Abstract: A system and method for collecting distortion compensation data to continually update and improve a distortion compensation algorithm for correcting position and orientation (PnO) information regarding an object tracked. The method may be performed while the object is freely in motion. Collection of the distortion compensation data is based on a first PnO solution based on the first PnO measurement data and irrespective of the second PnO measurement data, and a second PnO solution based on a correction algorithm that includes the first PnO measurement data, the second PnO measurement data, and PnO correction data. The first and second PnO solutions may be added to the PnO correction data to continually update and improve the distortion compensation algorithm.

Abstract: An external adjustment device includes at least one permanent magnet configured for rotation about an axis with a first handle extending linearly at a first end of the device and a second handle at a second end of the device, the second handle extending in a direction substantially off axis to the first handle. The external adjustment device further includes a motor mounted inside the first handle and a first button located in the proximity to one of the first handle or the second handle, the first button configured to be operated by the thumb of a hand that grips the one of the find handle or second handle. The first button is configured to actuate the motor causing the at least one permanent magnet to rotate about the axis in a first direction.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a spinal fixation system comprising a telescoping spinal rod, as well as methods of its use and a guide tower for use therewith. The telescoping rod can be extended after it has been inserted into the patient below the fascia, which permits it to be extended in the sub-fascial space.

Abstract: A method where a propeller is set into locomotion relative to a medium at least partially surrounding the propeller. An actuator induces a rotation of the propeller relative to the medium and about a rotational axis of the propeller, and the propeller converts its rotational movement into locomotion relative to the medium. The aspect ratio of at least one cross-section of the propeller is three or more. Also a helical or modifiedly helical propeller for converting rotational movement of the propeller into locomotion of the propeller relative to a medium at least partially surrounding the propeller, where the aspect ratio of at least one cross section of the propeller is three or more. And a method of producing a propeller, including the step of providing a plate extending along the helical axis, where the aspect ratio of at least one cross section of the plate is three or more.

Abstract: Various exemplary surgical adjuncts with medicants affected by activator materials are provided. In general, an adjunct is provided with at least one medicant that is configured to be activated by an activator material. The adjunct can be delivered to a tissue of a patient, where the adjunct can be implanted. Various activator materials can be configured to activate the at least one medicant retained by the adjunct, the activation causing any one or more of a variety of actions. For example, the at least one medicant can be activated so as to yield at least one of a signal and/or an effect on the adjunct.

Abstract: An implant system for correcting deformities is provided. The implant system includes A proximal extension having a hollow interior and a distal extension configured to be received within the hollow interior of the proximal extension. The implant system also includes a locking element configured to lock the distal extension from moving with respect to the proximal extension. The distal extension is configured with ratchet teeth on a top surface for interacting with a distractor instrument for contacting or distracting the distal extension with respect to the proximal extension. The proximal extension and distal extension are configured to receive clamping elements for coupling to the implant to anatomical regions of the body.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed towards devices, methods, and related systems that are minutely-invasively delivered to the brain parenchyma, subdural or subarachnoid space where the devices, methods, and systems directly interface with central nervous system media (i.e., fluid or tissue) enabling detecting, sensing, measuring, stimulating, altering and/or modulating of the media or tissue surfaces.

Abstract: Closed-loop transcranial stimulation and monitoring is disclosed that includes generating a stimulation signal having a set of first oscillation parameters; applying the stimulation signal transcranially to a patient; monitoring the stimulation signal as applied to the patient; receiving a brain activity signal from the patient; generating a feedback signal based on the monitored stimulation signal as applied to the patient; and generating a modified activity signal by subtracting the feedback signal from the brain activity signal; determining one or more second oscillation parameters of the modified activity signal; and adjusting the set of first oscillation parameters of the stimulation signal based on the one or more second oscillation parameters of the modified activity signal. Closed-loop transcranial stimulation and monitoring is also disclosed in which the patient is engaged in a cognitive task.

