Abstract: A system (200) includes a first imaging system (201) that utilizes first radiation to image an interior region of interest of a subject, including a first agent in the region of interest and a second imaging system (218) that utilizes second radiation to image a second agent in the region of interest, wherein an output of the second imaging system is used to trigger the first imaging system to scan the region of interest, including the first agent in the region of interest.

Abstract: An X-ray image diagnostic apparatus images a subject with X-rays without increasing the burden on a user, and includes an X-ray image diagnostic apparatus 1, a table 4 on which a subject is placed on the top-surface thereof; an X-ray tube 5 disposed beneath the back side of the table and which emits X-rays; a detector 6 disposed above the table 4 so as to face the X-ray tube 5 and detecting the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 5 and penetrating the subject on the table 4; an X-ray tube moving mechanism 12 that moves the X-ray tube 5 in a direction approaching the table 4 and moving away therefrom; a detector moving mechanism 13 that moves the detector 6 in a direction approaching the table 4 and moving away therefrom; and a control unit 14 that controls a distance between the X-ray tube 5 and the detector 6 by controlling action of the X-ray tube moving mechanism 12 and the detector moving mechanism 13.

Abstract: A radiation imaging system is provided. The system comprises: an imaging unit including a plurality of pixels configured to generate a radiation image and a detection unit configured to detect incident radiation to perform exposure control; an irradiation control unit configured to control radiation irradiation by a radiation source, an obtainment unit configured to obtain a delay time of communication between the imaging unit and the irradiation control unit; and a determination unit. The determination unit determines, based on a radiation irradiation condition set by an operator and the delay time obtained by the obtainment unit, whether to permit imaging by exposure control using a signal output from the detection unit.

Abstract: A positioning support apparatus includes a hardware processor. The hardware processor obtains a radiographic image of a subject taken through a radiography. Based on the obtained radiographic image, the hardware processor detects a relative positional relationship between the subject and at least one of a radiation detector and a radiation source, the positional relationship being at a time when the radiographic image is taken. The hardware processor receives a change input for simulating a change of a position of the at least one of the radiation detector and the radiation source. Based on the detected positional relationship and the received change input, the hardware processor generates a simulation-reflected image that is an image of the subject reflecting the change of the position of the at least one of the radiation detector and the radiation source. The hardware processor outputs the generated simulation-reflected image.

Abstract: A power consumption rate of a battery is monitored according to time of day and is recorded as a battery power consumption profile associated with a plurality of daily time periods for that battery. Electric circuits connected to the battery are activated during high battery power consumption rate time periods and deactivated during low battery power consumption rate time periods. A stored control program is executable by a processor to control the automatic power downs and power ups.

Abstract: System for non-invasive measuring of an intracranial reserve space (ICRS) parameter of a mammalian subject, comprising a multi-frequency ultrasound probe configured, beginning at a start time, to emit and receive ultrasound waves into and from the subject's head and to produce a signal of brain tissue pulsation; an instrument configured to non-invasively partially occlude an internal jugular vein (IJV) starting at the start time and including a second ultrasound probe producing a second signal; and a computer system configured to receive the signal, the second signal and the start time, the computer system also configured, using one or more processors, to derive from the signal an intracranial brain tissue pulsation waveform and from the second signal images of the IJV, and to determine a length of time from the start time to a subsequent time at which the waveform is sufficiently compressed so as to exhibit a predefined decline in variability.

Abstract: An ultrasound system employs an ultrasound probe (31), a strain sensor (33) and a workstation (20). The ultrasound probe (31) includes an ultrasound transducer for acquiring ultrasound images (40) of an anatomical region. The strain sensor (33) is arranged on the ultrasound probe (31) to measure a longitudinal strain applied by the anatomical region to the ultrasound probe (31) as the ultrasound transducer acquires ultrasound images (40) of the anatomical region. The strain sensor (33) encircles a longitudinal axis of the ultrasound probe (31) and is spaced from the ultrasound transducers relative to the longitudinal axis of the ultrasound probe (31).

