Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus, method and system for detecting and locating dental cavitations in jawbones using Through-Transmission Alveolar Ultrasonography (TAU). The apparatus comprises a measuring unit comprising an ultrasonic transducer and a round ultrasonic receiver. The apparatus is a handhold and is configured to define the geometric position of the ultrasonic transducer and the ultrasonic receiver with respect to each other so as to achieve a high-resolution ultrasound image of the jawbone with minimal errors and in order to improve diagnosis of dental cavitations.

Abstract: An endoscope conduit switching device includes: an attachment to be attached to an endoscope; a movable spring bearing that is movably held by the attachment and that has a rib that is cylindrical; a movable piston that has a rib receiver groove into which the rib is inserted and that is movable to be inserted into and removed from a conduit of the endoscope; and a shaft that is movably held by the movable spring bearing; a cap that is fixed to one end of the shaft; and a first coil spring configured to bias the movable spring bearing and the cap in directions away from each other, wherein a side surface of the rib of the movable spring bearing and a side surface of the rib receiver groove of the movable piston are at least partly joined with each other.

Abstract: An ultrasonic imaging system includes an ultrasonic probe and a processing unit. The ultrasonic probe is operable at multiple different tilt angles to perform ultrasonic measurement and to obtain a plurality 2D ultrasonic images corresponding respectively to the different tilt angles. The processing unit calculates a 3D ultrasonic images based on the 2D ultrasonic images and the corresponding tilt angles.

Abstract: An ultrasound image tracking completeness system includes an ultrasound imaging probe that acquires images during an examination, an imaging probe sensor coupled to the ultrasound imaging probe and that tracks a position and an orientation of the ultrasound imaging probe, and a display to display images acquired by the ultrasound imaging probe. The system also includes a processor programmed to calculate a probe speed threshold at which the ultrasound imaging probe may be moved while acquiring images during the examination, track the position and orientation of the ultrasound imaging probe during the examination by monitoring the imaging probe sensor, determine a movement speed of the ultrasound imaging probe during the examination, and if the movement speed of the ultrasound imaging probe exceeds the probe speed threshold, issue a warning to an operator.

Abstract: A system and method for tracking completeness of co-registered medical image data is disclosed herein. The system and method tracks the position of an anatomical reference marker positionable on a patient and an ultrasound probe during an imaging session and co-registers medical images based on positional data received from the anatomical reference marker and the ultrasound probe. Using the co-registered image data, the system and method generates a surface contour of a region of interest (ROI) of the patient, such as a breast. The surface contour is defined to represent an interface between a chest wall structure and tissue of the ROI in a plurality of co-registered medical images. A completeness map of the image data within the defined surface contour during the imaging session is generated and overlaid on a graphic representation of the ROI.

Abstract: A system includes a treatment probe, a first tracking sensor configured to track a location of the treatment probe, an ultrasound imager, a second tracking sensor configured to track a location of the ultrasound imager, and a tracking system. The ultrasound imager generates real-time ultrasound images. The tracking system receives location information from the first and second tracking sensors, tracks the location of the treatment probe and the location of the ultrasound imager, and displays the real-time ultrasound images and a representation of the treatment probe in one or more pre-stored images.

Abstract: An acoustic coupling layer (20) is disclosed for acoustically coupling an ultrasound transducer (30, 60) to a body region (1), the acoustic coupling layer comprising a polar liquid absorbent polymer (24) embedded in an elastomer (22). Also disclosed are an ultrasound transducer, wearable patch and interface patch including such an acoustic coupling layer.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer probe comprises an array transducer and a microbeamformer ASIC (46a, 46b) containing transmit amplifiers and receive circuitry for operation of the array transducer. For higher power operation, the drive current of the amplifiers is increased, rather than the transmit voltage. The elements of the array present a low impedance to the transmit amplifiers for increased drive current by their construction of thin layers (12) of piezoelectric material which are electrically coupled in parallel to an amplifier while being mechanically coupled in series for ultrasound transmission.

