Applicators Patents (Class 606/13)
  • Patent number: 8348986
    Abstract: A photostimulation apparatus may include: a membrane for insertion into a living body; and at least one cell disposed on the membrane. Each cell may include a first light source for irradiating light to a photosensitive material in the living body. Further, a photostimulation apparatus may include: a membrane for insertion into a living body; and at least one first light source disposed on the membrane for irradiating light to a photosensitive material in the living body. Since the photostimulation apparatus is placed on the surface of cortex or dura, it may minimize damage of the brain tissue and may activate and/or inhibit a large area simultaneously using light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Jee Hyun Choi, Guk Bae Kim, Hee Sup Shin, Ho Kun Sung
  • Publication number: 20130006227
    Abstract: A medical treatment device to treat and join body tissues, includes at least a pair of holding members which is configured to hold the body tissues to be treated, an energy output portion provided in at least one of the pair of holding members and connected to an energy source to form a joined portion by supplying energy to the body tissues held by the pair of holding members to join the body tissues, and a discharge portion which is configured to discharge a substance to cover a surface layer of the joined portion of the body tissues with the substance which prevents infiltration of a fluid into the joined portion after the joined portion is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Tomoyuki TAKASHINO
  • Publication number: 20120330292
    Abstract: Tissue may be cut and extracted from an interior location in a patient's body using a probe or tool which both effects cutting and causes vaporization of a liquid or other fluid to propel the cut tissue through an extraction lumen of the cutting device. The cutting may be achieved using an electrosurgical electrode assembly, including a first electrode on a cutting member and a second electrode within a cutting probe or tool. Thus, over a first cutting portion, radio frequency current may help cut the tissue and over a second or over transition region, the RF current may initiate vaporization of the fluid or other liquid to propel the tissue from the cutting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: ARQOS Surgical, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Shadduck, Aaron Germain, Kyle Klein, Michael D. Walker, Csaba Truckai
  • Patent number: 8337490
    Abstract: An apparatus for movable weight-compensating suspension of a focusing objective of a laser system comprises a force generation device to generate a counterforce component G which counteracts the weight of the focusing objective, a transmission device which transmits the counterforce component G onto the focusing objective and permits upward/downward compensatory movement of the focusing objective, in such a way that in the case of an upward/downward compensatory movement of the focusing objective, an optical axis (O) of the focusing objective maintains at least its orientation in space, and preferably its position in space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Wavelight AG
    Inventor: Gerhard Robl
  • Publication number: 20120323230
    Abstract: A laser tissue fusion device is optimized for particular surgical applications to join tissue layers. The device has two opposed arms that engage and disengage to clamp and release layers of tissue therebetween. The distal end of the first arm is disposed opposite the distal end of the second arm. A laser energy source generates therapeutic laser energy is either integrated within the device is a separate unit. An energy pathway transmits the laser energy to the distal end of the first arm to deliver the laser energy to tissue layers clamped between the distal ends of the arms. An actuator decreases the separation distance between the distal ends of the arms to clamp the tissue layers. A switch activates the laser energy source upon engagement. The laser energy source delivers a burst of energy at a predetermined wavelength for a predetermined period of time sufficient to spot-weld the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO, A BODY CORPORATE
    Inventors: Michael Larson, Jesse McClure, Luke Hooper
  • Patent number: 8328794
