Patents Issued in November 25, 2021
  • Publication number: 20210361343
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus (1) for fractional treatment of skin tissue of a patient. The apparatus (1) comprises a handpiece with a housing, at least one first electrode (11) and at least one second electrode (15) located on a distal end of the handpiece and an energy source, which is connected to said at least one first (11) and said at least one second (15) electrode. The apparatus (1) is adapted for applying radio frequency (RF) energy to the tissue. The at least one second electrode (15) is arranged on a base plate (13) and the at least one first electrode (11) is or comprises a pin or a needle (11), in particular a microneedle, which penetrates the base plate (13) through a through hole (17).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Amikam Gershonowitz
  • Publication number: 20210361344
    Abstract: Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device includes an ablation system. The ablation system may include an elongate shaft having a distal region. A plurality of ablation tines may be disposed at the distal region. Each of the ablation tines may include a tubular member having a flexible circuit disposed therein. The flexible circuit may include a substrate, one or more electrodes coupled to the substrate, and a temperature sensor coupled to the substrate and positioned adjacent to the one or more electrodes. The plurality of ablation tines may include a first ablation tine and a second ablation tine. A pair of bipolar electrodes may defined by a first electrode disposed at the first ablation tine and a second electrode disposed at the second ablation tine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Prabodh Mathur, Henry Lee, Andres Dandler, Flavio Kazuho Ono, Joseph A. Levendusky
  • Publication number: 20210361345
    Abstract: An electrosurgical pencil includes a housing having proximal and distal ends, the proximal end adapted to connect to an energy source and the distal end adapted to receive an end effector assembly therein, the end effector assembly defining a surface area along a length thereof. An activation switch is operably associated with the housing and is configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to the end effector assembly upon actuation thereof. An air control valve is operatively coupled to the activation switch and is configured to simultaneously deliver a gas from a gas source to the surface area around the end effector upon actuation of the activation switch. One or more vents are defined in the distal end of the housing and are configured to direct the gas towards the surface area of the end effector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2020
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Jacob C. Baril, Matthew A. Dinino, Saumya Banerjee, Justin J. Thomas, Roy J. Pilletere
  • Publication number: 20210361346
    Abstract: Surgical tools are disclosed that include a first handle having a first recess, a second handle having a second recess, a first tip disposed in the first recess and extending distally, and a second tip disposed in the second recess and extending distally. The first tip has a first external surface and a first internal surface. The second tip has a second external surface and a second internal surface. The surgical tool has a first configuration wherein the surgical tool operates as forceps. The surgical tool has a second configuration wherein the surgical tool operates as scissors. The first internal surface can be moved adjacent to the second internal surface to permit rotation of the first tip relative to the first recess and permit rotation of the second tip relative to the second recess. The rotation of the first tip and the second tip transitions the surgical tool between the first configuration and the second configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Ryan D. Smith
  • Publication number: 20210361347
    Abstract: A forceps includes an end effector assembly having first and second jaw members. One (or both) of the jaw members is moveable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween. One (or both) of the jaw members includes an opposed jaw surface having an electrically-conductive tissue sealing plate disposed thereon. The electrically-conductive tissue sealing plate includes a first portion configured to conduct energy through tissue grasped between the jaw members to create a main tissue seal and a second portion including a plurality of spaced-apart fingers extending from the first portion. The second portion is configured to conduct energy through tissue grasped between the jaw members to create an auxiliary tissue seal extending from the main tissue seal for reducing stress concentrations adjacent the main tissue seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Barbara R. Tyrrell, Duane E. Kerr
  • Publication number: 20210361348
    Abstract: Methods and devices for allowing articulation of an end effector on a surgical instrument are provided. In one embodiment, a surgical device can include a flexible neck portion having an end effector coupled to a distal end thereof. The flexible neck portion is configured to bend to as to allow the end effector to articulate. The flexible neck portion can include a monolithic flexible outer shell defining an inner lumen extending therethrough. At least one flexible divider can be disposed within the inner lumen such that it separates the outer shell into elongate pathways configured to receive articulation members extending through the shaft assembly and the flexible neck and coupled to the end effector to cause articulating movement thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Randolph C. Stewart, Geoffrey S. Strobl, Barry Worrell
