Abstract: A laparoscopic trainer platform assembly includes: a training platform; a base, configured to accommodate at least one target array; the target array including a planar surface upon which are disposed a plurality of protruding targets oriented at various angles on the base; a left side support for supporting the training platform on the base; and a right side support for supporting the training platform on the base.

Abstract: A portable, folding-laptop style endotrainer including: a base defining a work area for endotraining; a camera for viewing said work area; one or both of i) a display screen for displaying an image from said camera said display screen being attached to said base; and ii) a wireless or wired link coupled to said camera for connecting said camera to a display screen; and a fold-up endotraining dashboard, said endotraining dashboard having at least one portal to enable access of a surgical instrument to said work area; and wherein said endotrainer has two configurations, a first, folded configuration in which said endotrainer is folded substantially flat and a second, operational configuration in which said display screen, if present, is unfolded to a viewing position for an operator of said endotrainer and in which said endotraining dashboard is unfolded such that it is displaced away from said base for endotraining.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides a method wherein a simulation system having a simulator, a processor, and at least one display is assembled. This includes assembling a birthing mannequin and a mobile cart having at least one touch-screen monitor, wherein the birthing mannequin includes a means for shaking to simulate a generalized seizure. The simulation system is provided along with documentation to a plurality of medical facilities within a system. Training on use of the simulator, different simulations, and criteria for grading performance on the simulations is also provided. The training includes team training for conducting the simulations using the simulation system.

Abstract: Provided is an injection simulation system and method. The system includes a syringe comprising an injection needle, a haptic unit which measures an insertion angle and insertion depth of the injection needle, and which comprises a motor unit that is driven by a haptic force corresponding to the measured insertion angle and insertion depth. The system also includes a control unit which calculates the haptic force corresponding to the insertion angle and the insertion depth, and transmits the calculated haptic force to the motor unit of the haptic unit.

Abstract: Techniques for delivering medical care include receiving normal data that indicates normal conditions in a patient. Abnormality data is received and indicates an abnormal condition, if any, in a patient. An instance of a virtual patient is generated based on the normal data and the abnormality data. The instance includes a physiological component that describes a sufficiently comprehensive physical state of a patient having the abnormal condition to simulate clinical measurements of the patient's condition. The instance also includes a cognitive component that describes a patient's awareness of symptoms, history of behavior and ability to convey information in response to queries. Action data is received from a trainee. Response data is generated based on the action data and the instance. Display data is presented based on the response data, and indicates information about the instance available as a result of the requested action.

Abstract: A portable metronome is provided for assisting medical resuscitations, including cardiopulmonary and cardiocerebral resuscitations. The metronome includes a user interface having a plurality of criteria selection buttons, which when selected, can alter the resuscitation sequence to be generated. Resuscitation sequence prompts can include both audible and visual prompts. The sequence generation is at least in part based upon medically accepted resuscitation guidelines.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture may provide for improved health care compliance. Embodiments may comprise, for example, identifying an occurrence of an event associated with the taking of a substance by a patient, determining output information associated with a game, and providing the output information to the patient. Some embodiments may comprise receiving a code associated with a patient, wherein the code includes encoded information that is indicative of an occurrence of an event associated with the taking of a substance by a patient, decoding the code to determine the information, determining whether the occurrence of the event is compliant with a condition associated with the taking of the substance, and providing, in the case that compliance with the condition is determined, one or more rewards to the patient.

Abstract: Systems and methods for medical tool auto-capture are described. One described system for simulation of a medical procedure comprises a first grasper comprising a first grasper proximal end and a first grasper distal end. The system further comprises a first sensor coupled to the first grasper distal end and configured to identify a first medical tool approaching the first sensor, wherein the first grasper is configured to automatically grasp the first medical tool upon the first sensor identifying the first medical tool. The system also comprises an actuator to provide a haptic effect to a user.

