Abstract: A nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment includes a scintillator configured to emit self-radiation, storage, and processing circuitry. The storage stores first detection efficiency correction data that is generated based on an external radiation source or a simulation and first detection efficiency data per scintillator that is calculated based on radiation that is emitted from the scintillator. The processing circuitry calculates second detection efficiency data per scintillator that is calculated based on radiation that is emitted from the scintillator and generates second detection efficiency correction data based on the first detection efficiency correction data, the first detection efficiency data, and the second detection efficiency data.

Abstract: A radiation shield assembly is described, configured to block radiation emanating from a radiation source from reaching a user. Two shields are supported by a support arm, and are configured to rotate and translate relative to one another about the support arm's longitudinal axis. This allows the shield to be easily configured and reconfigured as necessary to visualize various parts of a patient's body via radiography.

Abstract: A computer-implemented tumor position determining model is trained, based on a plurality of sets of image data, to determine a subsequent position of a tumor in a subject based on a subsequent 2D or 3D representation of a surface of the subject, an initial image of the tumor in the subject and an initial 2D or 3D representation of a surface of the subject. Each set of image data comprises an initial training image of a tumor in a subject, an initial training 2D or 3D representation of a surface of the subject, a subsequent training image of the tumor in the subject and a subsequent training 2D or 3D representation of a surface of the subject. The subsequent training image and the subsequent training 2D or 3D representation are taken at a subsequent point in time than the initial training image and the initial training 2D or 3D representation and the plurality of sets of image data are from a plurality of different subjects.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) imaging system and methods of operating the system to minimize the degradation of projection images by metal in a scanned object. The methods determine the location of metal in the scanned object by making an initial low dose scan and then, using information obtained from the low dose scan, perform a second scan that may be used to create a reconstruction with reduced artifacts. The methods also calculate X-ray source and detector scan trajectories which minimize reconstruction artifacts and optimize image quality, especially when a region-of-interest is near metal in the scanned object. Additionally, the methods of the present invention calculate X-ray source and detector scan trajectories that maximize the angular range of X-rays which pass through the region-of-interest that are not blocked by metal in the scanned object.

Abstract: A medical imaging device includes an x-ray source disposed at a first end of an arm, and an x-ray detector disposed at a second end of the arm opposite of the x-ray source. At least one of the x-ray source, the x-ray detector, and a portion of the arm are selectively adjustable with respect to the arm.

Abstract: A system can have an x-ray source that generates a series of individual x-ray pulses for multi-energy imaging. A first x-ray pulse can have a first energy level and a subsequent second x-ray pulse in the series can have a second energy level different from the first energy level. An x-ray imager can receive the x-rays from the x-ray source and can detect the received x-rays for image generation. A generator interface box (GIB) controls the x-ray source to provide the series of individual x-ray pulses and synchronizes detection by the x-ray imager with generation of the individual x-ray pulses. The GIB can control x-ray pulse generation and synchronization to optimize image generation while minimizing unnecessary x-ray irradiation.

Abstract: An X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus includes first slide mechanism is disposed at a lower end of a support column, and a second slide mechanism is disposed at an upper end of the support column. When an operation unit has received an instruction, a controller performs a first mode in which the X-ray generator is moved in the predetermined direction by operating the second slide mechanism to move an X-ray support arm in the predetermined direction with respect to the upper end of the support column. Thereafter, the controller performs a second mode of operating the first slide mechanism to move the lower end of the support column at a predetermined first speed in the predetermined direction with respect to a support column support arm, while operating the second slide mechanism to move the X-ray support arm at a second speed smaller than the first speed in an opposite direction.

Abstract: A method and system for producing tomosynthetic images of a patient's breast. An x-ray source that delivers x-rays through a breast immobilized and compressed between a compression paddle and a breast platform and form an image at a digital x-ray receptor panel. Multiple x-ray images are taken as the x-ray source and the receptor move relative to the immobilized breast. In one preferred embodiment, the x-ray source travels from ?15° to +15°. The source can travel in an arc around the breast while the receptor travels linearly while remaining parallel and at the same distance from the breast platform. The sets of x-ray image data taken at different angles are combined to form tomosynthetic images that can be viewed in different formats, alone or as an adjunct to conventional mammograms.

