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: Work flows are modeled as a graph of interdependent tasks to be performed. The tasks to be performed are set by a task file module configured to enable interactions between tasks and including modules for event viewing, protocol assistance, smart messaging, smart indices, reference material lookup. A decision support manager module is configured to construct data and model profiles for storage in a data and model profile bank, events for storage in a decision support events bank, and protocols for storage in a decision support protocol bank. Configuration files are provided to specify a configuration for execution of one of the tasks. Data entered through a user interface or from a network via a wireless or wired communication module may define task files in the task files module, configuration files in the configuration files module, as well as data, events, and protocols to be used for a defibrillation procedure.

Abstract: Described are methods and systems to train a user in the proper operation of a manual patch pump to ensure that the user can attach the patch pump to a suitable location on the skin of the user and actuate the pump correctly in accordance with a prescribed dosing schedule or a self-calculated dosing schedule.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for using an autoinjector device. In one aspect, an autoinjector device comprises a housing and a plunger slidably mounted to the housing, the plunger including a tapered region. An actuator urges the plunger with respect to the housing from a storage position to a launch position, and a friction element about a portion of the tapered region resists a movement of the plunger from the storage position to the launch position.

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: 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: A computer-implemented method includes selecting, by a virtual problem-based learning (PBL) system, information indicative of a medical profile of a patient; accessing, by the virtual PBL system, information indicative of a team of students using the virtual PBL system; generating, by the virtual PBL system and based on the medical profile, an medical PBL schema comprising a medical problem to be solved by the team of students; generating a plurality of sections in the medical PBL schema, with each section promoting solving of the medical problem, and with each section associated with (i) a private work environment for a student to privately analyze the medical problem, and (ii) a shared, anonymous work environment for the students to view analysis performed by other students in solving the medical problem; and transmitting, to one or more client systems used by the students participating in the virtual problem-based learning system, the medical PBL schema.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a container for storing a medicament prior to use is provided. The container includes a first housing for containing a medicament, a second housing, wherein the first housing is movable relative to the second housing, and an injection member associated with a lower portion of the first housing, wherein when the first housing moves relative to the second housing in a first direction to deliver the medicament, the injection member extends from the second housing traversing a first contaminant barrier disposed at a lower portion of the second housing. The first housing moves relative to the second housing in a second direction wherein the injection member is retracted into the second housing to prevent an unintentional contact with the injection member. In a further embodiment, an actuation mechanism for actuation of an injection includes a rotatable member.

Abstract: A simulation system for training in endoscopic operations includes an endoscope apparatus, including at least one input for inserting an endoscopic working instrument, a sensor arrangement to detect a movement of the endoscopic working instrument, a control device to generate a virtual image of an endoscopic operation scene depending on a movement of the endoscopic working instrument, transmission means to transmit measured values supplied by the sensor arrangement to the control device for use in generating the virtual image and a display device to display the virtual image, where the sensor arrangement includes at least one optic sensor that interacts with a surface of a shaft of the endoscopic working instrument to detect the movement of the endoscopic working instrument. A flexible endoscope, an endoscopic working instrument and a method for recording a movement of an endoscopic working instrument as well as a method for training in endoscopic operations.

Abstract: Apparatus, including a mockup cavity, simulating an actual body cavity of a human subject, wherein walls defining the mockup cavity comprise a tissue equivalent material (TEM). An array of electrodes are embedded in the walls. The apparatus further includes a programmable signal generator, connected to the electrodes, and configured to apply varying potentials to the array of electrodes so as to simulate electrophysiological potentials occurring in the actual body cavity on surfaces of the walls.

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: A device and method of tapering medication in a post-operative patient is provided. The system includes a stationary base having indicia thereon representative of a defined period of time; a first circular wheel concentrically positioned on the stationary base, the first circular wheel representative of a first medication being taken by a patient; and a pin coupling the substantially circular wheel to said stationary base to permit the wheel to rotate 360 degrees about said base. The method of tapering medication includes gradually increasing the time intervals that medication is administered to a post-operative patient.

