With Stereotactic Device Patents (Class 600/417)
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Patent number: 7831290Abstract: A localization mechanism, or fixture, is used in conjunction with a breast coil for breast compression and for guiding a core biopsy instrument during prone biopsy procedures in both open and closed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. The localization fixture includes a three-dimensional Cartesian positionable guide for supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument, and, in particular, a sleeve to a biopsy site of suspicious tissues or lesions. A z-stop enhances accurate insertion, prevents over-insertion or inadvertent retraction of the sleeve. The sleeve receives a probe of the MRI-compatible biopsy instrument and may contain various features to enhance its imagability, to enhance vacuum and pressure assist therethrough, etc.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2005Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Hughes, Timothy G. Dietz, Michael J. Andreyko, Kent Swendseid, Jay Wilkins, William E. Clem
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Patent number: 7826883Abstract: A localization mechanism, or fixture, is used in conjunction with a breast coil for breast compression and for guiding a core biopsy instrument during prone stereotactic biopsy procedures in both open and closed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. The localization fixture includes a fiducial marker and three-dimensional Cartesian positionable guide for supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument with detachable probe/thumb wheel probe to the biopsy site of suspicious tissues or lesions.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Devicor Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: John A. Hibner, Gary Todd McCollister, David Denis Beck, David Scott Little
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Patent number: 7809422Abstract: An apparatus for optical imaging of a breast is described, the apparatus comprising: a supporting platform for positioning a patient in a face down prone position, the platform having a cavity for the breast to be pendantly suspended therethrough; a flexible fluid-filled receptacle below the cavity holding an optical matching fluid for the optical imaging, wherein the breast is immersed in the fluid during the optical imaging; a supporting mechanism surrounding a perimeter of the receptacle for supporting the receptacle within the cavity and preventing it from falling through the cavity when holding the optical matching fluid; and a source and detector coupling device for orienting source and detector ports with respect to the receptacle and for contacting the receptacle to obtain a desired geometry of the breast and the optical matching fluid.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2002Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: ART Advanced Research Technologies Inc.Inventors: Luc Corbeil, Peter Marin, Mario Gagnon, BenoƮt Orban, Christian Pilon
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Publication number: 20100198052Abstract: The disclosure describes articulating arms that are supported directly or indirectly by MRI scanner beds for use during MRI-guided procedures.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventors: Kimble Jenkins, Peter Piferi
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Patent number: 7769426Abstract: A method for performing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) guided core biopsies is tendered more accurate and efficient by precisely positioning a disengaged probe assembly with respect to a localization fixture attached to a breast coil platform. The precise position is defined by MRI stereotopic location of suspicious tissue with respect to a fiducial marker on the localization fixture. With the probe inserted, dual lumens in the probe assembly are used for drainage or insertion of fluids as well as inserting diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Core biopsies are performed by engaging a biopsy instrument handle containing a cutter, with the localization fixture providing support and position to the handle. Repeated MRI scans are facilitated by the ability to disengage the handle without risk of displacing the probe assembly from the biopsy site.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: John Anthony Hibner, Lynetta Jean Freeman, Elizabeth Lynn Sebern, Jessica Mary Pyzoha, Terry Darnell McCoy
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Patent number: 7764985Abstract: Devices and processes for use in computer aided or computer navigated surgery include one or more fault interfaces interposed between an indicium and an item to be used during surgery such as a body part, tool, implant, trial or other structure or component. After the indicia have been registered into the system and surgery begun, it is sometimes the case that indicia can be inadvertently moved or dislodged in position and/or orientation relative to the body part. Fault interfaces according to various embodiments are designed to fail first, so that the indicia can be repositioned relative to the item without the need to reregister the indicia into the system relative to the item. The fault interfaces preferably include structure that allows the indicium to be repositioned relative to the item so that it does not need to be reregistered into the system. Frame attachments which can by easily manufactured at relatively low cost, are disposable, and which are manufactured for single use are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2004Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: Smith & Nephew, Inc.Inventors: Daniel L. McCombs, Robert C. Thornberry, Jody Stallings
