Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe, a plurality of detectors, a measurer, and processing circuitry. The ultrasonic probe includes the plurality of transducers, and is configured to transmit an ultrasonic signal to a subject through each of the transducers, and receive, through each of the transducers, a reflected wave signal obtained when the transmitted ultrasonic signal has been reflected from an inside of a body of the subject and returned. Each of the plurality of detectors respectively corresponds to transducers and are configured to detect a reflected wave signal received by the corresponding transducer. The measurer configured to measures a reflected wave signal having an amplitude greater than an amplitude at which at least one of the detectors is saturated when determining a gain of the at least one of the plurality of detectors.

Abstract: A head stabilization device having the form of a skull clamp includes a first pin assembly and a second pin assembly. The pin assemblies are positioned opposite each other, and the first pin assembly has a first pin while the second pin assembly has a pair of pins. The pins used with the skull clamp are non-uniform. In this respect skull clamp can apply an equal force to a head of a patient from both sides. Additionally, the pressure at each pin location can be the same or substantially the same. This allows each of the pins to have the same or similar bone penetration when in use stabilizing the head of the patient.

Abstract: Embodiments of claimed subject matter are directed to an illuminating surgical device comprising a single control element to control an array of illuminating elements and an array of louvers to direct light from the individual illuminating elements toward a surgical field.

Abstract: Disclosed is an immersive, augmented reality-based, enabling technology for tele-collaboration between a local surgeon and a remote surgeon during an MIS. The technology would provide realistic visual-cues to the local surgeon for the required movement of an actuated, high degree-of-freedom surgical tool during an MIS.

Abstract: A medical instrument display includes an image storage that stores a plurality of image data of a medical instrument, a data analyzer that searches a plurality of image data stored in the image storage on a certain condition, and a display controller that causes a display to display a first medical instrument image that has been selected from thumbnail images, the thumbnail images being based on a plurality of the image data obtained by the search, and a second medical instrument image in good order, the second medical instrument image being different from the first medical instrument image.

Abstract: New and innovative systems and methods for registration degradation correction for surgical procedures are disclosed. An example system includes a surgical marking pen including a first trackable target and a registration plate including a second trackable target. The system also includes a navigation camera and a processor configured to perform a pen registration that determines a transformation between a tip of the surgical marking pen and the first trackable target when the tip of the surgical marking pen is placed on the registration plate. The pen registration enables the processor to record virtual marks at locations of the pen tip that correspond to physical marks drawn by the pen. Locations of the virtual marks are later compared to images of the physical marks to correct any registration degradation by moving a surgical camera or robotic arm connected to the surgical camera.

Abstract: A medical positioning apparatus including a telescopic member extending between first and second ends and having an adjustable length; a support member for receiving an object; a base member securable to a base; a first joint mechanism movably securing the support member to the first end of the telescopic member; a second joint mechanism including a housing with a top portion directly rotationally connected to the second end of the telescopic member, and at least one side portion directly rotationally connected to the base member and movably securing the base member to the second end of the telescopic member, a locking device operatively connected to the first and second joint mechanisms and the telescopic member, the locking device operable between a locked position and a released position; and a lock activation device to unlock the locking device biased in the locked position.

Abstract: A washing appliance for efficient and through cleaning of medical devices and methods of using the appliance are disclosed. The appliance can clean exteriors of medical devices, and lumens of devices comprising a lumen such as cathlab devices.

Abstract: A guided dental implant shield having an implant connector piece where the implant is positioned and an inner shield where the implant connector piece is placed in such a way to grasp the implant, an outer shield with monolithic structure which moves by sliding on the inner shield and guides it at an angle inside the cavity opening to the jawbone, and which has an angled part at its lower end, and a cap which is positioned under the outer shield in such a way to isolate the implant inside the shields.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an illuminating instrument (1) for diagnostics, therapy or surgery of a body part, comprising: at least one optical fiber (4) for transmitting electromagnetic radiation directly from an electromagnetic radiation source (3) to the body part; and a housing (5) which supports the optical fiber (4); the optical axis of the light-output end of the optical fiber (4) circumferentially extends in an illumination portion (52a) in the housing (5) which is annular shaped and arranged to face the body part; the optical fiber (4) in the illumination portion (52a) has one or more diffusing regions (4a) for difusing the electromagnetic radiation to the outside of the optical fiber (4) through the circumferential surface (4b) thereof, a coupling device (2) which supports the electromagnetic radiation source (3) for generating the electromagnetic radiation, characterized by further comprising: a conversion means (6) which is supported by the housing (5) without directly contacting the electrom

