Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are disclosed for applying laser energy having desired pulse characteristics, including a sufficiently short duration and/or a sufficiently high energy for the photomechanical treatment of skin pigmentations and pigmented lesions, both naturally-occurring (e.g., birthmarks), as well as artificial (e.g., tattoos). The laser energy may be generated with an apparatus having a resonator with the capability of switching between a modelocked pulse operating mode and an amplification operating mode. The operating modes are carried out through the application of a time-dependent bias voltage, having waveforms as described herein, to an electro-optical device positioned along the optical axis of the resonator.

Abstract: An electronic device is provided processor configured to: receive a biological signal of a user; detect whether the electronic device is attached to or detached from the user based on at least the biological signal; and control an I/O device operationally connected to the electronic device based on whether the electronic device is attached to or detached from the user.

Abstract: An ultrasound probe (104) includes a probe head (134). The probe head includes a transducer array (136) with a transducing surface (137), an instrument guide (142), and a light source (140). A method includes emitting a light beam, from a light source disposed on and adjacent to a transducer array of an ultrasound imaging probe, in a direction opposite of a transducing surface of the transducer array, at an inside wall of a cavity of a subject or object. A laparoscopic ultrasound imaging probe includes a shaft, a body, an articulating member that couples the probe head, and a handle coupled to the elongate shaft. The articulating probe head includes a transducer array that generates an ultrasound signal that traverses an image plane of the transducer array, an instrument guide, and a light source arranged to emit light in a direction opposite of the image plane.

Abstract: Devices and methods for affixing reinforcing material to a fascial incision in an abdominal wall to reinforce and augment closures thereof. The device includes first and second arms, each having a proximal end and a distal end extending away from a housing with a length therebetween. The distal end of the first arm is spaced from the distal end of the second arm such that the first and second arms are engageable with reinforcing material on opposing sides of a fascial incision. One or more fixation elements are deployable from the distal end of at least one of the first and second arms to affix the reinforcing material on opposing sides of the fascial incision.

Abstract: A magnetic field applicator (1, 55) that has a ramped signal curve for the coil currents (10, 37, 44, 49) that are used, comprised of low frequency base pulses (10, 37) of the coil current with ramp-shaped rising amplitudes, which are active during a defined treatment period (1), which are a component of the pulse packets (44) composed of the base pulses (10, 37), the envelopes (17, 17a, 17b) of which, described by the amplitudes of the base pulses (10, 37) are likewise ramp-shaped, wherein the envelopes (17a, 17b, 17c) of which form the amplitudes of the base pulses (10, 37) of a rising curve segment (57) starting from close to zero, which rises until approximately the midpoint of a treatment period (11) and subsequently forms a constant curve segment (58) corresponding to a maximum current strength, until the end of the treatment period (11) (FIGS. 13-15).

Abstract: The present invention provides, inter alia, methods, apparatus, and systems useful for ameliorating impulse control disorders known to be extremely disabling and common to many neurological and psychiatric conditions using closed-loop (responsive) neuro stimulation.

Abstract: A system and method of confirming administration of medication is provided. The method comprises the steps of receiving information identifying a particular medication prescription regimen, determining one or more procedures for administering such prescription regimen and identifying one or more activity sequences associated with such procedures. Activity sequences of actual administration of such prescription regimen are captured and then compared to the identified activity sequences to determine differences therebetween. A notice is provided if differences are determined.

Abstract: A system for extracting lens material from an eye including an instrument having a first aspiration pump driven by a drive mechanism having a motor, and an elongate member sized and configured to extend through an anterior chamber to a capsular bag of the eye. The elongate member configured to be oscillated by the drive mechanism includes an inner lumen fluidly coupled to the first aspiration pump and defining at least a portion of an aspiration waste line, and an open distal end having a distal cutting tip. The system can further include a fluid system remote from the surgical instrument including a second aspiration pump and a fluid line configured to deliver background aspiration from the second aspiration pump to the inner lumen of the elongate member to aspirate the lens material from the eye towards the inner lumen. Related devices, systems, and methods are also provided.

