Combined With Therapeutic Or Diagnostic Device Patents (Class 600/427)
  • Patent number: 8295913
    Abstract: In a method as well as a device for planning and/or monitoring an interventional high-frequency thermoablation, 3D image data of a region (1) of interest of a body are acquired with a tomographical imaging apparatus and are presented on an image display device. In the method, a database is provided in which, for at least one interventional instrument available for high-frequency thermoablation, a volume region for at least one high-frequency power generable with the instrument is established in which a thermoablation is achieved in a tissue with the instrument at this high-frequency power. Upon marking at least one ablation position in the image representations, a 3D object representing the volume region or a volume region derived from this is then mixed in at least semi-transparently at this ablation position. The method and the associated device enable a better planning and monitoring of an interventional high-frequency thermoablation by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Gabriel Haras
  • Patent number: 8295912
    Abstract: In some embodiments, sympathetic nerves surrounding arteries or leading to organs are targeted with energy sources to correct or modulate physiologic processes. In some embodiments, different types of energy sources are utilized singly or combined with one another. In some embodiments, bioactive agents or devices activated by the energy sources are delivered to the region of interest and the energy is enhanced by such agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Kona Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Gertner
  • Patent number: 8295435
    Abstract: Systems and methods for tracking cardiac targets are disclosed. The cardiac targets may be tracked dynamically. The process may include registering a cardiac target at different phases of a cardiac cycle. Movement of the cardiac target can be determined by correlating respiratory motion and cardiac pumping motion. Radiation treatment can then be delivered to the cardiac target taking into account the movement of the cardiac target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Accuray Incorporated
    Inventors: James Wang, Dongshan Fu, Calvin R. Maurer, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120265060
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for tracking a target by tracking the location of an imaging device while the imaging device is tracking the target is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventors: Sankaralingam Ramraj, Sohail Sayeh, Calvin R. Maurer, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120265050
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to omni-tomographic imaging or grand fusion imaging, i.e., large scale fusion of simultaneous data acquisition from multiple imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, PET, SPECT, US, and optical imaging. A preferred omni-tomography system of the invention comprises two or more imaging modalities operably configured for concurrent signal acquisition for performing ROI-targeted reconstruction and contained in a single gantry with a first inner ring as a permanent magnet; a second middle ring containing an x-ray tube, detector array, and a pair of SPECT detectors; and a third outer ring for containing PET crystals and electronics. Omni-tomography offers great synergy in vivo for diagnosis, intervention, and drug development, and can be made versatile and cost-effective, and as such is expected to become an unprecedented imaging platform for development of systems biology and modern medicine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Ge Wang
  • Publication number: 20120265061
    Abstract: A method for performing elastographic deformation mapping of tissues and plaques comprises: introducing a distal portion of a catheter to an interior of an interior body of a patient; applying, from a palpator in the distal portion, one of a directed fluid or a mechanical indenter to produce a surface-applied palpation force to a target area of the interior body to mechanically displace the interior body and cause elastographic deformation of the target area of one or more surface and subsurface tissues and plaques; and directing and delivering an OCT (optical coherence tomography) beam, from an OCT imaging sensor in the distal portion, for OCT deformation detection including elastographic deformation measurement to provide elastographic mapping of the target area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: ST. JUDE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: John SLIWA, Yu LIU
  • Publication number: 20120265062
    Abstract: An optical coherence tomography (OCT) catheter, for performing high performance elastographic deformation mapping of tissues and plaques, comprises: a catheter having elongated catheter body extending longitudinally between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, the catheter body including a distal portion at the distal end and a catheter lumen; a palpator, disposed in the distal portion, to apply one of a directed fluid or a mechanical indenter to produce a surface-applied palpation force to a target area of the interior body to mechanically displace the interior body and cause elastographic deformation of the target area of one or more surface and subsurface tissues and plaques; and OCT imaging sensor, disposed in the distal portion, to direct and deliver OCT beam for OCT deformation detection including elastographic deformation measurement to provide elastographic mapping of the target area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: ST. JUDE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: John SLIWA, Yu LIU
