Abstract: The simulator device of the present invention has been created ex profeso for being applied in the learning, training and evaluation, mainly of basic techniques of surgery, particularly laparoscopic, endoscopic or minimal invasion techniques, and the use of specialized instruments. It includes a variety of modules or components capable of being assembled into different shapes so as to erect or mount different working stations, specific for different practice exercises, such an incision, manipulation of object, forming suture stitches and surgical knots, as well as other exercises.

Abstract: An automatic injection device for providing a subcutaneous injection is disclosed. The device includes a syringe movably disposed in a housing and including a barrel portion, a needle and a bung for sealing the barrel portion. The device includes a plunger for moving the syringe towards a first open end of the housing such that the needle projects from the first end, and for subsequently applying pressure to the bung. The plunger includes a rod connected at a first end to the bung, a compressible expanded central portion, and a flange between a second end of the rod and the central portion. The device also includes a biasing mechanism for biasing the plunger towards the first open end of the housing, the biasing mechanism disposed about the second end of the rod between the flange and a second end of the housing.

Abstract: Surgical trauma training simulator system including replaceable trauma module structured to mimic a portion of human anatomy and, in particular, a prosthetic anatomical structure containing a periorbital structure that includes an eye-lid and an eye globe in cooperation with a drive mechanism. The system is structured to provide, in operation, an event-driven surgical gesture recognition-based tracking of the simulation of the surgical procedure by the trainee and, in absence of expert trainer, provide visual feedback comparing the tracked simulation with correct sequence of steps of such procedure.

Abstract: Medical training kits and methods include a simulated liquid blood which simulates mammalian whole blood and a simulated hemostatic component. The simulated liquid blood includes a gellable component, and a simulated hemostatic component includes a gelling agent. The gelling agent causes the gellable component in the simulated liquid blood to form a mass of semi-solid or solid material in response the simulated blood being brought into contact therewith to thereby simulate blood clotting. In certain embodiments, the gellable component is chitosan and/or an alginate compound and the gelling agent is at least one compound which causes the gellable component to desolubulize, polymerize, complex, precipitate, cross-link and the like so as to form a semi-solid or solid mass of chitosan in response to physical contact between the simulated blood and the simulated hemostatic agent.

Abstract: A device for assisting a caregiver in delivering therapy to a patient, the device comprising a user interface configured to deliver prompts to a caregiver to assist the caregiver in delivering therapy to a patient; at least one sensor configured to detect the caregiver's progress in delivering the therapy, wherein the sensor is other than an electrode in an electrical contact with the body; a memory in which a plurality of different prompts are stored; a processor configured to determine which of the different prompts should be selected for delivery based on the progress detected by the sensor.

Abstract: A method for measuring cartilage defects within a subject includes surgically exposing a joint or cartilage surface. The exposed joint or cartilage surface having at least one defect, and the method may generating a cast of the at least one defect. The method may also include measuring a parameter of the cast, thereby estimating a characteristic of the defect.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a simulated medicament delivery device and an electronic circuit system coupled to the simulated medicament delivery device. The electronic circuit system is configured to output an electronic output associated with a use of the simulated medicament delivery device.

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: A medical training system is disclosed comprising a medical simulation management module, a student record database having a plurality of records relating to training of students, wherein the student record database is connectable to the medical simulation management module, at least one medical training module executable on a training device and comprising scenarios for the training of the students; and a data entry device for entry of student training data to the student record database, the student training data being indicative of performance of the students on using the at least one medical training module.

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: A device for marking bone such as a patella is anchored to one surface of the bone, whereby the contact with the surface defines the desired resection plane, and then a cautery or other marking device is used to mark the bone relative to this plane. The marking device is removed and then the bone may be resected using techniques known in the art. A device for measuring the remaining bone allows a user to measure bone thickness and visually estimate superoinferior angle or mediolateral angle of the resected surface relative to the desired resection plane. The measuring device may optionally be used with a computer-assisted surgical system for numerical measurements.