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: Systems, methods and devices for trauma assessment and tourniquet, cricoids cartilage and tension pneumothorax training including use of modular arms, legs and torso parts, that each include self-contained simulators having realistic symptoms of bleeding, pulse rates, smells and the like so that students can be trained to both assess patient trauma and train students to control bleeding through tourniquets. Also the use of digital communication devices for presenting educational content and controlling the operations of the modular system parts for training purposes. Devices and methods of teaching cricothyrotomy techniques through reusable neck collars having segmented fluid filled chambers, adjustable trachea tools with moveable parts, as well as enhanced teaching and recording the teaching results from multiple students.

Abstract: A method and system for determining the adequacy of abdominal thrusts applied to choking victims during performance of the Heimlich maneuver.

Abstract: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training manikins and methods of using CPR training manikins are described.

Abstract: A surgical simulation system is provided. The system includes at least one simulated body organ placed upon the base of an organ tray and at least one covering layer placed over the simulated body organ. At least one of the simulated body organ and covering layer includes electro-conductive gel that is operably severable under application of electrical current to simulate electrosurgery in a training environment. The training environment comprises a top cover connected to and spaced apart from a base to define an internal cavity that is partially obstructed from direct observation by a practitioner. The tray, simulated body organs and covering layer are placed inside the internal cavity for the practice of laparoscopic surgical procedures.

Abstract: A portable surgical training device is provided. The trainer includes a top cover spaced apart from a base to form a simulated body cavity for locating model organs that are substantially obscured from the field of view of the user. The top cover includes a video display, fixed insertion ports and interchangeable inserts containing simulated tissue layers. The training device has open sides for demonstrating and training lateral surgical techniques including a simulated or live tissue colon attached to a support leg for simulating transanal minimally invasive surgery. A training endoscope with an adjustable focal length for use with the trainer and, in particular, with optical trocars is disclosed. The surgical trainer can be angled and is well suited for training laparoscopic surgery techniques and demonstrating surgical instruments.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method includes producing, from an adapter, a first wireless signal characterized by a first communication mode with a computing device when a portion of at least one of a medicament delivery device or a simulated medicament delivery is disposed within the adapter. An indication is received when the portion of the medicament delivery device or the simulated medicament delivery device is removed from the adapter. A second wireless signal characterized by a second communication mode with the computing device is produced in response to the indication. The second communication mode is different from the first communication mode. The second communication mode can be, for example, a hold mode, a sniff mode or a park mode.

Abstract: A national standardized protocol developed by interfacing the FDA, medical societies, pharmaceutical companies, surgical companies, and patient focus groups for education patients about medications and surgical procedures which can be modified as new risks are discovered is desirable. Linking patient metadata to received information and then being able to identify patients about new risks and communicate to each patient is also desirable. Patients should receive all currently available information about a medication or surgical procedure and receive any newly discovered information.

Abstract: A simulator for surgical procedures is disclosed. The simulator can include a frame having a first wall and a second wall, where a passage opening is disposed in the first wall. Additionally, a variable wall can be inserted on the second wall in at least two different positions and the variable wall can have an opening.

Abstract: An intelligent system that supports real-time and offline feedback based on automated analysis of a trainee's performance using data streams captured in the training process is disclosed.

Abstract: An implant training system based on a biomechanical modeling system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the implant training system includes a processor configured to load and execute instructions from an implant simulation module and the implant simulation module configured to provide a preloaded case representing a model patient to a user, receive input from the user to adjust the preloaded case to represent a particular patient, and provide outcome information for using an implant in the particular patient.

Abstract: A virtual-reality method for surgical training simulates the task of detecting sentinel lymph nodes using a nuclear uptake probe. The simulator can be used with lymphoscintigraphic clinical imaging data to provide patient-specific training scenarios. In yet another embodiment, the apparatus can use a database representing mathematical phantoms to simulate different patient sizes, node distributions, node uptakes, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: A hand-held massage device and methods for applying pressure therapies to various parts of the anatomy using the device are provided. The device is an elongated, rigid, substantially planar member, configured with a series of alternating concave and convex shapes, and a knob-like projecting member at an end thereof.