  • Publication number: 20210361349
    Abstract: A transoral ultrasound probe for imaging a temporomandibular joint and a method of imaging a temporomandibular joint using a transoral probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Richard W. Katzberg
  • Publication number: 20210361350
    Abstract: Methods and systems for modulating intraosseous nerves (e.g., nerves within bone) are provided. For example, the methods and systems described herein may be used to modulate (e.g., denervate, ablate) basivertebral nerves within vertebrae. The modulation of the basivertebral nerves may facilitate treatment of chronic back pain. The modulation may be performed by a neuromodulation device (e.g., an energy delivery device).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Richard Pellegrino, Paula Papineau, John S. Crombie, Samit Patel, Thomas Ryan
  • Publication number: 20210361351
    Abstract: Methods and systems for modulating intraosseous nerves (e.g., nerves within bone) are provided. For example, the methods and systems described herein may be used to modulate (e.g., denervate, ablate) basivertebral nerves within vertebrae. The modulation of the basivertebral nerves may facilitate treatment of chronic back pain. The modulation may be performed by a neuromodulation device (e.g., an energy delivery device).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Richard Pellegrino, Paula Papineau, John S. Crombie, Samit Patel, Thomas Ryan
  • Publication number: 20210361352
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a camera and a processor. The camera is configured to capture images of a display of a temperature measurement system that displays a tissue temperature. The processor is configured to analyze the captured images to extract a numerical value of the tissue temperature displayed by the temperature measurement system, and initiate an action responsively to the extracted numerical value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2020
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Zvi Dekel, Pesach Susel
  • Publication number: 20210361353
    Abstract: A microwave ablation system includes: a microwave generator (110) configured to generate a microwave power signal; a microwave antenna (120) coupled to the microwave field to heat at least a portion of the target tissue; a light source (312) for supplying an optical signal to multiple fiber sensors (320) disposed on the microwave antenna (120); a photodetector (316) for detecting an optical signal reflected from the fiber sensors (320) and producing an electrical detection signal; a demodulation device for demodulating the electrical detection signal; and a processor for processing the demodulated signal to obtain temperature measurements at different locations in the ablation zone, which may be displayed to a user to facilitate the performance of an ablation procedure. The multiple fiber sensors (320) may include multiple fiber Bragg gratings etched in an optical fiber (315), which are immune to electromagnetic interference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2017
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Leng Chen, Wei Zhang
  • Publication number: 20210361354
    Abstract: Catheter for real-time evaluation of duodenal ablation, the catheter including an expandable member configured to stretch the duodenal wall and to generate a fixed distance between a center of the catheter and the duodenal wall; a laser transmitting element coupled with the catheter body and configured to transmit a first laser beam and a second laser beam; wherein the first laser beam is configured to cause ablative damage in a region of the duodenal wall as a result of its impingement thereon, and wherein the second laser beam is configured to detect modifications in the region of the duodenal wall resulting from the impingement of the first laser beam thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Ilan BEN OREN
  • Publication number: 20210361355
    Abstract: Systems for enabling delivery of very high peak power laser pulses through optical fibers for use in ablation procedures preferably in contact mode. Such lasers advantageously emit at 355 nm wavelength. Other systems enable selective removal of undesired tissue within a blood vessel, while minimizing the risk of damaging the blood vessel itself, based on the use of the ablative properties of short laser pulses of 320 to 400 nm laser wavelength, with selected parameters of the mechanical walls of the tubes constituting the catheter, of the laser fluence and of the force that is applied by the catheter on the tissues. Additionally, a novel method of calibrating such catheters is disclosed, which also enables real time monitoring of the ablation process. Additionally, novel methods of protecting the fibers exit facets are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Yoel ZABAR, Oren Meshulam STERN, Ilan BEN OREN
  • Publication number: 20210361356