Abstract: Embodiments of methods of querying a diabetic patient regarding compliance with adherence criteria comprises instructing the diabetic patient to collect at least one sample in a sampling set of biomarker data, wherein each sampling set comprises a sufficient plurality of samples recorded over a collection period, comparing the collected samples to an acceptable range, wherein the acceptable range encompasses biomarker values that would be expected upon compliance with the adherence criteria, and informing the diabetic patient if at least one sample is an unacceptable value which falls outside of the acceptable range, and performing at least one additional task after detecting the unacceptable value.

Abstract: A computerized educational apparatus (10) and method for simulating medical events is disclosed. The apparatus (10) comprises a patient simulator (20) having a plurality of sensors (225) and a plurality of actuators (220); a control device (40) located remotely from the patient simulator (20); a base unit (30) in data contact with the manikin (20) and the control device (40); and one or more medical parameter measurement devices (21, 22, 70) in data contact with the base unit (30).

Abstract: A system is disclosed for incorporating a realistic simulated catheter or catheters within a catheter guidance and control system that operate from the same closed-loop position control feedback and geometric mapping data as the real position control system and are able to make contact with real and simulated datasets. These catheters may be operated in a pure simulation mode without interacting with real catheters and position control hardware, or may be used as control cursors to enhance the placement of catheter positioning targets. The catheter tip, which is focus of magnetic control, is realistically guided by the control system parameters, while the remainder of the catheter line is realistically constrained by the mapped chamber geometry and introducer sheath.

Abstract: A surgical-training device for measuring roughness (non-delicate manipulation) during a simulated-surgical technique is described. The device has a housing, a platform, and a sensor module. The platform is movably coupled to the housing, and is configured for three-dimensional motion relative to the housing. The platform is further configured to move from a start position to a displaced position when a force is applied to the platform as a result of a user performing a simulated-surgical technique on the platform. A sensor module, coupled to the housing, is configured to determine when the platform moves a distance (from the start position to the displaced position) that exceeds a preset-threshold distance. If the preset-threshold distance is exceeded, sensor module indicates (by visual and/or auditory alarms within the device, and/or computerized counting and scoring reports) that the user applied excessive force, and was therefore too rough when performing the simulated-surgical technique.

Abstract: An interactive mixed reality simulator is provided that includes a virtual 3D model of internal or hidden features of an object; a physical model or object being interacted with; and a tracked instrument used to interact with the physical object. The tracked instrument can be used to simulate or visualize interactions with internal features of the physical object represented by the physical model. In certain embodiments, one or more of the internal features can be present in the physical model. In another embodiment, some internal features do not have a physical presence within the physical model.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel compositions and methods of using maribavir which enhance its effectiveness in medical therapy, as well as to maribavir isomers and methods of use thereof for counteracting the potentially adverse effects of maribavir isomerization in vivo in the event it occurs.

Abstract: An ultrasound training system having a data capture module, a digital asset management module, a validation module, didactic content, a media asset production module, an integration layer, an internet-based portal, a software client, and a peripheral probe. The combination of the disclosed elements creates a system that enables the creation and delivery of high-quality ultrasound education and training in a low-cost, widely deployable, and scalable manner, with a facilitated method for processing orders and financial transactions between customers and content providers.

Abstract: A physical model representing an anatomic model of the abdominal wall that provides for the option of: tactile feedback, the option for photo realism, the inclusion of various pathologies (including, but not limited to, abdominal wall defects such as hernia), and the customizability to mount the model to various training boxes or frames. This medical/anatomic simulation model is composed of various material layers including, but not limited to, non-elastomeric and elastomeric materials such as papers, fabrics, metallic sheets, metallic meshes, rubber-like foams, and other materials. This is a physical/mechanical model that simulates skin, tissue, and organs associated with abdominal wall morphology and pathology.