Abstract: A Multiple Aperture Ultrasound Imaging (MAUI) probe or transducer is uniquely capable of simultaneous imaging of a region of interest from separate apertures of ultrasound arrays. Some embodiments provide systems and methods for designing, building and using ultrasound probes having continuous arrays of ultrasound transducers which may have a substantially continuous concave curved shape in two or three dimensions (i.e., concave relative to an object to be imaged). Other embodiments herein provide systems and methods for designing, building and using ultrasound imaging probes having other unique configurations, such as adjustable probes and probes with variable configurations.

Abstract: Various systems are provided for an ultrasound imaging device. In one example, a method comprises instructing a user a location to which to navigate an ultrasound probe in one or more of a horizontal plane and a vertical plane based on a previously acquired first image at a first anatomical location while acquiring a second image at a second, different anatomical location and automatically joining the first and second images together.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes an ultrasound imaging system configured to identify and display B-lines that may appear during ultrasound scanning of a chest region of a subject. In some examples, the system may include an ultrasound probe and at least two processors configured to generate a plurality of image frames from ultrasound echoes received at the probe. The processors may be further configured to identify a pleural line in each of the plurality of image frames, define a region of interest below each pleural line, identify one or more candidate B-lines within the region of interest, identify one or more B-lines by evaluating one or more parameters of each candidate B-line, and select a target image frame from the plurality of image frames by identifying an image frame that maximizes at least a number or an intensity of B-lines.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes ultrasound imaging systems and methods, which may enable the automatic identification of an image plane in a pre-operative volume corresponding to a real-time image of a moving region of interest. An example method includes receiving real-time ultrasound image data from a probe associated with a position-tracking sensor, generating real-time images based on the real-time ultrasound data and deriving a motion model from the real-time ultrasound image data. The method may further include automatically identifying an image plane in a pre-operative data set to correspond to the real-time ultrasound image by correcting for motion-induced misalignment between the real-time data and the pre-operative data.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for identifying a characteristic of one or more ultrasound images, wherein each image is of a subject imaged by an ultrasound probe using an ultrasound imaging process. The method includes obtaining a manipulation signal indicative of a manipulation of the ultrasound probe during the imaging process. A portion of the manipulation signal, which indicates the manipulation of the probe during a time period, is obtained. The obtained portion is associated with one or more ultrasound images. A neural network system is then used to classify a characteristic of the one or more ultrasound images based on both the obtained portion of the manipulation signal and the one or more images themselves.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for motion corrected wide-band pulse inversion ultrasonic imaging. A first pulse is transmitted, a second pulse is then transmitted after a delay, with the second pulse having different polarity. Echoes of the first pulse and the second pulse are received, using a reception bandwidth that enables capturing at least a portion of a fundamental portion of each pulse. The echoes are processed, and corresponding ultrasound images are generated based on processing. The processing includes determining displacement data between the first pulse echo and the echo of the second pulse for at least one structure in an imaged area; determining one or more displacement corrections based on the displacement data; applying at least one displacement correction to at least one of the first pulse echo and the echo of the second pulse; and combining the first pulse echo and the echo of the second pulse.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to techniques for neuromodulation delivery. Based on image data acquired from the subject, control parameters controlling energy application of neuromodulating energy may be dynamically changed during the course of the delivery to maintain desired characteristics of the neuromodulating energy. For example, the beam of the neuromodulating energy may be dynamically adjusted to account for movement of an organ during breathing. In another embodiment, a desired region of interest is identified within the subject based on a trained neural network and the acquired image data.