Abstract: The invention is an implantable magnetic anastomosis device having an exoskeleton that directs self-assembly. The design allows the device to be delivered in a linear configuration using a minimally-invasive technique, such as endoscopy or laparoscopy, whereupon the device self-assembles into, e.g., a polygon. A coupled set of polygons define a circumscribed tissue that can be perforated, or the tissue can be allowed to naturally necrose and perforate. The device can be used to create anastomoses in a variety of tissues, such as tissues found in the gastrointestinal, renal/urinary, and reproductive tracts. New procedures for using anastomoses, e.g., surgical bypass are also disclosed.

Abstract: A screw cap removably associated with a bone screw, the bone screw comprising: a head having a set of interior threads, one of the set of interior threads having a circular slot; a magnet; and an interior cavity located within the bone screw and configured to house the magnet; the screw cap comprising: a top end configured to receive a driving means for inserting the screw cap into, and removing the screw cap from, the head; a body having a set of cap threads, one of the set of cap threads comprising a locking bead; and an annular recess concentrically lining a portion of the body, the annular recess comprising a leakage ring for establishing a seal between the screw cap and the head; wherein an association of the set of cap threads with the set of interior threads causes the locking bead to be engaged with the circular slot.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and components thereof enable stimulating synthesis of new collagen and elastic fibers in superficial tissues, of a human or other living subject by introducing magnetic particles into the superficial tissue and activating the magnetic particles by application of magnetic field to stimulate synthesis of new collagen and elastic fibers.

Abstract: A method for localizing a nodule of a patient includes inserting a delivery tool into tissue of a patient, such as lung tissue, releasing the magnetic fiducial into or adjacent a nodule from the delivery tool, and locating the magnetic fiducial with a localization tool.

Abstract: An intervertebral disc replacement device comprising a superior plate and an inferior plate, in which each plate contains one or more embedded magnets. The one or more magnets in the superior plate and the one or more magnet in the inferior plate are oriented such that a magnetic force exists between the one or more magnets in the superior plate and the one or more magnet in the inferior plate. In addition, an intervertebral disc replacement device comprising a superior plate and an inferior plate, in which each plate contains one or more embedded magnets, and the plates are designed to form an articulating surface. Further, an intervertebral disc replacement device comprising a superior plate, an inferior plate, and a spacer, in which each plate contains one or more embedded magnets, and the superior and inferior plates are designed to form articulating surfaces with the spacer.

Abstract: Encased magnetic bone growth stimulating devices and methods of use are provided herein. An example device includes a magnet and a biocompatible means for enclosing the magnet. The biocompatible means for enclosing the magnet further comprises a means for releasably coupling with the medical implant and a means for coupling the enclosing means to an implantable medical device.

Abstract: Provided are systems and methods for decalcifying aortic valves and/or other valves, blood vessels, and/or cardiac tissues in a mammalian (e.g., a human) patient (e.g., a patient having or suspected of having calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD)). A transcatheter (aortic) valve decalcification system/method can include applying one or more pulsed magnetic fields to the calcium deposit(s) within a valve or other vessel or tissue within the patient. The system can include a catheter having pulsed magnetic field ribbons disposed therein, and the catheter can be provided to the patient.

Abstract: Described here are devices, systems, and methods for moving and/or supporting an internal organ or other tissue, such as during minimally-invasive surgery. Generally, a system for moving and/or supporting tissue may comprise a magnetic control component and a retractor having at least one magnetic portion. The retractor may have a first low-profile configuration for passing through an incision into a surgical site within a patient and a second expansive configuration for engaging tissue. The magnetic control component may be placed over the surgical site external to the patient and generate a magnetic field to manipulate the retractor and engaged tissue.

Abstract: A system for correcting scoliosis, the system comprising: a bone screw configured to be screwed into a bone having: an exterior casing; a head having interior threads; a distalmost tip configured to be driven into the bone; a shaft extending between the head and the tip, the shaft having exterior threads; a magnetic ball; an interior cavity within the bone screw configured to house the magnetic ball; a cap having: a top end having a recess configured to receive a means for driving the bone screw into the bone; and a bottom end having cap threads; wherein an association of the cap threads with the interior threads causes the cap to be sealed to the head, and thus causes the magnetic ball to be fully encased within the bone screw, such that no portion of the magnetic ball is exposed outside of the exterior casing; and a correction abacus.