Abstract: A scalpel brush painting device, comprising a retaining ferrule having two open ends, a plurality of bristles protruding from one of the open ends of the retaining ferrule, and a handle attached to or, in some embodiments, releasably attached to the other of the open ends of the retaining ferrule. The scalpel brush painting device can be utilized to train the fine muscles of a user's hand in similar manner as when making incisions utilizing a scalpel, as when painting on a painting medium, and to train the user's hand for the various grip positions utilized when holding a scalpel.

Abstract: Wound care systems and methods are disclosed that provide users with interactive instruction for chronic wound care. The system presents a visual depiction of a patient with a chronic wound and a visual depiction of wound characteristics, cross-section of the wound and interactive wound care tools. Further, the system presents a visual map having on-screen graphics representing at least one of tissue consistency, tissue texture, tissue temperature, tissue moisture and tissue tenderness for a virtual chronic wound. At least some of the on-screen graphics represent visual cues for the wound care such that a user is provided with a visual indication of the response of the virtual wound to the care the user virtually provides. Administrators can select care modules to build custom training tutorials. In addition, the system tracks the user interaction with the virtual training to provide feedback to the administrator or the user.

Abstract: One embodiment of a Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) laser ablation simulator includes a frame, a mock hypotube, a mock laser fiber, a mock camera assembly, a laser fiber position tracker and a camera position tracker. The mock hypotube is supported by the frame, has a longitudinal axis, is received within the hypotube and is configured to move along the longitudinal axis and rotate about a laser fiber central axis relative to the hypotube. The mock camera assembly is attached to the hypotube and is configured to rotate about a camera central axis relative to the hypotube. The laser fiber position tracker is configured to output laser fiber position information that is indicative of a position of the mock laser fiber relative to the hypotube. The camera position tracker is configured camera position information that is indicative of a position of the mock camera assembly relative to the hypotube.

Abstract: An enhanced six degree of freedom spatial inertial measuring device capable of measuring translational movement along three orthogonal axes and rotational movement about the same, and in addition, being capable of measuring compression along at least one orthogonal axis. The device serves to provide adequate control for software applications where inertial tracking and compressive force feedback along at least one axis is desired. A probe, which accurately simulates ultrasound imaging, and therefore functions as a teaching tool is one such application.

Abstract: A palm-controlled device is disclosed for injection of a substance into an organism. The device includes a palm-receiving surface for receiving a palm of a hand, the palm receiving surface being shaped so that the palm is substantially parallel to a surface of an injection site of the organism while operating the device. The palm receiving surface can also be shaped so that the palm is substantially perpendicular to a surface of the injection site. The device also includes an injector having at least one pre-filled syringe, the palm-receiving surface being cooperative with the injector such that when pressure is applied to the palm-receiving surface, the injector is actuated so as to inject contents of the at least one pre-filled syringe. Actuation of the injector is by gradual pressure; not sudden motion. Single or multiple doses of same or different medications can be included in a single injector.

Abstract: A training apparatus (500) for use with an external defibrillator is provided, the external defibrillator being responsive to a first electrode and a second electrode, including: a transparent layer having a first electrode attachment region defining an opening sized to receive the first electrode; a signal conductor disposed proximate the first electrode attachment region, the signal conductor having a transfer path, the transfer path operable to provide communication between the first electrode and the second electrode, when the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on the training apparatus; and a two-dimensional representation of an anterior portion of a defibribation subject, identificable through the transparent layer, having the first electrode attachment region arranged thereon in a manner that defines a preferred plancement area of the first electrode on the defibrillation subject.

Abstract: An ultrasound training system having a data capture module, a digital asset management module, a validation module, didactic content, a media asset production module, an integration layer, an internet-based portal, a software client, and a peripheral probe. The combination of the disclosed elements creates a system that enables the creation and delivery of high-quality ultrasound education and training in a low-cost, widely deployable, and scalable manner, with a facilitated method for processing orders and financial transactions between customers and content providers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an E-learning system for 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), comprising a processing server with a plug-in browser for receiving electrocardiogram-related data and eliminating noise accompanied in the electrocardiogram-related data; a learning database apparatus for storing the electrocardiogram-related data; and a learning network server for accessing the electrocardiogram-related data via network communication.