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Patent number: 7742804Abstract: During preprogrammed medical treatment and remote controlled surgery tracking the movements of the body being treated and integrating those tracked movements with the preprogrammed/remote controled treatment to arrive at an integrated modified treatment track and following that modified track during the treatment. The treating instrument may be a solid scalpel or high-energy radiation, such as X-rays, ultra sound, laser beams or the like.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2004Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Inventor: Ivan Faul
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Patent number: 7711407Abstract: A localization mechanism, or fixture, is used in conjunction with a breast coil for breast compression and for guiding a core biopsy instrument during prone biopsy procedures in both open and closed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. The localization fixture includes a three-dimensional Cartesian positionable guide for supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument, and, in particular, a sleeve to a biopsy site of suspicious tissues or lesions. A z-stop enhances accurate insertion, prevents over-insertion or inadvertent retraction of the sleeve. The sleeve receives a probe of the MRI-compatible biopsy instrument and may contain various features to enhance its imagability, to enhance vacuum and pressure assist therethrough, etc.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Hughes, Timothy G. Dietz, Michael J. Andreyko, Kent Swendseid, Jay Wilkins, William E. Clem
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Patent number: 7706858Abstract: Apparatus, system and method for immobilizing a patient's head during imaging. The apparatus includes two substantially C-shaped members that are pivotably mounted to each other. One C-shaped member includes at least one adjustable positioning rod for securing the patient's head during imaging. The apparatus is attached to a magnet resonance imaging apparatus to form a system. The system is used for imaging a patient whose head and neck is immobilized by the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2003Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Fonar CorporationInventors: Charles A. Green, Jan Votruba, William H. Wahl, Arto Cinoglu
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Patent number: 7693568Abstract: A medical device includes a sensor for sensing for an MRI gradient magnetic field and a microprocessor for responding to the detected gradient magnetic field by switching from a first electrical signal processing mode to a second electrical signal processing mode, such that electrical signals induced by the gradient magnetic field and an associated RF burst are not counted as cardiac events.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventor: Volkert A. Zeijlemaker
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Patent number: 7676256Abstract: A combined imaging apparatus having a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus with at least one transmitting coil for exciting the matter of a body under examination or of a part thereof and at least one coil for receiving the signals transmitted by the body under examination or a part thereof, as well as an electronic unit for processing the received signals to create a diagnostic image and including a device for supporting and/or guiding at least one diagnostic and/or therapeutic tool. The combined apparatus further including an echographic imaging apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Esaote S.p.A.Inventors: Luigi Satragno, Eugenio Biglieri
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Patent number: 7660621Abstract: An introducer is described that is coupled to a patient, specifically a patient's skull. The introducer may include an advancer that is remote from the patient, the advancer communicating with the introducer by means of a cable system. The introducer may also include a local position sensor that indicates the position of the primary medical device being introduced. The introducer may also include a frameless reference system that locates the primary medical device relative to a table that the patient is fixed to.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: James G. Skakoon, Thomas I. Miller, Matthew S. Solar, Gerald W. Mills, Charles L. Truwit
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Patent number: 7647087Abstract: A cortical surface registration procedure related to a diagnostic or surgical procedure. In one embodiment, the procedure includes the steps of pre-operatively obtaining a first textured point cloud of the cortical surface of a targeted region of a brain of a living subject, intra-operatively obtaining optically a second textured point cloud of the cortical surface of the brain of the living subject, and aligning the first textured point cloud of the cortical surface to the second textured point cloud of the cortical surface so as to register images of the brain of the living subject to the cortical surface of the living subject.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Vanderbilt UniversityInventors: Michael I. Miga, Benoit M. Dawant, Tuhin K. Sinha
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Publication number: 20090306496Abstract: A method for musculoskeletal tissue segmentation used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is provided. MRI image data is collected using at least two different contrast mechanisms. Voxel values from data from each contrast mechanism are used as elements of a feature vector. The feature vector is compared with classification boundaries to classify musculoskeletal tissue type of the voxel. The previous two steps are repeated for a plurality of voxels. An image is generated from the classified musculoskeletal tissue types for the plurality of voxels to provide a musculoskeletal segmentation image.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2008Publication date: December 10, 2009Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventors: Seungbum Koo, Brian A. Hargreaves, Garry E. Gold
