Abstract: The present invention relates to an administration instrument for medical use that can perform injection of a drug solution with stability and with great reliability. For example, at the administration, it is possible to prevent a force that presses the injection button from acting in a direction of inserting the needle that is inserted into the skin deeper, and enables the administration under a stable state where the needle does not wobble, thereby alleviating physical and mental pain of the administration patient. With a structure in which an injection button (3) is pressed at an angle that is not parallel to the needle with respect to a direction in which the needle (4) is inserted into the skin, it is possible to prevent the force of pressing the injection button from being transmitted in a direction of inserting the needle into the skin deeper than the initial insertion of the needle, thereby achieving an administration under a stable state.

Abstract: A comfortable multiple layer mouth protector is provided for strength and ease of fit to minimize if not completely and gradually eliminate bruxism, with spring biasing keeping the maxillary and mandibular mouth protector arches in place and apart, eliminating snoring and permitting easy breathing. In addition, this Mouth protector protects oral structures from sports injuries.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a pump, an input configured to receive information related to a user, a user interface, and a controller communicatively coupled to the pump, the input, and the user interface. The controller includes a timing module configured to initiate delivery of a drug in time and to adjust delivery according to the received information. Other devices, systems, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: Unified vision testing and/or training kiosk may utilize display devices and input devices to administer a number of visual testing and/or training tasks to an individual. One or more display devices may provide desired resolution, geometry, and/or touch sensitivity. One or more input devices may receive inputs of different types from different positions relative to a display device. Methods of visual testing and/or training may utilize the one or more display devices, one or more input devices, and/or other types of equipment to evaluate and/or improve the visual abilities of an individual.

Abstract: A method and system for providing performance evaluations, on a timely basis, to students or trainees, is provided. In one contemplated embodiment, the inventive method and system are used in health care training programs to form an information feedback loop whereby clinical and simulated clinical performance evaluations are inputted, or gathered and stored, and then made available to the health care practitioner and to his/her educator(s) throughout the health care training program thereby increasing the effectiveness of the training program by allowing the program to be continuously tailored to address the needs of the health care practitioner.

Abstract: Software tools, methods and apparatus for objectively assessing surgical and medical procedural skills are described. Data corresponding to performance of a manipulative task by a subject is modeled using Markov modeling techniques and compared with stored models corresponding to each of a plurality of proficiency levels. A particular proficiency level is selected based on proximity of the subject data relative to each of the stored models.

Abstract: A system and method for obtaining measurements of a person's pulmonary diagnostic is described. One embodiment includes a method of providing audible signals related to measurement of pulmonary function, the method comprising receiving a pulmonary input through a receiver, transferring the pulmonary input to a sensor, generating an input signal, using the sensor, based on the pulmonary input, and generating a responsive audible signal through a speaker, wherein the responsive audible signal is based on the input signal. The pulmonary input may comprise, for example, an inhalation, exhalation, gas content reading, or other pulmonary input. The responsive audible signal may comprise a verbal audible signal, a tone, or some combination of both. The responsive audible signal could be for instruction and/or encouragement. The method could further include generating audible instruction signals that are not necessarily related to the pulmonary input.

Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for combining the handle of a surgical instrument with a force feedback generator, able to create resistance to motion similar to that encountered in a real operating environment. The working end of the surgical instrument is recreated in a virtual environment and manipulated by the modified handle through the force feedback generator. Actions of the instrument handle modify a model and display of the virtual environment and transmit a haptic response back to the handle. The devices and methods provide a means for repeatedly performing maneuvers that accurately simulate the actual instrument, but in the virtual environment. The virtual environment is modeled to accurately simulate the use of the instrument including manipulation of and collisions with other virtual objects, such as surgical thread or internal tissues. Training and assessment tools are also provided that coach or assess a user's proficiency with the instrument.