Abstract: The invention concerns a supra structure abutment holder for holding an arrangement of supra structure 16 and abutment 14, with a clamping device 12 for the arrangement, and is characterized in that clamping device 12 is adjustable in its height relative to an auxiliary device 26, in particular via threads.

Abstract: A smart oral cleaner includes a tooth-cleaning component, the tooth-cleaning component includes a first wall body and a second wall body, a hollow structure is formed between the first wall body and the second wall body, the second wall body is recessed towards the first wall body, the second wall body has a first wall surface and a second wall surface arranged opposite to one another, the first wall surface and the second wall surface are provided with jet holes, the second wall body has a shape adapted to a shape of a tooth, and an end surface of the tooth-cleaning component is in a shape of a slope-shaped depression.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a suction tool that can connect to a suction hose for sucking substances from an oral cavity during a rubber dam isolated endodontic procedure. The suction tool includes a body having an inlet for connecting with a suction hose. A suction window can be configured in the body, wherein the suction window is in fluid communication with the suction inlet. Substances that are used during a dental procedure, such as cooling water can be sucked through the suction window. The suction tool further includes a magnet configured on the body of the suction tool and adapted to magnetically couple with the clamp of the rubber dam.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for holding a medical device within reach of a dentist during a dental procedure, the dental device comprising a clamp portion configured to attach a medical device, the clamp portion having a proximal end and a distal end; and a hook portion coupled to the distal end of the clamp portion, the hook portion configured to engage with a supporting structure. In one implementation, the medical device is a suction hose, and the supporting structure is a dental dam.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a method for providing a personal toothbrushing challenge via an application of an electronic device. A user interface displays to a user of an electronic device, via a user interface, challenge parameters for creating a personal toothbrushing challenge, the challenge parameters including a type of challenge and a challenge period. The user interface receives from the user a parameter selection for each of the challenge parameters, each combination of parameter selections having a corresponding brushing expectation and point value. The electronic device receives brushing data from a user toothbrush indicative of user brushing activity, and determines, based on the brushing data, whether the user satisfied the brushing expectation corresponding with the combination of parameter selections. Upon determining that the user satisfied the brushing expectation, the user interface displays that the corresponding point value has been awarded to the user.

Abstract: A connecting element, a base unit and a cleaning head for use in an oral care appliance are disclosed. The connecting element is configured to engage operatively with the cleaning head and the base unit to form a first connection and a second connection respectively.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush replacement head device includes: a toothbrush replacement head. The toothbrush replacement head includes: a toothbrush handle and a toothbrush head, a bottom of the toothbrush handle defines a bottom hole, the toothbrush head includes: a brush component, and the brush component includes: bristles. The toothbrush handle is provided with a hollow fixing column therein, which is located at a lower end of the toothbrush handle, a middle part of the fixing column is provided with an elastic sheet, and a bottom of the fixing column defines a mounting hole. A new type of the electric toothbrush replacement head device with a simpler structure, more flexible assembly and disassembly, more convenient use, better teeth cleaning effect, and stronger stability is provided.

Abstract: A disappearing tooth container is disclosed, including a container having an upper container component and a lower container component. The container is dimensioned to receive an item and a prize. An upper container insert is applied to the upper container component to form a hidden compartment to store the prize. A lower container insert is applied to the lower container component, the lower container insert includes a hollow concavity to retain the item to permit the surreptitious exchange of the item and the prize.