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes detection circuitry and processing circuitry. The detection circuitry detects a release state of an ultrasonic probe in an active state. The processing circuitry, when the detection circuitry detects the release state of the ultrasonic probe during activation of a control mode of generating a first image based on an output from the ultrasonic probe, displaying a second image different from the first image, and displaying the first image with a predetermined opacity on the second image, perform one of control to display the second image without generating the first image, control to display the second image without displaying the first image while generating the first image, and control to generate the first image, display the second image, and display, on the second image, the first image with an opacity lower than the predetermined opacity.

Abstract: For estimating attenuation, diffraction effects are corrected by transmitting at different frequencies using apertures sized to match the on-axis intensity profile and/or resolution cell size between the transmissions where there is no attenuation. Attenuation causes a variance in return. A rate of change is estimated from a ratio of the magnitude of the signals or displacements responsive to the transmissions. The attenuation is calculated from the rate of change over depth of the ratio.

Abstract: A segmentation selection system includes a transducer (14) configured to transmit and receive imaging energy for imaging a subject. A signal processor (26) is configured to process imaging data received to generate processed image data. A segmentation module (50) is configured to generate a plurality of segmentations of the subject based on features or combinations of features of the imaging data and/or the processed image data. A selection mechanism (52) is configured to select one of the plurality of segmentations that best meets a criterion for performing a task.

Abstract: A system 100 comprises a first medical image capture apparatus UL1 and a second medical image capture apparatus UL2 that share values of at least some of a plurality of preferences and are of different kinds, wherein a first control device 81 in the first ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus UL1 executes an output function of outputting a value of a preference that the first input device 71 has accepted, to a server 104 along with information on the kind of the first ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus UL1, and a server control device 1411 converts the output value of the preference based on conversion information, and then, transmits the converted value to the second ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus UL2. The second ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus UL2 converts the converted value from the server 104 into that in the kind of the second medical image capture apparatus, and performs setting of the converted value.

Abstract: A method for using a biopsy device includes providing a housing containing a tension slide, wherein the tension slide is movable to a cocked position against the action of a spring by the power source; inserting a removable element into the housing, the removable element including a biopsy cannula unit, a pressure generating device, a first connection element connecting the biopsy cannula unit and the valve, and a second connection element connecting the valve and the pressure generating device; arranging the biopsy cannula unit on the tension slide; operating the pressure generating device to generate a vacuum; and operating the valve to control pressure buildup and release within the pressure generating device.

Abstract: Atrial appendage occlusion devices and methods of using the same that employ the application of light having a desired wavelength range. The devices of the present disclosure comprise a telescoping catheter assembly coupled with an adhesive delivery device and a suction source, and comprise at least one optical fiber disposed therein. The catheter assembly is configured to isolate an atrial appendage cavity, deliver suction and adhesive thereto, and, using the optical fiber(s), cure the adhesive present within the cavity all without withdrawing any components of the catheter assembly from the body. Methods for using such device in the treatment of atrial appendage occlusion are also provided.

Abstract: A fistula treatment system comprises a guide such as a guide coil 1101 which is adapted to extend partially around a tissue tract and an implant element 1102. The implant element 1102 is activated to draw tissue surrounding the tract inwardly.

Abstract: Several unique intra-cardiac pressure devices, placement catheters, methods of placement and methods of treating heart failure are presented. The intra-cardiac pressure devices presented allow sufficient flow from the left atrium to the right atrium to enable the relief of elevated left atrial pressure and resulting patient symptoms. The intra-cardiac pressure devices are made of a non-braided material.

Abstract: A surgical device includes a plurality of cameras integrated therein. The view of each of the plurality of cameras can be integrated together. A surgical tool that includes an integrated camera may be used in conjunction with the surgical device. The image produced by the camera integrated with the surgical tool may be associated with the images generated by the plurality of cameras integrated in the surgical device. The position and orientation of the cameras and/or the surgical tool can be tracked, and the surgical tool can be rendered as at least partially transparent. A surgical device may be powered by a hydraulic system, thereby reducing electromagnetic interference with tracking devices.