  • Patent number: 8290226
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining and displaying at least one piece of information on a target volume, especially in a human body, the information being obtained from an image record. At least one embodiment of the method includes: a first and at least one second image record of a target zone encompassing the target volume are recorded, the first image record having a higher contrast regarding the boundaries of the target volume, and the first and the second image record being registered together; the target volume is segmented in the first image record; target volume image data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jens Gühring, Michaela Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8287471
    Abstract: A medical system and method for treating a disorder of a subject by thermal ablation, e.g., focused ultrasound thermal ablation, are provided. The method includes obtaining medical images that include at least one image of subject's chest and ribs to reconstruct a three-dimensional chest-rib distribution; and applying ultrasound waves on a target point beyond the subject's ribs by selectively activating one or more elements of an ultrasound phased array to avoid ultrasonic energy absorption or reflection by an intervening rib based on a calculation of a relationship between the three-dimensional chest-rib distribution and an acoustic emission direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: National Health Research Institutes
    Inventors: Hao-li Liu, Win-li Lin, Hsu Chang
  • Patent number: 8282557
    Abstract: A method and system for managing at least one animal is disclosed. The method can include imaging, such as ultrasound imaging, a lung of a live animal, such as a ruminant or bovine. The imaging can be performed to determine a degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness. After imaging, information regarding respiratory damage can be used to select at least one aspect of the treatment, care or disposition of the animal. For example, the information can be used to select the amount or type of feed provided to the animal at a feedlot. The information also can be used to select how long the animal should be housed at the feedlot prior to slaughter. If an animal is diagnosed with a respiratory illness, information about its degree of respiratory damage from past respiratory illness also can be used to select the appropriate medical treatment or lack of treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: MWI Veterinary Supply Co.
    Inventors: John T. Haynes, William C. Pratt
  • Patent number: 8285365
    Abstract: A interventional device for RF ablation for use in a RF electrical and/or magnetic field especially of a MR imaging system is disclosed, comprising an ablation catheter which is preferably trackable or can be guided or visualized in the image generated by the MR imaging system by means of a MR micro-coil (102), and which is provided with an ablation electrode (101). The interventional device further comprises a transmission path (103) with line segments (104?, 104?) and transformers (105) therebetween, for connecting the MR micro-coil (102) in a differential mode with a MR receiver (108) and for connecting a RF amplifier (107) in a common mode with the ablation electrode (101) for conveying RF ablation power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Steffen Weiss, Bernhard Gleich
  • Publication number: 20120251452
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus to produce an OCT of an eye or a brain of a patient to identify one or more plaques in a plurality of discrete OCT retinal layers. The present invention also includes a plurality of methods for identifying one or more plaques in a plurality of discrete OCT retinal layers that can include a contrast agent and a normative database.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Steven Roger Verdooner
  • Publication number: 20120253176
    Abstract: Systems and methods for debulking visceral fat within a subject, include: providing a focused ultrasound transducer configured to focus ultrasonic power at a focal spot; positioning the focused ultrasound transducer with respect to the subject so that the focused ultrasound transducer is enabled to transfer ultrasonic power into the subject; locating the focal spot of the focused ultrasound transducer with respect to at least one target region containing visceral fat within the subject; and debulking visceral fat within the target region by applying ultrasonic energy from the focused ultrasound transducer with sufficient power to cause the death of visceral fat tissue within the target region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: CINCINNATI CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER
    Inventor: Charles L. Dumoulin
  • Publication number: 20120253186
    Abstract: The present invention relates to: (1) guidewire support/placement catheters; (2) support/placement catheters with imaging; (3) atherectomy catheters, (4) atherectomy catheters with imaging, (5) occlusion crossing catheters, and (6) occlusion crossing catheters with imaging as well as methods for using them to treat disorders (and particularly peripheral artery disease) and systems including them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: John B. Simpson, Himanshu N. Patel, Michael Zung, Charles W. McNall, Priyanshu Gupta, Manuel A. Javier, JR., Cheryl A. Swanson
  • Patent number: 8280478
    Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to strategies pertaining to implantation of an implantable medical device between a scalp and a skull of the patient. The invention pertains to collection of data such as data pertaining to the skull of the patient, the scalp of the patient, the vascular structure or neurological structures in the head of the patient, and the like. The data may be in the form of images, such as images generated by X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging, CT-scan and fluoroscopy. A surgeon can use the collected data to determine, for example, whether the patient is a candidate for a cranial implantation, whether the patient's skull and scalp can support the implantation, what configuration of device should be implanted, where the device should be implanted, and how the surgical incisions should be made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Ruchika Singhal, Carl D. Wahlstrand, Robert M. Skime, Steven J. Urquhart
  • Patent number: 8280491
    Abstract: A set of 2D reconstructed images is generated from a pretreatment 3D scan showing an initial position of a target, wherein the set of 2D reconstructed images corresponds to perturbations from said initial position along fewer than six degrees of freedom. Said set of 2D reconstructed images are registered with one or more 2D x-ray images of said target showing a current position of the target, wherein the registering includes computing a set of 3D transformation parameters that represent a change in position of said target between said initial position of said pretreatment 3D scan and said current position of said 2D x-ray images along six degrees of freedom. A positioning system is instructed to adjust a relative position of a radiosurgical beam generator to said target by an amount prescribed by said 3D transformation parameters, wherein said target is allowed six degrees of freedom of position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Accuray Incorporated
    Inventors: Gopinath Kuduvalli, Dongshan Fu, Shehrzad Qureshi
  • Publication number: 20120245461
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Multiple Sclerosis, Deep Vein Thrombosis, and/or Pulmonary Embolism or symptoms associated with these maladies. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Multiple Sclerosis, Deep Vein Thrombosis, and/or Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: VOLCANO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joe E. BROWN, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120245462
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal jugular veins (IJV) or azygous veins (AZV). In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's IJV or AZV veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120245463
    Abstract: A tomosynthesis apparatus has an x-ray source to generate an x-ray beam directed toward an x-ray detector and a support plate and a compression plate between which a breast can be positioned. The compression plate has a compression surface that is concave toward the support plate, and is provided with at least one through-hole into which an ultrasound transducer is inserted for a sonographic data acquisition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas Mertelmeier
  • Patent number: 8275442
    Abstract: Methods and system for treatment planning for non- and minimally-invasive alteration of body adipose tissue for reduction and contouring of body fat are described herein. Treatment plans can be generated by capturing current body part data (e.g., positioning, contour/shape, thickness of adipose tissue, etc.), determining desired outcome of treatment (e.g., percent reduction of adipose tissue thickness, degree of contour change, etc.), and determining treatment parameters to achieve desired results. Algorithms can be used to determine best-fit treatment parameters to use in treatment sessions. In some embodiments, the system can provide a predictive end-result image for communication to patient and/or for determining alteration of desired outcome. In various embodiments, real-time monitoring of feedback data can be used to determine treatment plan efficacy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Zeltiq Aesthetics, Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Allison
  • Patent number: 8275447
    Abstract: In a system for diagnoses of mammary glands and breasts using radiation and ultrasonic waves in combination, images are correlated for easier visual recognition. The system includes an apparatus for acquiring a radiation image of an object projected on a projection surface, acquiring an ultrasonic slice image of the object along a slice surface substantially orthogonal to the projection surface, and generating first image data representing ultrasonic slice images along slice surfaces, second image data representing a radiation image, and location data representing locations of the slice surfaces on the projection surface; an apparatus for correlating and storing those data; and an apparatus for displaying an ultrasonic slice image based on the first image data, and displaying a radiation image, on which a marker indicating a location of the slice surface on the projection surface is shown, based on the second data and the location data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Yuji Mikami
  • Patent number: 8273013
    Abstract: An endoscope insertion assistant probe is inserted into a body cavity prior to insertion of an insertion portion of an endoscope into the body cavity, to assist the insertion of the endoscope, and includes a flexible, elongated probe; and a distal end guiding element that is arranged at a distal end portion of the probe. The distal end guiding element is made of a thin-film resin member and expandable by fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Niwa, Fumiyuki Onoda