Abstract: An auxiliary device attachable to a mammography machine having an X-ray source and an X-ray receptor having a receptor area. The auxiliary device includes a housing having a length, width, and thickness, wherein the length and width of the housing are adapted to a length and width of the receptor area. The auxiliary device further includes one or more attachments for attaching the auxiliary device to the mammography machine, and a detector inside the housing. The detector includes a slab of semiconductor material, an electrode on a first side of the slab, and a pixelated electrode detector on the second side of the slab, and a read-out circuit bonded to the pixelated electrode detector, and the read-out circuit being configured for spectral photon counting with two or more energy bins. Methods for medical imaging are also provided.

Abstract: A medical image-processing apparatus according to embodiments includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to acquire image data including a blood vessel of a subject. The processing circuitry is configured to acquire an index value relating to blood flow at each position of the blood vessel by performing fluid analysis of a structure of the blood vessel included in the acquired image data. The processing circuitry is configured to acquire information indicating a display condition of the index value, as switching information to switch a display mode at displaying the index value. The processing circuitry is configured to generate a result image in which pixel values reflecting the index value are assigned in a display mode according to the switching information, for an image indicating a blood vessel of the subject. The processing circuitry is configured to cause a display to display the result image.

Abstract: A method for imaging may include directing a PET scanner to perform scans of a subject injected with a tracer during a first time period. The method may also include generating PET images by reconstructing the PET data that are generated by the PET scanner based on the scans of the subject. The method may also include determining a first portion of a blood input function of the tracer in the subject based on the PET images. The method may also include determining an integral of a second portion of the blood input function based on a kinetic model, the PET data, and the first portion of the blood input function. The method may also include determining kinetic parameters of the kinetic model based on the PET data, the first portion of the blood input function, and the integral of the second portion of the blood input function.

Abstract: A device (10) for controlling an image acquisition of a multi-slice computed tomography system (1), MSCT, is disclosed. The device comprises an input (11) for receiving projection image data from the MSCT (1), an output (12) for controlling operation of the MSCT (1) and a processor (13). The processor (13) is adapted for controlling the MSCT to acquire a large volume localizer radiograph, and for defining an organ region in the localizer radiograph that delimits an organ of interest. The processor is adapted for acquiring a large volume helical CT scan of the subject, in which an X-ray cone angle is increased when the organ region in the subject is translated into the examination volume and decreased when the organ region is translated out of the examination volume.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stethoscope digital adapter configured to enhance usability of an acoustic stethoscope. The stethoscope digital adapter may include a body comprising an exterior shell configured to form an interior space. Further, the body may include a microphone disposed in the interior space. Further, the microphone may be configured to convert an acoustic wave into an electrical sound signal. Further, the body may include an electrical interconnect electrically coupled to the microphone. Further, the electrical interconnect may be configured to be electrically coupled with an external electronic device configured to process the electrical sound signal. Further, the body may include a conduit attached to the exterior shell. Further, the stethoscope digital adapter may include a fastener attached to the body.

Abstract: A method to measure sound-producing behaviors of a subject with a power- and bandwidth-limited electronic device that includes a processor includes measuring, by a microphone communicatively coupled to the processor, sound in a vicinity of the subject to generate an audio data signal that represents the sound. The method also includes measuring, by at least one second sensor communicatively coupled to the processor, at least one parameter other than sound to generate at least a second data signal that represents the at least one parameter other than sound. The method also includes detecting one or more sound-producing behaviors of the subject based on: both the audio data signal and the second data signal; or information derived from both the audio data signal and the second data signal.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are dynamically adjusting ultrasound-imaging systems and methods thereof. For example, an ultrasound-imaging system can include an ultrasound probe, a console, and a display screen. The ultrasound probe includes an array of ultrasonic transducers that, when activated, emit generated ultrasound signals into a patient, receive reflected ultrasound signals from the patient, and convert the reflected ultrasound signals into corresponding electrical signals for processing into ultrasound images. The console is configured to execute instructions for dynamically adjusting a distance of activated ultrasonic transducers from a predefined target or area, an orientation of the activated ultrasonic transducers to the predefined target or area, or both the distance and the orientation of the activated ultrasonic transducers with respect to the predefined target or area.

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

Abstract: Systems and methods can include a system for positioning an ultrasound probe proximal to anatomy of a patient on a radiation couch including a substantially planar base including engagement features to directly or indirectly index the substantially planar base to the radiation couch and a centrally located guide extending longitudinally along a top side of the base, a probe holder, configured to be coupled to, to translate longitudinally, and to be user-accessed and user-controlled from within, a central region of the substantially planar base, a clamp, configured to localize the probe holder at a specified location along a translation path in the central region of the substantially planar base, leg supports shaped to accommodate a patient's legs from behind, the pair of leg supports being shaped and arranged to provide a space therebetween that can accommodate an ultrasound probe holder.

