Ultrasonic Patents (Class 601/2)
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Patent number: 10369386Abstract: An ultrasound transducer is configured to be driven at multiple frequencies including a main frequency for efficient production of ultrasound waves and at least one alternative frequency, at which little or no ultrasound is generated and rather heat is generated in the ultrasound transducer for heating a sample.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2011Date of Patent: August 6, 2019Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.Inventors: Christianus Martinus Van Heesch, Aleksey Kolesnychenko
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Patent number: 10368935Abstract: A surgical treatment apparatus includes a treatment portion unit; at least one operation portion provided in the treatment portion unit that is movable in response to an operation of an operator; a detection subject portion provided in the operation portion; a gripping portion that is detachable and attachable relative to the treatment portion unit; a non-contact type detection portion that is provided in the gripping portion separately from the operation portion and is capable of detecting an operation of the detection subject portion in accordance with the operation of the operation portion; an energy supply portion provided within the gripping portion, that supplies energy to the treatment portion; and a driving device connected to the gripping portion, that supplies energy to the energy supply portion in accordance with a detection result of the detection portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2017Date of Patent: August 6, 2019Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Tatsuya Suzuki, Hideo Sanai, Kenichi Kimura
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Patent number: 10363057Abstract: An ablation system for treating atrial fibrillation in a patient including an elongate shaft having proximal and distal ends, a lumen therebetween and a housing adjacent the distal end of the elongate shaft. An energy source is coupled to the housing and is adapted to deliver energy to a target tissue so as to create a zone of ablation in the target tissue that blocks abnormal electrical activity thereby reducing or eliminating the atrial fibrillation in the patient. A sensor is adjacent the energy source and adapted to detect relative position of the energy source to the target tissue or characteristics of the target tissue. The system also has a reflecting element operably coupled with the energy source and adapted to redirect energy emitted from the energy source in a desired direction or pattern.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2009Date of Patent: July 30, 2019Assignee: VytronUS, Inc.Inventors: Hira V. Thapliyal, David A. Gallup, James W. Arenson
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Patent number: 10349972Abstract: An arterial blockage percussive drill having a guiding sleeve, a drilling wire slidably coupled to the guiding sleeve and a percussive actuator coupled to the drilling wire to longitudinally oscillate the drilling wire into an arterial blockage.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2016Date of Patent: July 16, 2019Assignees: CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, PLACIDUS LLCInventors: Yoseph Bar-Cohen, Stewart Sherrit, Hyeong Jae Lee, Mircea Badescu, Xiaoqi Bao, Yoseph Shalev, Joshua Leavitt
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Patent number: 10342649Abstract: A system for treating a tissue of an animal patient. The system may include a display and input device, and at least one instrument chosen from an impulse stimulator instrument and an acoustic oscillator. The impulse stimulator is configured to apply a percussive massage including one or more force impulses. The impulse stimulator is further configured to measure a response of the tissue to one of the applied force impulses to assess a condition of the tissue. The acoustic oscillator is configured to apply an acoustic stimulation including one or more acoustic pulses to the tissue of the animal patient.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: July 9, 2019Assignee: Sigma Instruments Holdings, LLCInventors: John Crunick, Tamas Becse, Louis L. Laskey, Jr.