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Patent number: 7623902Abstract: A method of determining the size and placement of screws in pedicles in a selected spinal area comprising, hollowing out the vertebra in a three-dimensional image of the spine with cortical wall thicknesses selected by a surgeon; determining the isthmus within each pedicle; generating a straight line starting at the center of the isthmus and extending inwardly to a point centered within the anterior cortex so that it is positioned concentrically within the pedicle without touching the walls thereof, the line terminating a predetermined distance from the anterior inner cortical wall and extending outwardly in the opposite direction to penetrate the posterior pedicle cortex; expanding the line concentrically and radially to a cross sectional size that is less than that of the isthmus, the line being expanded into a cylinder that stops growing when any portion thereof contacts the inner cortical wall of the hollowed out vertebral body.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2006Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Leucadia 6, LLCInventor: Hector Pacheco
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Patent number: 7574250Abstract: An input device of a teleoperator system can be operatively associated with an image of a surgical worksite. Movement of the image may correspond to movement of the input device so that the worksite image appears substantially connected to the input device. The operator can manipulate the worksite into a desired position, typically by repositioning of an image capture device. Dedicated input devices may be provided for a surgical instrument.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2003Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Intuitive Surgical, Inc.Inventor: Gunter D. Niemeyer
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Publication number: 20090131783Abstract: A method for positioning a guide device for placement of an interventional object in a body, the guide device having a guide axis, includes: determining a target point in the body and a reference point, wherein the target point and the reference point define a planned trajectory line (PTL) extending through each; determining a visualization plane, wherein the PTL intersects the visualization plane at a sighting point; mounting the guide device relative to the body to move with respect to the PTL, wherein the guide device does not intersect the visualization plane; determining a point of intersection (GPP) between the guide axis and the visualization plane; and aligning the GPP with the sighting point in the visualization plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2008Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventors: Kimble Jenkins, David D. Beatty
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Patent number: 7531810Abstract: A method for routine monitoring and quality assurance of field asymmetry of high energy circular radiation beam producing equipment. The quality assurance process of field symmetry for devices such as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) systems is simplified by directly measuring the integration of the half-beam profile. The method of the invention provides that the field symmetry is obtained by positioning the tip of an ion chamber, with a collecting length approximately half the diameter of the beam, at the central axis of the beam, and rotating the ion chamber at varying angular positions, acquiring and comparing readings at desired angular positions. Each pair of readings from positions 180 degrees opposed from each other, are plugged into the equation, Asymmetry=2(R1?R2)/(R1+R2) to compute asymmetry.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2006Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Inventor: Xiaodong Wu
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Publication number: 20080306375Abstract: An MRI-guided interventional system includes a frame with a cooperating targeting cannula. The frame is configured to be secured to the body of a patient, and is configured to translate and rotate such that the targeting cannula can be positioned to a desired intrabody trajectory. The frame may include one or more MRI-visible fiducial markers that allow frame location/orientation to be determined within an MRI image. A plurality of user-activatable actuators are configured to translate and rotate the frame relative to the body of a patient so as to position the targeting cannula to a desired intrabody trajectory. The targeting cannula includes an axially-extending guide bore therethrough that is configured to guide placement of an interventional device in vivo. Various instrumentation and equipment, such as stimulation leads, ablation catheters, injection catheters, etc., can be inserted through the targeting cannula to execute diagnostic and/or surgical procedures.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2008Publication date: December 11, 2008Inventors: David John Sayler, Raffaele Mazzei, Kimble L. Jenkins, Peter Piferi