Abstract: An external adjustment device includes at least one permanent magnet configured for rotation about an axis with a first handle extending linearly at a first end of the device and a second handle at a second end of the device, the second handle extending in a direction substantially off axis to the first handle. The external adjustment device further includes a motor mounted inside the first handle and a first button located in the proximity to one of the first handle or the second handle, the first button configured to be operated by the thumb of a hand that grips the one of the find handle or second handle. The first button is configured to actuate the motor causing the at least one permanent magnet to rotate about the axis in a first direction.

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing blood viscosity along a flow direction, suppressing turbulence in blood flow, and treating rouleaux are disclosed. One method includes applying a unidirectional magnetic field to a flow of blood in a direction parallel or antiparallel to a direction of the flow of blood, and maintaining the application of the unidirectional magnetic field to the flow of blood until a blood viscosity along the direction of the flow of blood is reduced and/or the turbulence in the blood flow is suppressed. One system includes an annular magnet sized to encircle a portion of a patient's body. The magnet is adapted to generate a unidirectional magnetic field in a region within the annular magnet. The unidirectional magnetic field has a strength sufficient to reduce the blood viscosity in the portion of the patient's body and/or suppress turbulence in the blood flow by a predetermined amount. The system will also break rouleaux for patients with rouleaux, but the process will take more time.

Abstract: Described are coordinated apparatus and methods for drug targeting, clearing the lumen, placing implants within the wall of, and stenting, as necessary, any tubular anatomical structure with single luminal entry. Miniature balls, or miniballs, are introduced into the wall aeroballistically from within the lumen, or small arcuate bands called stays inserted through the outer tunic by means of a hand tool. When miniballs must be placed too closely together to be controlled by hand, a positional control system assists in discharge. Implantation within or proximal to diseased tissue targeting, and thus concentrating the medication in that tissue, miniballs and stays can be used to deliver and controllably release multiple drugs, a radionuclide, or an open or closed loop smart-pill, for example. A glossary of terms follows the specification. Balance of abstract appended to the section entitled Summary of the Invention.

Abstract: A system for generating a traveling field free line, traveling along a propagation direction different from the orientation of said traveling field free line, said system comprising at least a first and a second coil assembly, wherein said first coil assembly is configured for generating a first stationary field free line at a first location when a current is flowing in the first coil assembly and the second coil assembly is current free, and wherein said second coil assembly is configured for generating a second stationary field free line at a second location, when a current is flowing in the second coil assembly and the first coil assembly is current free. The system further comprises a controller configured for driving the first and second coil assemblies with corresponding driving currents synchronized with each other, such that said traveling field free line travels along the propagation direction from a first location towards a second location.

Abstract: Systems and methods for quantifying cardiac electrophysiologic signals. An electronic processor receives a unipolar electrogram signal from each of a plurality of electrodes positioned at different locations of a heart. The electronic processor then calculates or measures a bipolar electrogram signal based on a difference between the unipolar electrogram signal for a first electrode and the unipolar electrogram signal for a second electrode. A local activation time (LAT) difference between a location of the first electrode and a local of the second electrode is then determined based on a voltage amplitude of the bipolar electrogram signal. The LAT difference is indicative of an amount of time between a local activation of a propagating wavefront at the location of the first electrode and a local activation of the propagating wavefront at the location of the second electrode.

Abstract: Provided is and electrode selection device communicating with a capsule endoscope. The device includes an analog front end configured to recover first data based on first signals transmitted from the capsule endoscope to a first electrode and a second electrode, recover second data based on second signals transmitted from the capsule endoscope to the first electrode and a third electrode, and recover third data based on third signals transmitted from the capsule endoscope to the second electrode and the third electrode, and a digital receiver configured to calculate a first correlation value between the first and second electrodes, a second correlation value between the first and third electrodes, and a third correlation value between the second and third electrodes based on the first to third data. The digital receiver calculates first to third correlation sums, and selects a receiving electrode pair based on the first to third correlation sums.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the medical field, in particular to the modulation of electrical polarization of neurons.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an implantable device for improving the pump function of the heart of a human patient by applying an external force on the heart muscle, said device comprising at least one pump device comprising: a first part having a first surface, and a second part having a second surface. The first part is displaceable in relation to the second part and said first and second surfaces abut each other, at least partially. The second part exerts, directly or indirectly, force on an external part of said heart muscle.