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Patent number: 10335181Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical instrument includes a transducer assembly having a distal engagement member and configured to supply ultrasonic energy. A waveguide defines a longitudinal axis and has a proximal engagement member configured to threadingly engage the distal engagement member. The waveguide is configured to transmit the ultrasonic energy therealong to a distal end thereof for treating tissue. A torque member is coupled to the transducer assembly and is disposed about the longitudinal axis. The torque member is selectively rotatable about the longitudinal axis and relative to the waveguide to threadingly engage the transducer assembly and the waveguide to one another. The torque member includes a plurality of fingers pivotably coupled thereto and movable between a closed position and an open position. In the open position, each finger extends substantially perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis to define a moment arm that facilitates the engagement of the transducer assembly and the waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2016Date of Patent: July 2, 2019Assignee: COVIDIEN LPInventors: Robert B. Stoddard, James S. Cunningham, William J. Dickhans, Russell D. Hempstead, John J. Kappus, Duane E. Kerr, Eric R. Larson, William H. Nau, Jr., Anthony B. Ross
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Patent number: 10327732Abstract: The method of characterizing an ultrasound lesion (T) in organic tissues, the lesion being made by applying high intensity focused ultrasound delivered by a probe having its emission surface presenting a shape that is toroidal, consists in: after a period of at least two days from the end of ultrasound application, acquiring at least one characterization image (Ic) of the organic tissues; detecting the presence of a contrast border (16) in the characterization image (Ic); and from the contrast border (16), determining the extent of the ultrasound lesion.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2014Date of Patent: June 25, 2019Assignees: EDAP TMS FRANCE, INSERM (INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA SANTE ET DE LA RECHERCHE MEDICALE)Inventors: David Melodelima, Jeremy Vincenot, Emmanuel Blanc
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Patent number: 10321748Abstract: Systems and methods for determining a customized cosmetic formulation. In one method, a user is guided to capture an image of a skin region with known lighting and color characteristics, and the image is processed to provide calibrated skin color information. A customized cosmetic formulation is automatically determined for the user based on the calibrated skin color information. In another method, a user is interactively guided through capture of one or more skin region images using a device having an image sensor. The skin region images are processed to provide calibrated skin color information, which is compared to a ground truth data set to identify a set of closest known values in the ground truth data set. A customized cosmetic formulation is automatically determined for the user based on the comparison.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2015Date of Patent: June 18, 2019Assignee: Shiseido Americas CorporationInventors: David A. Howell, David B. Gross, Leslie Y. Harvill
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Patent number: 10314607Abstract: An ultrasonic instrument includes a body and a shaft assembly extending distally from the body. The shaft assembly includes an acoustic waveguide. The instrument further includes an end effector including an ultrasonic blade. The ultrasonic blade is in acoustic communication with the acoustic waveguide. The ultrasonic blade is defined by a solid core shaft of a material or combination of materials. At least a portion of the acoustic waveguide comprises a hollow tubular member coupled with the solid core shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2015Date of Patent: June 11, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventor: Kevin L. Houser
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Patent number: 10299810Abstract: A surgical instrument including a housing, a transducer assembly, a motor, a hollow sheath, and a blade is disclosed. The transducer assembly may be rotatably supported within the housing and may be configured to selectively generate an ultrasonic motion. The motor may be coupled to the transducer assembly and may be configured to selectively apply rotational motion to the transducer assembly. The hollow sheath may be coupled to the housing and may define a distal cavity. The blade may be coupled to the transducer assembly and may be rotatably supported within the hollow sheath. A distal end of the blade may include a tissue-cutter that may be rotatably supported in the distal cavity. The distal cavity may comprise a friction reducing material. A portion of the tissue-cutter may be arranged to apply the ultrasonic motion to tissue.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2016Date of Patent: May 28, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Galen C. Robertson, Richard W. Timm, Kip M. Rupp, Kristina A. Snyder
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Patent number: 10295510Abstract: A part evaluation tool is disclosed and which may be used to assess a part-under-test for use in a system. A plurality of natural frequencies for a system operated at a first steady-state operational are identified. A vibrational response of a part-under-test is acquired, and resonance frequencies within this vibrational response are identified. Resonance frequencies of the part-under-test are compared with the identified natural frequencies for purposes of classifying the part as compliant (e.g., suitable for use in the system) or non-compliant (e.g., not suitable for use in the system).Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2015Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: Vibrant CorporationInventor: Lemna J. Hunter