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Patent number: 7450983Abstract: Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerized Tomotography (CT), or other diagnostic modalities may employ a three-step procedure during initial (āscoutā) cranial pre-scans that corrects for patient positioning (i.e., roll, yaw and pitch) to reduce inter- and intra-patient variation, thereby enhancing the diagnostic and comparative value of subsequent detail scans even across different diagnostic platforms. In MRI, for instance, locating the saggital sinus (SS) and optimizing a line to bisect the brain through this SS may be automated to correct for roll and yaw. By then identifying the contour of the corpus callosum in a lateral saggital scout scan, the Talairach anterior commissure (AC)āposterior commissure (PC) reference line may be found for correcting pitch. Prescription of detailed scans are improved, especially when the three-step correction is repeated periodically identifying the need to repeat a detailed scan or to adjust the coordinates of a subsequent scan.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2004Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: University of CincinnatiInventor: Kenneth L. Weiss
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Publication number: 20080183070Abstract: A multi-mode medical device system and method of using same to perform an interventional procedure. The multi-mode medical device system includes a medical device and an electrical circuit coupled to the medical device. The electrical circuit includes an integrated tracking device (e.g., a solenoid) and an imaging/visualizing device (e.g., a resonant loop). The multi-mode medical device system also includes a thermal ablation device coupled to the medical device and to the tracking device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2007Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: Wisconsin Alumni Research FoundationInventors: Orhan Unal, Krishna N. Kurpad, Christopher L. Brace
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Publication number: 20080161684Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide methods and systems for imaging system calibration using a field replaceable unit. Certain embodiments provide a field replaceable unit for imaging system calibration. The unit includes an array of radio opaque fiducials arranged for use in image calibration for an imaging system. The unit also includes a plurality of receivers positioned around a periphery of a detector in the imaging system for use in navigation calibration for the imaging system. The unit further includes a connection for providing data regarding image calibration and navigation calibration to a processor. Additionally, the unit includes a frame for positioning the array of radio opaque fiducials and the plurality of receivers embedded in a concave target with respect to a detector in the imaging system.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2006Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Dun Alex Li, Mohamed Ali Hamadeh, Daniel A. Beaudet, Lisa Marie Last
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Publication number: 20080161677Abstract: A method of operating a surgical system. The method includes obtaining a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan in which magnetic resonance (MR) visible targets are located; registering a robotic arm to the MRI scan using a digitizing tool, the robotic arm including: multiple joints and multiple degrees of freedom; an MR-compatible structural material; multiple MR-compatible joint motors; multiple MR-compatible joint encoders; and an end effector holding an MR-compatible surgical tool having a tool tip; and displaying a location of the tool tip relative to an image from the MRI scan.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2008Publication date: July 3, 2008Inventors: Garnette Roy Sutherland, Deon Francois Louw, Paul Bradley McBeth, Tim Fieding, Dennis John Gregoris
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Publication number: 20080146913Abstract: A device for locating a venous structure of a patient includes a frame having a bottom surface and a top surface, an adhesive disposed on the bottom surface of the frame to allow the frame to be removably attached to skin or a patient, and one or more sections removably attached to the top surface of the frame. The sections are formed of a liquid crystal material that is sensitive to human skin temperature ranges.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2006Publication date: June 19, 2008Applicant: MEDRAD, INC.Inventors: Arun Ranchod, Page Cedarholm, Kevin P. Cowan, Adrienne Fazio, David M. Griffiths
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Publication number: 20080139915Abstract: A branch vessel in a human patient is located or mapped using in vivo tracked field sensors where in one variation the sensor positions can be located by determining the positions of the sensors relative to a plurality of magnetic field sources of known location. This approach is used, for example, in locating the opening in a renal artery and positioning the proximal end of the AAA stent-graft adjacent to the opening. In another example, the sensors are tracked along the inner wall of an aneurysm and the acquired sensor location data processed to map the contour of the aneurysm to size a prostheses for spanning the aneurysm. The portions of the vessel adjacent the aneurysm also can be mapped. In a further embodiment, an in vivo sensor is positioned in a deployed prosthesis to create a reference for a prosthetic member having a sensor to track to during cannulation of the deployed prosthesis with the prosthetic member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.Inventors: Mark Dolan, David Simon