Abstract: A retractor assembly includes a base, a first side assembly, a second side assembly, and a medial arm assembly. The first side assembly is coupled to a first side of the base and translates relative to the base along a first direction. The second side assembly is coupled to a second side of the base and configured to translate relative to the base along the first direction. The medial arm assembly is coupled to the base and can extend in an extension direction and retract in a retraction direction. The extension direction is opposite the retraction direction. The extension direction and the retraction direction are perpendicular to the first direction. The medial arm assembly includes a body, and a blade assembly. The blade assembly includes a receiving portion and a medial blade. The receiving portion and the medial blade are rotatably interfaced via a ball and a socket.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an illumination system includes a speculum having two arms coupled to blades at distal ends thereof and a biasing member at proximal ends thereof. One or more optical fibers are disposed through at least one of the arms and have one or more termination points located within at least one of the blades. The optical fibers are configured to deliver light to an interior space of an eye when the eye is coupled to the speculum. In some embodiments, the illumination system further includes a temple support pad.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for accessing the spine to place implants. In one embodiment, a system includes an adjustable rod structure having four rods radially surrounding a probe, a ring and a retractor. The adjustable rod structure is configured to have a closed and open profile controlled by the retractor such that the open profile creates a space between rods of the structure. The ring is configured to be placed within retracted rods to maintain the open profile after retraction. In a method embodiment, the adjustable rod structure is inserted through a percutaneous incision in the closed position until it reaches a target site. The retractor is then attached to the rods and used to retract the rods. The probe is then removed from within an opening created and a ring is advanced into the opening to hold the rods in place.

Abstract: An intra-abdominal liver retraction device and methods of use. The device includes a flexible sling, an anchor and a filament. The sling has a base edge and a pair of side edges tapering toward a leading edge. The sling also includes a stiffener extending across it adjacent the base edge to enable it to be gathered and inserted through a port into the abdomen, whereupon it can be opened. The anchor is configured to be releasably secured to the diaphragm with the base edge adjacent the diaphragm so that the liver can be disposed on the sling. The filament is connected to the sling adjacent the leading edge and configured to be drawn through an aperture in the abdominal wall to lift the sling with the liver thereon upwards.

Abstract: A device comprising: a flexible tube comprising a first collapsible end portion; a first actuating element segment secured to the first collapsible end portion and extending along the first collapsible end portion, wherein, when the first collapsible end portion is threaded through a first aperture and the first actuating element segment is pulled proximally, the first collapsible end portion collapses proximally and forms a bulge larger than the first aperture, thereby anchoring the flexible tube against a rim of the first aperture.

Abstract: A device for suturing an anatomic valve can comprise an elongate body, a suture catch mechanism and a suture clasp arm. The suture catch mechanism can be operatively coupled to the elongate body for movement between a retracted position and an advanced position. The suture clasp arm can be attached to the elongate body for movement between a retracted position and an extended position. The suture clasp arm can comprise a suture clasp configured to releasably retain a suture portion. In some embodiments, the suture clasp is positioned on the suture clasp arm such that the suture catch mechanism retrieves the suture portion from the suture clasp arm while the arm is at least partially retracted. In some embodiments, the suture clasp arm can be closed about a tissue portion without damaging the tissue portion.

Abstract: An instrument for securing a knot disposed in surgical suture is provided. The instrument includes a side-loading channel disposed along the side of a knot pusher, the side-loading channel configured to receive the suture into the knot pusher. A method of operation is disclosed.

Abstract: High-consistency nonabsorbable braided suture stock of specified size is prepared from twisted multifilament strands braided together with a tightness of weave of less than 60 picks/inch. The suture stock can be cut to provide sutures, which may be combined with needles to provide surgical sutures for wound closure.

Abstract: A surgical stapler includes first and second elongate members, a clamp member, and a firing assembly. The second elongate member is configured to receive a staple cartridge. The clamp member is operable to releasably clamp the first elongate member against the second elongate member. The firing assembly is translatable to fire the staple cartridge. The firing assembly includes a slider and an actuator configured to be selectively actuated by a user. The slider includes inner and outer engagement features. The actuator includes inner and outer engagement features. The inner engagement feature of the actuator is configured to engage with the inner engagement feature of the slider at a first interface when the actuator moves relative to the slider. The outer engagement feature of the actuator is configured to engage the outer engagement feature of the slider at a second interface when the actuator moves relative to the slider.