Abstract: This is a system for integrating a system of education, monitoring and advising on glucose testing, diet, exercise and drug administration, by a wireless link, or GPRS system, using a device which is lightweight and portable (and easily carried by the patient) and which is capable of: glucose testing and recording the results; providing some feedback and advice from internal programs based on the results and on patient preferences; and transmitting the glucose testing results for external recording (e.g., on a server) and external analysis, feedback and advice from the server, and for feedback and advice from an appropriately knowledgeable and health care experienced party.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture may provide for improved health care compliance. Embodiments may comprise, for example, identifying an occurrence of an event associated with the taking of a substance by a patient, determining output information associated with a game, and providing the output information to the patient. Some embodiments may comprise receiving a code associated with a patient, wherein the code includes encoded information that is indicative of an occurrence of an event associated with the taking of a substance by a patient, decoding the code to determine the information, determining whether the occurrence of the event is compliant with a condition associated with the taking of the substance, and providing, in the case that compliance with the condition is determined, one or more rewards to the patient.

Abstract: A method of providing real-time feedback of task performance includes receiving sensor data from sensors coupled to an object. The sensor data is received in response to tasks performed on the object and references positional data with respect to a location on the object at which tasks are performed. The method also includes applying the sensor data to a model of performance measurements, which reflect a standard of performance. The method further includes identifying any deviations of the sensor data from data in the model, and outputting feedback in real-time. The feedback includes indicators signaling tasks performed are correctly implemented and indicators signaling tasks performed are incorrectly implemented. Corrective indicators include measures for modifying task performance to achieve an outcome that approaches or meets the standard of performance. The indicators correspond to one or more locations on the object as determined by the positional data.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of normalizing a spine of an individual including identifying a first point on the spine that exhibits the greatest degree of spinal misalignment and the hemisphere of the misalignment. A second point on the back of the individual is identified using a measuring device to measure along the spine a calculated distance specific to the individual. The second point on the back is then translated to the front of the individual opposite the second point to identity a third point. Application of therapeutic treatment near the third point normalizes the spine. In one embodiment, the distance is calculated by dividing the height of the individual by eight.

Abstract: A cap composition that can mechanically attach to a stethoscope headpiece, the cap composition having a cap; a cap element having a design that includes a shape and characteristic dimensions that enable the cap to mechanically attach to a stethoscope headpiece; and a speaker attached to and positioned on or at least partially within the cap, such that when the cap is attached to the stethoscope headpiece, the speaker is either touching or proximate to the stethoscope diaphragm such that a sound or signal emitted by the speaker can cause the stethoscope diaphragm to vibrate.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, systems and articles, including a method that includes presenting multimedia data, on a multimedia presentation device, to a user based, at least in part, on input received from the user, the multimedia data including scripted presentation of at least one narrator to present information to the user, and multimedia presentation of one or more learning activities, including one or more challenges. At least one of the one or more challenges is based on information provided via the multimedia presentation including via the at least one narrator, the multimedia presentation including medical information. The method also includes controlling, based at least in part on responsiveness of the user's input, the presentation of the multimedia data to enhance learning by the user of the medical information, the controlled presentation resulting from the user's input being independent and non-interactive with the scripted presentation of the at least one narrator.

Abstract: A healthcare simulation system includes a mannequin with active physiological characteristics, a display monitor adapted for displaying physiological parameters and a computer for controlling the mannequin and the monitor. A healthcare simulation method includes the steps of programming the computer with healthcare scenarios, operating active characteristics of the mannequin and dynamically displaying physiological parameters corresponding to patient vital signs.