Abstract: Described herein is an intramedullary femoral nail implant. The implant can be more easily converted to a load bearing hip replacement. Fixation of the intramedullary nail may be enhanced by injection of cement. Disclosed devices may be preferable to other types of intramedullary nails at the time of the first procedure given their characteristics of improved fixation, stability, and flexibility for potential conversion via a less complex operation.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods that can apply low level light (LLL) to facilitate platelet biogenesis or extend platelet lifespan. While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that LLL can enhance the ATP synthesis by the mitochondria within platelets and/or platelet precursor cells, which, thereby, helps to enhance platelet biogenesis and extend the platelet lifespan. In some instances, LLL can facilitate in vitro and/or in vivo platelet biogenesis. In other instances, LLL can extend platelet lifespan in circulation. In still other instances, LLL can be employed to prolong the shelf-life of stored platelets.

Abstract: A valve prosthesis and methods for implanting the prosthesis are provided. The prosthesis generally includes a self-expanding frame and two or more engagement arms. A valve prosthesis is sutured to the self-expanding frame. Each engagement arm corresponds to a native mitral valve leaflet. At least one engagement arm immobilizes the native leaflets, and holds the native leaflets close to the main frame. The prosthetic mitral valve frame also includes two or more anchor attachment points. Each anchor attachment point is attached to one or more anchors that help attach the valve prosthesis to the heart.

Abstract: A focused ultrasonic transducer includes a piezoelectric substrate having a first face and a second face, a back metal layer disposed over the first face, and a patterned metal layer disposed over the second face. The patterned metal layer includes a first plurality of concentric ring electrodes wherein each of the first plurality of concentric ring electrodes are wired to be individually accessible. A controller actuates a subset of the concentric ring electrodes such that electrical control of focal length is achieved by selecting a group of electrodes to actuate so that acoustic waves generated from selected electrodes arrive at a desired focal length in-phase and interfere constructively to create a focal spot of high acoustic intensity. The patterned metal layer optionally includes a first central electrode that is surrounded by the first plurality of concentric ring electrodes.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for modulating the growth, development and repair of bone, cartilage or other connective tissue. Devices and stimulus waveforms are provided to differentially modulate the behavior of osteoblasts, chondrocytes and other connective tissue cells to promote proliferation, differentiation, matrix formation or mineralization for in vitro or in vivo applications. Continuous-mode and pulse-burst-mode stimulation of cells with charge-balanced signals may be used. Bone, cartilage and other connective tissue growth is stimulated in part by nitric oxide release through electrical stimulation and may be modulated through co-administration of NO donors and NO synthase inhibitors. Bone, cartilage and other connective tissue growth is stimulated in part by release of BMP-2 and BMP-7 in response to electrical stimulation to promote differentiation of cells.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure disclose a system for delivering a medication. In one aspect, the disclosure is directed to a medical dispensing device that includes a label with a series of zones of varying widths, with each of the zones corresponding to a pre-determined volumetric dose of a drug that is correlated to a physical characteristic of a patient. In one specific example, the label is further affixed to the medical dispensing device such that a smallest dose of the drug to be administered corresponds to a first zone that is proximate an opening through which the drug is to be dispensed.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treating tissue are disclosed. The target tissue is ablated. A real-time image of the target tissue is generated during the ablation. The real-time blood perfusion level of the target tissue is determined from the real-time image and compared to an initial blood perfusion level of the target tissue. The comparison provides a metric for the progress of the ablation, and ablation is halted when the real-time blood perfusion drops below a threshold level relative to the initial blood perfusion level.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for safely forming anastomoses comprise magnetic members configured to accommodate different tissue types and patients of differing size and weight. The magnetic members may comprise first and second magnetic members configured to engage each other with a force sufficient to form anastomosis while taking a sufficiently long time to allow the intestinal walls to fuse together. The first and second magnetic members can be configured to form anastomoses between both similar and different types of intestinal tissue. An elongate surgical placement instrument can be configured to engage and manipulate the first and second magnet members through the intestinal wall from outside the intestinal wall in order to place each of the magnetic members at desired locations.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a composition for inhibiting thrombosis. The composition includes 5 to 25% by weight of Fish Oil, 15 to 55% by weight of Willow Bark Extract, and 0.2 to 5% by weight of Vitamin E.

Abstract: This invention generally provides two tactile stimulation modules, or “tappers”. One tapper is held by a person in each of his hands. Alternatively, a tapper is secured to each wrist or to other parts of the body on opposite sides. Each tapper is powered by a rechargeable battery, and contains both a tactile stimulation transducer, such as an electric motor having either a balanced or unbalanced mass on its output shaft, and a transceiver that communicates with a host or master. Each tapper includes at least one control button and a status indicator. Each tapper contains a micro-controller that performs tasks such as communication, motor activation, user monitoring and control, battery monitoring, low-power sleep, and algorithm execution. At least one tapper can contain at least one optional sensor, which measures a physiological function. Measurements can be used to modify performance of the tactile stimulation transducers.