Abstract: A surgical system is disclosed that comprises a stapling instrument including a staple firing lockout and a staple cartridge configured to defeat the staple firing lockout when the staple cartridge is seated in the stapling instrument.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising an end effector, a firing member, an electric motor, a first lockout, and a control system comprising a second lockout is disclosed. The end effector is configured to support a removable staple cartridge. The firing member is movable toward a distal end of the end effector during a firing motion. The electric motor is configured to drive the firing member during the firing motion. The first lockout is mechanically engageable with the firing member. The control system is configured to prevent delivery of electrical power to the electric motor based on respective states of the first and second lockouts.

Abstract: A delivery system for trans-oral insertion of an anvil assembly is provided. The anvil delivery system includes a flexible tube configured for trans-oral insertion into a patient, and a light assembly disposed within the flexible tube configured to emit a light.

Abstract: An endoscopic surgery system includes a plurality of staples and an endoscopic applicator having a staple cartridge for loading transversely arranged staples. The staples have a central region and two side limbs and the applicator has a mobile body for holding a staple to be applied, the staple being arranged in a transverse plane, and for ensuring the deformation of same by bending in relation to the axis of symmetry of the staple.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use with a robotic system that has a control unit and a shaft portion that includes an electrically conductive elongated member that is attached to a portion of the robotic system. The elongated member is configured to transmit control motions from the robotic system to an end effector.

Abstract: A staple retainer for a surgical staple cartridge unit includes a body having first and second body sides configured to be positioned within an aperture defined between an anvil and a deck of the cartridge unit such that the first body side confronts the anvil and the second body side confronts the deck. The second body side is configured to retain staples within openings in the deck. A first protrusion at the first body side is configured to contact the anvil at a first location, and a second protrusion at the first body side is configured to contact the anvil at a second location. The protrusions are configured to resiliently deflect toward the second body side in response to the staple retainer being positioned within the aperture, and are further configured to cooperate with the second body side to maintain a predetermined distance between the anvil and the deck.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a shaft assembly, an end effector, and a staple cartridge. The end effector includes an anvil and a lower jaw. The anvil is pivotable toward the lower jaw to capture tissue between the anvil and the lower jaw. The staple cartridge is coupled with the lower jaw. The staple cartridge includes a deck and a plurality of staples. The deck faces the anvil. The anvil or the deck (or both) includes a compressible that extends toward the other of the anvil or the deck. The compressible feature of the anvil of the deck is configured to compress tissue against the other of the anvil or the deck.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes apparatuses for a surgical handle assembly. An example apparatus includes a toothed rack, a tab configured to provide a reverse mode of operation for the toothed rack by engaging a reverse gear, and a trigger gear connected to the reverse gear and to a movable handle member configured to reverse the toothed rack linearly in a proximal direction in response to actuation of the movable handle member.

Abstract: A buttress assembly for use with a surgical stapled site has a buttress and an adhesive on one side of the buttress. The adhesive on the buttress is applied in a pattern where the adhesive extends near or along the edges of the buttress while a center region of the buttress remains relatively free of adhesive. The adhesive is applied such that it extends continuously along the buttress and has a height such that the adhesive creates a sealing attachment with an end effector. The adhesive can be applied in an uneven distribution such that there is more adhesive applied at one end of the buttress than the other. The adhesive can also be applied in a symmetric or asymmetric distribution about a longitudinal axis of the buttress.

Abstract: A surgical system and related methods includes a buttress applier cartridge, a first buttress assembly, and a second buttress assembly. The buttress applier cartridge has a housing and a platform. The first and second buttress assemblies respectively includes first and second buttresses and first and second adhesive layers thereon. The first adhesive layer is parallel to the first buttress and defines a first adhesive pattern having a first outer adhesive profile. The second adhesive layer is parallel to the second buttress and defines a second adhesive pattern having a second outer adhesive profile. The exposed second outer adhesive profile in the transverse direction is the same as the exposed first outer adhesive profile in an opposite transverse direction such that the first and second buttress assemblies are interchangeable with the first and second portions of the end effector of the surgical instrument.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a negative pressure wound closure system and methods for using such a system. Preferred embodiments of the invention facilitate closure of the wound by preferentially contracting to provide for movement of the tissue. Preferred embodiments can utilize tissue grasping elements to apply a wound closing force to the tissue.