  • Publication number: 20120232382
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Multiple Sclerosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal jugular veins (IJV) or azygous veins (AZV). In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's IJV or AZV veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Patent number: 8265353
    Abstract: Measurements of a mobile object and particularly a living being are made using two techniques, normally radiation attenuation and radiation emission, in synchronization to provide images of the object state. Movement displacement fields from one phase to the next are estimated for both techniques, but the final images obtained by the emission technique are improved by the knowledge of the displacement field obtained by the other technique that is more precise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Intellectual Ventures fund 23 LLC
    Inventors: Stéphane Bonnet, Pierre Grangeat
  • Patent number: 8262577
    Abstract: Needles are deployed in tissue under direct ultrasonic or other imaging. To aid in deploying the needle, a visual needle guide is projected on to the image prior to needle deployment. Once the needle guide is properly aligned, the needle can be deployed. After needle deployment, a safety boundary and treatment region are projected on to the screen. After confirming that the safety boundary and treatment regions are sufficient, the patient can be treated using the needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Gynesonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Munrow, Jordan Bajor, Malcolm G. Munro
  • Publication number: 20120226152
    Abstract: A system and method for tracking a tumor includes a regression module for selecting, using a motion signal and a regression function, a feature signal from a set of feature signals, each feature signal in the set of feature signals represents a medical image of the body of the patient, wherein the motion signal represents a motion of a surface of a skin of the patient caused by the respiration, and wherein the regression function is trained based on a set of observations of the motion signal synchronized with the set of feature signals; and a registration module for determining the location of the target object using the feature signal and a registration function, wherein the registration function registers each feature signal to a breath-hold location of the target object identified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Fatih M. Porikli
  • Publication number: 20120226155
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal pulmonary veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's pulmonary veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120226139
    Abstract: A method and composition for hyperthermally diagnosing and monitoring treatment of cells with photoacoustic sound and nanoparticles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventor: Gholam A. Peyman
  • Publication number: 20120226153
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal peripheral veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's peripheral veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120226156
    Abstract: A method of evaluating dry eye in humans wherein the flow of naturally occurring secretion to the eye is reduced or stopped due to the presence of an obstruction of a meibomian gland in the eyelid involves applying a pressure to the eyelid that mimics pressure applied during blinking; and simultaneously imaging the glands to diagnose the condition of the meibomian gland. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: TEARSCIENCE, INC.
    Inventors: Stephen M. Grenon, Timothy R. Willis, Benjamin T. Gravely, Donald R. Korb
  • Publication number: 20120226154
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal pulmonary veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's pulmonary veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120220865
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal pulmonary veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's pulmonary veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120220864
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal peripheral veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's peripheral veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120220867
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal pulmonary veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's pulmonary veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Publication number: 20120220866
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Deep Vein Thrombosis or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal peripheral veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's peripheral veins are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: Volcano Corporation
    Inventors: Joe E. Brown, Marja Pauliina Margolis, Mary L. Gaddis
  • Patent number: 8254521
    Abstract: System, apparatus and methods specialized for breast and related tissue radiation therapy and imaging of a prone patient but also usable for supine patient if desired or needed. A special treatment radiation source such as a LINAC unit generates radiation of types and energy ranges specifically matched to breast tissue. Any one or more of several imaging technologies may be used to localize the tissue to be irradiated and to generate information for therapy planning, adjustment, and verification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Hologic, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Brooks, Jay A. Stein, Andrew P. Smith