Abstract: Embodiments of a testing method suitable for diabetic persons to optimize their administered insulin dosage comprise collecting one or more sampling sets of biomarker data, wherein each sampling set comprises a sufficient plurality of non-adverse sampling instances and wherein each sampling instance comprises an acceptable biomarker reading at a single point in time recorded upon compliance with adherence criteria, determining a biomarker sampling parameter from each sampling set, comparing the biomarker sampling parameter to a target biomarker range, calculating an insulin adjustment parameter associated with the biomarker sampling parameter if the biomarker sampling parameter falls outside the target biomarker range, adjusting the insulin dosage by the insulin adjustment parameter if the biomarker sampling parameter falls outside the target biomarker range and if the insulin dosage does not exceed maximum dosage, and exiting the testing method if the adjusted insulin dosage is optimized.

Abstract: Disclosed is a surgical simulator for teaching, practicing, and evaluating surgical techniques. Such a simulator may comprise a cassette of organs, blood vessels, and tissues that may be disposable. The simulator also comprises a hemodynamic simulator and a frame assembly, the frame assembly providing support for the cassette of organs as well as a fluid conduit through which simulated blood flow from the hemodynamic simulator may be connected to the blood vessels of the organs and related tissues. The hemodynamic simulator provides adjustable and variable pressures to the arteries and veins, as well as variable pulse rates, which can be programmed at settings chosen by an instructor or user.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for simulating the release of radio opaque dye within a vasculature system. The method, apparatus and system include simulating a vessel tree of the vasculature system for display on a display device, activating a particle-based contrast software effect, and injecting a plurality of physics-based particles into a confined vessel space of said vessel tree. The method and apparatus may also include fading down over a period of time an opacity of each of the physics-based particles and opacifying a portion of a vessel wall.

Abstract: A solution is provided comprising about 0.01-0.05 mg/mL of tenecteplase in sterile water for injection or bacteriostatic water for injection and normal saline. Such solution is useful for delivery from a catheter and for treating a thrombotic disorder by exposing fibrin-rich fluid from the disorder to an effective amount thereof, as well as in kits. In a preferred embodiment, peripheral thrombosis is treated in a mammal comprising delivering to the mammal via a catheter an effective amount of this solution.

Abstract: Conductive elastomeric circuits are used in various simulated physiological structures such as tissues and organs, enabling feedback to be provided indicating whether a simulated task is being performed correctly. For example, a surgical trainer has a simulated human tissue structure made of an elastomeric composition, at least one reinforcing layer of a fibrous material, and at least one flexible electrical circuit. The surgical trainer preferably includes multiple areas for practicing surgical skills, each with evaluation circuits for providing feedback regarding that skill. Conductive elastomers are also incorporated into other types of medical training simulators, to similarly provide feedback. In another embodiment, a simulated organ has a conductive elastomeric circuit in the periphery of the simulated organ, enabling feedback to be provided to evaluate whether a person is properly manipulating the organ in response to a manual applied pressure.

Abstract: Methods for limiting and controlling the distribution of dronedarone to patients whose use of the drug might present an unacceptable risk.

Abstract: An electronic system generates and manages multiple knowledge bases of medical students and practitioners. The knowledge bases are organized according to and for the function of specific limited medical problems. Data regarding each problem cross-references both basic sciences and clinical courses. Users are able to create their own knowledge base with the use of teaching data, their own user generated data, and third party user generated data. Data is dynamically updated, and the knowledge bases support the future medical practice of students.

Abstract: System and method for monitoring and controlling, defibrillation and pacing which allows a victim of a cardiac rhythm abnormality immediate access to a medical professional at a central station, who will remotely monitor, diagnose and treat the victim at one of a plurality of remote sites in accordance with the following steps: (1) providing a plurality of contact electrodes for a victim at a remote site for the receipt of ECG signals and for the application of electrical pulses to the victim; (2) transmitting the signals from the remote site to a central station and displaying them for review by the medical professional; (3) the medical professional selecting from a menu of defibrillation and pacing pulses, if the application thereof is appropriate; (4) transmitting the selection results to the remote site; and (5) receiving the selection results at the remote site and applying the selected pulses to the victim.

