Laser Application Patents (Class 607/89)
  • Patent number: 8728138
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for thermally-induced renal neuromodulation. Thermally-induced renal neuromodulation may be achieved via direct and/or via indirect application of thermal energy to heat or cool neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers. In some embodiments, parameters of the neural fibers, of non-target tissue, or of the thermal energy delivery element, may be monitored via one or more sensors for controlling the thermally-induced neuromodulation. In some embodiments, protective elements may be provided to reduce a degree of thermal damage induced in the non-target tissues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Denise Zarins, Nicolas Zadno, Benjamin J. Clark, Erik Thai, Howard R. Levin, Mark Gelfand
  • Patent number: 8728137
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for thermally-induced renal neuromodulation. Thermally-induced renal neuromodulation may be achieved via direct and/or via indirect application of thermal energy to heat or cool neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers. In some embodiments, parameters of the neural fibers, of non-target tissue, or of the thermal energy delivery element, may be monitored via one or more sensors for controlling the thermally-induced neuromodulation. In some embodiments, protective elements may be provided to reduce a degree of thermal damage induced in the non-target tissues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Medtronic Ardian Luxembourg S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Denise Zarins, Nicolas Zadno, Benjamin J. Clark, Erik Thai, Howard R. Levin, Mark Gelfand
  • Patent number: 8721696
    Abstract: Method for treating chronic rhinosinusitis in a human patient. In the method a photosensitizing agent such as indocyanine green can be applied to color a nasal or sinal treatment site harboring infectious microorganisms. The photosensitizing agent can have an energy absorption peak in a near infrared wavelength region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The method can also include applying light energy from a laser source at a near infrared wavelength or wavelengths to the colored treatment site, for a duration sufficient to control the microorganisms. Apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Valam Corporation
    Inventors: Yosef Krespi, Victor Z. Kizhner
  • Patent number: 8721695
    Abstract: A device with a control unit and a plurality of stimulation units configured to be implanted in the body of a patient and generate optical stimuli, wherein the optical stimuli reset the phase of the neuronal activity of the neurons during the stimulation of neurons exhibiting abnormally synchronous and oscillatory neuronal activity, and the control unit is configured to actuate the stimulation units such that at least two of the stimulation units reset the phases of the respectively stimulated neurons at different times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH, ANM Adaptive Neuromodulation GmbH
    Inventors: Peter A. Tass, Marcus Goetz, Bernhard Pelz, Stefan Fischer, Jean-Christophe Roulet, Urban Schnell
  • Patent number: 8715327
    Abstract: A system for stimulating a baroreflex of a patient that includes a first light source with a first emitter for emitting a first light, the first emitter at a first location proximate a target tissue having baroreceptor cells, and a second light source including a second emitter and for emitting a second light, the second emitter at a second location proximate the target tissue. The system also includes a control circuit coupled to the first and the second light sources, the control circuit configured to activate the first and the second light sources such that the first light traverses a first pathway to arrive at and penetrate the first portion of the target tissue and the second light-like traverses a second pathway to arrive at and penetrate the second portion of the target tissue, thereby stimulating the baroreceptor cells and activating a baroreflex of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: CVRx, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric G. Lovett, Kip Ludwig
  • Publication number: 20140121631
    Abstract: A method for providing localized heating of the dermal layers of skin of a patient, using energy in the form of a group of pulses having defined parameters in a controlled manner. This method preferably uses an optical delivery system to deliver pulsed energy to a specific spot of skin so that targeted layers of the affected skin are heated to a desired temperature range. The temperature range is optimally selected to maximize treatment efficacy while minimizing pain to the patient. Example applications include reducing wrinkles, acne, hair, scar tissue, warts, and promoting wound healing. In this method, the temperature of the selected locus rises quickly to the desired temperature range, then is maintained within a controlled range with a relatively flat temperature profile. The method maintains the temperature by controlling one or more of a pulse energy intensity, pulse width, and pulse frequency or time delay between pulses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: David M. Bean, Matthew Hamerstrom, Alyssa Bean
  • Publication number: 20140121730
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating tissue includes an energy application device that directs energy at the skin tissue of the patient in a fractional treatment mode in which a plurality of spots receive energy which may be in a form of a laser beam. In order to lessen thermal damage to the surrounding tissue of the spot, a controller will cause the laser or the energy application device to skip around the area to be treated rather than to apply the laser beam in a sequential, raster-like fashion to each of the points in a fractional treatment area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: LUMENIS LTD.