  • Patent number: 8255462
    Abstract: An information processing system and apparatus which have a plurality of actuators, a plurality of sensors, a signal processing unit, a control unit, and an integrating unit. Various types of signals are exchanged as necessary via a network. Actuators and sensors share processing through collaboration so that individual functionality is raised. The present invention can be achieved through a SHARN system (Sensor, Human, Actuator, Real world, and Network) which can be applied to surgery, Personal Digital Assistant design, and the like, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsujiro Kondo
  • Patent number: 8249692
    Abstract: A device for positioning at least one ultrasound probe of an ultrasound apparatus can include a recording device for recording an object and an evaluating unit that evaluates data corresponding to the object obtained from the recording device. A computational unit can generate positional data for the at least one ultrasound probe of the ultrasound apparatus. The device can be used for setting at least one parameter of the ultrasound apparatus based on data obtained by the recording device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Brainlab AG
    Inventors: Stefan Vilsmeier, Alexander Pfäffle, Robert Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20120209109
    Abstract: The invention comprises an X-ray tomography method and apparatus used in conjunction with multi-axis charged particle or proton beam radiation therapy of cancerous tumors. In various embodiments, 3-D images are generated from a series of 2-D X-rays images; the X-ray source and detector are stationary while the patient rotates; the 2-D X-ray images are generated using an X-ray source proximate a charged particle beam in a charged particle cancer therapy system; and the X-ray tomography system uses an electron source having a geometry that enhances an electron source lifetime, where the electron source is used in generation of X-rays. The X-ray tomography system is optionally used in conjunction with systems used to both move and constrain movement of the patient, such as semi-vertical, sitting, or laying positioning systems. The X-ray images are optionally used in control of a charged particle cancer therapy system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Vladimir Balakin
  • Patent number: 8244327
    Abstract: The end-effector (150) includes a sheath (152) and a medical device or needle carrier (154) that is disposed within the interior compartment (160) of the sheath. Aperture (162) is located in a portion of the sheath proximal a distal end of the sheath that is inserted into a natural or artificial cavity. This device is guided by a real-time imager.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Gabor Fichtinger, Ergin Atalar, Louis L. Whitcomb, Robert C. Susil, Attila Tanacs, Axel Krieger
  • Patent number: 8241199
    Abstract: The invention relates to a blood pump and a medical apparatus having a blood pump, which is provided for insertion into the heart of a patient. The blood pump has at least one imaging sensor disposed in the region of the distal end of the blood pump to obtain imaging information in a blood vessel or in the heart. The invention also relates to a method for assisting the positioning of a blood pump in the heart of a patient, wherein image information is recorded inside the body of the patient using the at least one imaging sensor of the blood pump and transmitted in real time to an image processing and playback facility disposed outside the body of the patient for display purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Michael Maschke
  • Patent number: 8244330
    Abstract: An integrated radiation therapy process comprises acquiring first objective target data related to a parameter of a target within a patient by periodically locating a marker positioned within the patient using a localization modality. This method continues with obtaining second objective target data related to the parameter of the target by periodically locating the marker. The first objective target data can be acquired in a first area that is apart from a second area which contains a radiation delivery device for producing an ionizing radiation beam for treating the patient. The localization modality can be the same in both the first and second areas. In other embodiments, the first objective target data can be acquired using a first localization modality that uses a first energy type to identify the marker and the second objective target data can be obtained using a second localization modality that uses a second energy type to identify the marker that is different than the first energy type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Meier, Timothy P. Mate, J. Nelson Wright, Steven C. Dimmer, Lynn M. Purdy
  • Patent number: 8243877
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of medical imaging and therapy of lesions that are detrimental to the body. The system is capable of both imaging and treatment with the same kilovoltage radiation source. Dual-use collimators produce a wide beam, which is not a pencil beam or a fan beam, to image and treat a target that has an enhanced radiation cross-section after taking up contrast agent containing a high-Z element. This results in increased radiation dose in the lesion. Furthermore, the significant drop in intensity of a low-energy radiation beam traveling through tissue is surmounted by continually aiming the beam at the target while moving it around the patient. Wide detectors opposing the radiation source permit the imaging and measurement of contrast in the target. More specifically this invention relates to a system, which optimizes delivery of kilovoltage x-rays to a lesion containing contrast agents in higher concentration than the surrounding normal tissues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Michael D. Weil