Abstract: A method of analysing an aqueous fluid comprising obtaining a 2D-IR spectrum of a sample of the aqueous fluid using a 2D-IR spectrometer configured to apply a sequence of IR pulses to the sample, wherein the sequence comprises a pump process followed by a probe pulse, where the pump process is a single pump pulse or a sequence of a first pump pulse and a second pump pulse, and a waiting time Tw between applying the single pump pulse or the second pump pulse and applying the probe pulse is from 150 to 350 fs.

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 an energy delivery device).

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, are provided for processing analyte data. In some example implementations, a method may include generating glucose sensor data indicative of a host's glucose concentration using a glucose sensor; calculating a glycemic variability index (GVI) value based on the glucose sensor data; and providing output to a user responsive to the calculated glycemic variability index value. The GVI may be a ratio of a length of a line representative of the sensor data and an ideal length of the line. Related systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for controlling a powered surgical stapler that includes an end effector with jaws that are movable between an open and a closed position and a firing member that is movable between a starting position and an ending position within the end effector. The jaws and firing member are controlled by separate rotary systems and the end effector includes a firing member lockout system that prevents axial movement of the firing member unless the surgical staple cartridge is in ready to fire condition.

Abstract: An implantable, modular spine stabilization system that allows for multi-level treatment of the spine by providing either rigid fixation or dynamic stabilization at different levels to be treated is provided. This modular spine stabilization system may be configured to span multiple spine levels, and have a curvature that closely matches the curvature of the spine over those multiple levels to be treated. Further, the modular spine stabilization system allows adjustment of the curvature of the overall system such that the system may be adapted for a patient for a customized fit. Instruments are also provided for the assembly and/or implantation of the modular spine stabilization system. The associated instruments may include instruments for adjusting the curvature of the system to the patient, and for implanting the curved system into the patient. The instruments may be configured for implantation of the system in a minimally invasive surgery.

Abstract: A self-contained, battery powered transseptal crossing system is disclosed. An elongate, flexible electrically conductive needle body has a proximal end and a distal end. An insulation layer surrounds the sidewall and leaves exposed a distal electrode tip. A generator is configured to deliver RF energy to the electrode tip, and includes a processor configured to take impedance measurements at the tip to confirm contact with the intra atrial septum and/or confirm entry into the left atrium.

Abstract: A staple cartridge comprising a cartridge deck, a longitudinal slot defined within the staple cartridge, staple cavities defined in the deck, and a tissue thickness compensator is disclosed. The tissue thickness compensator comprises lumens. Each of the lumens comprise a cross-section and are formed by a tubular element. The lumens are laterally-oriented and spaced on the cartridge deck along the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. Each lumen extends across the width of the staple cartridge such that each lumen overlaps a plurality of the staple cavities and the longitudinal slot. The lumens are configured to collapse when pressure is applied to the lumens during a firing motion.

Abstract: A method for preventing wrong-patient errors includes receiving a selection of a current imaging subject. The current imaging subject is selected for a current image acquisition session comprising capturing one or more current images of the current imaging subject utilizing at least a first image sensor system of a first imaging modality. The method includes accessing one or more previous images of a previous imaging subject. The one or more previous images depict the previous imaging subject according to at least a second imaging modality that is different from the first imaging modality. The method includes presenting the one or more previous images on a display system and, in response to determining that the previous imaging subject matches the current imaging subject based upon the one or more previous images, performing the current image acquisition session.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring and managing a remote infusion regimen where a prescribed infusion regimen is provided and compared to subsequent infusion event data to determine if the data falls within predetermined parameters. If the data does not fall within predetermined parameters a monitoring technician, supportive caregiver, patient or some combination thereof are immediately notified so that corrective action may be taken.

Abstract: A needle electrode deployment shaft includes a central member and a plurality of needle electrodes. The central member has a plurality of needle advancement channels formed therein. The needle electrodes are disposed within the advancement channels and each advancement channel terminates in a ramp portion which deflects the needles radially outwardly as they are axially advanced. The ramps may be spirally or acutely configured in order to increase the distance through which the needles may be bent as they are axially advanced. Additionally, the central member may have a radially reduced distal tip in order to decrease tissue insertion forces.