Abstract: A pouch comprises a flexible bag having an opening at one end, and a safety valve arranged inside the bag to substantially prevent the content of the bag leaving through the opening. The valve comprises a first pair of sheets and a second pair of sheets that are bonded together locally at a plurality of spaced-apart primary bonding points, and a third pair of sheets, the first, second, and third pairs of sheets being bonded together locally at a plurality of spaced-apart secondary bonding points. The distance between the primary bonding points and the distal end of the sheets of the second pair of sheets varies along a transverse axis (Dt) of the bag. A further transfer valve permits a portion of the urine to be transferred to a separate detachable pouch, which may then be transported, for example for diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: A computer-controlled remote power module is disclosed. The remote power module may include an enclosure containing a power converter, a voltage controller, an antenna and a microprocessor. The voltage controller may be in electrical communication with the power converter. The microprocessor may be in electrical communication with the power converter, the voltage controller, and the antenna. The antenna may be configured to receive wireless transmissions from a remote computer control system, and provide a signal to the microprocessor based on the received transmissions. The microprocessor may receive the signal, and, based on the signal, selectively cause the voltage controller to provide power. The remote power module may be configured to selectively provide power from a battery to a tool, such as a surgical tool.

Abstract: An access assembly includes an instrument valve housing defining a cavity, and a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a flange seal member, a seal assembly, a centering mechanism, and a retainer frame assembly. The flange seal member includes an arcuate portion configured to adjustably engage first and second surfaces of the instrument valve housing in a sealing relation. The centering mechanism is configured to bias the valve assembly towards a generally centered position within the cavity. The centering mechanism includes a plurality of coils including inner coil portions operatively secured with the seal assembly, and outer coil portions configured to engage the first surface of the instrument valve housing. The retainer frame assembly includes first and second members. The inner coil portion of the centering mechanism is disposed between seal assembly and the second member of the retainer frame assembly.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for delivery of a ferrofluid to a targeted treatment site, such as delivery of a ferroadhesive to a pathological fistula to occlude the fistula. A device includes a catheter having a lumen and a distal opening. A hollow solenoid is coupled to a distal section of the catheter, and a hollow core of the solenoid allows passage of a ferrofluid through the catheter and through the hollow core so that it may exit past the distal end of the hollow solenoid. The solenoid may be selectively actuated to maintain or control the position of the delivered ferrofluid.

Abstract: A tissue specimen retrieval device includes a first shaft and a second shaft telescopically movable relative to the first shaft. The second shaft supports an end effector assembly. The end effector assembly includes a tissue specimen bag supported by a first arm and a second arm extending from the distal end portion of the second shaft. A brim defines a bag mouth. The first and second arms open the bag mouth. A bag body extends from the brim and defines a pouch for a tissue specimen. The bag body reversibly furls and unfurls about the brim. The first arm includes a first upper arm and a first lower arm defining a first channel. The second arm includes a second upper arm and a second lower arm defining a second channel. The bag body is supported in the first channel and the second channel when the bag body is furled.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for manipulating tissue. A tissue control point is displayed over an image of the tissue in a user interface. An input is received that moves the tissue control point within the user interface. A first instrument that is physically associated with the tissue is operated based on the received input to thereby manipulate the tissue.

Abstract: A disposable device for tissue retraction, including first and second elongated curved members, each having respective proximal and distal ends, a hinge pivotably connecting first and second elongated curved members, wherein first and second curved members curve away from one another, a first blade extending from the distal end of the first elongated curved member, and a second blade extending from the distal end of the second elongated curved member. The device further includes a first latching portion extending from the proximal end of the first elongated curved member, a second latching portion extending from the proximal end of the second elongated curved member, and a third bladed elongated member lockingly engageable to the hinge. The first and second latching portions are lockingly engageable. The retractor is made of a generally electrically insulating nonmagnetic radiolucent material.

Abstract: A surgical adaptor comprises a first member is attachable to a first surgical instrument having a projection that defines an axis, A second member is attachable to a second surgical instrument such that the second surgical instrument is movable in at least two degrees of freedom relative to the axis. Surgical systems, instruments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an access instrument for creating a surgical working portal includes a body having a first end and a body length, a first slot having a first slot length running along the length of the body from the first end, and a second slot having a second slot length running along the length of the body from the first end, wherein the first slot length and the second slot length are less than the body length.