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Patent number: 7366561Abstract: A surgical alignment device is shown that is controlled remotely through the use of an actuator, where the actuator in turn controls at least one local adjustment device. The alignment device is suited for neurosurgery, although it is not exclusively limited to neurosurgery. The alignment device includes an insertion guide that is coupled to the local adjustment device, the insertion guide being used to guide a device such as a catheter into a patient. The alignment device may also be coupled to a control module such as a microcomputer that controls the orientation of the insertion guide in response to inputs from the surgeon as to a location of interest within the patient.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Gerald W. Mills, Martin Brady, Raghu Raghavan, John David, Thomas I. Miller, Matthew S. Solar
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Patent number: 7329262Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus for use in neurosurgery, and to a method of positioning neurosurgical apparatus. The stereoguide comprises first and second guide elements through which instruments are passed along an axis of insertion towards a target and a first clamp (25) having a clamping position on the axis between the guide elements and the target.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2003Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Renishaw PLCInventor: Steven Streatfield Gill
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Patent number: 7322990Abstract: In a biopsy system having a biopsy needle guide secured to a needle guide support bracket, a biopsy needle guide is provided that includes a body having a periphery that defines an edge of the needle guide, the periphery defining a top surface, a bottom surface and a pair of side surfaces. A cradling aperture is positioned in the body and sized to engage the needle guide support bracket. A channel is provided in communication with the cradling aperture. The channel extends inwardly from one of the side surfaces of the body toward the cradling aperture. The needle guide of the present invention inhibits movement of the needle guide relative to the support bracket during a biopsy procedure.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Suros Surgical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Joseph L. Mark, Zachary R. Nicoson
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Patent number: 7239910Abstract: The invention relates to: a method for stimulating and/or inhibiting at least one point or area of a brain using at least one stimulation device, wherein: the spatial structure of the head or brain is recorded; a three-dimensional simulation model of the surface of the brain is generated from the recording of the spatial structure of the brain; and the stimulation device is arranged relative to the head or brain using the three-dimensional simulation model of the surface of the brain, such that the at least one point or area of the brain can be stimulated using the stimulation device; a device for stimulating and/or inhibiting at least one point or area of a brain, comprising a recording device for detecting the spatial structure of the brain, a computational device for generating a simulation model of the surface of the brain and at least one stimulation or induction device, in particular a coil; a method for determining the function of a particular area of the brain, wherein at least one particular area isType: GrantFiled: April 29, 2002Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: BrainLAB AGInventor: Philipp Tanner
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Patent number: 7229401Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for inserting a needle in an animal body for effecting radiation therapy in the body, including a template for positioning the needles to be inserted, needle drive structure for drive a needle through said template towards a desired location in the body, and real-time imaging structure for creating and presenting an image of the desired location and the position of said needle during the insertion of said needle. Due to the fact that the bevelled tip of a hollow needle cause the needle to diverge away from the āline of insertion or movementā and away from the actual desired position in the animal body adversely affecting the dosimetry quality of the implanted seeds a more accurate insertion of the needle is required. According to the invention the device is provided with adjusting structure for adjusting a movement of said needle towards said desired location during insertion.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Nucletron B. V.Inventor: Johann Kindlein
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Patent number: 7226456Abstract: This invention relates to a trackable medical tool for use in image guided surgery in which the drive shaft rotates about the tracking post.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2002Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Depuy Acromed, Inc.Inventors: Michael O'Neil, Paul Joseph Birkmeyer, Spanky Allen Raymond
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Patent number: 7166113Abstract: A surgical instrument positioning system, comprising: at least one support; a cross member having at least one curved end portion, the at least one curved end portion being held by the at least one support such that the cross member is rotatable about an axis extending through a center of curvature of the at least one curved end portion of the cross member; and at least one surgical instrument holder suspended from the cross member. A laser alignment system for an image intensifier, comprising: at least one laser source which emits planar laser beams in first and second intersecting planes.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: NuVasive, Inc.Inventors: Jared Arambula, Kevin Foley, James F. Marino, Alan Curtis Stone, Eric Finley, David Matsuura, Troy Woolley, Jamil Elbanna