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Patent number: 10285723Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical blade with an improved heel portion is disclosed. The blade includes a solid body, a longitudinal portion having a proximal end configured to couple to an ultrasonic transmission waveguide and a transverse portion extending crosswise from the distal end of the longitudinal portion. At least one dissection edge and at least one hemostasis surface is provided on the blade. The transverse portion defines a hook having a free end configured to pull and dissect tissue. The blade further comprises a tissue plow comprising a plow edge and a distal-most vertex to increase the efficiency of heel dissection and tissue diversion.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2016Date of Patent: May 14, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Sean P. Conlon, Benjamin M. Boyd
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Patent number: 10268220Abstract: A method described herein includes describing a load current with a discrete time function. The method includes using a first frequency and a second frequency to provide an approximation of the described load current, wherein a transform applied to the discrete time function identifies the first frequency and the second frequency. The method includes estimating a loop inductance and a loop resistance of a wire loop by exciting a transmit circuit with a voltage reference step waveform, wherein the transmit circuit includes the wire loop. The method includes scaling the approximated load current to a level sufficient to generate a minimum receive voltage signal in a receiver at a first distance between the wire loop and the receiver. The method includes generating a first voltage signal using the scaled load current, estimated loop inductance, and estimated loop resistance. The method includes exciting the transmit circuit with the first voltage signal.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2016Date of Patent: April 23, 2019Assignee: Radio Systems CorporationInventors: Scott A McFarland, Keith R Griffith
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Patent number: 10252044Abstract: A combination of low frequency high amplitude sonic frequency vibrations and high frequency low intensity ultrasonic pressure waves are applied to cosmetic compounds and to the skin to promote improved penetration of the cosmetic compounds into the epidermis. The cosmetic applicator device includes means for generating both sonic frequency vibrations and ultrasonic pressure waves adopted to deliver cosmetic compounds into the epidermis safely without significant temperature rise in the skin. Various removable applicator and skin cleaning attachments are also disclosed, including some with ultrasound waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2016Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Assignee: ROBERT T. BOCK CONSULTANCY, LLCInventor: Robert T. Bock
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Patent number: 10251644Abstract: Adapter assemblies selectively interconnect a surgical end effector that is configured to perform at least a pair of functions and a surgical device that is configured to actuate the end effector. The adapter assembly includes an adapter knob housing configured and adapted for connection with the surgical device and to be in operative communication with each of the at least one rotatable drive shaft of the surgical device. The adapter knob housing defines a lumen extending longitudinally therethrough and a ring gear formed in an inner surface of the lumen of the adapter knob housing. The ring gear defines an internal array of gear teeth which are engaged with a spur gear of a rotatable drive shaft. The adapter knob housing may be a unitary member and may be formed of plastic.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2015Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Ryan Williams, Stanislaw Marczyk
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Patent number: 10238895Abstract: An ultrasonic system operable at high drive frequencies and/or in pulsed operation is disclosed. The system may be used in a procedure to treat an occluded blood vessel. The system can be used to transmit ultrasonic energy from an ultrasonic transducer to a distal end of an ultrasonic transmission device. The ultrasonic device may operate at a resonant frequency. The resonant frequency can be determined prior to using the device and/or during use. The ultrasonic device may operate in a range of frequencies at or near resonance. Operational parameters including, for example, reflected vibrations, temperature, and/or user input can be used by the system to adjust the driving waveform.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2013Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignee: FLOWCARDIA, INC.Inventors: Jeff Sarge, Michael A. Summers
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Patent number: 10238416Abstract: A surgical apparatus comprises a body, an ultrasonic transducer, a shaft, and an end effector. The ultrasonic transducer is operable to convert electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. The shaft couples the end effector and the body together. The end effector comprises an ultrasonic blade in acoustic communication with the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic blade includes a recess region having a plurality of recesses. The recess region is tapered such that the cross-sectional area of the recess region decreases along the length of the recess region. The ultrasonic blade is also curved such that a central longitudinal axis of the ultrasonic blade extends along a curved path. A reference circuit is used to account for voltage drops of unknown values during operation of the surgical apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Foster B. Stulen, John B. Schulte, Jeffrey L. Aldridge, Jeffery T. Kirk, Randal T. Byrum, Douglas J. Turner, John M. Sarley, David A. Witt, William A. Olson, Kyle P. Moore
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Patent number: 10231775Abstract: A robotic surgical system is provided that includes an electromechanical tool coupled to a surgical instrument such as an end effector adapted to apply ultrasound energy to tissue when the end effector holds the tissue. The electromechanical tool is mounted on an electromechanical arm and configured to move relative to the arm. A controller operatively coupled to the tool and the arm measures electrical impedance of tissue as ultrasound energy is applied to the tissue by the end effector. The controller determines, based on the tissue impedance measurements, that the tissue is fully cauterized. In response to the detection, the surgical system automatically lifts the end effector, either by lifting the arm to which it is coupled or independently from that arm, thereby the end effector cuts the cauterized tissue to complete the tissue cauterization/cutting. The controller also determines and controls a velocity with which the end effector is lifted.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2016Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jason L. Harris