    Abstract: A system for treating a selected dermatological problem and a head. The head may include an optical waveguide having a first end to which EM radiation appropriate for treating the condition is applied. The waveguide also has a skin-contacting second end opposite the first end, which is in contact with the skin, and has a reflection aperture which is substantially as great as the radiation back-scatter aperture from the patient's skin. The portion of the back-scattered radiation entering the waveguide is substantially internally reflected therein, with a reflector being provided. The reflector may be angle dependent so as to more strongly reflect back scattered light more perpendicular to the skin surface than back scattered radiation more parallel to the skin surface. The head may also have a mechanism for forming a reflecting chamber under the waveguide and drawing a fold of skin therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory B. Altshuler, Henry H. Zenzie
  • Patent number: 8328796
    Abstract: A light energy delivery head is provided which, in one aspect, mounts laser diode bars or other light energy emitters in a heat sink block which is adapted to cool both the emitters and a surface of a medium with which the head is in contact and to which it is applying light energy. In another aspect, various retroreflection configurations are provided which optimize retroreflection of back-scattered light energy from the medium. The size of the aperture through which light energy is applied to the medium is also controlled so as to provide a desired amplification coefficient as a result of retroreflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory B. Altshuler, Henry H. Zenzie
  • Patent number: 8318090
    Abstract: Disclosed are a germicidal system and method for deactivating pathogens on the surface of a bodily extremity protected by a prophylactic covering substantially opaque to UV-C radiation. The device includes an enclosure having one or more openings through which the extremity can be inserted. The enclosure contains a radiation source configured to produce germicidal radiation having a wavelength of about 253.7 nm. The openings are configured relative to the radiation source such that the inserted extremity is in close proximity to the radiation source. The prophylactic covered extremity is preferably a gloved hand thereby sanitizing the surface of the glove. The extremity inserted is preferably exposed for a predetermined period of time to ensure a desired level of sanitization. Optionally, the device can include detectors to determine the position of the hand, the spread of the fingers, and whether the hand is covered by a glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Germgard Lighting, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene I. Gordon
  • Patent number: 8317780
    Abstract: A dermatological treatment device is disclosed for generating a matrix of two dimensional treatment spots on the tissue. A handpiece carrier a laser which generates a beam of laser pulses. The pulses are focused onto the tissue with a lens system. A diffractive element is positioned between the laser and the lens system for splitting the laser beam into a plurality of sub-beams. A scanner translates the beam over the diffractive element to generate the two dimensional spot pattern. The laser has a semi-monolithic resonator design with one integral end minor defining the output coupler and a second, independent mirror for adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Cutera, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott A. Davenport, David A. Gollnick
  • Patent number: 8317781
    Abstract: Switching power supplies made in accordance with the disclosed technology drive flash lamps of dermatologic treatment devices to emit a sequence of relatively small light pulses that are aligned with particular locations within the waveform of the AC line source. Such power supplies not only enable sufficient light energy in aggregate to therapeutically heat target chromophores in a skin region without causing undesired damage to surrounding tissue, but also provide the added benefit that the corresponding electrical energy need not be substantially drawn from any charged capacitor. The disclosed power supply further compensates for performance degradation of the flash lamps during their usable life, by modifying its operation based on predetermined values that are indicative of flash lamp aging/efficiency characteristics. The flash lamps and their associated stored values are preferably incorporated into a replaceable cartridge that facilitates user maintenance of the dermatologic treatment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Shaser, Inc.
