embolism. The medical device further includes stabilizing wires configured to engage tissue at a target site when the medical device is in an expanded configuration and to at least partially retract into the medical device when the medical device is in a collapsed configuration.

Abstract: An electromechanical surgical device includes an end effector configured to perform at least one function, the end effector including an input drive axle projecting therefrom; and a shaft assembly. The shaft assembly includes a rotatable drive shaft; a proximal neck housing supported at a distal end of an outer tube; a distal neck housing pivotally connected to the proximal neck housing; a pivot pin interconnecting the proximal neck housing and the distal neck housing; and a gear train supported in the proximal neck housing, on the pivot pin, and in the distal neck housing. The gear train includes a proximal gear; an intermediate gear; a distal gear; and a pair of output gears, wherein each output gear defines a coupling socket each configured to selectively receive the drive axle of the end effector.

Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly is provided having a frame that releasably couples two retractor blades. The retractor blades are coupled to the frame via a pair of mobile carriages that engage a track on the frame. A third retractor blade is configured to be independent of the frame with the first two retractor blades. The independent blade may be fixably positionable in the patient by a direct coupling to a rigid table mount. The retractor assembly may be utilized for creating anterior access to spinal target site while the patient is oriented in the lateral decubitus position.

Abstract: A spine retractor provides lateral access to the spine for distracting soft tissue and psoas muscle for spinal fusion procedures utilizing position controllable blades. The retractor allows concerted linear distraction of two lateral blades and separate linear distraction of one medial blade. Individual angulation assemblies associated with each blade provides separately controllable angulation. Handles attached to the two lateral blades control their distraction while a medial knob controls medial blade distraction. An expansion knob associated with each handle provides individually precise distraction of its associated blade. Each angulation assembly comprises an angulation knob that threads into a distal arm of a blade holder assembly and is received into a spherical ball seated in a spherical pocket in a mating proximal arm of the blade holder assembly. Torque applied to the spherical ball by the angulation knob causes distal arm angulation relative to the proximal.

Abstract: A tissue anchor, tissue anchor assembly, and tissue anchor system is disclosed.

Abstract: Described herein suture passer apparatus (devices and systems) that may be used to suture tissue within a narrow, confined space. In particular, described herein are suture passers having an elongate body and a lower jaw member that houses a tissue penetrator that is adapted to extend laterally from the lower jaw member and be deflected by a second jaw member? The second jaw member typically deflects the tissue penetrator either distally or proximally.

Abstract: A plication lock delivery system that enables a suture lock assembly to be delivered percutaneously. The plication lock delivery system comprises a lock assembly that secures sutures in place, a control assembly that allows a clinician to engage a suture to a suture lock assembly, apply tension to the sutures to cause tissue plication, and deploy the lock assembly, and a catheter assembly. This plication lock delivery system can be used to repair mitral regurgitation percutaneously or in an open-heart surgery.

Abstract: Suture delivered patches adapted for interposition, augmentation or repair devices for use in tendon and ligament repair, including rotator cuff repair, have been developed as well as methods for their delivery using suture guided arthroscopic methods. The repair patches may be provided from suitable biocompatible materials. The patches may be delivered using anchored sutures already in use during a surgical repair including, open, minimally invasive, endoscopic, and arthroscopic repair procedures. Additionally, fixation of the suture delivered repair patch is secured along with the normal suture securing workflow of the one or more sutures used to deliver the patch.

Abstract: A device for repair meniscus tears utilizing transfer cannulas that are pulled or kedged through the meniscus tear by a pulling element. The transfer cannulas are positioned via sliding guide to prevent a shear force acting on the meniscus.

Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied without the need to use different sizes of staples.

Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied without the need to use different sizes of staples.

Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied without the need to use different sizes of staples.

Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied without the need to use different sizes of staples.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling a soft tissue implant into a locking cavity formed within a bone is disclosed. The apparatus includes a member to pull the soft tissue implant into a femoral tunnel. The member includes a suture having first and second ends which are passed through first and second openings associated with the longitudinal passage to form a pair of loops. A collapsible tube is positioned about the suture. Application of tension onto the suture construction causes retraction of the soft tissue implant into the femoral tunnel and the collapse of the tube to form an anchor.