Abstract: An embodiment of a medicament training system configured to provide instructions for using a medicament device to a user in a sequence of steps is provided. The medicament training system includes including a medicament training container, a medicament device, wherein the medicament training container communicatingly connects to the medicament device, a signal output component associated with the medicament training container, and circuitry associated with the medicament training container configured so as to control a provision of the instructions to the user in the sequence of steps.

Abstract: A training system comprising a phantom heart, the phantom heart comprising an exterior surface upon which a tubing is topologically arranged in a manner which mimics the placement of the distal LCx, the LAD, the PDA, and the RCA. The tubing is configured to receive a contrast agent received from a power injector. The training system further comprises an airway subsystem which is modeled to represent the trachea, the right bronchus, and the left bronchus, and which is arranged relative to the phantom heart such that a portion of the airway subsystem which approximates the position of the tracheal carina is aligned with a portion of the phantom heart that represents the ascending aorta. The training system further comprises an EKG pulse generator in electrical communication with a computed tomography scanner for purposes of conducting computed tomography angiography of the phantom heart.

Abstract: A robotic surgical system includes a master controller with an input handle and robotic manipulator assemblies including a surgical end effector and an endoscopic camera. The input handle is translatable to provide a position and rotatable to provide an orientation. A control system couples the master controller to the first and second manipulator assemblies. The control system moves the surgical end effector in response to the position and orientation of the input handle. The control system moves the input handle to orient the input handle to correspond to an orientation of the surgical end effector from a viewpoint of the endoscopic camera during the repositioning of at least one of the input handle position, the end effector, or the endoscopic camera. The control system may move the surgical end effector only in a first mode and orients the input handle only in a second mode.

Abstract: A system, method and device for simulating a medical procedure include a haptic mechanism controllable to provide feedback to a user manipulating a medical device. In an embodiment, a pair of three degree of freedom haptic devices are coupled to provide six degree of freedom measurement and force/moment feedback to the user. The six degree of freedom haptic device may be configured to provide different resolutions for different degrees of freedom, depending on simulation requirements. In an embodiment, a load cell is used to provide higher resolution in a dimension determined to be of greater criticality to realistic simulation.

Abstract: A sleep quality assessment approach involves collecting data based on detected physiological or non-physiological patient conditions. At least one of detecting patient conditions and collecting data is performed using an implantable device. Sleep quality may be evaluated using the collected data by an implantable or patient-external sleep quality processor. One approach to sleep quality evaluation involves computing one or more summary metrics based on occurrences of movement disorders or breathing disorders during sleep.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide an endoscopic training system and method for the development of endoscopic procedure skills and technical competency of an endoscopist. The system includes a portable part-task enclosure with a plurality of walls defining an internal chamber. One of the walls includes an access port coupling the internal chamber to an external environment and the access port can be configured to facilitate the passage of a flexible endoscope insertion member. The system further includes a plurality of objects disposed within the internal chamber. Each of the plurality of objects is configured for manipulation by a medical tool that extends through the flexible endoscope insertion member.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for training a user in a procedure includes registering a profile of the user, and receiving a selection of a training aid from a menu using a graphical user interface of the computer. The method further includes displaying the training aid on the graphical user interface of the computer. The training aid is responsive to an input from the user. The training aid accesses a storage space of the computer including a first database storing a graphical representation associated with the procedure, and a second database storing a multitude of questions and a multitude of associated answers. The storage space further includes a third database storing a multitude of symptoms and a multitude of associated solutions, and a fourth database storing a multitude of sequences associated with the procedure.

Abstract: A system for generating information relating to a course of a procedure is described. A current position determiner (1) is arranged for determining a current position in a guideline (11), the current position corresponding to a status of a procedure in respect of a subject. A pathway generator (2) is arranged for generating a pathway (13) through the guideline (11), indicative of a course of the procedure. A narrative generator (3) is arranged for generating a narrative (14) describing at least part of the pathway (13) in a natural language. The narrative (14) generated by the narrative generator (3) describes an imaginary subject undergoing a similar procedure as the subject. A probability unit (4) is arranged for establishing a probability associated with an aspect of the pathway (13).