Abstract: The present invention provides physicians access to formulary data as well as important clinical and practice management information at the point of care on easy-to-use handheld electronic devices. The invention also provides a method for distributing medical data to medical personnel. The method comprises the steps of storing medical data in a database and periodically communicating selected medical data between the database and an electronic device to establish a medical data distribution system subsidized by sponsoring entities. The invention also provides a computer readable memory storing executable instructions for execution by a computer system such that the computer system functions in a specified manner. The instructions comprise instructions for storing medical data in a database, and instructions for periodically communicating selected medical data between the database and an electronic device to establish a medical data distribution system subsidized by sponsoring entities.

Abstract: A simulated physiological structure includes an image layer configured to enhance a visual appearance of the simulated physiological structure. The image layer includes a substrate onto which an image has been printed. Preferably, the substrate is a relatively thin layer, compared to other layers of material in the simulated physiological structure. Where the simulated physiological structure includes surface irregularities, the substrate is preferably sufficiently thin so as to be able to readily conform to the surface irregularities. Particularly preferred substrates include fabrics, fibrous materials, meshes, and plastic sheets. The image, which can be of an actual anatomical element, or a rendering of an anatomical element, is transferred onto the substrate using conventional printing technologies, including ink jet printing. Particularly preferred images illustrate vascular structures and disease conditions.

Abstract: A method of orienting a virtual camera for rendering a virtual endoscopy image of a lumen in a biological structure represented by a medical image data set, e.g., a colon. The method comprises selecting a location from which to render an image, determining an initial orientation for the virtual camera relative to the data set for the selected location based on the geometry of the lumen, determining an offset angle between the initial orientation and a bias direction; and orienting the virtual camera in accordance with a rotation from the initial orientation towards the bias direction by a fractional amount of the offset angle which varies according to the initial orientation. The fractional amount may vary according to the offset angle and/or a separation between a predetermined direction in the data set and a view direction of the virtual camera for the initial orientation.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention are directed to an anatomical model for training that includes a head portion; at least one auricle portion; at least one ear canal; and at least one cartridge. The at least one cartridge may be adaptable to mimic at least one pathology of the human ear, such as an eardrum perforation, a middle ear fluid, a cholesteatoma, a tumor, or earwax.

Abstract: A tray (100) for accommodating a coiled medical device, such as a catheter assembly (700), includes a first compartment (101), a second compartment (102), and a third compartment (103). The catheter assembly (700) and devices associated with a catheterization procedure, such as syringes (701,702) containing sterile water and lubricating jelly and a specimen container (703) can be disposed within the tray. Printed instructions (1001) can be included with the tray (100). When a CSR wrap (1000) is disposed about the tray (100), the printed instructions can be placed atop the CSR wrap (1000) but beneath an outer sterile wrap (1002). The printed instructions (1001) can include a patient portion (1202) that is detachably coupled to a health care services portion (1201) such that it can be taken home with the patient after the procedure.

Abstract: A gel formulation for use as simulated tissue for ballistic testing includes a mixture of gelatin, a glycol, such as ethylene glycol, and water. The gel may be formed in a mold to simulate a body part, such as an organ. A ratio of gelatin to glycol may be varied, depending on the body part to be simulated. An anatomic model may be formed by incorporating simulated organs formed with different gelatin to glycol ratios.

Abstract: Systems and methods for three-dimensional guidance and monitoring of a cryotherapy procedure, including virtually performing the procedure.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for applying guidelines to data and providing self-assessment ability. Guideline data is stored in a data storage component, along with user data. The user data represents both quantitative data and qualitative self-assessment data. In a self-assessment system and method, a graphical user interface is provided along with a target image and factor icons. The icons are adapted to be moved onto a position on the target image representative of an entity's self assessment of performance relative to the corresponding factor. A subset of actionable alternatives are selected and displayed based on the self-assessment data and the guidelines.