    Inventors: William Owens, Arthur Aaron, Douglas Ely, Bikram Yonjan, Victor Lazarev
  • Publication number: 20120296324
    Abstract: Optical energy-based methods and apparatus for sealing vascular tissue involves deforming vascular tissue to bring different layers of the vascular tissue into contact each other and illuminating the vascular tissue with a light beam having at least one portion of its spectrum overlapping with the absorption spectrum of the vascular tissue. The apparatus may include two deforming members configured to deform the vascular tissue placed between the deforming members. The apparatus may also include an optical system that has a light source configured to generate light, a light distribution element configured to distribute the light across the vascular tissue, and a light guide configured to guide the light from the light source to the light distribution element. The apparatus may further include a cutting member configured to cut the vascular tissue and to illuminate the vascular tissue with light to seal at least one cut surface of the vascular tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: TYCO Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Boris Chernov, Nataliya Chernova, Igoris Misuchenko, Georgy Martsinovskiy, Mikhail Verbitsky
  • Publication number: 20120296323
    Abstract: Optical energy-based methods and apparatus for sealing vascular tissue involves deforming vascular tissue to bring different layers of the vascular tissue into contact each other and illuminating the vascular tissue with a light beam having at least one portion of its spectrum overlapping with the absorption spectrum of the vascular tissue. The apparatus may include two deforming members configured to deform the vascular tissue placed between the deforming members. The apparatus may also include an optical system that has a light source configured to generate light, a light distribution element configured to distribute the light across the vascular tissue, and a light guide configured to guide the light from the light source to the light distribution element. The apparatus may further include a cutting member configured to cut the vascular tissue and to illuminate the vascular tissue with light to seal at least one cut surface of the vascular tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: TYCO Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Boris Chernov, Nataliya Chernova, Igoris Misuchenko, Georgy Martsinovskiy, Mikhail Verbitsky
  • Publication number: 20120289947
    Abstract: A device and method for safe, substantially blood-free vessel removal that preserves vein patency are disclosed. A specially designed lens-free laser vessel stripping device is inserted into the body and coupled to a laser energy source, to remove a major vessel while cutting and coagulating its lateral branches with minimal damage to surrounding tissue. Energy source is preferably a diode laser source emitting at wavelengths of about 980 nm, about 1470 nm or a combination of these wavelengths for obtaining best ablative and coagulative effects, thus achieving a safe and efficient removal of vessels with minimum collateral damage and thus faster recovery. Veins harvested using this device and method are better candidates for autologous grafts in other surgeries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Wolfgang Neuberger
  • Patent number: 8277442
    Abstract: A multi-component sterile, disposable tip apparatus for laser surgical devices is provided and features assembly for alignment of a self-contained optical fiber to the surgical device and releasably locking assembly between the tip and device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Zila, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandre B. Di Sessa, Mihai I. A. Boitor
  • Patent number: 8273046
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing light therapy traction to a patient. A light therapy device and a traction mechanism provide concurrent, alternating and/or repetitive treatment to a patient. The light therapy device includes one or more light sources configured to deliver light to a patient. The traction mechanism is configured to provide selective separation to a particular location the patient's body, such as a location of the patient's vertebrae. In some embodiments, the light therapy and traction are performed simultaneously. In other embodiments, the light therapy and lumbar traction are performed in treatment cycles to the patient. Embodiments of the present invention embrace the application of light therapy prior to, during, and/or after a cervical and/or lumbar traction treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Dynatronics Corporation
    Inventors: Jay Walther, Scott Davis, Ian Brown, Scott Mabey, Chris Spencer, Larry Beardall, Gary Whatcott
  • Patent number: 8269983
    Abstract: An apparatus for observing the appearance of a surface of a sample of semitransparent material, the apparatus comprising a light source for illuminating at least a region of interest of the surface of the sample from a predetermined direction and means for observing a response to the illumination of the region of interest, wherein the illuminated region comprises the region of interest and a region surrounding the region of interest. In this way the influence of emitted scattered light on the accuracy of the observation of the appearance of the sample is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Sipke Wadman
  • Publication number: 20120232534