Abstract: A medical training system is disclosed comprising a medical sensor, a student record database having a plurality of records relating to training of students, wherein the student record database is connectable to a medical sensor for monitoring medical procedures on a patient; and a data entry device for entry of student performance data to the student record database, the student performance data being indicative of performance of the students on at least one medical procedure.

Abstract: Medicament delivery devices and simulated medicament delivery devices are described herein. An apparatus includes a simulated medicament injector. The simulated medicament injector includes a battery isolation member and an electronic circuit system having a processor. The battery isolation member is configured to selectively decouple a battery from the processor.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a foldable system for a simulated image-guided medical procedure. The system includes a foldable base having at least two portions connected by a hinge, each to support one of the guide tubes two or more guide tubes to guide operational tools and two or more tracking units to detect tracking information of the operational tools. The tracking units are configured to provide tracking information to a processor be used in an image guided computerized medical simulation.

Abstract: A sphygmomanometer simulator for live training includes an upper arm cuff for a simulated patient; a rigid walled pressure vessel within the cuff; a manual inflator and manual release valve coupled to the rigid walled vessel to selectively increase and release the pressure within the pressure vessel; a pressure sensor coupled to the pressure vessel; a cuff controller receiving the pressure sensor measurements and controlling a speaker within the cuff to emit designated simulated Korotkoff sounds associated with a simulated blood pressure and with the pressure of the pressure vessel; a visual gauge controlled by the cuff controller and displaying a pressure associated with the pressure in the pressure vessel and simulated Korotkoff gauge bumps associated with the simulated blood pressure for the simulated patient; and a user controller coupled to the cuff controller for inputting the simulated blood pressure for the simulated patient.

Abstract: A healthcare education software, which is executed by an electronic healthcare education system, incorporates a medical content authoring software platform with a medical authoring interface, a medical training, simulation, and evaluation software platform with a virtual patient examination simulator and an interactive prediction table, and a computerized medical causal concept diagram construction and evaluation software platform with corresponding interfaces for training of medical students and other healthcare professionals. Preferably, the healthcare education software is connected to a robust medical information database that contains a wealth of physiological simulation animation files, evidence-based patient diagnostic information, and other pertinent medical information, which can be readily imported and utilized by a healthcare education content creator in creating and updating medical training contents via the medial authoring interface.

Abstract: A system and method for converting static/still medical images of a particular patient into dynamic and interactive images interacting with medical tools including medical devices by coupling a model of tissue dynamics and tool characteristics to the patient specific imagery for simulating a medical procedure in an accurate and dynamic manner.

Abstract: The present system combines image morphing technology, exercise programming, supplement sales, and motivational techniques into one product. Users begin by entering their current measurements, measurement goals and current picture into the system, preferably via a Web site. The picture is segmented into body components, and each affected segment is morphed based upon the measurements, goals, and the segment's responsiveness to weight loss in order to create a modified image representative of the user in a post-regimen condition. This system helps health and fitness businesses obtain new members and retain existing members by showing the members how they will look after following a specific regimen of diet and/or exercise. The system also predicts health risks of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke associated with the user's pre-regimen and post-regimen conditions.

Abstract: A medicament delivery training device configured to provide stepwise instructions for using the device to a user in a sequence of steps is provided in an embodiment herein. The medicament delivery training device includes a housing, a sensor, a microprocessor, a storage medium component associated with the microprocessor comprising a database of instructions pertaining to the sequence of steps for using the device stored thereon, one or more program code modules stored on the microprocessor or the storage medium component wherein the one or more program code modules comprise a first program code module for causing the microprocessor to provide a first instruction, and a second program code module for causing the microprocessor to provide a subsequent instruction based on a current register.