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Patent number: 10201364Abstract: Various electrical and slip ring connector arrangements configured to facilitate the passage of electrical current and signals between two components that are rotatable relative to each other such as an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly that includes portions that are rotatable relative to fixed mounting portions.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2014Date of Patent: February 12, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Richard L. Leimbach, Andrew T. Beckman, Darwin L. Schultz, Shane R. Adams
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Patent number: 10183182Abstract: Various embodiments, described herein, provide methods and systems for the treatment of plantar fascia. In some embodiments, a method of non-invasive treatment of plantar fasciacan include the steps of identifying a damage location comprising a planter fascia; directing a conformal distribution of ultrasound energy to the plantar fascia at the damage location; creating a plurality of micro lesions in the plantar fascia at the damage location; initiating healing of a plurality of micro tears in the plantar fascia at the damage location; and sparing intervening tissue between the plantar fascia and a surface of a sole of a foot.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2011Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: Guided Therapy Systems, LLCInventors: Michael H. Slayton, Peter G. Barthe
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Patent number: 10179239Abstract: Systems and methods disclosed herein provide efficacious pain management therapies based on delivery of physical medicine(s) via computer-implemented systems. Patient information comprising patient pain symptoms, patient physiological measurements, patient demographics, and other information is received at a pain therapy device. The patient information is compared with pain analytics data compiled on a plurality of individuals to determine a personalized pain management therapy. The personalized pain management therapy is applied via a combination of thermoceuticals, electroceuticals, ultrasound, and several other forms of physical medicine. Sensors coupled to the pain therapy device measure changes in physiological data resulting from the pain management therapy. The personalized pain management therapy can be adjusted based on the changes in the physiological data and/or patient feedback.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2016Date of Patent: January 15, 2019Assignee: ITRACE BIOMEDICAL INC.Inventor: Krishnamohan Sharma
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Patent number: 10179022Abstract: An electrosurgical system may comprise an RF current generator, a handle body, an end effector have a first jaw including a first energizing surface electrically contacting a first terminal of the RF generator, and a second jaw including a second energizing surface electrically contacting a second terminal of the RF current generator, in which the two jaws form a jaw angle. The system may also comprise a shunt impedance circuit including a shunt impedance element having a pre-determined impedance value, in which the shunt impedance element is reversibly placed electrically in parallel with the first and second energizing surfaces when the jaw angle is at least a pre-determined angle. The system may also comprise an impedance detector in electrical communication with the first and second energizing surfaces. The system may be used to measure an impedance between the first and second energizing surfaces by the impedance detector.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2015Date of Patent: January 15, 2019Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: David C. Yates, Geoffrey S. Strobl
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Patent number: 10154852Abstract: An ultrasonic surgical blade with improved cutting and coagulation features is disclosed. The blade includes a solid body, a longitudinal portion having a proximal end configured to couple to an ultrasonic transmission waveguide and a transverse portion extending crosswise from the distal end of the longitudinal portion. At least one dissection edge and at least one hemostasis surface is provided on the blade. The transverse portion defines a hook having a free end configured to pull and dissect tissue. Also disclosed is an ultrasonic surgical blade that also includes a sharp central ridge and an end mass for acoustic balance.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2015Date of Patent: December 18, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Sean P. Conlon, Jacob S. Gee, Foster B. Stulen, William D. Dannaher, William A. Olson
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Patent number: 10143444Abstract: An ultrasonic signal processing method includes: acquiring pieces of element data output from each element included in an ultrasonic probe including multiple elements configured to transmit an ultrasonic wave to a subject, receive an ultrasonic wave reflected by the subject and output an ultrasonic detection signal; determining element data to be preserved, according to depth information on a reception echo at an acquisition time of the element data, among the pieces of element data of each of the acquired elements; and preserving the element data determined to be preserved.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2014Date of Patent: December 4, 2018Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Yukiya Miyachi