    Abstract: A multi-wavelength laser apparatus and methods for laser ablation of tissue are described. The apparatus and methods utilize a laser source emitting at two or more wavelengths coupled to a fiberoptic laser delivery device and a laser driver and control system with features for protection of the laser delivery device, the patient, the operator and other components of the laser treatment system. A fiber tip protection system limits damage to the fiberoptic laser delivery device, thereby allowing the multi-wavelength laser to be operated in a tissue contact mode. The invention, which has broad medical and industrial applications, is described in relation to a method for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by contact laser ablation of the prostate (C-LAP) using a technique of touch and pullback laser ablation of the prostate (TapLAP).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: John L. Rink, Marilyn M. Chou, Jasen Eric Petersen, Mark H.K. Chim
  • Publication number: 20120232542
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a laser beam aligning unit comprising an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve arranged inside the outer sleeve such that a laser beam may be guided through an inner chamber thereof in a direction of an area of material to be treated. A laser treatment device may comprise the laser beam aligning unit and/or a distribution device for distributing an ectoine solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Lumera Laser GmbH
    Inventor: Anton Kasenbacher
  • Patent number: 8256430
    Abstract: A method of using a probe that emits energy to coagulate lesions is disclosed. The probe is constructed and arranged to emit light from its distal end, either at an angle to its longitudinal axis, or along its longitudinal axis. Optionally, an end reflector may be used to direct the energy in a beam to one side of the fiber end. A reinforcing sleeve for the fiber is mounted to a shielded, Piezo-electric motor constructed and arranged to move the fiber both longitudinally and rotationally within an optional elongate cannula. An MRI system is arranged to generate a series of output signals indicative of temperature in the targeted area. The application of energy is stopped when the temperature at the boundary of the lesion reaches the required hyperthermic temperature. Cooling of the tip portion of the probe is effected by expansion of a supplied cooling fluid through a restrictive orifice into an expansion zone at the probe end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Monteris Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark G. Torchia, Richard Tyc, John S. Pacak, Ken J. McTaggart
  • Patent number: 8257412
    Abstract: A reach extending device for extending the reach and effective positioning of a therapy device comprises a holder portion configured to grip a therapy device and a handle portion releasbly mounted on the holder portion. The holder portion comprises a mounting element removably mountable on the handle portion, and a movable element for removably mounting on the therapy device. The movable element may be movably mounted on the mounting element to permit movement of the movable element with respect to the handle portion. The handle portion comprises at least two sections, and includes a base section and at least one extension section extendable from the base section. The at least one extension section may be movable between a retracted position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas K. Skoog
  • Publication number: 20120220992
    Abstract: A Computer Assisted and Robot-Guided Laser Osteotome (CARLO) medical device (1) for perforating hard tissue, having a photoablation laser source (31) mounted in a robotic arm (2), and optical system (37) for focusing a laser beam in a target plane of the ostetomy line featuring an autotracking navigation system (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Alfredo E. Bruno, Hans-Florian Zeilhofer, Philipp Jürgens
  • Patent number: 8251984
    Abstract: An improved dental laser system includes a DC power section that rectifies its AC electrical input energy in a format suitable for both CW and pulsed operation, an RF power supply operating in a range of about 40 to 125 MHz and configured for both CW and high peak power pulsing operation, a sealed-off, RF excited CO2 waveguide or slab resonator laser filled to a gas at a pressure between about 260 to 600 Torr (or about 34,700-80,000 Pa), and a beam delivery system to steer the beam from the output of the laser to the mouth, such as the patient's mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Convergent Dental, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Monty
  • Patent number: 8246613
    Abstract: A method for the treatment of skin including the steps of determining the skin depth for energy absorption necessary for treatment; and generating a spot size for energy impinging on the skin to provide a desired amount of energy to the desired depth for treatment. In one embodiment the selected spot size has a small diameter. In another embodiment the spot diameter is narrower than the spacing between adjacent hairs on the skin. In another aspect the invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of skin including a source of energy; and a means for selecting a spot size for energy from the source impinging on the skin to provide a desired amount of energy to a desired depth for treatment. In another embodiment the apparatus includes an interlock to prevent the laser from producing light unless the source is positioned to irradiate only the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Shaser, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Dover, Victor Lazarev, Daniel Lawrence Roth
  • Patent number: 8249696
    Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for navigating through bone. In one embodiment, a bone navigation device is provided and includes a bone penetrating member configured to be implanted in bone and having at least one optical waveguide extending therethrough. The optical waveguide is adapted to illuminate tissue surrounding the device and to receive reflected/transmitted light from the tissue to determine the optical characteristics of the tissue, thus facilitating navigation through the tissue. At least one window can be formed in the bone penetrating member for allowing light from the at least one optical waveguide to illuminate the tissue, and for receiving the reflected light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: DePuy Spine, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Fisher, Paul Birkmeyer, John Riley Hawkins, Katherine Herard, Anwar Upal
  • Patent number: 8244333
    Abstract: The present invention is a Miniature Vein Enhancer that includes a Miniature Projection Head. The Miniature Projection Head may be operated in one of three modes, AFM, DBM, and RTM. The Miniature Projection Head of the present invention projects an image of the veins of a patient, which aids the practitioner in pinpointing a vein for an intravenous drip, blood test, and the like. The Miniature projection head may have a cavity for a power source or it may have a power source located in a body portion of the Miniature Vein Enhancer. The Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to one of several improved needle protectors, or the Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to a body similar to a flashlight for hand held use. The Miniature Vein Enhancer of the present invention may also be attached to a magnifying glass, a flat panel display, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventors: Fred Wood, Ron Goldman, Stephen Conlon, Vincent Luciano
  • Patent number: 8241273
    Abstract: Methods and devices described herein facilitate improved treatment of body organs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: nContact Surgical, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Whayne, Sidney D. Fleischman, Christopher W. Sicvol
  • Patent number: 8235975
    Abstract: A light transmission system to provide photodynamic treatment to a patient includes a single use integrated control module and catheter assembly having a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to transmit light toward target cells within a patient. The integrated light catheter and control module are used in combination with a light activated drug. Selected operating parameters may be programmed into the control module, or it may be wirelessly programmable in situ prior to use to allow user flexibility to tailor treatment for a particular patient or condition. Among the features that prevent reuse are that the control module lacks access to recharge the power source, and it may include a deactivation module that destroys circuitry or software when triggered. To prevent patient interference when in use, the control module may also be configured to selectively deactivate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Light Sciences Oncology, Inc.
    Inventors: James C. Chen, Steven R. Daly, Zihong Guo, Llew Keltner, Jeffrey R. Storm
  • Publication number: 20120183534
    Abstract: Apparatuses, compositions and methods for removing cells which interfere with regenerative processes. The apparatuses, compositions and methods selectively kill partially functional and/or non-functional cells versus functional cells while protecting functional proliferative cells to the extent that, upon removal of the killed cells by disintegration or scavenging, functional cells replace the partially- or non-functional cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Lewis Gruber
  • Publication number: 20120157977
    Abstract: A device for implanting heat deformable fixation elements of different sizes in a bone, comprises a hand piece extending from a proximal end to a distal end and including an internal optical waveguide connected to a laser source and open to the distal end of the hand piece and a light guiding tip extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end of the light guiding tip being removably mechanically and optically connectable to the distal end of the hand piece and the distal end of the light guiding tip being configured to permit removable attachment of a bone fixation element, the light guiding tip including an optical waveguide, wherein the light guiding tip is configured to control a total radiant energy Q transmitted from the laser source to the bone fixation element
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Urs HULLIGER
  • Publication number: 20120150164
    Abstract: The invention provides systems and method for the removal of diseased cells during surgery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: Lumicell Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: W. D. Lee, Jorge M. Ferrer, Andrea Stamp
  • Patent number: 8195282
    Abstract: A method, apparatus and probe for examining tissue for the presence of target cells, particularly cancerous cells, by subjecting the tissue to be examined to a contrast agent containing small particles of a physical element conjugated with a biological carrier selectively bindable to the target cells. Energy pulses are applied to the examined tissue. The changes in impedance and/or optical characteristics of the examined tissue produced by the applied energy pulses are detected and utilized for determining the presence of the target cells in the examined tissue. In a described preferred embodiment, the applied energy pulses include laser pulses, and the physical element conjugated with a biological carrier is a light-sensitive semiconductor having an impedance which substantially decreases in the presence of light. The same probe used for detecting the targeted cells may also be used for destroying the cells so targeted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Dune Medical Devices Ltd