Abstract: Method and system are provided to permit a user to access, via a network, a computer-implemented education module for teaching and testing radiation oncology skills. An education module may be directed to a particular skill, such as e.g., correctly identifying an anatomical region of interest in a stack of medical images. In one embodiment, education modules for teaching and testing radiation oncology skills may be made accessible to users via a portal user interface that can be rendered by a web browser application. An education module, according to one example embodiment, includes a video component for providing a video presentation describing the technique being taught, a practice module that provides an interactive practice session that can be initiated by a user after viewing the teaching video, and a test module.

Abstract: An image interpretation training apparatus comprises: an image presenting unit configured to present a target image to be interpreted to a doctor; an image interpretation obtaining unit configured to obtain a first image interpretation of the target image by the doctor and image interpretation time required by the doctor for the interpretation of the target image; an image interpretation determining unit configured to determine whether the first image interpretation is correct or incorrect by comparing a definitive diagnosis on the target image and the first image interpretation obtained by the image interpretation obtaining unit; and a learning content attribute selecting unit configured to select an attribute of the learning content to be presented to the doctor based on the image interpretation time when the first image interpretation result is determined to be incorrect.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and skills assessment tool for managing a testing session in a clinical skills testing center comprising a plurality of assessment stations. The method according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention includes configuring the plurality of assessment stations by associating each of the stations with a case type prior to the beginning of the testing session, receiving electronic identification of a student at one of a plurality of assessment stations prior to the student commencing an encounter at the one assessment station during the testing session, and, in response to receiving the student's identification, automatically assigning the student to the one assessment station for the encounter, where the encounter corresponds with the case type associated with the one assessment station.

Abstract: A method includes receiving data values associated with one of a position and orientation of a simulated scanner relative to an object. Image values are calculated, substantially in realtime, based on the data values. A simulated ultrasound image is rendered in a graphical display based on the image values. The simulated ultrasound image is representative of an interior or a simulated interior of the object on the ultrasound scan plane. Ultrasound simulation systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the simulation or digital synthesis of echographic images, characterised by the direct transformation in real time, or quasi real time, of the information contained in a 3D scanographic (or tomodensitometric) medical or veterinary image, without delimitation or segmentation of the bodies or structures contained in the volume of scanographic data, according to at least one two-dimensional observation window which can be modified in real time, or quasi real time, in terms of the dimension, position, directions and orientation thereof, the characteristics thereof depending on the type of virtual echographic probe determined, and reproducing all of the attenuation, reflection, refraction and dispersion effects, and the regulation effects of a real echographic image, each echographic image supplied cumulating the results of the simulations of the pre-cited effects.

Abstract: This insertion device is an insertion device for inserting a medical linear body in a vessel in a body, and it includes a drive device for moving the medical linear body in a direction of a longitudinal axis, a measurement device for measuring compressive force and pulling force in the direction of the longitudinal axis applied to the medical linear body, and a notification device for notifying an operator of compressive force and pulling force measured with the measurement device.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses, the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data indicative of the user's performance. Based on the collected data, the system can dynamically adapt the user's goals and/or activities the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous group activities.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching and practicing an ophthalmologic surgical technique of creating the continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis comprises a flexible and removable cellophane-type cover, which is wrapped substantially around a putty-like malleable body to mimic the human anterior lens capsule and lens anatomy.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the simulation or digital synthesis of echographic images, characterized by the direct transformation in real time, or quasi real time, of the information contained in an IRM-type medical or veterinary image, without delimitation or segmentation of the bodies or structures contained in the volume of data of the IRM image, according to at least one two-dimensional observation window which can be modified in real time, or quasi real time, in terms of the dimension, position, direction and orientation thereof, the characteristics thereof depending on the type of virtual echographic probe determined, and reproducing all of the attenuation, reflection, refraction and dispersion effects, and the regulation effects of a real echographic image, each echographic image supplied cumulating the results of the simulations of the pre-cited effects.

Abstract: Apparatus for performing diagnostic imaging examinations with tutorial means for the user, both in the preparatory step and in the operative step, and method for using the apparatus.