    Inventors: Reuven KALEV, Oren LIAV
  • Patent number: 8709003
    Abstract: A skin proximity sensor and method are disclosed in a dermatologic treatment device that includes a bezel or similar surface, and a treatment source capable of being activated to supply a dermatologic treatment through the bezel or surface, such as a window or similar port. A plurality of contacts leading to remotely located capacitors, in some embodiments, or a plurality of capacitive sensors in other embodiments, is positioned in or under the bezel and around the window, and control circuitry coupled to the plurality of capacitors senses the change in capacitance due to skin and inhibits activation of the dermatologic treatment device unless the proximity of skin is sensed. The presence of skin is detected, for example, by measuring changes in charge and discharge times, indicating a variation in capacitance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Tria Beauty, Inc.
    Inventors: Tobin C. Island, Mark V. Weckwerth, Harvey I. Liu, Jeffrey A. Hoenshell, Charles A. Schuetz
  • Patent number: 8709057
    Abstract: A laser system has a laser source for generating a laser beam, a control unit, and a hand piece for manually guiding the laser beam onto a target area. A wavelength (?) of the laser beam is in a range from above 1.9 ?m to 11.0 ?m inclusive. The laser system is adapted for a thermal, non ablative treatment of mucosa tissue by the laser beam such, that the laser source generates the laser beam in single pulses with a pulse duration (tp) in a range from 1.0 ?s, inclusive, to 1.0 sec, inclusive, and that a fluence of each of the single pulses on the target area of the mucosa tissue is in a range from 0.2 J/cm2, inclusive, to 2.5 J/cm2, inclusive, and preferably in a range from 1.40 J/cm2, inclusive, to 1.95 J/cm2, inclusive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Fotona d.d.
    Inventors: Marcelo Tettamanti, Zdenko Vizintin, Marko Kazic, Matjaz Lukac
  • Publication number: 20140113243
    Abstract: A handpiece assembly for laser treating a target surface and a laser system are disclosed. A handpiece assembly for laser treating a target surface includes a cable connector that is detachably coupled to a power supply and control module. The cable connector is configured to receive power and control signals from the power supply and control module. The handpiece assembly includes a laser module configured to receive the power and control signals from the cable connector and to generate electromagnetic energy based on the received power and control signals. The laser module is a replaceable module that is detachably coupled to the cable connector and a handpiece. The replaceable module allows a particular laser module to be removed from the handpiece assembly and replaced with another laser module. The handpiece assembly further includes the handpiece configured to receive the electromagnetic energy from the laser module and to direct the electromagnetic energy to the target surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: BIOLASE, Inc.
    Inventors: Dmitri Boutoussov, Rolf G. Kojima
  • Patent number: 8702769
    Abstract: A technique for detecting and providing alerts or indications that can be used for controlling or altering the displacement speed of an applicator coupling skin heating energy across a treated skin. A temperature sensor monitors the rate of skin temperature change and provides feedback related to altering the applicator displacement speed according to the rate of skin temperature change. Disclosed is also an applicator for implementing this method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Syneron Medical Ltd
    Inventors: Shimon Eckhouse, Lion Flyash, Boris Vaynberg
  • Patent number: 8702771
    Abstract: Semiconductor diode lasers are tiny sources of light powered by electricity. These are used extensively in medical and aesthetic applications. This patent application covers the concept of replaceable laser diodes for a wide range of applications. Historically, the high power laser sources have been prohibitively expensive to contemplate such an idea. However, as technology advances the price per Watt continues to fall dramatically. Somewhat analogous to the Gillette safety razor concept, this patent application describes how diodes can be replaced in a manner akin to the ordinary razor blade. Simply put, this invention describes replaceable laser light sources for aesthetic and medical applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Ricky A. Frost
  • Patent number: 8702291
    Abstract: An illuminatable apparatus includes a fabric sheet containing fiber optic rods interwoven with fabric threads. The ends of the fiber optic rods are bundled together to form a ferrule which is removably insertable into a holder carrying a light source and a power source. An outer ferrule can be fixed over the sleeve-like ferrule or robust applications. The holder may be removably attached to articles of clothing. The illuminatable fabric sheet can be used as an optical bandage, in a medical cast, in a negative pressure device, or in a bed pad/sheet, or in a therapeutic brace support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: John Stephan
  • Patent number: 8702772
    Abstract: A device and method for dermatological use with one or a plurality of active components and a failsafe control. The device includes a light source configured to be toggled between an activated state and an inactivated state, a photosensitive detector configured to detect incoming light and a processing unit for the failsafe control. The processing unit is configured to concurrently determine whether light detected by the photosensitive detector is indicative of a safe operating proximity and is indicative of a safe operating skin tonal range; and activate the active components only when the processing unit determines that the device is within the safe operating proximity, and that the light reflected from the surface is indicative of the safe operating proximity and safe operating skin tonal range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Derma Dream Group Ltd.