Abstract: A surgical retractor includes a shaft and an end effector extending distally from the shaft. The end effector includes a distal finger extending about at least a portion of a perimeter of a geometric shape and configured to facilitate retraction of tissue. The end effector further includes an ultrasound sensor array including a plurality of ultrasound sensors disposed in spaced-apart relation along the distal finger. Each ultrasound sensor of the plurality of ultrasound sensors is configured to emit an ultrasound wave and receive an echoed wave. The echoed waves received by the plurality of ultrasound sensors are output to be reconstructed to produce a real-time 3D ultrasound video image.

Abstract: A method for retracting body tissue providing a retractor system that includes a rail having two opposed widened rail portions separated by a narrowed portion, each widened portion engageable by a separate clamp. The clamps are configured to support the rail to a fixed surface, or to support a surgical device. Each clamp may independently be positioned or slid along the rail to a desired location without interference with a clamp on an opposing widened rail portion. A device clamp is formed of spherical mating portions which enable alignment of a surgical device along six degrees of freedom, and tightenable by securing a single fastener. A retractor blade mount enables an angular and tilting disposition of a retractor blade, as well as remote manipulation of the retractor blade.

Abstract: A traction apparatus, comprising a clip portion (2) and a traction portion (1), the traction portion containing a closed traction structure (11); the closed traction structure being made from an elastic material; the clip portion comprising a main clip body (23, 25) and a clip arm (24, 26); the main clip body being capable of passing through a biopsy channel (4) of an endoscope (3), the clip arm being capable of clip the closed traction structure. Also disclosed is a traction ring used for the traction apparatus, the traction ring being a single closed traction structure or being formed by connecting several closed traction structures, the traction ring being made from an elastic material.

Abstract: An orthopedic stabilization device is provided having a first button and a suture. The first button includes a base portion and a locking loop extending from a distal surface thereof, and a locking member slidably receiving the locking loop. At least a portion of the suture extends through the locking loop superior the locking member in the axial direction and at least a portion of the suture extends through the locking loop inferior the locking member in the axial direction such that a portion of said suture is frictionally retainable between said locking member and said locking loop when the suture is tensioned. The device may include a second button with the suture disposed between the first and second buttons such that the suture may be held in tension therebetween.

Abstract: An all-suture anchor for generating bone compression and increasing interference fixation. The all-suture anchor includes a fibrous construct which is movable between a pre-deployment configuration and a deployed configuration. The fibrous construct has a first density. The all-suture anchor also includes a monofilament woven through the fibrous construct. The monofilament has a second density, which is different than the first density. The contrasting densities (i.e., irregularities) aids in the “locking” ability of the all-suture anchor by greater purchase in hard and soft bone. The all-suture anchor can have a variety of textures, barbs, and rigidities that aid in creating irregularities within the bone surface for more secure fixation.

Abstract: A suture tape construct having a first section formed from a fibrous filament that extends from a first end to a second end and has a pair of a one-way protrusions extending therefrom. An anchor is positioned along the suture construct and, when the construct is deployed, is captured between the protrusions. The anchor may be a second section formed from braided suture material that is woven about the first section. The braided suture material can be deployed to form an all suture anchor while protrusions extending from the suture anchor proximately to the location of the deployed suture anchor prevent movement of the second section relative to the first section, thus forming a non-sliding suture tape anchored by the deployed braided material. The anchor may be a threaded anchor having an eyelet that is captured between the protrusions.

Abstract: Suture buttons are disclosed for fixing two bones together. The suture buttons may enable surgeons to more easily and effectively implement a suture button technique, such as to repair syndesmosis injuries in ankles. A first suture button includes a pulley peg extending from a button head. The pulley peg may be positioned with a bone hole upon installation of the first suture button, which may help protect suture and help reduce potential patient discomfort. The second suture button helps facilitate the second suture button flipping into place upon deployment from a button inserter. Each of the first and second provided suture buttons may help reduce friction between the respective buttons and suture during an installation procedure. The first and second provided suture buttons may be used together in a surgical procedure or individually with other suitable buttons or anchors.