Abstract: A compact implantable medical assembly is comprised of a medical device connected to an electrochemical cell. The medical device is comprised of a housing enclosing at least one electrical circuit and including an end having a perimeter edge and a contact opening therethrough. The electrochemical cell is comprised of a casing having a sidewall extending to a distal end and a proximal end forming a proximal opening. The proximal casing end is joined to the medical device housing. A glass-to-metal seal supports a terminal pin extending from within the casing through the proximal casing opening and through the contact opening in the end of the housing. The terminal pin is connected to the electrical circuit contained within the housing. That way the cell serves as the power source for the medical device with both the cell and medical device being exposed to body fluid.

Abstract: A method of treatment for persons with addictions. A first step of the method involves providing every person entering a treatment facility for treatment of an addiction with a tablet computer. A second step of the method involves using the tablet computer as a teaching aid containing course materials during classes and counselling sessions at the treatment facility. A third step involves using the tablet computer for storing support aids, monitoring by counsellors, communicating with counsellors, and communicating with a peer support network when the person is not in classes and counselling sessions at the treatment facility. A fourth step involves continuing to use the tablet computer for storing support aids, monitoring by counsellors, and communicating with the peer support network after the person leaves the treatment facility to resume his or her life outside of the treatment facility.

Abstract: A dialysis treatment simulation system and method are provided that comprise a treatment simulator, a computing module, and a user interface. The treatment simulator generates an event notification that simulates a notification of an event related to an interaction between a dialysis treatment machine and a patient. The computing module generates a request for a user action in response to the simulated event notification. The user interface outputs the simulated event notification and the request for the user action to an output device and provides a received user response to the computing module.

Abstract: A method and system for drawing, displaying, editing animating, simulating and interacting with one or more virtual polygonal, spline, volumetric models, three-dimensional visual models or robotic models. The method and system provide flexible simulation, the ability to combine rigid and flexible simulation on plural portions of a model, rendering of haptic forces and force-feedback to a user.

Abstract: The illustrative embodiment is a simulation system for practicing vascular-access procedures without using human subjects. The simulator includes a data-processing system and a haptics interface device. The haptics device provides the physical interface at which an end effector (e.g., medical instrument, such as a needle, catheter, etc.) is manipulated to simulate needle insertion, etc. In accordance with the illustrative embodiment, the haptics device includes a receiver. The receiver receives the end effector when it's inserted by a user into the haptics device. Sensors that are associated with the receiver monitor the motion and position of the end effector, generate signals indicative thereof, and transmit the signals to the data processing system. The signals are processed to determine the effects of manipulation of the end effector.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tooth which is used in a dental arch model with which dental students can experience dental works in the oral cavity and practice treatments. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tooth composition for formation trainings such as abutment tooth formation and cavity preparation. Since conventionally used dental arch models have a grinding sensation different from a natural tooth, dental students having completed formation trainings such as abutment tooth formation and cavity preparation by using these conventional models are frequently puzzled to have different grinding and handling properties upon dental works in the oral cavity in practice. That is, these conventional dental arch models are largely different from a natural tooth in grinding sensation including slipperiness and easiness in grinding.

Abstract: A method is provided for a 3D virtual training system. The 3D virtual training system includes a 3D display screen and an operating device, and the method includes initializing a virtual medical training session to be displayed on the 3D display screen, where 3D display contents include at least a 3D virtual image of a surgery site. The method also includes obtaining user interaction inputs via the operating device and the 3D display screen, and displaying on the 3D display screen a virtual surgery device and a virtual surgery operation on the surgery site by the virtual surgery device. Further, the method includes determining an operation consequence based on the user interaction inputs and the surgery site, rendering the operation consequence based on the surgery site and effects of the virtual surgery operation, and displaying 3D virtual images of the rendered operation consequence on the 3D display screen.

Abstract: The invention provides a handheld device for training a user in operating an auto-injector. The device has a screen and a sensor which can quantify a physical activity of the device. A visual representation of the auto-injector and a visual instruction for a desired use of the auto-injector are presented on the screen while the user is requested to manipulate the handheld device as if it was the auto-injector. By use of the sensor date, the device evaluates the performance of the user and determines a level of compliance with the instructions. Accordingly, the invention provides an increased safety in the use of auto-injectors e.g. for epinephrine (adrenaline).