    Inventor: Dan Hashimshony
  • Patent number: 8182473
    Abstract: Photocosmetic device for use in medical or non-medical environments (e.g., a home, barbershop, or spa), which can be used for a variety of tissue treatments. Radiation is delivered to the tissue via optical systems designed to pattern the radiation and project the radiation to a particular depth. The device has a variety of cooling systems including phase change cooling solids and liquids to cool treated skin and the radiation sources. Contact sensors and motion sensor may be used to enhance treatment. The device may be modular to facilitate manufacture and replacement of parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Palomar Medical Technologies
    Inventors: Gregory B. Altshuler, Joseph P. Caruso, Henry H. Zenzie, James G. Burke, III, Andrei V. Erofeev
  • Publication number: 20120123399
    Abstract: A surgical device based on the concept of controlling the laser power during laser surgery based on optical and other signals from the tip and the tissue is described. A laser surgical system generally comprises several basic components, such as a laser, a delivery system, a tip and a control system. A tip may be considered as a particular case of a thermo-optical tip (TOT). TOT is an optical and mechanical element which could be used to modify or treat soft and hard tissues, including cutting, coagulation, vaporization, carbonization, and ablation of tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: LASER ABRASIVE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Andrei V. Belikov, Felix I. Feldchtein, Gregory B. Altshuler
  • Publication number: 20120116374
    Abstract: A collimation system for a medical apparatus includes a collimation component having a laser emitting device, at least one photographing device, and a computing device. The laser emitting device is configured to the emit a laser beam to irradiate on a landmark on a body surface of a patient, the at least one photographing device is configured to take a photograph of a laser irradiation spot, and the computing device is configured to obtain a position of the laser irradiation spot by performing computation on images obtained by the at least one photographing device. The system further includes a moving component provided on the medical apparatus and configured to move to a target position for performing diagnosis or treatment. The medical apparatus automatically is configured to locate the moving component based on the position of the irradiation spot obtained from the computation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventors: Lei JIA, Lin LIN
  • Publication number: 20120116269
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for occluding a left atrial appendage are provided. One embodiment includes an elongate body having a tissue apposition member extendably positioned within a lumen of the elongate body to appose tissue of the LAA. An energy emitting device coupled to the elongate body can be used for emitting high intensity focused ultrasound to the tissues to fuse the tissues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven A. McAuley
  • Patent number: 8152797
    Abstract: An apparatus having an excitation source that includes at least one laser diode and also having a handpiece with a disposable, bendable tip cannula is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Biolase Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Dmitri Boutoussov, Jeffrey W. Jones, Julio Guillermo Cely, Ioana M. Rizoiu, Manvel Artyom Andriasyan
  • Publication number: 20120078160
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and apparatus for treating bladder cancer. Example apparatus include a laser or other source that generates visible or near-infrared radiation and a cytoscope to deliver and apply the radiation to a treatment site, such as the urothelial surface of the bladder. The radiation alters the permeability of at least one layer of the bladder wall, allowing more efficacious administration of chemotherapeutic or anticancer agent to the bladder lumen during or after application of the radiation. Permeability of the bladder wall may be altered by damaging suburothelial blood vessels, such as those of the lamina propria of the bladder wall, or by damaging the urothelium and suburothelial blood vessels of the bladder in a patient with bladder cancer. Damage to the urothelium induced by the radiation may be of a continuous or discontinuous nature. Treatment may also cause regression or destruction of (pre)malignant tissue in the urothelium and suburothelium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Gradiant Research, LLC
    Inventor: Kathleen McMillan
  • Publication number: 20120078240
    Abstract: An ultrashort pulsed laser instrument is used to perform refractive surgery. The invention operates in ablative and incisional modalities. In the ablative mode, spiral ablation disks (10) consisting of individual laser pulses (40) are produced at high scanning speeds. Ablation profile (11) may be produced in cornea (22) by stacking and arranging multiple ablation disks (10) to produce a specified shape change. Placement of ablation disks (10) is assisted by an optical tracking and control system that compensates for eye motion. A preferred embodiment allows for ablative corrections to be performed on non-planar posterior surface (112) of a laser cut flap affixed to registration platen (120), thereby avoiding exposing the eye interior to high radiant power. Laser cut and contrast agent dyed fiduciary marks (30) may serve as reference features for the optical tracking system. Incisional procedures, such as corneal flaps for LASIK, may also be performed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Gregory John Roy Spooner