Abstract: A catheter system includes a proximal base having a distal diagonal end surface and a distal tip connected to the proximal base and movable relative to the proximal base, wherein the distal tip has a proximal diagonal end surface. The distal diagonal end surface and the proximal diagonal end surface contact opposing sides of a tissue portion to create the fistula. A peripheral edge defines the proximal distal end surface. A proximal point is disposed on the peripheral edge. The proximal point comprises a shortened angle and a fully radiused edge relative to a remaining portion of the peripheral edge and a relief recess is disposed on a distal end of the proximal base, both for the purpose of minimizing tissue snagging.

Abstract: A reload assembly includes a shell housing, a knife carrier, and at least one engagement member. The shell housing includes an inner housing portion and an outer housing portion that is spaced from the outer housing portion to define an annular cavity. The knife carrier defines a longitudinal axis and supports a knife. The knife carrier also defines a stepped central bore having a distal portion and a proximal portion and has a shoulder positioned between the distal and proximal portions. The at least one engagement member is supported on the knife carrier and is positioned to engage the inner housing portion of the shell housing when the knife carrier is in its retracted position to retain the knife carrier in the retracted position.

Abstract: A device for secluding a body vessel may include a distal balloon, a proximal balloon, an aspiration port positioned adjacent to the distal balloon, an injection port positioned adjacent to the proximal balloon, and a lumen assembly. The lumen assembly may comprise a central lumen, a distal balloon lumen operably coupled to the distal balloon, a proximal balloon lumen operably coupled to the proximal balloon, an aspiration port lumen operably coupled to the aspiration port, and an injection port lumen operably coupled to the injection port. The distal balloon and the proximal balloon may define a treatment chamber therebetween, and the aspiration port and the injection port may be positioned within the treatment chamber on the lumen assembly.

Abstract: Various systems and methods are provided for reducing pressure at an outflow of a duct such as the thoracic duct or the lymphatic duct. In one embodiment, an indwelling catheter can be configured to be at least partially implanted within a vein of a patient in the vicinity of an outflow port of a duct of the lymphatic system. The catheter can include first and second restrictors each configured to at least partially occlude the vein within which the catheter is implanted and thus to restrict fluid flow within the vein when the restrictors are activated. The restrictors can each be configured to move between an activated configuration, in which the restrictor occludes the vein, and a relaxed configuration, in which the restrictor does not occlude the vein. The catheter can include a pump, such as an axial motor pump, configured to pump fluid through the catheter.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating an aneurysm includes an occlusion element configured to be releasably coupled to an elongate delivery shaft and including an inverted mesh tube having an outer layer and an inner layer, the outer layer transitioning to the inner layer at an inversion fold, the occlusion element configured to be delivered in a collapsed configuration through an inner lumen of a delivery catheter and further configured to expand to an expanded configuration when advanced out of the delivery catheter, wherein in the expanded configuration, at least the outer layer of the inverted mesh tube is formed into an expanded shape including a proximal section having a first transverse dimension, a distal section having a second transverse dimension, and a waist portion having a third transverse dimension, wherein the third transverse dimension is less than the first transverse dimension, and the third transverse dimension is less than the second transverse dimension, and wherein in the expanded configuration, th

Abstract: A guide for drilling a tunnel in a knee joint having intercondylar roof and tibial eminence. The guide can comprise a guide assembly having a positioning member including an inferior end, and a guide arm extending from the positioning member including a trochlear tip; and a drill sleeve having a body attached to the inferior end, an aperture extending along a drilling axis, and a distal end having a patient-specific surface configured to engage an anterior surface of the tibia. A method of producing a tibial tunnel can comprise inserting a trochlear tip of a guide arm between the tibial eminence and the intercondylar roof, adjusting a position of a positioning member connected to the guide arm, engaging a patient-specific tip of a drill sleeve connected to the positioning member with a surface of a tibia, and inserting a drill bit through the drill sleeve to drill a tibial tunnel.