Abstract: A hair implant includes: (a) a hair strand anchor including: an anchor body; at least one hair chamber disposed within the anchor body; and at least one tunnel through the anchor body, where the tunnel is free of a hair; and (b) at least one hair strand having a portion thereof retained in the at least one of the hair chamber; wherein the tunnel is configured to support collagen ligature growth after subcutaneous implantation by receiving and retaining collagen ligatures that anchor the hair implant to a hair implant recipient. Also disclosed is a hair implant including an anchor with first and second anchor bodies and at least one bridge connecting the anchor bodies and bridging at least one void between the anchor bodies, wherein the bridge supports and retains collagen ligature growth. One-piece implants are also disclosed, as are anchors, hair restoration and manufacturing methods.

Abstract: Disclosed are lenses and methods for verifying a lens with an induced aperture. The lenses can have a geometry that, among other things, maintains a centered position about a wearer's eye to prevent more than a permissible amount of movement of the lens relative to the eye. Further disclosed is a method for verifying the power profiles used with the lens, and a lens that can have a single power profile for a wide range of presbyopia.

Abstract: A surgical tool for use with a drill bit to prevent skiving at an implant insertion site on a bone includes a cannulated sleeve having a distal end defining a burr surface. The distal end may be detachable from a body of the cannulated sleeve. The tool may be used with more than one distal end, each of the distal ends defining a burr surface having a different cutting surface from the others. The tool may form a system that includes the drill bit.

Abstract: A method of delivering a substance, such as one or more of a triptan, a nasal steroid or carbon dioxide gas, to the nasal cavity of a subject, in particular for the treatment of headaches, for example, migraine, or rhinosinusitis, for example, chronic rhinosinusitis, optionally with polyps, the method comprising the steps of fitting a nosepiece to one nostril of the subject, delivering the substance through the nosepiece to the posterior region of the nasal cavity of the subject.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a reduced Larsen Effect electrode. Specifically, the disclosure relates to an electrode with an insulation-coated electrode wire coaxially surrounded over a substantial portion thereof, by predetermined assembly of alternating rigid and isolating layers.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system for delivery of therapeutic energy. The system includes an energy unit configured to convert the acoustic energy signals transmitted to therapeutic ultrasound directed to fragment tumors and carcinogenic tissue in the body. The system also includes an energy unit configured to convert the acoustic energy signal transmitted from the energy unit to ultrasonic energy to image and monitor the treatment site with ultrasound. The system also includes a control unit including a computer for data storage and display.

Abstract: First data comprising a first range of audio frequencies is received. The first range of audio frequencies corresponds to a predetermined cochlear region of a listener. Second data comprising a second range of audio frequencies is also received. Third data comprising a first modulated range of audio frequencies is acquired. The third data is acquired by modulating the first range of audio frequencies according to a stimulation protocol that is configured to provide neural stimulation of a brain of the listener. The second data and the third data are arranged to generate an audio composition from the second data and the third data.

Abstract: A method and an system for vaccinating a mammalian subject. The method includes the steps of: arranging a source of electromagnetic radiation proximate to a target zone of skin of the mammalian subject; controlling the source of electromagnetic radiation to deliver a dose of electromagnetic radiation to the target zone determined to create one or more thermally-denatured zones in the target zone; and intradermally injecting a vaccine within the target zone to vaccinate the mammalian subject. The system for vaccinating a subject may include an electromagnetic radiation source configured to be arranged proximate to a target zone on an exterior of the subject; a user control configured to selectively cause the electromagnetic radiation source to deliver a dose of electromagnetic radiation toward the target zone to create one or more thermally-denatured zones in the target zone; and a vaccine-delivery system configured to deliver a vaccine to the target zone.

Abstract: A surgical system includes a robot main body, a slave controller, a display device that displays an endoscopic image, and an manipulation input device. The robot main body includes an entry guide having a plurality of guide bores, an entry guide support device that supports the entry guide, an instrument manipulator that has a surgical instrument provided at a distal end and is inserted into the entry guide, and an endoscope manipulator that has an endoscopic camera provided at a distal end and is inserted into the entry guide. The slave controller operates the robot main body such that the surgical instrument advances from an exit of the entry guide after the endoscopic camera advances from the exit of the entry guide and starts capturing in response to input of a body cavity insertion manipulation received by the manipulation input device.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to medical devices, systems, and methods for use in surgery. In particular, the disclosed system and methods relate to an intervertebral spinal implant sized and dimensioned for the lumbar spine implantable via a posterior approach. The system includes an implant, instruments for delivering the implant.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the treatment, management and/or control of pain, in particular pain associated with, or caused or contributed to by, certain dermatological conditions.