Abstract: A handpiece having a root canal length measurement function according to an exemplary embodiment may include: an angle having a portion made of a diffusion material for diffusing LED light from the LED light source, the portion including one side provided with a root canal treatment file for removing dental pulp inside the root canal and for expanding the root canal; a lip hook provided such that same can be cradled on the subject's lips; a body portion electrically connected to the file through a first terminal connector, into which a first terminal provided on the other side of the angle is to be inserted, and electrically connected to the lip hook through a second terminal connector, into which a second terminal of the lip hook is to be inserted; and an LED light source for emitting LED light from one end of the body portion.

Abstract: The invention provides a dental milling tool for milling dental materials in the making of dental prostheses. The dental milling tool is a ball-nose end mill having three helical flutes, each flute being associated with a cutting edge, each cutting edge having chip breakers along the curved edges of the ball. The dental milling tool may be formed from a hard material such as carbide based material, ceramic, cermet, superhard materials including polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and cubic boron nitride (CBN), and diamond composite. Alternatively, the dental milling tool may be coated with a hard coating such as diamond coating, diamond-like-carbon (DLC), nitride based coating such as titanium aluminium nitride (TiAlN), aluminium titanium nitride, (AlTiN), and titanium nitride (TiN), and ceramic coating.

Abstract: A bite block with inclined surfaces fits between a patient's upper and lower jaws to hold them apart and fixes the bite block position relative to the jaws. A support plate slides relative to the bite block to position a needle guide on the support plate along an axis of the support plate. A position stop on the support plate contacts the anterior border of the Ramus of the patient's mandible to position the needle guide along the axis. A syringe needle is guided by the needle guide to a predetermined location to administer anesthetic, preferably to the inferior alveolar nerve as it enters the mandible. The needle guide is inclined to avoid gaging and a tongue depressor attached to the support plate positions the patient's tongue.

Abstract: Provided herein are methods and apparatuses for recommending tooth leveling (e.g., one or more of anterior leveling, posterior leveling, and arch-shape recommendations) for orthodontic devices and methods for patients. Factors involved in the leveling of teeth can include symmetry, doctor preferences, preferences regarding gender, the country in which the patient is being treated, and other issues related to the aesthetics of the mouth and arch shape. The device can comprise an aligner configured to fit over a patient's teeth. Methods of designing and manufacturing aligners based on leveling recommendations are also provided.

Abstract: Embodiments include receiving image data comprising contours of teeth of an individual and generating a new image based on the image data and one or more parametric functions associated with tooth color that comprise a first variable for a first image axis and a second variable for a second image axis, wherein a shape of the teeth in the new image is based on the image data and a color of the teeth in the new image is based on applying the one or more parametric functions to at least a portion of the image data.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a mouthpiece includes manufacturing the mouthpiece that is to be placed within an oral cavity to cover teeth by an additive manufacturing device and laminating hardened layers not to form an annular lamination trace in a buccal portion that covers a buccal surface of a front tooth.

Abstract: Embedded sensors and onboard or off-board processing in an aligner case can detect aligner material and/or quality. Material detection can be used for counterfeit detection, or to trigger material specific events. Quality detection can include detection of common aligner failures or defects. A case for a dental appliance may include a tray for supporting the dental appliance, a cover coupled to the tray, and at least one sensor to detect a deformation of the dental appliance. A case for a dental appliance may include a tray for housing the dental appliance, a cover coupled to the tray, and at least one sensor configured to detect a change in material of the dental appliance.