Abstract: A PC (1) comprises a tomographic image information acquisition section (6), a memory (9), a volume rendering calculator (13), a display unit (2), a mouse (4), and a voxel label setting section (18). The tomographic image information acquisition section (6) acquires tomographic image information. The memory (9) stores voxel information about the tomographic image information. The volume rendering calculator (13) samples voxel information in a direction perpendicular to the line of sight, on the basis of the voxel information. The display unit (2) displays calculation results from the volume rendering calculator (13). The mouse (4) inputs cutting instructions for a liver (22) displayed on the display unit (2). The voxel label setting section (18) displays the status of the liver (22) after cutting using the cutting instructions from the mouse (4), and displays blood vessels (23) inside the liver (22) included in a cut portion (C), in a pre-cut state even after cutting.

Abstract: A therapeutic device for improving the respiration of a patient, the device comprising a curved or kinked pipe section, into the first end of which a mouthpiece provided with a passage is disposed, a holding peg inserted into a second end of the pipe section and connected thereto, the holding peg having a passage disposed therein and being insertable into the inside of the pipe section, and a flexible hose attached to the holding peg inside the pipe section, a free end of the hose moveable freely in an area of the mouthpiece between an inner wall of the pipe section, such that the therapeutic device can be used during inhalation and exhalation, the device (1) enabling the patient to train his respiratory passageways both during exhalation and inhalation, thereby to improve the effectiveness of respiration.

Abstract: An apparatus for teaching proper technique for the Heimlich or Abdominal Thrust maneuver. When the Heimlich or Abdominal Thrust maneuver is applied to the apparatus by a user, an indicator is provided to show the user whether proper technique was used. The apparatus can take the form of a wearable garment or a form, either of which may mimic the shape of a person. The apparatus is scalable, and may be made to mimic the shapes of persons of various sizes, including infants and animals, if desired. Indicators can be included to measure the effectiveness of other techniques often used in conjunction with the Heimlich or Abdominal Thrust maneuver.

Abstract: The present invention provides the materials and methods related to marking the injection site on a patient's skin. Specifically, the present invention provides the materials and methods for applying a medical marking tattoo containing at least one injecting targeting site, injecting a medical substance into the area of the injection target site, and marking the injecting targeting site using a tattoo activation element. The present invention also provides the materials and methods for a medical marking apparatus that can be used to perform the methods of the present invention to mark the injection site on a patient's skin. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Abstract: A method and server device that facilitates biomarker education by obtaining, with an interactive web-based platform, educational content corresponding to a plurality of laboratory biomarkers from a plurality of content providers, the educational content comprising at least medical or technical information for each of the biomarkers. The educational content is stored in a database. Web pages of the platform including at least a subset of the educational content are provided to a user in response to an interaction by the user with at least one navigation menu of the platform. Discussion of one or more of the biomarkers or the educational content is facilitated by providing a forum for obtaining comments from content providers or users and storing the comments in the database, wherein the web pages provided to the user include one or more of the comments.

Abstract: A robotic device for use in image-guided robot assisted surgical training, the robotic device comprising a manual interface structure configured to simulate handling of a surgical tool; a translational mechanism for translational motion of the manual interface structure; a rotational mechanism for rotational motion of the manual interface structure; and a spherical mechanism configured to decouple the orientation of the manual interface structure into spatial coordinates, wherein a linkage between the rotational mechanism, the rotational mechanism and the spherical mechanism, and the manual interface structure are disposed on opposing sides of an intersection of a pitch axis and a yaw axis of the spherical mechanism.

Abstract: A portable surgical training device is provided. The trainer includes a top cover spaced apart from a base to form a simulated body cavity for locating model organs that are substantially obscured from the field of view of the user. The top cover includes a video display, fixed insertion ports and interchangeable inserts containing simulated tissue layers. The training device has open sides for demonstrating and training lateral surgical techniques including a simulated or live tissue colon attached to a support leg for simulating transanal minimally invasive surgery. A training endoscope with an adjustable focal length for use with the trainer and, in particular, with optical trocars is disclosed. The surgical trainer can be angled and is well suited for training laparoscopic surgery techniques and demonstrating surgical instruments.

Abstract: Device for simulating variable lung compliance, comprising a structure having two main components (3, 4) between which an artificial lung (1) is situated, the main components (3, 4) being adapted to be moved away from each other by the lung (1) when the lung is inflated and are adapted to move towards one another to force air out of the lung (1) in an exhalation phase; and a biasing means (17, 18) acting to provide a force that acts to move the two main parts (3, 4) towards one another. The biasing means comprises at least one spring (17, 18), which is selectively attachable to impose the force, upon actuation by a spring holding mechanism (22, 32).