Abstract: Provided is an ultrasonography system capable of suppressing image quality deterioration of an ultrasound image and achieving reduction in diameter of an ultrasound endoscope. An ultrasonography system includes an ultrasound transducer array in which a plurality of ultrasound transducers are arranged, a cable that is connected to the plurality of ultrasound transducers, the cable having a non-coaxial cable that includes a first cable bundle consisting of a plurality of signal wires and a plurality of ground wires, and a first shield layer with which the first cable bundle is coated, and an outer coat with which a second cable bundle consisting of a plurality of the non-coaxial cables is coated, a memory that stores static capacitance data indicating static capacitance of each signal wire included in the first cable bundle, and a processor that periodically corrects transmission and reception sensitivity of each ultrasound transducer based on the static capacitance data stored in the memory.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are ultrasound probes, ultrasound systems, and ultrasound methods with pressure measurement capabilities for detecting and determining if bodily tissue is over-compressed during ultrasound imaging procedure. For example, an ultrasound probe can include a probe body, an articulating probe head attached to the probe body, and a pressure-sensing device housed in an articulating area between the articulating probe head and the probe body. In another example, a method of the ultrasound probe includes placing the articulating probe head of the ultrasound probe on a skin surface of a patient and moving the articulating probe head of the ultrasound probe over the patient while ultrasound signals are emitted into the patient from the articulating probe head for ultrasound imaging. The method also includes monitoring for any measured pressure values induced on the patient by the articulating probe head of the ultrasound probe in excess of a threshold pressure value.

Abstract: Two-dimensional transducers arrays for ultrasound imaging is disclosed. The two-dimensional arrays are suitable for formation of two-dimensional (2D) and/or three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound images. The two-dimensional arrays are suitable for real-time 2D and/or 3D ultrasound imaging. The bowtie transducer arrays and the rectangular transducer arrays are suitable for real-time 2D and/or 3D ultrasound imaging.

Abstract: A system and method for adapting user interface elements based on real-time anatomical structure recognition in acquired ultrasound image views is provided. The method includes acquiring, by an ultrasound system, an ultrasound image view. The method includes automatically detecting, by at least one processor of the ultrasound system, a target view from a set of target views. The target view corresponds with the ultrasound image view. The method includes automatically determining, by the at least one processor, one or both of a presence or absence of a plurality of anatomical features associated with the target view in the ultrasound image view. The method includes presenting, by the at least one processor, at least one user interface element indicating the one or both of the presence or absence of each of the plurality of anatomical features at a display system.

Abstract: Systems and methods for visualizing microbubbles for contrast-enhanced imaging are described herein. Microbubbles may be visualized by multi-pixel spots by identifying and localizing individual microbubbles. Motion compensation may be provided for localized microbubbles or for contrast images prior to microbubble identification and localization. Users may determine the size of the multi-pixel spot by adjusting a filter, for example, adjusting a threshold value of the filter. Altering the size of the multi-pixel spot may alter the resolution. As the number of pixels increases, the resolution decreases, but the acquisition time may also decrease. As the number of pixels decreases, the resolution increases, but the acquisition time may increase.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes ultrasound systems configured to perform microbubble-based contrast imaging with enhanced sensitivity. The systems can enhance echo signals derived from microbubbles while suppressing echo signals derived from tissue by detecting phase shifts exhibited by microbubbles in resonance. To detect the phase shifts, and thereby distinguish between microbubble-based signals and tissue-based signals, the systems can transmit a series of ultrasound pulses into a target region in accordance with a predefined sequence. The sequence can include an initiation pulse configured to stimulate microbubbles into nonlinear oscillation, a detection pulse configured to detect the nonlinear oscillation, and a summation pulse formed by transmitting an initiation pulse and detection pulse with a small time delay therebetween.

Abstract: Disclosed are an ultrasound imaging system for analysis of a body composition and an operation method of an ultrasound imaging system which is designed for analysis of a body composition. An ultrasound imaging system may include: a scan device into which an object is insertable; an ultrasonic probe connected to a part of the scan device; a controller configured to control the ultrasonic probe to emit a transmission ultrasonic signal to the object at multiple positions at the scan device, and receive a reflection ultrasonic signal reflected from the object; and an image processor configured to generate multiple 2D ultrasound images based on reflection ultrasonic signals received at the multiple positions at the scan device, respectively, and generate a 3D ultrasound image based on the multiple 2D ultrasound images.