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Patent number: 10123980Abstract: A method of forming an implant in the tissue can include: providing an injectable composition having a neat liquid carrier, wherein the neat liquid carrier is substantially liquid at room temperature and/or about body temperature; and injecting the neat liquid solution into the tissue at the rate of 10-12000 injections per minute and/or at an amount of 1.0E-02 ml to 1.0E-16 ml per needle per injection. The neat liquid carrier can be polymeric or non-polymeric. The neat liquid carrier can be biodegradable. The neat liquid carrier can include a viscosity-modifying agent. The injecting can form an implant with area greater than or equal to 5 mm2. The neat liquid carrier can be injected at a depth of 10 microns to 5 mm. The neat liquid solution can include a drug or other agent.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2017Date of Patent: November 13, 2018Assignee: Pathak Holdings, LLCInventor: Chandrashekhar P. Pathak
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Patent number: 10098539Abstract: Systems and methods for non-invasive brain stimulation using focused ultrasound are provided. An exemplary method of non-invasive brain stimulation in the brain of a subject can include securing the subject in a fixed position relative to an ultrasound source and providing a focused ultrasound having one or more ultrasound parameters to a location in the brain of the subject, the location and the one or more ultrasound parameters selected to evoke a physical response of the subject, and measuring the physical response of the subject.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2016Date of Patent: October 16, 2018Assignee: THE TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORKInventors: Elisa E. Konofagou, Hermes Arytto Salles Kamimura
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Patent number: 10092274Abstract: Sub-performing elements of an ultrasound transducer array are detected. The power, such as current, used by or provided to the transmit driver is measured. By driving each element or group of elements separately, defective elements or groups of elements are detected from the amount of power used.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2014Date of Patent: October 9, 2018Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.Inventors: Jerry D. Hopple, Dalong Liu, Stephen R. Barnes, David A. Petersen, Colin Brock, John C. Lazenby
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Patent number: 10071245Abstract: Described is system for mapping user behavior to brain regions of interest. Using a cognitive-behavior model, a behavioral task is selected that is suited for a desired brain state. Using a functional-anatomical model coupled to the cognitive-behavior model, a set of high-definition neurostimulations is selected to be applied to the user during performance of the selected behavioral task. The selected set of high-definition neurostimulations targets specific regions of the user's brain. Changes in the user's brain state are sensed during application of the set of high-definition neurostimulations and performance of the selected behavioral task using at least one brain monitoring technique. The coupled functional-anatomical and cognitive-behavior models are adapted until the desired brain state is reached.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2016Date of Patent: September 11, 2018Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLCInventors: Matthew E. Phillips, Matthias Ziegler, David W. Payton, Charles E. Martin
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Patent number: 10071266Abstract: A medical imaging and therapy device is provided that may include any of a number of features. The device may include a Histotripsy transducer, a generator and controller configured to deliver Histotripsy energy from the transducer to target tissue, and an imaging system. In some embodiments, a method of treating tissue with Histotripsy energy comprises positioning a focus of a histotripsy transducer on a target tissue, delivering histotripsy energy from the histotripsy transducer through a bone aberrator, forming a histotripsy bubble cloud on the focus, and preventing the formation of secondary histotripsy bubble clouds without implementing an aberration correction algorithm.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2015Date of Patent: September 11, 2018Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGANInventor: Charles A. Cain
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Patent number: 10052120Abstract: An apparatus includes a generator including a control module that is operably coupled to a power module. The power module is configured to produce an electronic signal to be received by an ultrasonic energy delivery assembly. The ultrasonic energy delivery assembly is characterized by a natural frequency, and the electronic signal is characterized by a frequency. The control module is configured to send a control signal to the power module to randomly vary the frequency of the electronic signal within a range defined at least in part by the natural frequency.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2017Date of Patent: August 21, 2018Assignee: Med-Sonics Corp.Inventors: Shu Du, Tao Song
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Patent number: 10028723Abstract: Systems and techniques for real-time, transcranial monitoring of safe blood-brain barrier opening include determining an approach angle for targeted blood-brain barrier opening proximate a predetermined region in a brain of a patient, and positioning an ultrasound transducer to generate a focused ultrasound signal at the determined approach angle to the predetermined region in the brain.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2014Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: THE TRUSTEES OF COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORKInventors: Elisa E. Konofagou, Tobias Teichert, Vincent P. Ferrera, Fabrice Marquet, Yao-Sheng Teng, Shih-Ying Wu
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Patent number: 10022566Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for current monitoring in ultrasound powered neurostimulation. The apparatus may include an ultrasound transmitter configured to emit an ultrasound output directed at a piezoelectric device implanted in biological tissue. The apparatus may also include a detector configured to detect an induced current in response to the ultrasound output in the biological tissue. The piezoelectric device may include a piezoelectric material and a diode. The apparatus may include a feedback mechanism to control the amount of induced current in the biological tissue.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: July 17, 2018Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventor: Bruce C. Towe