Abstract: Coaching and/or analysis of pressure-based treatment may be facilitated by a handheld treatment device. A force exerted on a body part of a subject may be quantified. The force may be exerted by a force exerting object (e.g., a hand) on the treatment device disposed between the force exerting object and the body part of the subject. The force may be applied as the pressure-based treatment. A position of the body part on the body of the subject may be determined based on the position of the treatment device relative to the body of the subject. Various parameters associated with the pressure-based treatment may be determined. Instructions associated with the pressure-based treatment may be provided via the treatment device. A given instruction may relate to a magnitude of the exerted force and/or a position on the body of the subject where the force is to be applied.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and medium for simulating medical conditions to facilitate medical training, that utilizes a roaming device configured to be mobile; a positioning device configured to determine location information of the roaming device; and a computing device configured to receive the location information, compare the location information with a predetermined set of regions, and transmit information indicative of a medical condition when the location information coincides with the predetermined set of regions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable, wearable device for measuring parameters including blood oxygenation, galvanic skin response, skin temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure, and exertion level, and diagnosing stress and other conditions which cause stress-like physiological responses based on the results of the monitoring and on patient input of feelings and symptoms. Specific queries and advice on stress reduction, related disease management, and stress and disease education is also provided to the patient through the device.

Abstract: A computer system providing information relating to the delivery of physical therapy services to a patient suffering from a musculoskeletal impairment or a neuro-musculoskeletal impairment is provided. The computer system comprises at least one data store comprising a plurality of stored pain patterns; a plurality of physical examination therapy examination methods; and a plurality of physical therapy intervention methods. The computer system further comprises a data processing element, configured to select a stored pain pattern based on an input pain pattern and determine at least one physical therapy examination method and at least one physical therapy intervention method based on the selected stored pain pattern.

Abstract: The present invention takes the form of a device for training a user in defibrillation technique. The device includes a non-conductive belt that encircles a chest of a typical training simulator. The device includes conductive studs disposed in the AP or AL position, and therefore allows for training of the AP or AL defibrillation technique, respectively. The device can be used in conjunction with a high-technology simulator. In such a case the conductive studs redirect simulated cardiac rhythm signals and defibrillator electricity, allowing for the simulation of defibrillation in the AP position. The device can also be used in conjunction with a low-technology simulator or a pillow to provide AP and/or AL defibrillation functionality. In such a case, a rhythm simulator is used to simulate heart rhythm and dissipate defibrillation energy.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a framework (e.g. software, hardware, firmware, etc.) allow students and health professionals to learn and practice medical principles and refine essential skills in a virtual environment. The disclosed framework allows students (users) to interact with virtual patients in various scenarios, exposing users to medical illnesses and conditions. For example, the disclosed framework allows users to identify and manage different illnesses and conditions that may not be common in their geographic location, and exposes users to patient types and ethnic groups that they may not be exposed to otherwise.

Abstract: A microsurgical simulation system includes a display for providing a virtual simulation of images of a model of a human eye and a hand-held tool for simulating a surgical tool. The hand-held tool comprises a position and orientation sensor for supplying positional signals to a processor to indicate a position and orientation of the hand held tool and a tracking system for supplying measurement signals to the processor to indicate a linear distance between a first component and a second component of the hand-held tool. A virtual representation of the hand-held tool is presented on the display, and the appearance and positioning of the virtual representation of the hand-held tool is based on the positional signals and measurement signals supplied to the processor by the hand-held device.

Abstract: A simulated medical device may include a visual display, a processor, a memory, a switch connected to a power supply, a body housing the visual display, the processor, the memory, and the switch, and a simulated probe coupled to the body. The body is configured to receive internally at least a portion of the simulated probe. The switch is configured to provide a supply of power to the processor when the at least a portion of the simulated probe is external to the body and to disconnect the supply of power to the processor if the at least a portion of the simulated probe is inserted in the body. The processor is configured to cause the visual display to display at least a first simulated medical value in response to receiving the supply of power at the processor and after a time duration indicated by a simulated acquisition time.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a simulated medicament delivery device and an electronic circuit system. The simulated medicament delivery device includes a housing, and is devoid of a medicament delivery mechanism that causes a medicament to be delivered. The electronic circuit system is coupled to the housing and includes an audible output device and a cover. The housing of the medicament delivery device and the cover of the electronic circuit system collectively define an acoustic enclosure. The audible output device is configured to be disposed within the acoustic enclosure.