Abstract: A bracket system for orthodontic appliances including a bracket combinatorial library having a plurality of brackets each interchangeably fixedly mountable to each of a plurality of teeth within a dentition group in a dental arch, whereby the plurality of brackets can be configured to provide incremental variation in tipping force moments, in-out force moments, and torqueing force moments over the entire useful range of orthodontic mechanics, allowing an orthodontic practitioner to prescribe a combination of tipping force moments, in-out force moments, and torqueing force moments unique for each tooth in relation to the plurality of teeth of a patient.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket and archform system that uses friction-free mechanics are disclosed. The archform can have a male fastener that can be retained within an orthodontic bracket. The orthodontic bracket can have varying locking mechanism, such as deflectable tabs, springs, locking pins, and others, that can cooperate with features of the male fastener to prevent sliding between the archform and the bracket.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a three-dimensional intraoral scanner which, in particular, includes: a case which may be drawn in and out of the oral cavity, and has an opening for introducing, into the case, via an end part thereof, the appearance of the oral cavity (hereinafter, image) in the form of light; at least one camera arranged inside the case, and allowing the light introduced via the opening of the case to pass; a light projector which is arranged on one side of the at least one camera and which radiates light into the oral cavity via the opening; an optical element provided to be rotatable while tilting so as to reflect or bend the path of the light from the at least one camera and the light projector from inside the case; and a light path change unit for moving the optical element so as to be adjustable. Therefore, the three-dimensional intraoral scanner may easily obtain image data for the entire oral cavity of a patient.

Abstract: Sound attenuation devices are provided that may be temporarily worn in a person's ear. The devices generally include a first flange that is configured to be disposed in a person's ear; a second flange that is positioned proximate to the first flange and is also configured to be disposed in the person's ear (with the second flange having a proximate end that exhibits an oblong perimeter); and a cylindrical shaft extending from an interior portion of the second flange. The shaft includes an integrally connected pull tab; it extends beyond the proximate end of the second flange; and the shaft includes an integrally formed reinforcing member that spans an exterior side of the shaft and at least a portion of the pull tab. The devices further include a sound filter disposed within an internal cavity of the shaft.

Abstract: The present invention relates to wound dressings. In particular, the invention relates to antimicrobial wound dressings, methods of making the same and uses of the same. The wound dressing of the present invention comprises a wound contact layer and an absorption layer, wherein the wound contact layer comprises at least one antimicrobial agent and wherein the wound contact layer is compressed and/or wherein the wound contact layer has a density of greater than 0.06 g/cm3. The wound dressing of the present invention provides an absorbent, conformable and anti-microbial medical device that may be used in a variety of medical situations, including post and/or pre-operative.

Abstract: Devices and methods that utilize an occlusive dressing in combination with a topical pharmaceutical agent to enhance vaccine efficacy are described. The occlusive dressing delivers a defined dose of a topical pharmaceutical agent that enhances immune system reactivity to a vaccine to the site of vaccination, and provides a barrier that maintains a layer of the topical pharmaceutical agent on the skin for a desired period to time while also providing a port through which an immunizing composition can be administered. In some embodiments the occlusive dressing includes a wound dressing for covering the injection site following vaccination.

Abstract: A wound dressing according to certain embodiments includes an adhesive layer for adhering the wound dressing adjacent to a wound, a wound contact layer for contacting the wound, a backing layer comprising a port, a tube having a first end connected with the port and an opposite second end, a first fitting connected to the second end of the tube, the first fitting configured for connection with a second fitting of the negative pressure wound therapy system to apply a negative pressure via the port, and a filter disposed within the first fitting. In certain embodiments, the filter is formed of polyethersulfone (PESU) and has an average pore size of at least 2 microns.

Abstract: [Object] To provide a method for producing an absorbent article comprising a fiber assembly layer of a cellulose acetate fiber, which can sufficiently apply a drug to the cellulose acetate fiber. [Solution] The present invention provides a method for producing an absorbent article, wherein the absorbent article comprises: a fiber assembly layer including a cellulose acetate fiber, and a member including a water absorbent fiber and directly disposed on the fiber assembly layer, the method comprises: a first step of opening a cellulose acetate tow and collecting a cellulose acetate fiber to form a fiber assembly layer; a second step of spreading a drug aqueous solution on the fiber assembly layer; and a third step of mounting the member on the surface where the drug aqueous solution has been spread of the fiber assembly layer, and the drug aqueous solution contains an antibacterial agent and/or a deodorizer, and a surfactant.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article comprising a first waist region, a second waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first waist region and second waist region; a first waist edge and a second waist edge; and a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge; the disposable absorbent article comprising a waistband and a leg gasketing system, wherein the waistband has a first gather count and the leg gasketing system has a second gather count such that the ratio of the first gather count to the second gather count is from about 0.75 to about 1.25.