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for an apparatus and method for practicing injection techniques through an injectable apparatus. The injectable apparatus may contain a camera that is configured to detect the intensity and color of light attenuated from a testing tool after it is injected into a simulated human or animal body parts. A training tool may be connected to a user display device to generate a display of the injection apparatus as well as the performance parameters of a trainee.

Abstract: A system for medical training includes an anatomical simulator modeled after at least a portion of a body, the simulator including at least one external surface, and at least one cavity in fluidic communication with the external surface via a cavity. The system further includes at least one internal sensor positioned at an internal location of the anatomical simulator, the internal sensor positioned to receive an internal input based on forces applied from within the cavity, at least one external sensor positioned at an external location of the anatomical simulator and to receive an external input based on forces applied to the external surface, and a feedback display system in communication with the sensors to simultaneously record external sensor readings from the at least one external sensor and internal sensor readings from the at least one internal sensor and at least one time measurement device.

Abstract: There is disclosed a system of providing technical guidance and instruction by utilizing two zoom lens equipped auto focus CCD cameras placed directly in front of the instructor's left and right pupils and communication networks, such as internet. More specifically, a business system is disclosed which distributes technical guidance and instruction on medical surgeries and other highly precision oriented technical work performed in person, and/or an education guidance system which a specific client performs a medical surgery or other highly precise and technical work. In addition, the business system will have the capability of settling tuition/instruction fees which arise from providing the technical guidance and instructions, recruiting potential students, and settlement of payments to the instructors.

Abstract: A system and method that improves the speed and efficiency through which ultrasound practitioners acquire and develop essential basic ultrasound skills in a simulated environment without the need of actual patients or subjects. The system utilizes a simulator with an input device that manipulate a virtual transducer probe in a simulated 3D space to cut a slice through a basic shape. A 2D section of the cut plane is also displayed so that the practitioner can learn to relate 2D section with their 3D objects cut in cross-section.

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: The present invention is a visual cuing device which allows users to rapidly and easily identify ECG/EKG cardiac arrhythmias and twelve lead ECG/EKG arrhythmias. A visual cuing device contains a plurality of panels with a plurality of graphically displayed ECG/EKG abnormalities alternated with visually high-contrast, solid colored text sections. A visual cuing device may also contain additional tools, such as a heart rate reference line, time reference line or baseline window to aid in analysis and interpreting ECG/EKG strips. A visual cuing device may also be adapted to display using a touch screen or other user interface.

Abstract: A bone implant surgery system is used for simulating a dental surgical procedure having a display that shows placing a simulated bone implant at a simulated implant site on a living body by using a simulated surgical tool holding the simulated bone implant. At least one hand-held haptic device is used to control the surgical tool and at least one controller is specifically configured to cause movement of the surgical tool on the display based on motions of the haptic device and to cause haptic feedback to a user holding the haptic device depending on the position of the surgical tool on the display. A user may then review and evaluate the results of the surgical simulation.

Abstract: Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method of using an emergency medicament device. The method includes reading an ID tag from the medicament device using a mobile device; automatically requesting instructions for using the medicament device based on the ID tag; and displaying a video to a user of the mobile device, the video providing instructions for using the medicament device in accordance with approved labeling of the medicament device. Various exemplary embodiments relate to an electronic medicament device including: a reservoir configured to store an amount of medication for treating anaphylaxis; an administration component for administering the medication to a patient; a processor communicatively connected to a memory storing medicament device information; and an identification tag configured to be read by another device, the identification tag providing the medicament device information including identification of instructions for using the medicament device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a facility for measuring critical CPR parameters during first aid training. Specifically, the device provides a manikin housing for the insertion of a consumer electronic device such as phone, music player, personal assistant, game controller or other device with necessary sensory for the measurement of the CPR parameters. Tactile buttons, touch sensitive displays and embedded accelerometers in these devices may be used to accurately measure CPR parameters. In certain embodiments, parameters may be measured using a game console controller and the feedback may be displayed on a television in the form of a video game.