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Patent number: 7162292Abstract: With the beam scanning probe system for surgery, a pointer indicating the observation point of a beam scanning probe is superimposed upon an image of a lesion to be operated on in the head which is obtained via a TV camera or a surgery microscope, and the superimposed image information is registered as such in an image recording device. With the beam scanning probe system for surgery, information of a cytological picture is also registered in the image recording device. With the beam scanning probe system for surgery, the image recording device registers the two image information in a paired fashion. Through this arrangement, the beam scanning probe system for surgery can smoothly locate, for a given cytological picture, a site of a tumor to be treated from which the picture was obtained, which will ease the operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2002Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Olympus CorporationInventors: Wataru Ohno, Masaaki Ueda, Masahiko Kinukawa
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Patent number: 7149566Abstract: Systems and methods for the orientation of soft tissue such as breast tissue for enhanced accuracy of imaging and/or procedures such as a biopsy or excision are disclosed. The system for orientating and maintaining the orientation of soft tissue generally includes a frame defining an opening, the frame being configured to orient and immobilize an area of soft tissue positioned on one side of the opening, an attachment mechanism to secure the frame to an attachment region defined by the area of soft tissue or by a skin surface overlying the area of soft tissue, to facilitate orienting and immobilizing the area of soft tissue, and an imaging device to image the area of soft tissue. The opening may allow a probe of the imaging device or imaging energy transmitted by the imaging device to be movable therein for image scanning of the soft tissue. The probe, e.g., an ultrasound transducer can be rotated within the frame such that the probe scans at least either of two perpendicular directions within the frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2002Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Manoa Medical, Inc.Inventor: Roberta Lee
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Patent number: 7133713Abstract: The imaging system can comprise a plurality of elongated rails, a scanhead assembly, and a small animal mount assembly. The scanhead assembly is selectively mounted onto a first rail and is constructed and arranged for movement in a linear bi-directional manner along the longitudinal axis of the first rail. The small-animal mount assembly is selectively mounted onto a second rail and is constructed and arranged for movement in a linear bi-directional manner along the longitudinal axis of the second rail. The second rail being mounted relative to the first rail such that the longitudinal axis of the second rail is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the first rail. The imaging system can also comprise a needle injection assembly that is selectively mounted onto the third rail and is constructed and arranged for movement in a linear bi-directional manner along the longitudinal axis of the third rail.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: VisualSonics Inc.Inventor: Leo Zan
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Patent number: 7103399Abstract: A cortical surface registration procedure related to a diagnostic or surgical procedure. In one embodiment, the procedure includes the steps of pre-operatively obtaining a first textured point cloud of the cortical surface of a targeted region of a brain of a living subject, intra-operatively obtaining optically a second textured point cloud of the cortical surface of the brain of the living subject, and aligning the first textured point cloud of the cortical surface to the second textured point cloud of the cortical surface so as to register images of the brain of the living subject to the cortical surface of the living subject.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Vanderbilt UniversityInventors: Michael I. Miga, Benoit M. Dawant, Tuhin K. Sinha
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Patent number: 7022082Abstract: A needle guide system comprises a base adapted for non-pivotal connection to an imaging device, an arm pivotally connected to the base, and a needle guide pivotally connected to the arm at a point distal from the arm-base connection. The needle guide is adapted to receive at least one needle. The length of the arm extending between the base and the needle guide is adjustable. Methods for positioning a needle relative to an imaging device employ the needle guide system.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Inventor: Jiri D. Sonek
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Patent number: 7014643Abstract: A device for MR-guided endorectal prostate biopsy has a biopsy guidance device connected to an MR system that is secured to the patient support table, and is alignable via the MR system for alignment and guidance of the biopsy needle into a preselectable target area. The biopsy guidance device contains MR-imaging markers and is provided with a trajectory setting mechanism at which the previously selected and calculated trajectory can be set.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2002Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Karl Engelhard, Hans-Peter Hollenbach
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Patent number: 6985766Abstract: The invention refers to an apparatus for positioning medical treatment devices or treatment supporting devices (2) by a transportation means (1) to move said devices (2) to a predetermined position, said transportation means (1) including an automatically guided transport system (3, 7), and to a corresponding method and the use of an automatically guided transport system to perform said positioning tasks.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2001Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: BrainLAB AGInventors: Richard Braun, Robert Schmidt