Abstract: Implantable magnetic markers (seeds) provide a higher degree of flexibility and convenience. The magnetic field that a marker provides is determined by the magnetic properties of the materials used and the dimensions of the marker—in general, a larger marker is easier to locate. Larger diameter markers may be used, but they should be much smaller than the average tumor size if they are to provide a useful degree of localization. An implantable magnetic marker is provided with two or more magnetic elements comprising permanent magnets connected by a mechanical connector to resiliently retain a first orientation when deployed and a second orientation before and/or during implantation. This allows complex magnetic configurations to be implanted, while retaining a simplified implantation method independent of the number of magnetic elements used.

Abstract: This invention presents methods for targeting and killing types of cells or organisms using Magneto-Electric Nano-Particles under the control of an external magnetic field. A method was also presented for using Magneto-Electric Nano-Particles to stimulate or rejuvenate cells under an external magnetic field.

Abstract: Systems and methods of localizing or delivery cells, biologics and/or drugs to a specific target area to treat pelvic health disorders are provided. A treatment composition including cells, biologics and/or drugs are associated with magnetic particulates, and the positioning of these materials is facilitated through use of a magnetic field-generating device that is configured to be placed on or into a pelvic anatomical structure. Certain embodiments directed to the treatment of ED in male patients can include a cell based therapy system.

Abstract: [Summary] [Problem] The therapy method and the therapy apparatus for difficult cancer such as ductal cancer and other diseases. [Solution to problem] The therapy and the apparatus to beat cancer and other diseases by injecting the material which is energy receptive from outside and emissive heat to cancer cells in the body of a patient, and giving energy from outside.

Abstract: This invention presents methods for targeting and killing types of cells or organisms using Magneto-Electric Nano-Particles under the control of an external magnetic field. A method was also presented for using Magneto-Electric Nano-Particles to stimulate or rejuvenate cells under an external magnetic field.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method for modifying a magnetic field using magnetic nanoparticles and an apparatus therefor. The method for modifying a magnetic field includes applying current to a single solenoid coil or to two parallel solenoid coils, measuring a strength of a magnetic field generated by the current at a preset target location using a measurement sensor, and controlling the strength of the magnetic field based on a concentration of a magnetic nanoparticle sample mounted in the single solenoid coil or the two solenoid coils so that the strength of the magnetic field matches a preset target value.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for applying tensile force to one or more tissue regions within a body. Illustratively, an implant ball including a spherical side wall is received within a tubular organ, and tensile sutures extend through the implant ball for applying a tensile force to facilitate elongation of the tubular organ.

Abstract: A system for the physical manipulation of free magnetic rotors in a circulatory system using a remotely placed magnetic field-generating stator is provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to the control of magnetic particles in a fluid medium using permanent magnet-based or electromagnetic field-generating stator sources. Such a system can be useful for increasing the diffusion of therapeutic agents in a fluid medium, such as a human circulatory system, which can result in substantial clearance of fluid obstructions, such as vascular occlusions, in a circulatory system resulting in increased blood flow. Examples of vascular occlusions targeted by the system include, but are not limited to, atherosclerotic plaques, including fibrous caps, fatty buildup, coronary occlusions, arterial stenosis, restenosis, vein thrombi, arterial thrombi, cerebral thrombi, embolisms, hemorrhages, other blood clots, and very small vessels.

Abstract: A method of positioning an external adjustment device relative to a patient includes placing a magnetic viewing sheet adjacent to a patient and identifying the location of an implanted magnetic assembly using the magnetic viewing sheet by visualizing a magnetic image of the implanted magnetic assembly in the magnetic viewing sheet. The external adjustment device is placed on the patient adjacent to the location where the magnetic image was located.