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Patent number: 10016627Abstract: The invention provides for a medical apparatus (300, 500, 600) comprising a high intensity focused ultrasound system (302), a memory containing instructions, and a processor. Execution of the instructions causes the processor to receive (100, 202) surface data (342) descriptive of the location of a surface (322). The surface data defines the location of the heating volume. Execution of the instructions further cause the processor to determine (102, 204) a set of transducer switching commands (344) using the heating location data and an ultrasound transducer element model (352) and control (104, 206) the high intensity focused ultrasound system with the set of transducer switching commands to heat the heating volume. The set of transducer switching commands comprises an intensity level for the multiple ultrasound transducer elements either above or below a predetermined intensity for controlling a cross sectional shape of the heating volume to encompass the surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2013Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Antti Johannes Viitala, Mika Petri Ylihautala
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Patent number: 10016626Abstract: A treatment device comprising a cavity to receive body tissue, the cavity comprising a side wall, a closed end wall and an opening to admit tissue, and at least four ultrasonic transducers disposed to transmit ultrasound into the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: LUMENIS LTD.Inventors: Boaz Zovrin, Yoram Eshel, Yacov Domankevitz, Yoni Iger
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Patent number: 9987328Abstract: An inhibitor of FXII/FXIIa for the prevention of the formation and/or stabilization of thrombi during and/or after a medical procedure performed on a human or animal subject comprising contacting blood of said human or animal subject with artificial surfaces, wherein said inhibitor of FXII/FXIIa is administered before and/or during and/or after said medical procedure.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2016Date of Patent: June 5, 2018Assignee: CSL Behring GmbHInventors: Stefan Zeitler, Marc Nolte, Stefan Schulte, Gerhard Dickneite, Ingo Pragst
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Patent number: 9987033Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising a transducer configured to produce vibrations along a longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument further comprises an ultrasonic blade extending along the longitudinal axis. The ultrasonic blade is coupled to the transducer and comprises a body and a treatment region. The body comprises a proximal end, a distal end, and a bottom surface. The distal end of the body is movable relative to the longitudinal axis by the vibrations produced by the transducer. The treatment region extends from the proximal end to the distal end. The surgical instrument further comprises a protective sheath disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the ultrasonic blade.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2014Date of Patent: June 5, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Mark A. Neurohr, Galen C. Robertson, Louis T. DeLuca, Foster B. Stulen, Daniel W. Price
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Patent number: 9978928Abstract: An apparatus includes a substrate, a dielectric elastomer transducer electrically coupled to the substrate, and a compliant electrically conductive housing coupled to the dielectric elastomer transducer. A portion of the compliant electrically conductive housing projects through an opening defined in a housing. A method is disclosed for making the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2013Date of Patent: May 22, 2018Assignee: PARKER-HANNIFIN CORPORATIONInventors: Silmon James Biggs, Roger N. Hitchcock, Trao Bach Ly
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Patent number: 9950100Abstract: A dressing (2) and an apparatus (1) comprising the dressing, for cleansing the wounds (5) in which an irrigant fluid from a reservoir (12) connected to a conformable would dressing and would exudate from the dressing are moved by a device (18) (which may be a single pump or two pumps) for moving fluid through a flow Path (6, 7, 9, 10) which passes through the dressing with a means for providing simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, to provide a desired balance of fluid at a controlled nominal flow rate that removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting would healing over the wound bed.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2017Date of Patent: April 24, 2018Assignee: Smith & Nephew PLCInventors: Patrick Lewis Blott, Edward Yerbury Hartwell, Julian Lee-Webb, Derek Nicolini
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Patent number: 9943350Abstract: A method for automated implantation of an implant or for an automated augmentation process of hard tissue and/or hard tissue replacement material using a sheath element is provided. The implantation apparatus includes a casing, a converter operable to generate mechanical vibrations the converter inside the casing and displaceable in a longitudinal direction relative to the casing, and a sonotrode coupled to an output location of the converter. A shaft portion with a retention structure is rotationally coupled to the casing and is equipped for cooperating with a rotationally asymmetric element of the sheath element to rotationally couple the casing to the sheath element. An axial coupling is equipped for locking the casing to the sheath element. The shaft portion, the axial coupling and the sonotrode are mutually arranged so that the distal end of the sonotrode may be introduced into a longitudinal opening of the sheath element.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2015Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: SPINEWELDING AGInventors: Andreas Wenger, Jörg Mayer