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Patent number: 6975896Abstract: Fiducials (50) are disposed in an imaging region (14) along with a subject. The fiducials are mounted either to the subject itself, a surgical tool (52), an imaging probe or receive coil (80), or the like. The fiducials are filled with a liquid or gel of a fluorine 19 (Fl19) compound which has a resonance frequency that is only 6% off from the resonance frequency of protons. This enables a common transmitter (22), transmit and receive coils, and receiver (34) to be utilized for both proton and fluorine 19 imaging. The proton and fluorine resonance signals are separately reconstructed into corresponding image memories (42, 64). From the positions of the fiducials, a position calculator (66) determines the position of a fiducial carrying surgical tool or probe relative to the proton image. A depiction of the tool or probe from a look-up table (70) is appropriately positioned and rotated (68) and superimposed on the proton image by a video processor (44).Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2002Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Gƶsta J. Ehnholm, Erkki T. Vahala, Mika P. Ylihautala
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Patent number: 6907281Abstract: A method and system for constructing from volumetric CT or MRI scan data of a patient region, a virtual two-dimensional fluoroscopic image of the patient region as seen from a selected point in space are disclosed. In practicing the method, a plurality of rays are constructed between a selected view point and each of a plurality of points in an XY array, where at least some of the rays pass through the patient target region, the points in the XY array correspond to the XY array of pixels in a display screen, and each pixel in the display screen includes multiple N-bit registers for receiving digital-scale values for each of multiple colors. For each pixel element, a sum of all M-bit density values associated with voxels along a ray extending from the selected point to the associated pixel element is calculated.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: GE Medical SystemsInventor: Robert Grzeszczuk
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Patent number: 6904305Abstract: The combination of contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and MR-guided subcutaneous core biopsy can be used as a robust approach for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. MRI provides the means to accurately position and monitor interventional procedures such as biopsy, removal of tissue or other transcanular procedures. MRI may also be used in this invention to position and monitor the progress of breast conserving therapies (BCT), such as laser photo-ablation, cryoablation and localized hyperthermia. The general practice of this invention is to provide a remotely controlled apparatus for MR-guided interventional procedures in the breast. The apparatus allows the practice of a method that provides flexibility in conditioning the breast, i.e. orientation and degree of compression, and in setting the trajectory of the intervention.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2001Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventor: Nikolaos V. Tsekos
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Patent number: 6893447Abstract: A surgical fixation device for mounting a stereotactic reference frame to a patient. The device includes a mounting bracket assembly, a cannulated post, a base, an anchor tube, a plurality of percutaneous pins, and a driving device. The mounting bracket assembly is connected to a top portion of the post, whereas the base is slidably coupled to a bottom portion of the post, and defines a plurality of legs. The anchor tube extends distally from the post. The percutaneous pins extend distally from the legs, respectively. Finally, the driving device is connected to the post and is adapted to selectively contact the base. Upon final assembly, the base is longitudinally moveable relative to the anchor tube. The base can be moved to a retracted position such that the anchor tube is readily securable to a bony structure of the patient's anatomy. Once secured, the base can be moved distally such that the percutaneous pins engage the bony structure as well, thereby promoting overall stability of the device.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Leonel Dominguez, Michael S. Ferrell, Prasad Nalluri
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Patent number: 6853856Abstract: A medical imaging system for conducting an image-guided medical procedure on a subject and a method for performing the same is provided. The system includes a medical imaging apparatus, such as a CT scanner, magnetic resonance imaging system, or ultrasonic imaging system, etc., for obtaining volumetric images of the subject. Through intervention planning techniques, an interventional procedure on a subject using the volumetric images is determined. A mechanical arm assembly disposed in proximity to the medical imaging apparatus carries out the interventional procedure. The mechanical arm assembly includes a base support, a distal end, a plurality of arm segments, and a plurality of joints between the arm segments for carrying out the interventional procedure. An end-effector is disposed at the distal end of the mechanical arm assembly. The end-effector includes gripping means for selectively gripping and releasing a surgical instrument during the interventional procedure.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Jeffrey H. Yanof, Uri Shreter, Christopher Bauer