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling an energy output setting of a lithotripsy device during a lithotripsy procedure are provided. The system includes a laser or other lithotripsy device configured for facilitating the lithotripsy procedure, an irrigation system configured for supplying an irrigant such as saline to a surgical site, and a temperature sensor configured to provide temperature data associated with the irrigant. The system can modulate the energy output setting of the lithotripsy device based on an estimated temperature that is determined based at least in part on the temperature data and one or more other factors such as a current energy output setting or a flow rate of the irrigant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Kurt G. Shelton, Tailin Fan
  • Publication number: 20210361357
    Abstract: A surgical implant planning computer for intra-operative CT workflow, pre-operative CT imaging workflow, and fluoroscopic imaging workflow. A network interface is connectable to a CT image scanner and a robot surgical platform having a robot base coupled to a robot arm that is movable by motors. A CT image of a bone is received from the CT image scanner and displayed. A user's selection is received of a surgical screw from among a set of defined surgical screws. A graphical screw representing the selected surgical screw is displayed as an overlay on the CT image of the bone. Angular orientation and location of the displayed graphical screw relative to the bone in the CT image is controlled responsive to receipt of user inputs. An indication of the selected surgical screw and an angular orientation and a location of the displayed graphical screw are stored in a surgical plan data structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Neil Crawford
  • Publication number: 20210361358
    Abstract: Systems and methods may use an augmented reality device during a surgical procedure. The systems and methods may use an augmented reality display of an augmented reality device to present or project a virtual feature during a surgical procedure while permitting physical aspects of a surgical field to be viewed through the augmented reality display. The virtual feature may include aspects of a preoperative plan, a surgical device, an anatomical aspect of a patient, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Brian M. May, William Hartman
  • Publication number: 20210361359
    Abstract: A controller for determining orientation of an interventional medical device includes a memory that stores instructions, and a processor that executes the instructions. When executed by the processor, the instructions cause the controller to execute a process that includes controlling emission, by an ultrasound probe, of multiple beams each at a different combination of time of emission and angle of emission relative to the ultrasound probe. The process also includes determining, based on receipt of a response to a subset of the multiple beams at a sensor at a location on the interventional medical device, the combination of time of emission and angle of emission relative to the ultrasound probe of one of the subset of the multiple beams. The process also includes determining orientation of the interventional medical device based on the time of emission and angle of emission relative to the ultrasound probe of the one the subset of the multiple beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2019
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: RAMON QUIDO ERKAMP, HENDRIK ROELOF STAPERT, GUNTHER LAMPARTER, AMEET KUMAR JAIN, ALVIN CHEN, SHYAM BHARAT, KUNAL VAIDYA, FRANCOIS GUY GERARD MARIE VIGNON
  • Publication number: 20210361360
    Abstract: A system for tracking at least one tool and/or at least one bone during computer-assisted surgery includes a processing unit; and a non-transitory computer-readable memory communicatively coupled to the processing unit and comprising computer-readable program instructions executable by the processing unit for: tracking at least one tool and/or at least one bone with at least one image-capture device, with the image-capture device being at a first orientation during a surgical procedure, detecting a change in orientation of the at least one image-capture device from the first orientation, quantifying the change in orientation of the at least one image-capture device from the first orientation, and tracking of the at least one tool and/or of the at least one bone with the at least one image-capture device as a function of the quantifying of the change in orientation of the image-capture device from the first orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Mickael SORIANO
  • Publication number: 20210361361
    Abstract: A fiber optic tracking system includes a light source, a first optical fiber, a second optical fiber, a sensing unit, and a controller operatively coupled to the sensing unit. Each optical fiber includes a plurality of sensing sections and has a fixed sensing point located along its respective length that is fixed relative to tissue. Each optical fiber is configured to receive an optical signal from the light source. The sensing sections are configured to modify the optical signals in response to a deformation of the respective optical fiber. The sensing unit is configured to receive modified optical signals from the first optical fiber and the second optical fiber. The controller is configured to determine locations in a working coordinate system of the fixed sensing points using the modified optical signals and determine a pose of the tissue based on the locations of the fixed sensing points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: MAKO Surgical Corp.