Abstract: Health care management and patient education systems and methods configured to register a medical practice account, add patients to the account, create patient-accessible accounts, add medical and lecture providers to the account, create patient education seminars, invite patients to seminars, create patient report cards, and reporting patient report cards to a patient outcome incentive-based program.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to techniques for determining appropriate first aid and applying first aid that is appropriate. A first aid system receives patient status information from an input device or a sensor, and presents first aid information as a function of the received patient status information. The first aid system may be incorporated with an external defibrillator. The first aid system may acquire patient status information through an interaction with an operator, in which the first aid system asks the operator to supply patient status information. In one embodiment of the invention, the operator may supply patient status information by touching a diagram representing at least a portion of a human body.

Abstract: A gas supply apparatus with improved control is provided. The gas supply apparatus provides gas at an outlet junction. The apparatus includes a gas mixer for gasses from primary and secondary supplies to a given ratio. The apparatus also includes a gas reservoir supplied by the gas mixer. A tertiary supply valve is also included and connected in parallel with the reservoir. The tertiary supply valve is adapted to connect the outlet junction to a tertiary gas supply when gas is not being supplied to a mixer by the primary and/or secondary supply.

Abstract: A surgical training device and method. The surgical training device can include a portable case including a base and a lid. The surgical training device can include a support coupled to the base, and the support can be moveable from a first position stored within the base to a second position coupled to the lid. The support can include a plurality of ports positioned so that when the support is in the second position, the surgical instruments inserted into the plurality of ports are substantially horizontal and parallel to the base. The surgical training device can include a camera and a video monitor connected to the camera. The video monitor can display an output from the camera including the surgical instruments and/or simulated tissue.

Abstract: A residual limb model may be a model of a residual limb. A residual limb model may include a residual limb portion and a bladder complementary in shape to the residual limb portion. A prosthesis donning and doffing training system may include a check socket and a residual limb model complementary in shape to the check socket. A method of training in the care of a residual limb may include providing a residual limb model and training in the care of a residual limb using the residual limb model. A method of training in the donning and doffing of a prosthesis may include providing a prosthesis training system and training in the donning and doffing of a prosthesis using the prosthesis training system.

Abstract: Devices and methods that combine an actual surgical instrument handle, for example the handle of an AutoSuture EndoStitch™ device, with a force feedback generator able to create resistance to motion similar to that encountered in a real operating environment. The devices and methods provide a means for repeatedly performing maneuvers that accurately simulate the actual instrument, but in a virtual environment. The devices have haptic capabilities and collision detection so that the virtual device, such as the needle driver of the EndoStitch™ device, is “aware” of instrument contact.

Abstract: According to this load detection method, load (Fi) in insertion of a linear body having flexibility in an inlet of a hollow tube inserted in a bending vessel in a body is detected, an image of the hollow tube or the linear body is taken, a degree of bending of the hollow tube or the linear body is detected based on the image, and load (Fo) at a tip end of the linear body is calculated based on the detected insertion load (Fi) and the degree of bending. Therefore, the load (Fo) at the tip end of the thin linear body can readily be detected.

Abstract: A method to determine the location of an instrument within a patient can be based upon the measuring of a characteristic within the patient and matching the currently measured characteristic with a previously measured characteristic. If the measurements of a characteristic matches in an appropriate or selected manner then a location match can be determined. The characteristic can be any appropriate characteristic and measured in any appropriate way.

Abstract: An interface device and method for interfacing instruments to a medical procedure simulation system serve to interface peripherals in the form of mock medical instruments to the medical procedure simulation system computer to enable simulation of medical procedures. The interface device includes a housing having a mock bodily region of interest to facilitate insertion of a mock instrument, such as an endoscope tube, into the interface device. The mock bodily region of interest may be pivotable to simulate various patient orientations. The instrument is engaged by a capture mechanism in order to measure rotational and translational motion of the instrument. An actuator is disposed within the interface device to provide force feedback to the instrument. The measured motion is provided to the computer system to reflect instrument motion on the display during the simulation. Alternatively, the interface device may be configured to accommodate instrument assemblies having a plurality of nested instruments (e.g.

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 real-time, 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.