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Patent number: 9924961Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an end effector having first and second jaws that cooperate to capture tissue therebetween, a movable firing member to cut the tissue, an actuator actuatable between various settings that define various output values of a characteristic of motion of the firing member, and a real-time feedback system. The real-time feedback system includes a sensor to assess a parameter of the end effector, a zone indicator adjustable between various positions inside and outside a desired zone, and a circuit to receive the sensor input from the sensor, the sensor input defining a measurement of a parameter of the end effector, and select one of various positions based upon the measurement of the parameter of the end effector, the selected position representing a status of a current output value of the characteristic of motion of the firing member, and adjust the zone indicator to the selected position.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2015Date of Patent: March 27, 2018Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLCInventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, David C. Yates, Jason L. Harris
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Patent number: 9919167Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of skin tissue includes at least one ultrasound transducer for placement on the skin tissue surface; at least two drivers for driving the at least one transducer; a controller which is configured to control the at least two drivers; the controller is configured to drive the at least two drivers at different frequencies to affect different depths in the skin tissue.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2015Date of Patent: March 20, 2018Assignee: LUMENIS LTD.Inventor: Yacov Domankevitz
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Patent number: 9907534Abstract: A directable acoustic transducer assembly is presented for use in a medical insertion device (MID). In an embodiment, the assembly aims an acoustic signal in response to a sensed or detected force or load imposed on the MID. The directable acoustic transducer assembly includes a switch array and a plurality of directional acoustic transducer elements. The switch array responds to the force or load and activates the directional acoustic transducer elements closest to the source of the force or load. The switch array may include a plurality of switches, at least one of which responses to a force or load and may activate directional acoustic transducer elements having a target tissue in the field of view. The assembly includes embodiments that are responsive to various loads. A directable acoustic transducer assembly may be part of a diagnostic and/or therapeutic system, such as an RF ablation system.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2018Assignee: St. Jude Medical, Atrial Fibrillation Division, Inc.Inventors: John W. Sliwa, Stephen A. Morse
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Patent number: 9907699Abstract: A tympanostomy tube for insertion into and residence in a tympanic membrane of a mammal, is disclosed. The tympanostomy tube includes a body including a first end portion, a second end portion, a central portion dispensed between the first and second end portions. An axially extending passageway has a first open end disposed adjacent the first end portion, and a second open end disposed adjacent the second end portion, and an axis extending between the first open end and second open end. The first end portion includes a relatively enlarged diameter, generally radially extending flange. The central portion includes a reduced diameter portion sized for extending through and residing in tissue of the tympanic membrane. The second end portion includes a relatively enlarged diameter second flange disposed adjacent the second end portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 6, 2018Assignee: Domestic Legacy Limited PartnershipInventor: Michael H Fritsch
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Patent number: 9901753Abstract: A medical imaging and therapy device is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the device is that it can deliver Lithotripsy therapy to a patient, so as to fractionate urinary stones. Another feature of the device is that it can deliver Histotripsy therapy to a patient, so as to erode urinary stones. In some embodiments, the medical imaging and therapy device is configured to target and track urinary stones in the patient during therapy. Methods associated with use of the medical imaging and therapy device are also covered.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: February 27, 2018Assignees: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN, HISTOSONICS, INC.Inventors: Charles A. Cain, Timothy L. Hall, William W. Roberts, Zhen Xu, J. Brian Fowlkes, Thomas W. Davison
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Patent number: 9901819Abstract: A predetermined parameter is acquired during execution of an application, and a predetermined algorithm indicating at least timing and intensity for generating a vibration is set by dynamically changing the predetermined algorithm in accordance with the parameter. Then, a vibration signal is generated using a material for a vibration or a sound and the algorithm, or using a filter capable of generating the material and the algorithm.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2016Date of Patent: February 27, 2018Assignee: NINTENDO CO., LTD.Inventor: Kei Yamashita
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Patent number: 9895161Abstract: An apparatus for operating on tissue comprises a shaft, an acoustic waveguide, and an end effector. The acoustic waveguide extends along the shaft and is configured to transmit ultrasonic vibration. The end effector comprises an ultrasonic blade and a clamp arm. The ultrasonic blade is in acoustic communication with the acoustic waveguide. The clamp arm is pivotable toward the ultrasonic blade. The end effector defines a first longitudinal region and a second longitudinal region. The end effector is configured to clamp tissue between the clamp arm and the ultrasonic blade in the first longitudinal region. The end effector is configured to sever tissue with the ultrasonic blade in the second longitudinal region.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: February 20, 2018Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: Jeffrey D. Messerly, David A. Witt, Foster B. Stulen, Christopher A. Papa, Vincent P. Battaglia, Jr.