    Inventors: Ketan Jajal, Justin Gerges
  • Publication number: 20210361362
    Abstract: A surgical system includes an arm extending from the base and having a distal end configured to be coupled to a tool, a first marker coupled in fixed relation to the base, and a tracking system. The tracking system is configured to collect first data indicative of a position of the first marker and collect second data indicative of a position an anatomical feature of a patient. The surgical system also includes a processor configured to calculate a position of the tool relative to the anatomical feature based on the first data and the second data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: MAKO Surgical Corp.
    Inventors: Hyosig Kang, Dennis Moses, Arthur Quaid
  • Publication number: 20210361363
    Abstract: An arm device includes a joint portion configured to be rotated to thereby change a position and/or a posture of a surgical tool, and an actuator configured to generate a driving force that rotates the joint portion, and to allow a rotation of the joint portion in accordance with an externally applied force. Moreover, the arm device is configured to estimate an external force applied to the surgical tool, to obtain a value of a driving force of the actuator based on a weight of the surgical tool and the external force, and to control the actuator based on a value of the driving force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2019
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Kotaro Tadano
  • Publication number: 20210361364
    Abstract: A medical instrument can have an elongated shaft, at least three bending stiffness zones arranged along a length of the elongated shaft, and at least two transition zones that have a variable bending stiffness extending over a length thereof. Each bending stiffness zone can have a bending stiffness that extends over a length of the bending stiffness zone. The variable bending stiffness of each transition zone can vary from a first bending stiffness on a first side of the transition zone to a second bending stiffness on a second side of the transition zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Aadel AL-JADDA, Curtis James CATON, Christopher Andrew COOK
  • Publication number: 20210361365
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a surgical instrument. In some embodiments, The surgical instrument, comprising: a distal structural body comprising a first distal structural segment and a second distal structural segment in serial arrangement; a proximal structural body comprising a first proximal structural segment and a second proximal structural segment in nested arrangement; and the first proximal structural segment and the second proximal structural segment are operable to turn the first distal structural segment and the second distal structural segment, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Kai XU, Zhengchen DAI, Shu'an ZHANG, Jiangran ZHAO, Zhixiong YANG, Yuyang CHEN, Wei WEI
  • Publication number: 20210361366
    Abstract: A robotic catheter procedure system for performing a procedure to treat a vascular lesion including a bedside system and a remote workstation is provided. The bedside system includes a first percutaneous device including an end section, the end section structured to allow the first percutaneous device to create a bore through the vascular lesion. The bedside system includes a second percutaneous device. The bedside system also includes a first actuating mechanism configured to engage and to impart movement to the first percutaneous device and a second actuating mechanism configured to engage and to impart movement to the second percutaneous device. The remote workstation includes a user interface and a control system operatively coupled to the user interface and to the bedside system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Corindus, Inc.