Abstract: The present invention may be embodied as a method of minimally-invasive surgery (“MIS”) training wherein a simulator having a display, a computer, and a first input device, is provided. A video of an MIS is displayed on the display, and a first surgical tool is visible in at least a portion of the video. A match zone corresponding to a position on the first surgical tool is determined. A computer-generated virtual surgical tool (“CG tool”) is superimposed on the displayed video. The CG tool is selectively controlled by the first input device. A target position of the CG tool is determined. If the target position is not determined to be within the match zone, further steps may be taken. For example, the video may be paused, a message may be displayed to the operator, or the computer may signal the input device to move to a position such that the target position is within the match zone.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses providing accessibility options for the blind and poorly sighted for use with insulin therapy systems. A remote control device, with speech output capability and comprehensive speech menu system, may monitor or intercept data generated by a blood glucose meter, and delay, modify and retransmit said data to an insulin pump. The remote control device may also be used to program and set operating parameters of an insulin pump and also record data received from an insulin pump. The remote control device may also be used in conjunction with a personal computing device.

Abstract: It is often desirable to define objects with respect to images of an anatomy displayed using an image guided surgery system. For non-trivial objects, or those with complicated two or three dimensional forms, it may be difficult to present information in a manner that is simple for a user to understand. The local distance to a surface of interest, such as the surface of the defined object, or to a desired position, the local penetration distance of the surface of interest, or haptic repulsion force, often provides the most useful information for augmenting the interaction of the user with the image guided surgery system. The scalar value of the local distance may be conveyed to the user by visual, audio, tactile, haptic, or other means.

Abstract: An orthopedic simulator is provided with an integral central manifold that provides internal routing of pressurized hydraulic fluid, compressed air, or electrical power to the actuators of the orthopedic simulator. The integral manifold is structurally coupled to support elements and resist and transfer bending and shear forces to the support elements.

Abstract: A health care apparatus (10) and methods for rendering audio visual content to a medical patient in the patient's home, in which a content element storage (22) stores a plurality of audio visual content elements (28) to be rendered to the patient, including role playing simulation content elements (40) in which in which the patient is presented with a situation involving an issue related to a medical condition confronted by a character (42) and in which the patient provides input related to the character's situation.

Abstract: An endoscope simulation apparatus aims to offer improved simulation, a simpler structure and can be fabricated at lower costs. The endoscope simulation apparatus comprises a bracing rack, a spheroid and a controlling bar. The spheroid is held in the bracing rack and turnable freely. The controlling bar is slidable relative to the spheroid in a passage running through the center of the spheroid to control rotation of the spheroid. The bracing rack has an inner side spaced from the spheroid to hold at least two direction sensors. The controlling bar has a depth sensor. The controlling bar is a simulated endoscope and also is insertable and retractable. The invention can be turned at a greater angle and provide improved simulation through the turnable spheroid. Through the direction sensors and depth sensor that are linked to a computer, the turning angle and insertion depth of the simulated endoscope can be measured.

Abstract: A method to assess the competency of a healthcare practitioner, wherein the method provides a learning object repository comprising a plurality of previously-created virtual objects, creates a first template and a second template by the second module, wherein the first template comprises one or more previously-defined learning objectives, and wherein the second template comprises one or more previously-defined competency assessments related to the one or more selected learning objectives. The method provides the first template and the second template to the learning object repository. The method displays on a visual display device a virtual clinical world comprising a plurality of virtual objects retrieved from the learning object repository. Further according to the method, a practitioner selects a virtual patient from the virtual clinical world, selects a series of interactions with the patient, and selects patient data. The method tracks the selected patient interactions, and the selected patient data.

Abstract: An interface device capable of communicating with a computer running a simulation program, such as a surgical simulation program, comprises an instrument capable of being manipulated by a user. The instrument is receivable within an orifice in an instrument receiving member, the instrument receiving member comprising a capture member engageable with the instrument and a sensor to sense a position of the instrument. The position of the instrument is then used by the computer to control a graphic image related to the simulation. In one version, the simulation is a simulation of a surgical instrument insertion procedure, such as an endoscopy procedure.