Abstract: A method for educating a patient in a location at which care will be given includes: positioning the patient in the location at which the patient will be examined by a caregiver; identifying one or more modules of educational information relevant to the patient; accessing the modules at a computing device located in the location; and presenting the modules to the patient.

Abstract: A system and method for quantifying clinical skill of a user, comprising: collecting data relating to a surgical task done by a user using a surgical device; comparing the data for the surgical task to other data for another similar surgical task; quantifying the clinical skill of the user based on the comparing of the data for the surgical task to the other data for the other similar surgical task; outputting the clinical skill of the user.

Abstract: A system for identifying medication in the form of pills, capsules or tablets, and communicating medicine dosage and intake instructions to a user, Utilizing Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) and optical recognition technology. The RFID is performed by labeling a medicine container with a tag containing a unique identifier, associating the unique identifier with an audio file comprising instructions related to medicine usage, and delivering the audio file to an electromagnetic wave-enabled device. A wireless device, such as a mobile telephone or PDA, via a service, plays an audio and/or vibrational file associated with the unique identifier when the RFID tag is read by the device. The mobile device has a camera therein and is operable to capture an image of the pill, capsule or tablet and, via execution of optical recognition software, identify the pill, tablet or capsule, and verify the identity thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus for visually isolating an observer from an observed individual comprises a two way mirror forming a first panel and a movable frame disposed to hold the first panel in a vertical orientation; methods of assembling and operating instructional simulation lab, methods for instruction/proctoring/operating/repurposing a nursing simulation lab comprising the steps of identifying a space having a simulated patient location and an observation location, providing a panel assembly having a two way mirror, locating the panel assembly between the simulated patient location and the observation location, providing a patent simulation system including a simulated patient, providing a lab student, providing a lab instructor and/or observer, administering care to the simulated patient at the simulated patient location, and observing the administration of care at the observation location by looking towards the simulated patient location through the two way mirror.

Abstract: This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing an automated health assessment interview and collecting data commensurate with such interview. The interview may include video segments based upon input from user interactive devices presented to the user.

Abstract: Computer systems and methods are provided for training surgeons to perform the Nuss procedure, a surgery for correcting pectus excavatum (PE), and for planning such procedures. PE is a congenital chest wall deformity, and the Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that involves implantation of a corrective bar. A surgical trainer and planner may be based on one or more of the biomechanical properties of the PE ribcage, deformable models, and visualization techniques.

Abstract: The present technology relates to a medical waveform development system comprising a medical waveform recording system for obtaining recorded medical waveforms. The system further comprises a physiological simulator for accessing recorded medical waveforms and for processing modified medical waveforms. The system also comprises an invasive workbench that allows a user to access the recorded medical waveforms and modified medical waveforms via software applications that are accessible on a computer.

Abstract: A system includes an ultrasound transducer and a processing device coupled to the transducer and configured to generate to a display device a graphical user interface. The processing device is further configured to generate to a first region of the user interface an ultrasound image of a patient region of interest, generate to the first region at least one overlay image configured to indicate a specific feature associated with the region of interest, generate to a second region of the user interface a first set of selectable soft keys, the second region being exclusive of the first region, and in response to user selection of a first-set soft key, generate to a third region of the user interface a corresponding functional image.

Abstract: A therapeutic sensory device and method of using the device for the aid in the rehabilitation of an individual's sense of touch including a first planar sheet having a plurality of spaced sensory pads, disposed thereon; a plurality of elements, each having a sensory pad corresponding to one of the spaced sensory pads, each of said plurality of elements being adapted to be placed on the corresponding sensory pad disposed on the first planar sheet; and a structure to removably secure the plurality of elements atop the corresponding sensory pad disposed on the first planar sheet. The plurality of elements are selectively placed atop the corresponding sensory pad disposed on the first planar sheet. Then, one or more of the plurality of elements are removably secured atop the corresponding sensory pad disposed on the first planar sheet.