Abstract: A system is described comprising self-propelled bodies such as bacteria or nanoparticles, which can be activated with an external field to move in a desired direction. The self-propelled bodies, or swimmers, are contained in a flexible membrane which is mechanically manipulated through the movement of the swimmers. By controlling the applied field, which can be magnetic, chemical or gravitational, the flexible membranes can be translated and/or deformed.

Abstract: According to the invention there is provided a method of detecting an analyte including the steps of: i) providing a sample which contains the analyte and magnetic nanoparticles, in which the magnetic nanoparticles include a magnetic body portion which acts as a signalling vector and at least one receptor moiety attached to the body portion for binding to the analyte; ii) applying a magnetic field across at least a portion of the sample to orient the magnetic nanoparticles with respect to the applied magnetic field; iii) introducing electromagnetic radiation into the sample; iv) detecting a physical property which varies in dependence on the orientation of the magnetic nanoparticles with respect to the applied magnetic field, wherein the physical property is associated with the interaction of the electromagnetic radiation with the magnetic body portion which thereby acts as a signalling vector; and v) correlating the detected physical property with the presence of the analyte.

Abstract: An orthotic obstructive sleep apnea treatment device is provided that includes a hyoid bone attachment element disposed to attach a ferric element to a hyoid bone, where the ferric element is disposed to face along a treatment vector from the hyoid bone, and the treatment vector is oriented relative to a sagittal plane of a human. The orthotic obstructive sleep apnea treatment device further includes an external orthotic neck device having a contoured housing with a shape disposed to conform about a neck of the human subject, where the housing includes a force delivery element disposed at an exterior-front neck region of the human subject and is disposed to provide an attractive force to the ferric element along the treatment vector. A force sensor is disposed to measure a force exerted on the hyoid bone, a skin contact pressure, tissue compression between the ferric element and the force delivery element.

Abstract: An exemplary electroacupuncture device may be implanted beneath a skin surface of a patient at a location corresponding to a joint affected by osteoarthritis and may perform methods for treating the osteoarthritis. In some implementations, the electroacupuncture device is powered by a primary battery located within the electroacupuncture device and having an internal impedance greater than 5 ohms and a capacity of less than 60 milliamp-hours (mAh).

Abstract: The invention discloses a composition comprising surface modified iron oxide nanoparticles with citric acid modified cyclodextrin with a hydrodynamic diameter of less than 10 nm and a hydrophobic molecule. The composition finds use in targeted delivery of a hydrophobic drug and as contrast agent in imaging applications.

Abstract: Applicants have discovered a novel apparatus and method to aggregate and displace a plurality of magneto-responsive entities (steerable self-propelled entities or SSPEs) in three dimensions using time-multiplexing. The apparatus for controlling aggregation of SSPEs in a body comprises at least three sets of magnetic field sources arranged in three axes for generating a controlled magnetic field and a controller connected to at least one of said magnetic field sources to create a three dimensional convergence point. The method for aggregating the entities can comprise using a first set and a second set of said magnetic field sources to generate opposed magnetic field gradients in each said set to cause aggregation of said magneto-responsive entities in two axes and wherein the controller is configured to reverse a direction of said magnetic field gradient in a third set of magnetic field sources in a third axis according to a first predetermined program.

Abstract: A subcutaneous implantable device has one or more adjustable settings with a setting device configured to selectively change between the one or more adjustable settings. An indicator, having an ultrasound reflection enhancement, indicates each particular setting of the one or more adjustable settings.

Abstract: An eyelid implant device adapted for placement under an eyelid includes a body having an upper portion and a lower portion, where the upper portion and the lower portion include an asymmetrical weight distribution, such that the lower portion includes an increased weight distribution relative to the upper portion for facilitating the weighting of the eyelid. A plurality of undulations are located on the outer surface of the trapezoidal shaped body and extend in a direction between opposing parallel bases of the body. The eyelid implant is adapted for placement under the eyelid for weighting the eyelid and facilitating eyelid movement, while the plurality of undulations are adapted to restrict post-operative movement of the eyelid implant device relative to the eyelid by contacting with tissue associated with the eyelid during post-operative healing.