Abstract: An interface device and method for interfacing instruments to a medical procedure simulation system serve to interface peripherals in the form of mock medical instruments to the medical procedure simulation system computer to enable simulation of medical procedures. The interface device includes a housing having a mock bodily region of interest to facilitate insertion of a mock instrument, such as an endoscope tube, into the interface device. The mock bodily region of interest may be pivotable to simulate various patient orientations. The instrument is engaged by a capture mechanism in order to measure rotational and translational motion of the instrument. An actuator is disposed within the interface device to provide force feedback to the instrument. The measured motion is provided to the computer system to reflect instrument motion on the display during the simulation. Alternatively, the interface device may be configured to accommodate instrument assemblies having a plurality of nested instruments (e.g.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a virtual reality medical procedure skills training simulator, particularly to be used in the field of ear-nose-throat surgery such as myringotomy. The simulator consists of medical procedural tools marked with physical markers, a tracking device to track the marker, a stereo display device to simulate a medical procedural microscope, and a computer system to enable the simulation.

Abstract: A system for training users of laparoscopic cameras includes geometric targets disposed in spaced relation upon a base such that acquiring a laparoscopic view of each geometric target requires a change in the orientation of a laparoscopic camera. Each geometric target has disposed thereon an image of the same geometric shape, and each geometric target has an orientation line disposed thereon. The system accommodates both straight and angled laparoscopes. A method for training a person includes providing a system described above and allowing the person to use the laparoscopic camera to acquire images geometric targets. A preferred method includes the steps of having the user repeatedly acquire geometric targets with a 0 degree laparoscope until the measured time is less than a first time threshold and then having the user repeatedly acquire geometric targets with an angled laparoscope until the measured time is less than a second time threshold.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electromechanical pumping system for simulating the beating of heart in a cardiac surgery training environment. A computer-controllable linear actuator is used to control the electromechanical pumping system. In a preferred embodiment, the electromechanical pumping system is linked to a porcine heart. The heart is made to beat by inserting intra-ventricular balloons placed inside the heart and connected to the pumping system. When controlled by the electromechanical pumping system, the porcine heart is able to display normal and abnormal beating rhythms, as well as ventricular fibrillation. In addition, an electronic pressure sensor incorporated into the pumping system can be used to trigger a ventricular fibrillation mode when the porcine heart attached to the pumping system is handled by a trainee surgeon.

Abstract: A drive device for driving a linear body having flexibility includes a first roller, a motor for feeding the linear body in a direction of extension of the linear body by directly transmitting rotation force to the first roller to rotate the first roller, a motor drive portion for driving the motor by supplying a current to the motor, and a control unit for calculating force applied to the linear body in the direction of extension based on the current supplied to the motor.

Abstract: A system and method of modeling a circulatory system including a regulatory mechanism parameter. In one embodiment, a regulatory mechanism parameter in a lumped parameter model is represented as a logistic function. In another embodiment, the circulatory system model includes a compliant vessel, the model having a parameter representing a change in pressure due to contraction of smooth muscles of a wall of the vessel.

Abstract: A multi-media/simulation training system, in conjunction with a specifically developed and utilized training process, that improves target recognition skills and enhances gunnery training. The system has implications in other cognitive development activities, as well as—but not limited to—medical, technological, biological, anthropological and other areas of study with objects requiring accurate recognition and designation, as well as personnel identification devices, games, and entertainment systems. The system uses a combination of verbal and visual error correction, including magnification and rotation of both the test image and the incorrect image identified by the trainee, to enhance observation and knowledge of visible differences.

Abstract: Medical patient simulator comprising a torso that contains an artificial lung, a chest skin and means for pulling the chest skin downward in an area corresponding with an area where such retractions occur on a human being. The simulator also provides for changes in the compliance of the lung. The lung is situated between two plates, the spacing of which can be adjusted. The torso has one actuator on each side of the back to simulate muscular activity. It includes a system for control of pneumatic functions by measuring a representative pressure for each actuator and stopping the filling when a pre-set pressure is reached. It also includes a head with one or more air cushions in a fontanelle area on the head, which may be filled with air to simulate an increased pressure in the brain.