  • Patent number: 8235902
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for determining the presence of tissue change due to exposure to HIFU Therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Focus Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Wo-Hsing Chen, Roy Carlson, Clint C. Weis, Ralf Seip, Narendra T. Sanghvi
  • Patent number: 8239005
    Abstract: Systems and methods for tracking targets in real time for radiation therapy and other applications. In one embodiment, a method includes collecting position information of a marker implanted within a patient at a site relative to the target at a time tn, and providing an objective output indicative of the location of the target based on the position information collected at time tn. The objective output is provided to a memory device, user interface, and/or radiation delivery machine within 1 ms to 2 seconds of the time tn when the position information was collected. This embodiment of the method can further include providing the objective output at a periodicity of 10-200 ms during at least a portion of a treatment procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Varian Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Nelson Wright, Steven C. Dimmer
  • Publication number: 20120197113
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for electrically addressing multiple ultrasonic transducers that are connected to a common electrical channel and housed within an imaging probe. An imaging probe may comprise an imaging ultrasonic transducer and a moveable element for controlling the direction of an emitted imaging beam, and an angle sensing ultrasonic transducer, where the angle sensing ultrasonic transducer is configured for determining the direction of an ultrasonic imaging beam. The angle-sensing transducer may be configured to direct an angle sensing ultrasonic beam towards an acoustically reflective substrate and provide a signal by detecting a reflected ultrasonic beam reflected from the acoustically reflective substrate, where the acoustically reflective substrate is positioned relative to the movable element such that motion of the movable element produces a change in the signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: Brian COURTNEY, Amandeep THIND
  • Publication number: 20120197102
    Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical microscope comprises: an observation optical system for observing a patient's eye during surgery; a corneal shape measuring unit for measuring a corneal shape of the patient's eye placed in a surgical position; and a controller configured to output guide information for guiding a surgery with an intraocular lens based on a measurement result obtained by the corneal shape measuring unit to an output device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: NIDEK CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masaaki HANEBUCHI, Michihiro TAKII, Masakazu ENDO, Tsutomu SUNADA
  • Patent number: 8233966
    Abstract: In a method and an x-ray diagnostic device for generation of an image of a body region of a living subject that executes a movement due to respiration, respiration signals of the subject are acquired and x-ray projections of the subject are acquired from different projection directions. The intensity of the x-ray radiation emanating from an x-ray source in the acquisition of the x-ray projections is modulated such that the intensity assumes a desired value, or a value decreased relative to the value, dependent on the value of the amplitude of the respiration signal and/or the respiration position of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Florian Wesse
  • Patent number: 8233962
    Abstract: An improved method is disclosed for imaging in an interventional medical procedure that is more advanced than a conventional 2D image processing application and less restrictive than a 3D reconstruction image processing application. In contrast to the prior art 2D imaging application in which a single 2D image is acquired, the inventive method acquires and stores a set of 2D anatomical images while rotating a C-arm/X-ray source using a single injection of contrast agent. In lieu of performing a 3D reconstruction, the multiplicity of anatomical views provided by the set of 2D anatomical images adequately serve as a visual “rotatable roadmap” to perform classical 2D-roadmapping navigation. The “rotatable roadmap” assists a user to locate an ideal working view of the patient's region of operative interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignees: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc., The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Markus Kukuk, Sandy Napel
  • Publication number: 20120190975
    Abstract: The present invention relates to diagnostic and therapeutic nanoparticles. More particularly, the present invention relates to creating a copper (Cu)-based nanoparticle and a method for making the same. The Cu-based nanoparticles can further be incorporated with additional therapeutic or diagnostic compounds and used for the diagnosis and treatment of tumors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: The Board of Regents of the University of Texas System
    Inventors: Wei Chen, Yuebin Li