Abstract: A system of pantiliners and menstrual pads that can be used to alleviate undesirable conditions associated with dysmenorrhea or other physiological conditions is provided. The pantiliners of the invention include a top layer of composite material, a ventilation layer, and a bottom layer of breathable material. The menstrual pads of the invention include a top layer of composite material, an air-laid layer, a layer of super adsorbent polymer inside the air-laid layer, a ventilation layer, and a bottom layer of breathable material. The present system of pantiliners and menstrual pads is helpful in providing a decrease of pain and other unwanted symptoms during a menstrual cycle. In another advantage, the right placement guide and the left placement guide are provided to assist in placing the menstrual pads of the invention accurately in relation to the undergarment of the user.

Abstract: A package of one or more absorbent articles is described. The package includes a package material having natural fibers and a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel. The package is sealed such that the one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein. The package material exhibits a water vapor transmission rate under stress conditions “SCWVTR” in accordance with ASTM F1249, as modified herein, which is about 300 g/(m2*day) or less. The package material is recyclable, and wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles includes super absorbent polymer (SAP) in an amount of greater than about 5 grams per article.

Abstract: An absorbent article has a first waist region, a second waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first and second waist regions; and a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The article also includes a primary fastening system and secondary fastening system. The primary fastening system has a primary fastening component disposed in the second waist region and a primary receiving component disposed in the first waist region and operatively engageable with the primary fastening component. The secondary fastening system includes a secondary fastening component disposed in the first waist region and a secondary receiving component disposed in the second waist region and operatively engageable with the secondary fastening component. The article further includes a graphic at least partially overlapping the secondary fastening component.

Abstract: In a particular embodiment, the present disclosure provides a prosthetic valve delivery assembly that includes a storage tube and a nose cone cap. A prosthetic valve having a frame is at least partially disposed within the storage tube. A nose cone is disposed about an elongated shaft. The nose cone cap and the storage tube have mating first and second locking member that can be coupled to selectively secure the nose cone cap to the storage tube.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating obesity and reflux disease of an obese patient has a volume filling device to be invaginated by a stomach wall portion with the outer surface of the volume filling device resting against the stomach wall, such that the volume of the food cavity is reduced in size by a volume substantially exceeding the volume of the volume filling device. An implantable movement restriction device to be invaginated by the stomach fundus wall has an outer surface to be rested against the stomach wall in a position between the patient's diaphragm and the lower part of the invaginated stomach fundus wall, such that movement of the cardiac notch of the patient's stomach towards the patient's diaphragm is restricted, to thereby prevent the cardia from sliding through the patient's diaphragm opening into the patient's thorax.

Abstract: Stents are disclosed herein. The stents described herein can comprise a hollow cylindrical body in which a middle region extends to a first end and also extends to an opposing second end. The first end and the second end can each comprise a plurality of flanges, within which the flanges can have either similar or different characteristics, particularly physical profiles.

Abstract: An artificial bladder is provided, including: a main body which includes an inlet port, an outlet port, an inner wall that forms a first reservoir portion configured to store urine between the inlet port and the outlet port and that is expandable and contractible. An outer wall forms a second reservoir portion configured to surround at least a partial region of the inner wall. A sensor is attached to the inner wall, has a surface having a wrinkled structure, and is provided so that, when the volume of the first reservoir portion increases, the wrinkled structure stretches out and resistance of the sensor changes. A control unit is provided to discharge the urine in the first reservoir portion through the outlet port according to a result detected by the sensor.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for the delivery of an implant into the prostatic urethra. Embodiments of delivery systems can include a delivery device for insertion into the patient and a proximal control device for use in controlling release of the implant from the delivery device.