Abstract: An active anvil assembly for use in forming a looped suture is provided. The active anvil assembly includes an anvil member, a first sensor operably connected to the anvil member, and a control assembly. The first sensor is configured for measuring at least one of force, torque, and distance feedback. Also provided are systems and methods for forming a looped suture including an active anvil assembly.

Abstract: An adapter assembly includes an elongated body, a circuit assembly, and an annular member. The elongated body includes a proximal portion configured to couple to a handle assembly, and a distal portion configured to couple to a surgical loading unit. The circuit assembly is disposed within the distal portion of the elongated body and configured to be in communication with a handle assembly. The annular member is rotatably disposed within the distal portion of the elongated body and includes an electrical contact. The annular member is rotatable between a first orientation, in which the electrical contact of the annular member is electrically isolated from the circuit assembly, and a second orientation, in which the electrical contact of the annular member is electrically connected to the circuit assembly.

Abstract: An adapter assembly includes an elongated body, a circuit assembly, and an annular member. The elongated body includes a proximal portion configured to couple to a handle assembly, and a distal portion configured to couple to a surgical loading unit. The circuit assembly is disposed within the distal portion of the elongated body and configured to be in communication with a handle assembly. The annular member is rotatably disposed within the distal portion of the elongated body and includes an electrical contact. The annular member is rotatable between a first orientation, in which the electrical contact of the annular member is electrically isolated from the circuit assembly, and a second orientation, in which the electrical contact of the annular member is electrically connected to the circuit assembly.

Abstract: A buttressed anvil assembly is provided for use with a surgical stapling instrument. The buttressed anvil assembly generally includes an anvil member having a strip of buttress material attached thereto by a pair of sutures. A tensioning mechanism is provided to secure or tension the buttress material to the anvil member prior to use and allow for release of the buttress material after stapling of tissue. The tensioning mechanism includes a cinch track engageable with one of the pair of sutures.

Abstract: A method of attaching an implant to a vessel can include clamping a portion of a wall of a vessel within a patient. The method can also include positioning an implant adjacent to an outer surface of the wall of the vessel, and the implant can include an access port. The method can also include cutting the wall of the vessel about the portion of the wall that has been clamped, passing the portion of the wall that has been clamped and that has been cut about through the implant to remove the portion of the wall from the patient and to provide an opening in the vessel, and securing the implant to the vessel such that the access port is in direct fluid communication with an interior of the vessel via the opening in the vessel.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic anastomosis device (MAD), a delivery catheter for the MAD, and a method for treating at least one of diabetes, obesity, digestive disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In embodiments of the present invention, a pair of the MADs are delivered in body lumen by endoscopic and/or laparoscopic techniques. An anastomosis between two adjacent body lumens is formed by compression of the pair of MADs followed by necrosis and regeneration of the lumen tissue. The bodily fluids are then redirected through the formed anastomosis to relieve disease symptoms.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a body, a shaft assembly, a stapling head assembly, and a drive assembly. The shaft assembly includes an actuator. The stapling head assembly is operable to drive an annularly arranged array of staples into tissue in response to translation of the actuator along a first axis relative to the body. The drive assembly is operable to translate the actuator along the first axis. The drive assembly comprises first and second rotary members. The first rotary member is rotatable about a second axis. The second axis is non-parallel with the first axis. The second rotary member is rotatable about a third axis. The third axis is non-parallel with the first axis and non-parallel with the second axis. The first rotary member is operable to drive the second rotary member to rotate about the third axis to thereby drive the actuator along the first axis.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a plurality of beads, a plurality of links, a clasp assembly, and an adjustment feature. Each bead includes a housing, a passageway extending through the housing, and at least one annular magnet. The at least one annular magnet is coaxially positioned about the passageway. The links join the beads together. Portions of the links are slidably disposed in corresponding passageways of the beads. The clasp assembly is configured to removably secure the beads and links in a loop formation. The adjustment feature is operable to adjust an effective circumference of the loop formation. The adjustment feature may be incorporated into one or both of the clasp assembly or at least one of the beads.