    Inventors: John Murphy, Tal Wenderow
  • Publication number: 20210361367
    Abstract: Example embodiments relate to surgical systems. The system includes an end-effector assembly having an instrument. The system includes a first arm assembly. A distal end of first arm assembly is securable to the end-effector assembly. The system includes an elbow joint assembly. A distal end of elbow joint assembly is secured to a proximal end of first arm assembly. A proximal end of elbow joint assembly is secured to a distal end of second arm assembly. The second arm assembly includes a first elbow drive assembly. The first elbow drive assembly includes an integrated motor for driving the elbow joint assembly to pivotally move the first arm assembly relative to an axis. The second arm assembly also includes a second elbow drive assembly. The second elbow drive assembly includes an integrated motor for driving the elbow joint assembly to pivotally move the first arm assembly relative to another axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Chung Kwong Yeung, Wing Fai Lam, Wai Leung William Cheng
  • Publication number: 20210361368
    Abstract: Provided is a multi-segment rotation robotic arm which contains a plurality of concatenated robotic arm segments which can rotate 360 degrees along an adjacent oblique section thereof. Any one of the concatenated robotic arm segments of the multi-segment rotation robotic arm can be arbitrarily concatenate in accordance with use requirements. When the concatenated robotic arm segments rotate relatively, they can rotate 360 degrees without affecting the electric supply, and can also reduce the volume increase by rotated joints. Therefore, the multi-segment rotation robotic arm of the present invention can effectively adapt to complex and tortuous spaces in the body cavity to reduce the possibility of expanding the opening of the minimally invasive surgery and causing damage to organs or tissues in the body cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Han-I Huang, Hung-Jen Lin
  • Publication number: 20210361369
    Abstract: A surgical instrument assembly comprises a guide tube and first and second instruments extended within the guide tube. The first instrument comprises a first elongated shaft coupled to a first end effector. The second instrument comprises a second elongated shaft coupled to a second end effector. The surgical instrument assembly may also comprise an imaging assembly extended distally of the guide tube. The imaging assembly comprises a distal imaging component and an elongated imaging shaft. The distal imaging component is coupled to a distal end of the elongated imaging shaft by a pivot joint. The imaging assembly has a first configuration with the elongated imaging shaft aligned with the distal imaging component when inserted through the guide tube and a second configuration with the distal imaging component pivoted out of alignment with the elongated imaging shaft when the distal imaging component is extended from the guide tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Thomas G. Cooper, Eugene F. Duval, David J. Rosa, Matthew R. Williams
  • Publication number: 20210361370
    Abstract: A medical robot of the present disclosure includes: a surgical tool including a treatment portion, and a body including a driven portion configured to transmit a driving force to the treatment portion; and an attachment portion including a transmitting portion configured to transmit the driving force by being engaged with the driven portion, and an attachment surface configured to face the body. The surgical tool includes a surgical-instrument-engagement-part and the attachment portion includes an attachment-portion-engagement-part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2019
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Koki Shindo
  • Publication number: 20210361371
    Abstract: An isolette comprising an array of support structures is provided, covered by sheeting, and a drape. The arrays provide vertical or peripheral wire frame supports which are easily assembled and attached to the flexible sheeting. Access ports allow patient access. A component access panel is provided. The drape includes an optional sealing ring held in position by a strap or medical tape. The access ports can include iris diaphragms, covering flaps, integrated gloves, and removable gloves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Prep Tech, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Mark R. Moore, Peter Prados
  • Publication number: 20210361372
    Abstract: A specimen zone mat that sets a precedent and standard to improve specimen handling and recognition includes: a body portion that is flexible and pliable, and having a first surface made of a writable material such that a user is able to write directly thereon and a second surface opposite to the first surface and made of a non-slip material, in which the body portion is sterile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2019
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Jennifer E. Butch, Kerri A. Wolverton
  • Publication number: 20210361373
    Abstract: A packaging container for a protected instrument (such as a medical device) includes: (a) first and second complementary clam-shell container components; (b) a cradle for seating a protected instrument formed into the interior side the first clam-shell container component, where the cradle is surrounded on at least three sides by weakened lines formed into first clam-shell container component; (c) a pull-tab extending from the exterior side of the first clam-shell container component, where the pull-tab is positioned within the weakened lines; and (d) a protected instrument seated on the cradle. The first and second complementary clam-shell container components are closed together to enclose the cradle and the protected instrument therein, and the first and second complementary clam-shell components are then fixed together about their respective outer peripheral edge surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2020
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Jason Murphy
  • Publication number: 20210361374