  • Patent number: 8142713
    Abstract: A germicidal system and method for deactivating pathogens on the surface of a bodily extremity protected by a prophylactic covering substantially opaque to UV-C radiation. The device includes an enclosure having one or more openings through which the extremity can be inserted. The enclosure contains a radiation source configured to produce germicidal radiation having a wavelength of about 253.7 nm. The openings are configured relative to the radiation source such that the inserted extremity is in close proximity to the radiation source. The prophylactic covered extremity is preferably a gloved hand thereby sanitizing the surface of the glove. The extremity inserted is preferably exposed for a predetermined period of time to ensure a desired level of sanitization. Optionally, the device can include an orientation detector to determine the position of the user's hand and the spread of the user's fingers, and a surface detector to determine whether the user's hand is covered by a glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Germgard Lighting, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene I. Gordon
  • Publication number: 20120071866
    Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to battery unit for use with surgical instruments. The battery units may comprise a plurality of cells and include a translatable discharge drain. When attached to the surgical instrument, the discharge drain may electrically connect an anode of the battery unit to a cathode of the battery unit, for example, via a resistive element in order to drain the battery unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendy A. Kerr, Richard F. Schwemberger, Richard L. Leimbach, Brett E. Swensgard
  • Patent number: 8137340
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a high power diode-pumped laser for laser ablation of soft tissue. The present invention contemplates to operate the high power diode-pumped solid-state laser at a continuous Q-switching mode and at a big number of transverse modes. The present invention also contemplates to reduce beam divergence and beam spot size and thus to increase power density of the laser on target tissue to improve the speed of tissue ablation. The present invention further contemplates to minimize power consumption such that external water-cooling or secondary cooling loop can be eliminated. The present invention even further contemplates to implement combined mechanisms to protect intracavity optics from power damage. Finally, the present invention contemplates hospitals and surgeon offices to use the high power diode-pumped laser for soft tissue ablation with standard electrical wall-plug outlet and elimination of inconvenient external water-cooling or secondary cooling loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Applied Harmonics Corporation
    Inventors: Ming Lai, Liyue Mu, Kangze Cai, Weiguo Luo
  • Publication number: 20120065551
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating tissue includes a first energy application device to direct energy at tissue of a patient to cause at least one channel to be formed and a controller to control application of energy from the first energy application device to form the at least one channel. The at least one channel may be in the shape of a spiral-like shape or may be in a flower-like shape. Mechanisms are provided to help open channels formed in the human skin structure. A second energy application source may be used to maintain the channel open after formation. The controller may cause the first energy application device to form a plurality of channels of varying depth, width and distribution over the human skin surface. The apparatus to control the application of energy may be operated using a foot-activated pedal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Lumenis Ltd.
    Inventors: Idan Aviad, Yoni Iger, Assaf Gelstein, Jason A. Mirabito, Omer Peled
  • Patent number: 8133180
    Abstract: A method and system for providing ultrasound treatment to a deep tissue that contains a lower part of dermis and proximal protrusions of fat lobuli into the dermis. The invention delivers ultrasound energy to the region creating a thermal injury and coagulating the proximal protrusions of fat lobuli, whereby eliminating the fat protrusions into the dermis. The invention can also include ultrasound imaging configurations using the same or a separate probe before, after or during the treatment. In addition various therapeutic levels of ultrasound can be used to increase the speed at which fat metabolizes. Additionally the mechanical action of ultrasound physically breaks fat cell clusters and stretches the fibrous bonds. Mechanical action will also enhance lymphatic drainage, stimulating the evacuation of fat decay products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Guided Therapy Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael H. Slayton, Peter G. Barthe, Inder Raj S. Makin
  • Publication number: 20120046653
    Abstract: In one aspect, a method is disclosed of delivering therapeutic light to a treatment region to effect heating in the treatment region. The method includes providing a light emitting diode and driving the light emitting diode to generate therapeutic light during a pulse period. The method further includes directing the therapeutic light to the treatment region at an average power density of about 200 W/cm2 or more at the treatment region during the pulse period and maintaining the light emitting diode in a non-emitting state for a recovery period which is longer than the pulse period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: CYNOSURE, INC.