Abstract: A device for treating disease along a main vessel and at least one branch vessel extending from the main vessel includes a branch member for deployment in the branch vessel, the branch member having a branch lumen; and a main body for deployment in the main vessel. The main body has a generally tubular wall extending generally longitudinally between opposite first and second ends. The wall has an internal surface defining a main lumen and an opposite outer surface. The wall has a recessed portion that is recessed relative to the outer surface of the wall and positioned between the first and second ends of the main body. The main body has an opening formed in the recessed portion of the wall for receiving the branch member therethrough such that the branch lumen is in fluid communication with the main lumen.

Abstract: Intraocular lenses and related assemblies and intraocular attachment methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an intraocular lens assembly comprises a helical-shaped coil fastener to affix an intraocular lens to an iris to correct for astigmatism, presbyopia, and/or myopia or hyperopia. The helical-shaped coil fastener comprises a head and a helical wire extending from a bottom surface of the head and comprising a pointed tip opposite the head. The helical-shaped coil fastener is configured to be affixed to the iris by rotatable penetration of the iris, and thus can be removed from the iris by reverse rotation of the helical-shaped coil fastener. The helical-shaped coil fastener has a low volume, large surface area, low cross-sectional area of penetration, and an oblique angle of penetration. Thus, the helical-shaped coil fastener is easy to apply, easy to remove, minimizes tissue damage, maximizes stability, and minimizes penetration force.

Abstract: Methods and systems wherein laser induced refractive index changes by focused femtosecond laser pulses in optical polymeric materials or optical tissues is performed to address various types of vision correction.

Abstract: Disclosed is an accommodating intraocular lens device for treatment of an eye including a stabilization haptic (120) configured to be positioned within a region of an eye and a lens body having a sealed chamber containing a fixed volume of optical fluid. The lens body includes a shape changing membrane (145) configured to outwardly bow in a region surrounding the optical axis of the eye; a shape deformation membrane configured to undergo displacement relative to the first shape changing membrane; and a static element (150). An inner surface of the shape changing membrane, an inner surface of the shape deformation membrane and an inner surface of the static element collectively form the sealed chamber. The lens device also includes a force translation arm (115) having a first end configured to contact an outer surface of the shape deformation membrane of the lens body and a second end configured to engage a ciliary structure of the eye.

Abstract: An intraocular lens comprising an optic and four haptics extending from the optic, each haptic having a proximal end meeting with the optic at differing points about a periphery of the optic. The four haptics are arranged into a first pair comprising two arcuate haptics with curvature orientated toward each other such that a distal end of each of the two haptics of the first pair are in nearer relation than their proximal ends; and, a second pair comprising two arcuate haptics with curvature orientated toward each other such that a distal end of each of the two haptics of the second pair are in nearer relation than their proximal end.

Abstract: An implantable device is disclosed. The device includes a leaflet frame subcomponent and an anchor frame subcomponent that are configured to be delivered in a series configuration and subsequently nested or telescoped in-situ.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve, comprising (a) a stent body including a generally tubular annulus region having a tubular wall and a proximal-to-distal axis, the stent body having a radially expanded condition when the stent body is implanted, (b) one or more prosthetic valve elements mounted to the stent body and operative to allow blood flow in a distal direction through the annulus region but to substantially block blood flow in a proximal direction through the annulus region, (c) a cuff coupled to the stent body, and (d) a water-absorbing polymer coupled to the cuff.

Abstract: A prosthetic valve includes a tubular portion coupled to an upstream support portion, and ventricular legs. The prosthetic valve is transitionable from a compressed state into a partially-expanded state in which (1) a downstream surface of the support portion defines (i) an annular concave region extending radially between a concave-region inner radius and a concave-region outer radius, and (ii) an annular convex region, radially outward from the annular concave region, extending radially between a convex-region inner radius and a convex-region outer radius, and (2) the tip of each leg is disposed radially between the concave-region inner radius and the concave-region outer radius. In a fully-expanded state each leg's tip is disposed radially between the convex-region inner radius and the convex-region outer radius. Other embodiments are also described.