    Abstract: A wearable device for human guides (hereafter referred to as “the guide”) and persons in need of person to person contact assistance (herein referred to as “the guide”). Preferably for use within, but not limited to, medical, educational and retail institutions for the disabled and seniors in need of travel assistance from point a to point b. The present invention relates to an apparatus which is worn over the shoulder or across the backside by a person who is a guide and has a handle for grasping by another person who needs to be guided and is connected to a shield betwixt the two devices to serve as a barrier between the two said person there by protecting both parties from cross contamination and body fluids. A device used to deter direct human to human contact and to promote safety and social distancing while traveling in close proximity of one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2020
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Calvette Brown
  • Publication number: 20210361375
    Abstract: A portable protective hood for use during medical procedures to avoid the spreading of aerosolized patient discharges. The protective hood includes an easy to assembly frame having a base plate formed with mounting sockets that can receive the remote ends of plastic ribs that will arch over the base plate. A transparent plastic bag has an elastomeric opening that enables the plastic bag to be placed over the upright ribs and extend down to the base plate. The base plate is shaped to incorporate curved sections that allow the movement of air from the atmosphere into the plastic bag, which is extracted through a connector on the plastic bag for attachment to a vacuum extraction device. The base plate and ribs are formed from a non-porous plastic material that permits cleaning between uses. The base plate and ribs can be placed into a storage configuration when not in operative use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: RHINORHI, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Hartman, Carl Andreas, II, Michael F. Fella
  • Publication number: 20210361376
    Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector configured to clamp tissue, a motor configured to actuate the end effector, and a controller in communication with the motor and configured to determine a stress and strain of the tissue, identify a tissue type of the tissue based on the determined stress and strain of the tissue, and set an operational parameter of the surgical instrument based on the identified tissue type of the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Matthew Eschbach, Robert H. Knapp, Alexander W. Caulk
  • Publication number: 20210361377
    Abstract: Embodiments pertaining to a medical construct are disclosed. The medical construct may include a set screw extending along a longitudinal axis between a proximal portion and a distal portion, for example. In various embodiments, the set screw may have an outside thread form and an interior socket, for example. In various embodiments, the socket may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis and have a circular lower surface, for example. In various embodiments, a first strain gauge, a second strain gauge, a third strain gauge, a fourth strain gauge, and a fifth strain gauge may be provided. In at least some embodiments, each of the first, second, third, and fourth strain gauges may be symmetrically disposed with respect to the lower surface, for example. Additionally, in at least some embodiments, the fifth strain gauge is disposed within a center portion of the lower surface, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Warsaw Orthopedic, Inc.
    Inventors: Newton H Metcalf, Arjun Siby Kurian, Nicholas Benson, Chris E. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20210361378
    Abstract: In one example a method of fracture reduction includes imaging, intraoperatively, a fractured bone of a patient to obtain a first representation of the fractured bone in a computing system. The fractured bone defines at least a first bone fragment, and a second bone fragment that is separated from the first bone fragment by a fracture. The method includes imaging, intraoperatively, a contralateral bone of the patient to obtain a second representation of the contralateral bone in the computing system. The method includes generating, intraoperatively in the computing system, a mirrored representation of the first representation or the second representation. The first representation is compared to a representation of a desired orientation of the fractured bone, where the representation of the desired orientation is the mirrored representation of the second representation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Christopher CAMPBELL, Glen PIERSON, Ross HAMEL
  • Publication number: 20210361379
    Abstract: A stereoscopic imaging apparatus and platform are disclosed. An example stereoscopic imaging apparatus includes a main objective assembly and left and right lens sets defining respective parallel left and right optical paths from light that is received from the main objective assembly of a target surgical site. Each of the left and right lens sets includes a front lens, first and second zoom lenses configured to be movable along the optical path, and a lens barrel configured to receive the light from the second zoom lens. The example stereoscopic imaging apparatus also includes left and right image sensors configured to convert the light after passing through the lens barrel into image data that is indicative of the received light. The example stereoscopic visualization camera further includes a processor configured to convert the image data into stereoscopic video signals or video data for display on a display monitor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Alcon Inc.
    Inventors: Maximiliano Ramirez Luna, Michael Weissman, Thomas Paul Riederer, George Charles Polchin, Ashok Burton Tripathi
  • Publication number: 20210361380
    Abstract: Device 1 for fixation to the skull 2 of a patient that can serve as a fiducial marker in scan guided surgical operations using a surgical instrument. The device 1 comprises a material translucent for the applied electromagnetic waves of the scan and a fiducial marker and where the device 1 comprises means to fixate the device in a well-defined manner to the surgical instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Eindhoven Medical Robotics B.V.