Abstract: An ultrasound control unit (12) is for configuring visualization of ultrasound data using in use a display unit. The control unit is adapted to acquire ultrasound image data and to automatically control visualization of the most relevant parts and views the data, based on current levels of a number of different monitored physiological parameters. In particular, responsively to one of the physiological parameters entering or leaving a pre-defined range of values (e.g. representative of an alert or normal condition respective for the patient), the control unit determines a most appropriate anatomical region within the image data for representing the changed physiological parameter, and a most useful visualization mode (e.g. view) for presenting or showing that anatomical region within the image data. One or more display frames are generated which show the anatomical region visualized in accordance with the selected visualization mode.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes imaging systems configured to generate index information to indicate which image frames in a plurality of image frames include one or more target anatomical features, such as a head or femur of a fetus. The confidence levels of the presence of the target anatomical features are also determined. The system may be configured to determine if the target anatomical feature is present in an image frame by implementing at least one neural network. Merit levels based on the quality of the image frames may also be determined. Measurements of the one or more items of interest may be acquired. Visual representations (500) of the index information (502), confidence levels, merit levels, and/or measurements may be provided via a user interface. A user interface may receive user inputs based on the visual representations to navigate to specific image frames (508) of the plurality of image frames.

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving the quality of ultrasound images made up of a combination of multiple sub-images include giving more weight to sub-image information that is more likely to improve a combined image quality. Weighting factor information may be determined from the geometry (e.g., angle or path length) of a location of one or more specific transducer elements relative to a specific point within a region of interest or a region of an image. In some embodiments, any given pixel (or other discrete region of an image) may be formed by combining received echo data in a manner that gives more weight to data that is likely to improve image quality, and/or discounting or ignoring data that is likely to detract from image quality (e.g., by introducing noise or by increasing point spread).

Abstract: Provided is an ultrasound endoscope capable of preventing a non-coaxial cable from being disconnected and improving a degree of freedom of wirings. An ultrasound endoscope includes a first cable that electrically connects a substrate electrically connected to a plurality of ultrasound transducers and a relay substrate, the first cable includes a plurality of first non-coaxial cables, a plurality of first electrical bonded portions are formed by signal wires of a first cable bundle of the first non-coaxial cables and electrode pads of the substrate, a plurality of second electrical bonded portions are formed by the signal wires of the first cable bundle and first cable-side electrode pads of the relay substrate, and a plurality of first electrical bonded portions and a plurality of second electrical bonded portions are collectively disposed for each first cable bundle.

Abstract: The device and method for calculating and displaying to a user a predicted fertility window, start and end date, and conception planning guide for the user is presented. The device and method include a vaginal sensor device having a plurality of sensors to collect measurements related to vaginal and cervical parameters that are important to the conception cycle. The device and method are customized for an individual user through the input by a user of menstrual cycle timing and duration, ovulation data, temperature data, and other data that are personal to the user. The system utilizes all collected sensor measurements, input user data, and historical data to provide a predicted fertility window, including predicted start and end dates, for the user.

Abstract: A sample collection device for collecting a fluid sample is provided. The device includes a sample collection chamber, for collecting a sample therein, having a first end and a second end and a sample collection conduit, for conveying a sample from a user into the sample collection chamber. The sample collection conduit includes an inlet for receiving a sample and wherein in at least a first position the sample collection conduit extends from within the sample collection chamber out through the first end such that at least the inlet is outside of the sample collection chamber. The device further includes a plunger configured to expel the sample out of the sample collection chamber through the second end of the sample collection chamber.

Abstract: The invention relates to cell sampling devices. In particular, the present invention relates to ingestible cell sampling devices for sampling cells in a subject, and methods of use for detecting abnormalities in a subject using the same. Provided herein is technology for neoplasia screening, and particularly, but not exclusively, to methods, compositions, and related uses for detecting the presence of cancer.