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Patent number: 9895560Abstract: Methods for treating skin and subcutaneous tissue with energy such as ultrasound energy are disclosed. In various embodiments, ultrasound energy is applied at a region of interest to affect tissue by cutting, ablating, micro-ablating, coagulating, or otherwise affecting the subcutaneous tissue to conduct numerous procedures that are traditionally done invasively in a non-invasive manner. Methods of lifting sagging tissue on a face and/or neck are described. Treatment with heat is provided in several embodiments.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2015Date of Patent: February 20, 2018Assignee: Guided Therapy Systems, LLCInventors: Peter G. Barthe, Michael H. Slayton, Inder Raj S. Makin
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Patent number: 9878155Abstract: Described is a system for augmenting team performance via individual neurostimulation. An assessment is generated for each team member of a team while the team member is performing a behavioral task using neuroimaging data. A target brain state is selected in team members for team performance enhancement. The target brain state is associated with specific brain regions, and the system determines a HD-tCS neurostimulation needed to reach the specific brain regions to induce the target brain state in the team members. The determined HD-tCS neurostimulation is applied to the team members while simultaneously sensing, via real-time neuroimaging, neural activity in each team member while the team member performs a behavioral task. Team performance is enhanced by adjusting the HD-tCS neurostimulation of each team member, based on the sensed neural activity, to direct each team member toward the target brain state.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2016Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLCInventors: Matthew E. Phillips, Matthias Ziegler
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Patent number: 9848900Abstract: An ultrasonic instrument comprises an ultrasonic transducer, an acoustic waveguide, and an ultrasonic blade. The blade includes a pair of obliquely extending edges. The obliquely extending edges diverge away from the longitudinal axis of the waveguide and away from each other along respective paths extending distally in relation to the waveguide. A distal portion of the blade is wider than a proximal portion of the blade along a plane. The blade further includes a curved distal edge and several laterally presented surfaces. The laterally presented surfaces may provide combinations of concave and convex curvatures. The laterally presented surfaces may be angled and/or curved along one or more orthogonal planes associated with the longitudinal axis of the waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2013Date of Patent: December 26, 2017Assignee: Ethicon LLCInventors: David A. Witt, Timothy G. Dietz, Stephen J. Balek, Benjamin M. Boyd, David C. Groene, Benjamin V. Vins, William C. Horton, II, Ashvani K. Madan
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Patent number: 9833639Abstract: Methods for non-invasive fat reduction can include targeting a region of interest below a surface of skin, which contains fat and delivering ultrasound energy to the region of interest. The ultrasound energy generates a thermal lesion with said ultrasound energy on a fat cell. The lesion can create an opening in the surface of the fat cell, which allows the draining of a fluid out of the fat cell and through the opening. In addition, by applying ultrasound energy to fat cells to increase the temperature to between 43 degrees and 49 degrees, cell apoptosis can be realized, thereby resulting in reduction of fat.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2017Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Guided Therapy Systems, L.L.C.Inventors: Michael H. Slayton, Peter G. Barthe