Abstract: Suture buttons are disclosed for fixing two bones together. The suture buttons may enable surgeons to more easily and effectively implement the suture button technique, such as to repair syndesmosis injuries in ankles. A first suture button includes a pulley peg extending from a button head. The pulley peg may be positioned with a bone hole upon installation of the first suture button, which may help protect suture and help reduce potential patient discomfort. The second suture button helps facilitate the second suture button flipping into place upon deployment from a button inserter. Each of the first and second provided suture buttons may help reduce friction between the respective buttons and suture during an installation procedure. The first and second provided suture buttons may be used together in a surgical procedure or individually with other suitable buttons or anchors.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to devices and methods for treating a tissue defect, for example, by suturing. In some embodiments, a suturing device may include an elongate member having a working channel, a suture channel, and a suture arm extending from the elongate member. The suturing device may further include a needle passer located within the working channel, the needle passer operable to deliver a needle between the elongate member and a distal end of the suture arm for suturing a target tissue, and a suture extending through the suture channel, wherein the suture is coupled to the needle. The suturing device may further include a plurality of imaging devices, wherein a first imaging device is positioned along a distal face of the elongate member, and wherein a second imaging device is positioned along the suture arm.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to the field of medical devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to single-use endoscopic medical devices with integrated and purpose-built functionality.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to systems, devices, and methods for endoscopic suture termination. In some embodiments, a suture device may include an elongate member having a working channel and a suture channel, the elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. The suture device may further include a suture extending through the suture channel, and a plurality of anchor components coupled to the suture, wherein the suture and the plurality of anchor components are deployable from the elongate member for engagement with a target tissue.

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 suture passing drill for passing suture through bone. The suture passing drill includes a proximal end and a distal end with an elongated shaft extending therebetween. The elongated shaft has first portion with a first diameter. The drill also includes a wire loop extending from the proximal end of the elongated shaft and a drill tip at the distal end of the elongated shaft. The elongated shaft has a narrow portion with a second diameter, which is smaller than the first diameter. The narrow portion is positioned proximally adjacent relative to the drill tip. The narrow portion is preferably created through coining. Coining prevents the need for machining the outer diameter (or surface) of the elongated shaft proximal to the drill tip in order to create a larger drill tip. The larger drill tip of the suture passing drill allows for passage of the entire drill through the bone hole.

Abstract: Surgical methods for cutting and fastening tissue are disclosed. The methods may include employing a surgical end effector that includes a pair of jaws wherein an upper jaw is movable relative to a lower jaw that supports a surgical fastener cartridge. The methods may include manipulating the end effector to a compact configuration to facilitate its insertion through a trocar port and then manipulating and actuating the end effector to treat target tissue.

Abstract: A surgical instrument that includes an elongate channel that is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge therein. In at least one form, an anvil is pivotally coupled to a proximal end of the elongate channel such that the anvil is pivotal about a discrete, non-movable anvil axis defined by the elongate channel. A firing member is configured for axial travel within the elongate channel in response to an application of firing motions thereto. The firing member is configured to movably engage the anvil and the elongate channel to space the anvil relative to the elongate channel at a desired spacing as the firing member is axially driven through the elongate channel. A closure member is configured to move the anvil from an open position to closed positions relative to the elongate channel upon application of closure motions to the closure member.

Abstract: A surgical stapler. The surgical stapler includes a drive system, an electric motor, a battery and a control system. The electric motor is mechanically coupled to the drive system. The battery is electrically couplable to the electric motor. The control system is electrically connected to the electric motor and includes an H-bridge circuit, an electrically resistive element and an electrically inductive element. The H-bridge circuit includes a high side and a low side. The low side of the H-bridge circuit includes first and second switching devices. The electrically resistive element is electrically connected in series with the first switching device. The electrically inductive element is electrically connected to the electrically resistive element. The control system is configured to control a force applied to the drive system based on a current downstream of the electrically resistive element.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector that comprises a first jaw and a second jaw that is movably supported relative to the first jaw for selective movement between an open position and closed positions. The surgical instrument further comprises a closure member that is axially movable in response to closing and opening motions. The closure member comprises at least one opening cam that protrudes therefrom to movably engage a corresponding cam surface on the second jaw such that upon application of the opening motion, the at least one opening cam movably engages the corresponding cam surface to move the second jaw to an open position, even when the jaws are under a load.

Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a motor, and a shaft extending from the handle. The handle and/or the shaft can define a longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a fastener cartridge comprising a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein, an anvil configured to deform the fasteners, a closure drive configured to move the anvil toward and away from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis, and a firing drive configured to deploy the fasteners from the fastener cartridge which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument can further comprise a transmission comprising a first operating configuration which connects the motor to the closure drive and a second operating configuration which connects the motor to the firing drive.

Abstract: A surgical staple has two movable arms connected by a transverse connection area. Each one of the arms has a pinching area and a fastening end and the transverse connection area is deformable to allow the movable arms to be moved together by bending around the axis of the transverse connection area.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for a surgical bending instrument for bending surgical implants. The surgical bending instrument comprises a body including a longitudinally extending threaded hole. A shaft comprising a threaded portion is rotatably engaged within the threaded hole. A handle is coupled to a proximal end of the shaft, and a distal extension of the shaft comprises a driver. A distal force applicator comprises the driver centered between a first grip and a second grip. In some embodiments, the distal force applicator is configured to retain a surgical staple, such that the surgical staple may be changed to a distracted configuration suitable for implantation at a bone fixation or fusion site of a patient. In some embodiments, the distal force applicator is configured to bend a bone fusion plate so as to tailor the plate to specific anatomy of the patient's bone.

Abstract: A surgical instrument module for powering a plurality of discrete surgical end effectors includes a motor, a planetary gear box, a high-torque/low-speed output operably coupled to the motor, and a high-speed/low-torque output operably coupled to the motor. The high-torque/low-speed is configured to be operably coupled to a driven member of a first type of surgical end effector, and the high-speed/low-torque output is configured to drive an operation of a second type of surgical end effector.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods to improve safety and efficiency in an operating room comprise providing a suture package that holds new suture needles and needle receptacles for storing used needles. The devices can be safely worn for the surgeon to self-dispense new suture needles in the near surgical field and to secure the used needles into a needle trap or a needle retainer located on his extremity, on his operative instruments or on the surgical drapes. The device may provide automated and/or simplified needle counting both during use and after removal from the surgical field. The device may be configured for ergonomic and efficient use so as to minimize the actions and motions of the surgeon to dispense and secure the needle.

Abstract: An eight-dimensional barbed surgical thread including a central core and eight first barbs. The central core has a circumference, a proximal end and a distal end that is opposite the proximal end. The eight first barbs are positioned around the circumference of the central core so that the first barbs are radially adjacent to each other and obliquely extend from the central core.

Abstract: A six-dimensional barbed surgical thread that includes a central core and six first barbs. The central core has a circumference, a proximal end and a distal end that is opposite the proximal end. The six first barbs are positioned around the circumference of the central core so that the first barbs are radially adjacent to each other and obliquely extend from the central core.

Abstract: A surgical stapling system includes a surgical stapling apparatus and a buttress loading unit. The surgical stapling apparatus includes a first jaw member and a second jaw member configured to fasten tissue grasped between the first and second jaw members. The buttress loading unit includes a loader and a clip supported in the loader. The loader and the clip support a release strap and a buttress. The clip is configured to selectively attach the release strap and the buttress to the first jaw member when the loader is positioned on the first jaw member.

Abstract: A surgical stapling instrument includes a body portion and a tool assembly extending from the body portion. The tool assembly includes a jaw member, and a first connector assembly disposed within the jaw member. The first connector assembly includes a first connector housing and first and second connector members extending from the first connector housing. The surgical stapling instrument further includes a cartridge assembly selective receivable within the jaw member. The cartridge assembly includes a second connector assembly configured for electrical connection with the first connector assembly. The second connector assembly includes a second connector housing and first and second contact members disposed within the second connector housing. The first and second connector members of the first connector assembly are configured to engage the respective first and second contact members of the second connector housing when the cartridge assembly is received within the jaw member of the tool assembly.