Abstract: A patient specific shoulder guide is provided that includes a hub and a plurality of peripheral members. Each of the peripheral members has a peripheral member height dimension between the patient specific contact surface and a side of the peripheral member opposite the patient specific contact surface. At least one of the peripheral members is a low profile peripheral member in which the peripheral height dimension is less than the peripheral height dimension of at least one other of the peripheral members or is less than the hub height.

Abstract: A catheter device for the recanalisation of an occlusion in a vessel. A proximal balloon is arranged at the distal end portion of a catheter shaft for anchoring the catheter shaft in the vessel and for opening the occlusion. A distal balloon arranged at the distal end portion for opening the occlusion.

Abstract: An endoscopic device for retrieving an object from within a human body is disclosed. The device includes a support assembly, a transmitting assembly, a wire, and a net element. The support assembly has a base and a tubular member. The transmitting assembly includes a handle and a motion transmitting link fixed to the handle and extending through at least a portion of the tubular member. The wire defines a loop portion and two leg portions. A proximal end of each leg portion is secured to the link by a first connection and the two leg portions are secured to each other by at least a second connection distal from the first connection. The net element has a distally protruding portion secured to the loop portion and a proximally protruding portion secured relative to the leg portions.

Abstract: An endoscopic stone-extraction device is provided comprising a support filament comprising an end portion having a plurality of stacked loops, a sheath comprising a lumen, wherein the support filament is disposed in the lumen such that the sheath is slideable with respect to the support filament, and a handle comprising an actuator. Movement of the actuator in a first direction retracts the sheath and causes the plurality of stacked loops to expand outside the lumen in an arc-like shape. Movement of the actuator in a second direction advances the sheath and causes the plurality of stacked loops to at least partially collapse inside the lumen. Other embodiments are provides, and any of these embodiments can be used alone or in combination.

Abstract: A basket type treatment tool includes a sheath, a distal end cover attached to a distal end of the sheath and having grooves including first and second grooves, basket wires, and an operating wire, the first groove has first surface in which at least part of bottom surface of the first groove is inclined in a direction along the basket wires that are in a state in which the basket protrudes from the distal end cover, the second groove has second surface in which at least part of bottom surface of the second groove is inclined in a direction along the basket wires, and when the operating wire is pulled through a different one of the plurality of groove sections and abuts one of the first surface and one of the second surface.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wrapping cape system which displays favorable grasping characteristics in operations for the entrapment and removal of blocking items in tubular geometries. The wrapping cape system yields a configuration that surrounds the blocking item, such as a thrombus, peripherally, thus capturing its body tangentially and allowing the operator to pull it along the surrounding tube (for instance vein or artery) by utilizing shear forces distributed along the surface of the blocking item in its axial direction. The advantage stems from the fact that the blocking item is not pushed from behind during its withdrawal, but pulled instead; also, since there is no penetration, fragmentation is avoided.

Abstract: A surgical clamp jaw is disclosed, having an inner profile and a deflection control profile opposite the inner profile. In one embodiment, the inner profile has a first substantially concave profile in an unclamped position and a second substantially flat profile in a clamped position. In one embodiment, the deflection control profile has one or more sets of corresponding abutment surfaces, at least one set of which is not contacting each other when the inner profile is in the unclamped position and which is contacting each other when the inner profile is in the clamped position. In one embodiment, the surgical clamp jaw defines one or more flexion assistance voids, wherein at least one of the one or more flexion assistance voids is in contact with a gap between one of the one or more sets of corresponding abutment surfaces.

Abstract: A tweezer assembly includes a housing, an optically-transmissive shaft, and a flexible arm. A lamp is disposed within the housing and adjacent the opening in the housing. A battery provides electrical power to the lamp. The shaft has external threads that match the internal threads of the opening in the housing. The flexible arm includes an arched section and a clamp disposed at its proximal end. The clamp has opposing jaws that flex outward to snap in place around opposing sides of a recessed section in the shaft. The clamp thereby secures the flexible arm to the shaft such that the distal end of the arched section is disposed proximate to but not contacting the distal end of shaft. When a pressing force is applied to the arched section, the distal end of the flexible arm is operable to move into contact with the distal end of the shaft.