Abstract: A surgical treatment apparatus comprises a waterjet configured to fragment tissue and provide intact cells such as stem cells with the fragmented tissue. The intact cells can be used in one or more of many ways such as for genetic or other testing. In many embodiments, the intact cells comprise stem cells. In many embodiments, a waterjet is configured to fragment tissue. The fragmented tissue can be collected with a filter having pores sized smaller than the tissue fragments. In many embodiments cavitation with a waterjet is used to fragment the tissue comprising the intact stem cells. The waterjet may comprise a waterjet immersed in a liquid comprising water so as to form a plurality of shedding pulses. The plurality of shedding pulses can be generated with a frequency sufficient to fragment the tissue. The shedding pulses can generate cavitations that fragment the tissue.

Abstract: The biopsy device (1) has a biopsy needle (3) including an outer cutting needle (4) and an inner sample needle (5) with a tissue compartment (6) and is adapted to, during each sampling operation, displace the outer cutting needle and the inner sample needle between open and closed positions of the tissue compartment. The biopsy device includes a vacuum source and a valve system (8) adapted to provide a pressure decrease in the tissue compartment at each sampling operation. The vacuum source has the form of at least one initially pre-evacuated vacuum container (91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96), and the biopsy device is adapted to, by means of the initial vacuum of the at least one initially pre-evacuated vacuum container, provide a pressure decrease in the tissue compartment of the inner sample needle at each one of a limited number of consecutive sampling operations.

Abstract: A marker delivery device includes an outer cannula, an inner cannula assembly, and a push rod. The outer cannula defines a longitudinal axis and includes an outer lumen. The outer lumen extends distally along the longitudinal axis from a handle to an open outer cannula distal end. The inner cannula assembly includes an inner cannula and a grip. The inner cannula is disposed within the outer lumen and extends distally along the longitudinal axis from the grip to an open distal end. The inner cannula has a resilient portion located proximate the open distal end. The resilient portion is configured to move between a stressed configuration when engaged with the outer cannula and a relaxed configuration when disengaged with the outer cannula. The push rod is disposed within an inner lumen of the inner cannula and is configured to deploy a marker through the open distal end.

Abstract: An endoscope puncture needle including a tubular portion that includes first and second needle tip portions at a distal end thereof. The first needle tip portion includes a first needle tip at a distal end, and first and second blade surfaces extending towards the first needle tip. The second needle tip portion includes a second needle tip at a distal end, and third and fourth blade surfaces extending towards the second needle tip. The first blade surface and the third blade surface face in directions approaching each other, and the second blade surface and the fourth blade surface face in directions approaching each other.

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: A double-bending flexible surgical tool system includes a mechanical arm including a first continuum segment, a rigid connection segment, a second continuum segment, and a third continuum segment. The first continuum segment and the second continuum segment are associated to form a first dual continuum mechanism. A proximal continuum segment disposed at a proximal end of the first continuum segment and associated with the third continuum segment disposed at a distal end of the second continuum segment form a second dual continuum mechanism. A transmission driving unit associated with the rigid connection segment and the proximal continuum segment, respectively, is configured to drive the first continuum segment to bend in any direction to drive the second continuum segment to bend in an opposite direction, and to drive the proximal continuum segment to bend in any direction to drive the third continuum segment to bend in an opposite direction.

Abstract: A specimen retrieval device includes an elongated shaft assembly having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. An end effector is supported on the distal end portion of the elongated shaft assembly and includes a first arm and a second arm. The first arm includes a first distal finger and the second arm includes a second distal finger. The first and second fingers are configured to selectively engage one another to support a collection bag on the first and second arms.

Abstract: A method of closing an opening in a tissue comprises providing a light absorbing material, introducing the light absorbing material into a tissue opening, and irradiating the light absorbing material with at least one light source so as to increase a temperature of the light absorbing material, causing the tissue edges of the tissue opening adhere to the light absorbing material and/or to each other. A kit comprising a light absorbing material and a light emitting device is also described.

Abstract: A procedure for manufacturing an undershirt provided with a trunk, two sleeves, and a collar, includes providing a circular knitting machine using seamless technology; constructing a first tubular fabric element using said machine, where said first tubular element comprises a front side, a rear side, an upper edge, and a lower edge; drawing cutting lines on said first tubular element, during construction; cutting said first tubular element along said cutting lines to separate portions of fabric of said first tubular element to create flaps of fabric belonging to the front side and to the rear side of the first tubular element; and joining with stitches the flaps of said portions of fabric obtained with said cutting lines to create at least the two sleeves and the trunk of said undershirt from said first tubular element.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for dilating and/or expanding the iris of a patient's eye during eye surgery is disclosed, comprising an elastomeric ring made from biocompatible material having a groove formed therein for receiving and protecting the pupillary rim and iris, whereby, when the ring is inserted into the pupil of an eye of a patient, it mechanically dilates the pupil.