Abstract: A flow reducing implant for reducing blood flow in a blood vessel having a cross sectional dimension, the flow reducing implant comprising a hollow element adapted for placement in the blood vessel defining a flow passage therethrough, said flow passage comprising at least two sections, one with a larger diameter and one with a smaller diameter, wherein said smaller diameter is smaller than a cross section of the blood vessel. A plurality of tabs anchor, generally parallel to the blood vessel wall, are provided in some embodiments of the invention.

Abstract: To efficiently assess, prioritize, and re-assess individuals respectively for intervention OR for ongoing programs/activities OR for personalized rehabilitation or training activities: A Computerized Interactive Psychological Assessment Protocol including the steps of: using a predetermined interactive media, interfacing with a client, (A) accepting some predetermined goal-relevant self-assessment responses from the client, regarding the client's respective motivation, belief, know-how, state-of-mind, activity, etc.

Abstract: Injection systems comprising a powered injector and one or more hazardous agents are disclosed.

Abstract: A stent graft for treating an arterial aneurysm includes a ligature traversing at least a portion of struts of stents, the ligature having ends that, when linked, at least partially constrict a radial dimension of the stents. The ends of the ligature can be linked by a wire in a stent graft delivery system that threads anchor loops longitudinally spanning ends of the ligature to maintain the stent in a radially constricted position during delivery to the aneurysm. The stent graft can be implanted at the aneurysm by retracting the wire from the linked ends of the ligature and from the anchor loops, thereby releasing the associated stent from the radially constricted position.

Abstract: Improved formulations for topical treatment that ensure at least localized transdermal or systemic delivery of an active agent through skin, nails or hair follicles are disclosed.

Abstract: An estimate of a functional capacity such as VO2Max is made by applying the vital signs of a monitored human to a trained encoding neural network producing a cardio profile vector. The vector is applied to a trained functional capacity (VO2Max) neural network to estimate the functional capacity. Once estimated, an action is taken.

Abstract: A system for delivering a vascular implant into a body lumen including a vascular implant having a first engagement portion at a proximal portion and an elongated delivery member having a second engagement portion at a distal portion releasably engageable with the first engagement portion. An elongated member extends through the delivery member wherein in the extended position the elongated member extends into at least a portion of the implant to prevent release of the implant from the delivery member and in the retracted position the elongated member enables release of the implant from the delivery member.

Abstract: A nerve stimulation system including a stimulation probe including a handle and a stimulation head at an end of the handle; a reference electrode; and a control system in communication with the stimulation probe and the reference electrode, the control system configured to generate an electrical stimulation signal that, when delivered to a skin surface of a patient using the stimulation probe, induces an activation potential in a plurality of nociceptors while remaining below a threshold that induces a muscle contractile response.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a therapeutic agent delivery device with anti-roll features. In one embodiment, a therapeutic agent delivery device may include a tubular body including a first end portion, a second end portion, and a lumen extending between the first end portion and the second portion. An outer surface of the tubular body includes a first opening in communication with the lumen. The outer surface of the tubular body further may include a ledge extending around a periphery of the first opening, and a portion of the ledge closest to the second end portion of the tubular body may be shaped as an arrowhead. The therapeutic agent delivery device also may include a cap configured to engage the second end portion of the tubular body, which may include a curved sidewall extending radially outward. The curved sidewall may include a protrusion.

Abstract: An instrument and method for tissue thermotherapy including an inductive heating means to generate a vapor phase media that is used for interstitial, intraluminal, intracavity or topical tissue treatment. In one method, the vapor phase media is propagated from a probe outlet to provide a controlled vapor-to-liquid phase change in an interface with tissue to thereby apply ablative thermal energy delivery.

Abstract: A bone graft containment device includes a body formed via one or more helical structures extending about a longitudinal axis of the body from a first end to a second end to define a channel extending longitudinally therethrough. The channel is configured to receive a bone graft or bone graft substitute material therein, the one or more helical structures formed of a material permitting the body to be one of expanded, compressed and curved to fill a target space of a target bone.