Abstract: A system and method for removing retentate from filters is disclosed, which utilizes pressurized and/or vacuum fluid through localized application. The disclosure describes a cleaning system and sequence of steps for carrying out the cleaning process, whereby, a fluid is directed to flow through a localized region of the filter media, thereby dislodging and removing accumulated retentate from the filter. In addition, the localized application of fluid flow allows for localized monitoring of the cleanliness of the filter with a high degree of spatial resolution. This filter retentate removal system and method is broadly applicable to a wide range of systems and processes ranging to engines and exhaust systems to production plants and equipment.

Abstract: A system comprising a nasogastric tube comprising a nasogastric location element, a feeding mechanism, a suction mechanism configured to sealingly draw an inner wall of an esophagus against said nasogastric tube, and a gastric decompression mechanism.

Abstract: A method of administering a drug into the brain of a mammal (human or nonhuman) is described. In this method, a magneto-electric nanoparticle (MENP) and a drug are injected into the blood stream of a mammal. The MENP attaches to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and a non-alternating electric or magnetic field is applied. In an alternative, the non-alternating field could be replaced by a slowly alternating field so as to avoid localized heating. The step of applying an electric or magnetic field causes an increase in the permeability of the BBB to the drug so that the drug passes into the brain while the MENP remains attached to the BBB.

Abstract: Implanted pulse generators with reduced power consumption via signal strength-duration characteristics, and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A representative method for treating a patient in accordance with the disclosed technology includes receiving an input corresponding to an available voltage for an implanted medical device and identifying a signal delivery parameter value of an electrical signal based on a correlation between values of the signal delivery parameter and signal deliver amplitudes. The signal deliver parameter can include at least one of pulse width or duty cycle. The method can further include delivering an electrical therapy signal to the patient at the identified signal delivery parameter value using a voltage within a margin of the available voltage.

Abstract: A method for treating neural deficits resulting from multiple sclerosis, involving assessing a subject's motor, sensory, cognitive, or emotional deficits caused by multiple sclerosis; selecting a rehabilitative task based said deficits; determining the subject's acceptable performance threshold for the rehabilitative task; and providing a paired training therapy. The paired training therapy comprises having the subject to perform a trial of the rehabilitative task; classifying the subject's performance on the trial as either acceptable or unacceptable, wherein an acceptable performance is performance at or above the subject's acceptable performance threshold, and an unacceptable performance is performance below the subject's acceptable performance threshold; and reinforcing acceptable performance by selectively stimulating the subject's vagus nerve after completion of the acceptable performance.

Abstract: A guide and remote traction system for mini-invasive surgery in a body cavity that is easily positioned and hooked and causes lower injury, comprising: at least one detachable surgical endoclamp (10) with hooking means (11, 12), assembled with an introduction guide (20) and at an initially open position; and at a naturally closed position when detached from said introduction guide (20) by a detachment mechanism; said endoclamp (10) comprising a portion of ferromagnetic material at the end opposed to said hooking means (11, 12); a cylindrically-shaped introduction guide (20) assembled with said detachable surgical endoclamp (10), said introduction guide (20) comprising a mechanism to detach said endoclamp (10); and at least one remote traction means (30) for said endoclamp (10), acting through the application of an electromagnetic field over the ferromagnetic portion of said endoclamp (10).

Abstract: Cardiac catheterization is facilitated by generating first and second electroanatomic maps of a heart of a subject and designating common spatial locations that correspond to first electrical events on the first electroanatomic map and second electrical events on the second electroanatomic map. The common spatial locations of the first electroanatomic map and the second electroanatomic map are aligned to establish an aligned map, and using the location data on the aligned map to guide a probe to a point of interest.

Abstract: A particle includes a ferromagnetic material, a radiopaque material, and/or an MRI-visible material.