    Inventor: Marc Janssens
  • Publication number: 20210361381
    Abstract: A medical supporting arm control apparatus that includes a memory, and processing circuitry that obtains a current spatial position of an operating point in a multi-link structure configured by coupling a plurality of links by a joint section, by detecting a current rotational angle of the joint section, compares a movable region of the operating point stored in the memory with the obtained current spatial position, the movable region being set in advance, and restricts an operation of the operating point on a basis of a result of the comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Sony Group Corporation
    Inventors: Masaru USUI, Yasuhiro MATSUDA, Jun ARAI
  • Publication number: 20210361382
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for clinicians in a medical environment to remotely assess the status of an asset without physically going to the specific place where the asset is located. By using sensors and special purpose rooms, the methods and systems provide an accurate view of what is going on with the asset. Furthermore, the methods and systems can be extrapolated to a patient's status (knowing if the patient is asleep or awake, or when the patient wakes up post anesthesia—this would imply that the patient wears a tag).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Bogdan R. Nedelcu, Ramy S. Ayoub
  • Publication number: 20210361383
    Abstract: A handling device for a dental tool having a) a body having an elongated shape configured to receive a prying load from an operator; and b) one or more receptacles through the body configured to retain at least a portion of a dental tool and allow an engagement portion of the dental tool to project therefrom substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body; wherein the engagement portion is adapted to contact a portion of a dental covering along only one of a facial side or a lingual side of the dental covering and by being wedged between a gum-line and the dental covering; and wherein the one or more receptacles are configured to transfer the prying load from the body to the engagement portion of the dental tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Sami Maassarani
  • Publication number: 20210361384
    Abstract: An absorbent insert of compressed matrix of absorbent material, including a filler dispersed therein to improve stiffness/rigidity of the insert and controls the absorbency of the compressed absorbent material. The insert is pre-shaped and sized for inserting into a tooth cavity, such as a pulp chamber or a root canal space. The compressed insert expands or swells upon absorbing fluid within the tooth cavity, so as to more completely dry the tooth cavity. The absorbent insert also serves as a substrate of an applicator for medical agent to be applied to a tooth cavity. The absorbent insert is provided (e.g., coated or impregnated) with a medical agent, which medical agent is released into the tooth cavity as the absorbent material absorbs fluid in the tooth cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Nathan Y. LI
  • Publication number: 20210361385
    Abstract: A method is proposed for root treatment of a tooth, by which gutta percha is introduced into the root canal. For this purpose, a gutta percha point (6) is inserted into the root canal and is subjected to pressure and heat by a plugger (5). The gutta percha point (6) is prefabricated with a length that corresponds to the distance of the apex of the root canal from the tip of the plugger (5) inserted as far as possible into the root canal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Peter Wiechmann
  • Publication number: 20210361386
    Abstract: A method and a system for determining a center of resistance point of a tooth for orthodontic treatment planning are provided. The method comprises: obtaining a tooth mesh from image data associated with a tooth crown of a patient; identifying a mesiodistal center of the tooth crown; determining a reference plane in the image data to extend through the mesiodistal center; determining an intersection curve based on an intersection of the reference plane and the tooth mesh, the intersection curve following a shape of the surface of the crown at the reference plane; determining a tooth axis of the tooth crown based on the intersection curve; determining a crown height of the tooth crown based on the tooth axis; and determining the center of resistance of the tooth based on the determined crown height and the determined tooth axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2020
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventor: Islam Khasanovich RASLAMBEKOV
  • Publication number: 20210361387
    Abstract: A method for evaluating an orthodontic appliance. Acquisition of a two-dimensional “appliance image” of teeth at least partially representing the orthodontic appliance in a service position. Acquisition of a two-dimensional “dentition image” of the teeth. If a determination of comparable dental and appliance attributes is not possible from the appliance image and from the dentition image, respectively, conversion of the appliance image and/or of the dentition image so that the appliance image be compatible with the dentition image. Determination of dental and appliance attributes relative to the shape of the tooth represented on the dentition image and relative to the shape of the orthodontic appliance on the appliance image. Comparison of the dental and appliance attributes, followed by determination of at least one score. At least one image is acquired with a mobile phone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Philippe SALAH, Thomas PELLISSARD, Guillaume GHYSELINCK, Laurent DEBRAUX