Abstract: A simulation system for training in endoscopic procedures includes an endoscope apparatus, which includes an operating part with at least one valve, a control device to generate a virtual image of an endoscopic operating scene depending on an actuation of the valve and a display device to display the virtual image, the endoscope apparatus includes for example a siphoning line, an insufflation line and/or a flushing line upon which the valve acts. The simulation system includes pressure-generating means to impact the siphoning line, the insufflation line and/or the flushing line with reduced or excess pressure, sensor means to measure pressure and/or flow in the siphoning line, the insufflation line and/or the flushing line and transmission means to transmit the measured values provided by the sensor means to the control device to be used in generating the virtual image.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods, systems, and articles, such as computer program products, including a method for managing presentation of information, performed by execution of computer readable program code by a processor of a computer system, is disclosed. The method includes retrieving information relating to one or more subject matters from one or more data repositories, the one or more subject matters including general non-personal information on medical conditions and treatments therefor, presenting one or more sets of data from the retrieved information specific to a practitioner type selectable by a user from a plurality of practitioner types, presenting another one or more sets of data from the retrieved information common to two or more practitioner types selectable from the plurality of practitioner types, and presenting a further one or more sets of data from the retrieved information specific to at least one non-practitioner type.

Abstract: A system for coaching breathing techniques includes a processor and storage device. An input receiver connected to the processor receives selection of a selected breathing technique. When executed, the processor causes a presentation in a first portion of the display device representing a desired breathing pattern based on the selected breathing technique. The processor monitors breathing sounds from a microphone and causes a presentation in a second portion of the display device representing an actual breathing pattern of a user. The processor correlates the actual breathing pattern with the desired breathing pattern based on the selected breathing technique and provides directions to the user to inhale and exhale according to the selected breathing technique. An image acquisition device acquires image data of the user. The processor correlates the image data of the user with predetermined relaxation images and provides directions to the user to establish a relaxing posture.

Abstract: Provided is a stethoscopy training system which is inexpensive and has a simple configuration, without using a device which measures a respiratory operation of a simulated patient. The stethoscopy training system for this objective is formed from: a simulated stethoscope (1) having a sound acquisition unit further comprising a location display means (1d), a tube, and ear pipes; a location sensing means (2) for sensing the location of the sound acquisition unit; biological sound database (3); a biological sound reproducing means (4); and a timing display means (5) for displaying a timing of a repetition of a reproduced respiratory sound. The database retains as information biological sounds which are prerecorded from actual patients in correspondence with chest locations.

Abstract: Manikin for the training of medical personnel and the like, comprising electrical circuitry for sensing of input parameters and controlling of output parameters. The manikin comprises a plate comprising metal, for the conduction of heat generated by said electrical circuitry, away from said circuitry. The said plate serves as a structural part, as it is connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one of the group consisting of thighs, pelvis, neck (head), and arms. Furthermore, the plate constitutes at least a part of a Faraday cage surrounding a manikin main board.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching and practicing an ophthalmologic surgical technique of creating the continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis comprises a housing with a first base end and a second suction cup end for holding a malleable body; a flexible film or cellophane-type membrane covers the operating area of the malleable body; this flexible film can be held into place on the first base end with a first cap with an aperture or opening; in between the first base end and the second suction cup end, there can be a flexible stock with a threaded connection. There can also be a second cap addition, which simulates a cornea and anterior chamber, which can be filled with viscoelastic material, which can increase the pressure in the eye and flattens the anterior capsule.