    Inventors: Richard Shaun Welches, Mirko Mirkov, Rafael Armando Sierra
  • Publication number: 20120041430
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and method for harvesting small portions of tissue (“micrografts”) to form grafts can be provided. For example, a hollow tube can be inserted into tissue at a donor site, where a distal end of the hollow tube can have two or more points or extensions to facilitate separation of the micrografts from the surrounding tissue. The exemplary apparatus can be provided that includes a plurality of such tubes for simultaneous harvesting of a plurality of micrografts. The harvested micrografts can have a small dimension, e.g., less than about 1 mm, or less than about 0.3 mm, which can promote healing of the donor site and/or viability of the harvested tissue. The micrografts can be approximately cylindrical or strip-shaped, and can be placed in a biocompatible matrix to form a graft or directly into tissue at the recipient site. Such exemplary micrografts can be obtained from skin or other types of tissue, e.g., various internal organs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Richard R. Anderson, Michael R. Hamblin, Dieter Manstein, William A. Farinelli
  • Publication number: 20120035600
    Abstract: Systems and methods for transforming biological materials utilizing ultrafast laser light. According to some embodiments, a method for transforming a biological material may include calculating an ablation profile for the biological material by comparing initial characteristics of the biological material to desired characteristics for the biological material, and applying an output of an ultrafast laser to the biological material to transform the biological material using the ablation profile in such a way that collateral damage to remaining biological material is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventors: David Gaudiosi, Carolyn Martinez, Michael Armas, Michael Mielke, Michael Greenberg, Tim Booth
  • Patent number: 8109981
    Abstract: An optical therapy device for providing therapeutic light to a person's nasal cavity includes a body and at least one UV light source in or on the body. A distal end of the body is configured to be inserted into the person's nasal cavity. The body can be configured to be hand-held. The optical therapy device is configured such that the UV light source emits a dose of UV light toward tissue in the patient's nasal cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Valam Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Gertner, Erica Rogers
  • Publication number: 20120029354
    Abstract: A tissue cutting device that is especially suited for neurosurgical applications is disclosed and described. The device includes a handpiece and an outer cannula in which a reciprocating inner cannula is disposed. A delivery sleeve may be selectively provided that is configured to be disposed about the outer cannula for delivery of a variety of devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph L. Mark, Brian C. Dougherty
  • Publication number: 20120010603
    Abstract: Tissue optical clearing devices for subsurface photodisruption and methods of use generally comprise an energy source in conjunction with mechanical optical clearing for the creation of high precision surface and subsurface photodisruption and/or photoablation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: Dermalucent, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas E. Milner, Joseph Neev
  • Patent number: 8092447
    Abstract: A handpiece for tissue treatment is provided. The handpiece has receiving means for receiving a first light beam, at least two components and selector device being movable between at least two positions, each position corresponding to a component. The selector device may be moved between the two positions, thereby positioning a selected component in a beam path of the first light beam. The selected component provide one or more functions, such as sensing, emitting a third light beam, emitting no light beam, and/or emitting a second light beam in response to the first light beam being incident on the selected component. The second or third light beam may, if present, be emitted towards a target area, or said light beam(s) may be deflected towards a target area. Furthermore, a method for tissue treatment using such a handpiece, and a selector device for use in such a handpiece is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Asah Medico A/S
    Inventor: Casper Dolleris