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Patent number: 6829500Abstract: A targeting device defines a direction of approach to a subsurface target under guidance of imaging equipment such as a computer tomograph or a magnetic resonance imaging machine. The targeting device is positioned relative to the target in such a way that the optimal direction of approach avoiding vital internal structures can be selected by reference to the images displayed on the imagine equipment. The device projects a visible light beam, such as a laser beam, on a region of a patient, indicating the point of entry and the angle of approach to the subsurface target.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1999Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Minrad Inc.Inventors: Michael K. Landi, Walter Grand
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Publication number: 20040242993Abstract: In a surgical operation apparatus to be used in a surgical operation within a body cavity, in particular, circulatory organs, respiratory organs, or abdominal cavity, a tip portion of a manipulator is operated, being inserted into a target region within an organ within a living body, while making monitor on imaging diagnostic equipment. This apparatus comprises: an image information detector unit for detecting image information within a body, including the target region therein; a manipulator mechanism unit for operating the tip portion within the target region; and an operation inputting unit for inputting operation information therein. A controller unit, for controlling those, changes a condition of information detection while referring to the image information detected by the image information detector unit, and also controls the manipulator mechanism unit in accordance with the operation information inputted into the operation inputting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Fujio Tajima
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Patent number: 6826423Abstract: An apparatus and method for aligning and imaging a body part which immobilizes the body part within a stereotactic body localization system having an imaging resolver fiducial localizer for precise imaging and localization of the body parts within the apparatus. Both anterior and posterior immobilization methods can be used. A continuous array of coupled fiducials is employed with at least one pair formed in a &pgr;/2 horizontal linked sine and cosine wave fiducial pattern.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: MIDCO-Medical Instrumentation and Diagnostics CorporationInventors: Tyrone L. Hardy, Laura R. Deming
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Publication number: 20040204642Abstract: In one aspect, a restraining assembly for an awake animal within a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device is provided and includes a body restrainer having a first part and a second part that hold a body of the awake animal therebetween. The assembly is of a dual coil design in that it has a volume coil for generating an excitation RF signal and an RF surface coil for receiving an RF response from the animal. The assembly further includes components that serve to restrain movements of the animal, thereby eliminating motion artifacts during the MRI procedure.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2003Publication date: October 14, 2004Applicant: INSIGHT NEUROIMAGING SYSTEMS, LLCInventors: Craig F. Ferris, Arthur C. Allard, Reinhold Ludwig, Gene Bogdanov
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Patent number: 6782288Abstract: There is disclosed a method of positioning an interventional device in a body using a guide pivoting about a pivot point, performed by locating the spatial coordinates of a target and the pivot point, determining a third point outside of the body lying along or proximate a line extending through the target and pivot point, and aligning the axis of the guide with the third point using an imaging system. There is also disclosed a medical imaging system including a processing unit and computer software operative on the processing unit to permit an operator of the system to locate the spatial coordinates of a target point and a pivot point of a guide, and determine a third point outside of the body lying along or proximate a line extending through the target and pivot point. This medical imaging system may further include computer software operative on the processing unit to assist an operator in obtaining an image by which the axis of the guide can be aligned with the third point using an imaging system.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2001Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventors: Charles Truwit, Haiying Liu
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Patent number: 6772002Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining the position of at least one object in a navigation system of co-ordinates, wherein: reference points and/or markers (4) are connected in a defined positional relationship to the object; the position of the object is detected in relation to a detection system of co-ordinates; the position of the reference points (4) is detected in relation to the detection system of co-ordinates; the position of the reference points is detected in relation to a navigation system of co-ordinates; and the position of the object is determined in the navigation system of co-ordinates, from the position of the at least one reference point (4) in the detection system of co-ordinates; as well as to a device for determining the position of an object in a navigation system of co-ordinates.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2001Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: BrainLAB AGInventors: Robert Schmidt, Akos Dombay, Andreas Hartlep