Abstract: A method for medical skills training is provided that includes simulating a current condition of at least one simulated patient wherein the current condition comprises dynamic physiology, appearance, and behavior of the patient using one or more physiology models; outputting the simulated patient in the current condition on a visual display; receiving input from one or more users, wherein the input represents one or more medical interactions to be virtually applied to the simulated patient; processing the inputs using the physiology model in conjunction with one or more physiological variables that change over time based on the physiology model, in response to corresponding deterioration clocks and the inputs; and outputting one or more changes to the current condition of the simulated patient by applying different animations to the simulated patient based on the processed inputs. As system and computer readable media for medical skills training are also provided.

Abstract: A system and method for resetting a locking mechanism of a medicament delivery or training device is provided herein. The system and method include a central shaft comprising a slotted ring, a pronged ring, a spring, a spring clamp, an actuator button, and a lock ring. Following the firing of the medicament device, wherein the actuation member has been activated and the lock ring in the unlocked position, the system and method can be initiated to reset the locking mechanism such that the components of the system and the lock ring are reset to the locked position before the actuation member can be actuated for a subsequent injection or training.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for dispensing or distributing a drug, particularly a potentially teratogenic drug, to a patient while minimizing the occurrence of an adverse side effect. In particular, the present invention provides methods for dispensing or distributing a drug containing topiramate to a patient in need of weight loss to minimize the occurrence of potential birth defects associated with the drug. Methods for providing training to prescribers on the potential risks associated with particular drugs are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system to assist in at least one of the evaluation of or the improvement of skills to perform minimally invasive surgery includes a minimally invasive surgical system, a video system arranged to record at least one of a user's interaction with the minimally invasive surgical system or tasks performed with the minimally invasive surgical system, and a data storage and processing system in communication with the minimally invasive surgical system and in communication with the video system. The minimally invasive surgical system provides at least one of motion data, ergonomics adjustment data, electrical interface interaction data or mechanical interface interaction data of at least a component of the minimally invasive surgical system in conjunction with time registered video signals from the video system.

Abstract: The present disclosure in some embodiments relates to a computer-based method for improving the pharmaceutical understanding of a user. The method includes receiving medication data from a source, wherein the medication data is related to a user's prescribed, dispensed, or claimed medicines; associating a unique ID for each user with the medication data for the user; providing a user interface, whereby the data for a user is accessible to the user only after the user has provided an authentication, wherein the medication data accessible to the user via the user interface comprises the one or more medications the user is taking.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a virtual reality surgical training simulator may be described. A virtual reality surgical training simulator may have a rendering engine, a physics engine, a metrics engine, a graphical user interface, and a human machine interface. The rendering engine can display a three-dimensional representation of a surgical site containing visual models of organs and surgical tools located at the surgical site. The physics engine can perform a variety of calculations in real time to represent realistic motions of the tools, organs, and anatomical environment. A graphical user interface can be present to allow a user to control a simulation. Finally, a metrics engine may be present to evaluate user performance and skill based on a variety of parameters that can be tracked during a simulation.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a medicament device configured to provide stepwise instructions for using the device to a user in a particular sequence is provided. The device includes a reusable housing configured to receive a container, the reusable housing including a control interface, the control interface including at least one responsive member reactive to a user input, an actuation member configured to interact with the container, a signal output component associated with the reusable housing; and circuitry associated with the reusable housing configured to control a provision of the stepwise instructions to the user in the particular sequence.

Abstract: A method and system are presented for performing virtual surgery simulations. The computer system includes a processor and a memory. The method includes receiving user input from a user via a user interface. The user input includes input representing surgical operations or non-surgical invasive procedures. The method also includes processing the user input and utilizing the input to generate or modify a computational model. The method also includes running simulations using the computational model in accordance with the user input. After running the simulations, the method further includes determining results from the simulations. The results correspond to probable effects or outcomes of performing real life surgical operations or non-surgical invasive procedures corresponding to the user input. Last, the method includes presenting the results to the user via the user interface.