  • Publication number: 20210361388
    Abstract: Orthodontic positioning devices, and related methods and systems, are disclosed for use with one or more orthodontic elastic members. The disclosed devices are configured to couple with an orthodontic elastic member so as to react a force from the elastic member into the appliance to, for example, generate traction forces on the patient's teeth to produce a desired occlusion. A positioning device includes a patient removable tooth positioning appliance having teeth receiving cavities shaped to receive and apply a resilient positioning force to a patient's teeth. The appliance includes a hook configured to interface with an orthodontic elastic member. The hook can be configured to be offset from a surface of a tooth when the appliance is coupled with the patient's teeth and no elastic member is coupled with the tooth. The hook can be curved so that the hook is more retentive on the aligner. The hook can be reinforced so that the reinforcement resists deformation when the elastic is in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Eric KUO, Artem BOROVINSKIH, Shiva SAMBU
  • Publication number: 20210361389
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods of making a hydrated orthodontic article is provided. One method includes a) providing a photopolymerizable composition; b) selectively curing the photopolymerizable composition using actinic radiation to form an article in the shape of an orthodontic article having a plurality of layers of at least one photopolymerized polymer; and c) exposing the article to water by submersion in water, thereby hydrating the article. A sheet of the at least one photopolymerized polymer has a bending modulus when hydrated of 100 MPa or greater and 2200 MPa or less. Another method includes exposing the orthodontic article to water vapor and hermetically sealing the hydrated orthodontic article in a container. Hydrated orthodontic articles are also provided, including an orthodontic article that is prepared according to one of the methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2019
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Benjamin C. Mac Murray, Saswata Chakraborty, John M. Riedesel, Thomas P. Klun, Chad M. Amb, Karl J.L. Geisler, Zeba Parkar, Adrian S. Eckert, Mark T. Gibson, Tianyu Wu
  • Publication number: 20210361390
    Abstract: An orthodontic expansion screw has two bodies, the mutual distance of which can be changed by a spindle. The spindle has an actuating part with a threaded part engaged in a threaded bore of one of the two bodies. A straight-line guiding means engage both bodies and prevent a relative rotation of the bodies and prevent inadvertent rotation of the spindle. The threaded part of the spindle has one recess. The inner surface of the threaded bore of the body in which the threaded part is inserted has a projection, which is directed against the at least one threaded part and, in a position of the spindle in which it faces the flattened portion or recess, touches the threaded part on the flattened portion or in the recess, whereas in positions of the spindle in which it does not face a flattened portion or recess, presses against the threaded part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Bernhard Foerster GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Regelmann
  • Publication number: 20210361391
    Abstract: Methods and devices utilizing a dental appliance for dental retainer wire attachment are disclosed. One such wire attachment appliance includes a shell having one or more cavities formed therein and shaped to receive one or more teeth, at least two wire attachment members provided on the shell, and at least one attachment material reservoir provided on the shell, wherein the attachment material is provided to attach a wire to a tooth adjacent to a particular reservoir of the at least one attachment material reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Douglas Brandt, Rick M. Matty
  • Publication number: 20210361392
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an implant surface modification treatment device including an internal electrode having a barrel-shaped structure and a surface on which a plurality of transmission parts are formed, an ultraviolet (UV) discharge vessel having a barrel-shaped structure that accommodates the internal electrode and has a gas-filled area filled with a discharge gas that serves as a UV light source, and an external electrode accommodating the UV discharge vessel inside thereof, wherein an implant fixture is placed inside the internal electrode to perform surface modification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2018
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Inventors: Yoon Gwan JU, Byung No CHOI, Geon Rae KIM, Jae Hee JUNG