Abstract: A tissue anchor (20, 70, 120, 220, 270, 320, 420, 520A, 520B, 620) is provided that includes a metal wire (22, 122, 222, 322, 422, 622) shaped so as to define a straight anchor-shaft portion (26, 276) and a tissue-coupling portion (31, 131, 231, 331, 431, 631) extending therefrom.

Abstract: Methods for the treatment of a ligament injury include the insertion of at least one suture anchor into a bone opening and anchoring the at least one suture anchor and thereafter threading two ends of a suture of at least one anchored suture anchor through the ligament and pulling the ligament to the bone with the opening and fixing the ligament to that bone by tying a knot in the suture.

Abstract: The present invention in the area of medical devices, for prostate and urethral surgery, namely providing anastomosis between the bladder and the urethra of a patient. It is an object of the invention a surgical needle guiding rod (1), which his solid and comprises a proximal portion (2) and a distal portion (3), a first opening (11) and a second opening (12) being formed in the surface of the distal portion (3) thereby forming a channel (4) through the solid rod (1) between the two openings, the channel (4) being such that it allows a surgical needle to pass by entering the one of the two openings and exiting the other opening. The rod (1) of the present invention thus is solid, only requiring the channel (4) between the two openings formed in the distal portion (3) to provide for suturing of urethral-bladder tissues and thereby facilitating the anastomosis procedure.

Abstract: A multiple-firing clip device includes a hollow shaft defining a lateral opening communicating with an environment and a distal shaft portion between the lateral opening and a distal end opening. A shuttle longitudinally moves on the shaft and comprises a shuttle body defining a lumen surrounding the shaft, a snare, and a snare-extender slide defining a snare track to form a snare travel path in which the snare is disposed from the body and through the track and a portion of the body. The slide moves along a given extent defining a slide distance and a distal end and movement of the slide to the distal end shortens the snare travel path to extend the snare portion through the lateral opening, through the distal shaft portion, and distally out from a distal side of the body longer than the given extent to secure a suture with the snare.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use with a tissue anchor and an anchor driver. The apparatus includes a housing, shaped to define a channel. The channel includes (i) an anchor-storage zone, and (ii) a proximal opening configured to provide access for the anchor driver to the anchor-storage zone. The channel is configured to enable sliding of the tissue anchor therewithin to be stored in the anchor-storage zone. The apparatus also includes a retaining member, shaped to define a cradle for cradling and holding the tissue anchor in the anchor-storage zone. The retaining member includes a pillar pivotable with respect to the cradle, and configured to support the tissue anchor at the cradle. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Disclosed is a suturing needle having a tapered transition portion extending from a proximal end of the needle to cover at least a portion of a suture thread swaged on the needle. The tapered transition portion is flexible and provides a smooth transition from a diameter of the suture thread to a diameter of the needle body. The tapered transition portion allows for engaging the suture needle on rollers of a rotational needle driver in one smooth motion.

Abstract: A tool comprises an articulation mechanism comprising a pair of links. The pair of links include a proximal link on a proximal portion of the tool and a distal link on a distal portion of the tool. Movement of the proximal link causes corresponding relative movement of the distal link. The tool further includes an end effector coupled to the distal link, an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis between the proximal and distal links, and a rotating member operably coupled to the shaft. The tool further includes an articulation lock adjustable between a locked configuration in which the proximal link, the distal link, and the end effector are held la a fixed orientation with respect to the shaft while the rotating member is operable to rotate the shaft about the longitudinal axis and an unlocked configuration in which the end effector is movable with respect to the shaft.

Abstract: A staple housing includes an array of staples each in a staple delivery position or “ready position” ready to be fired into target tissue. A staple driver is advanceable to drive the ready-position staples from the staple head into the tissue using staple pushers. During use, the staples in the ready positions are simultaneously fired into the target tissue using the staple pushers, forming an array of staples in the target tissue. After the array has been fired, one or more feed mechanisms within the staple housing advance a second group of staples from one or more staple storage locations into the ready positions in preparation for firing of the second group of staples.

Abstract: A tissue displacing and fastening device is provided for manipulating and fastening tissue together. The device includes a tissue displacing elements, which displaces tissue. A fold is formed from the displaced tissue and the tissue is fastened together to secure the fold.