    Inventors: Josef Luzon, Martin Gurovich
  • Patent number: 8702770
    Abstract: The invention concerns a scanning device for focusing a beam of rays in defined regions of a defined volume, comprising an input optics wherein the beam of rays penetrates first, having at least one first optical element; a focusing optics for focusing the beam of rays exiting from the input optics; and a deflecting device arranged between the first optical element and the focusing optics, for deflecting the beam of rays after it has passed through the first optical element, based on a position of the focus to be adjusted in lateral direction. In order to adjust the position of the focus of the beam of rays in the direction of the beam of rays, and optical element of the input optics can be displaced relative to the deflecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
    Inventors: Marco Hanft, Dirk Muehlhoff, Mark Bischoff, Mario Gerlach
  • Patent number: 8701675
    Abstract: Techniques disclosed herein include systems and methods for treating spinal cord injury. Techniques include using a diode laser assembly, a power source, a fiber optic cable, and a fenestrated tip. The power source can be connected to the diode laser assembly, with a fiber optic cable connected to the diode laser assembly. The fenestrated tip is connected to the fiber optic cable to emit a plurality of laser light beams produced by the diode laser assembly at a location remote from the diode laser assembly. The apparatus can be used in a method for treating a spinal cord injury. The method is carried out by providing a source of laser light having a wavelength in the range of 500-1000 nm and a power in the range of 5 to 500 milliwatts. The laser light is transmitted through an optical wire to a position adjacent a spinal cord injury site, with at least a portion of the apparatus positioned within a human body. The spinal cord injury site is then irradiated with laser light from the optical wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventors: Samuel D. Schenker, Arthur Dale Ericsson
  • Patent number: 8702773
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an eccentric balloon catheter are disclosed. In some embodiments, an eccentric balloon catheter includes an eccentrically positioned guidewire tube, with an interior lumen, that extends at least a portion of the length of the catheter body. Optical fibers may extend the length of the catheter body and may also be eccentrically positioned within the catheter body. An inflatable balloon may be positioned within a window within the catheter body near the distal end of the catheter. When inflated, the balloon and catheter may slide relative to one another. When used within a vessel, an inflated balloon may press against a vessel wall and bias the catheter toward an opposite vessel wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: The Spectranetics Corporation
    Inventor: Jacob Keeler
  • Publication number: 20140107736
    Abstract: The invention provides a laser and infrared photon acupuncture instrument output head and an acupuncture instrument. The output head comprises a front housing, a middle housing and a rear housing sequentially connected. The output head also comprises therein an infrared PCB assembly disposed at the front end thereof and a laser PCB assembly disposed at the rear end thereof, and a heat sink is provided between the infrared PCB assembly and the laser PCB assembly. The acupuncture instrument is provided with the laser and infrared photon acupuncture instrument output head. The laser and infrared photon acupuncture instrument output head of the invention is added with a metal heat sink having rapid cooling effect, thereby prolonging the product service life. A protective mesh is used for preventing a person (especially children) from inserting a hand thereof and being burned by a bulb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Yaolin Li, Yaoxiong Huang
  • Patent number: 8696652
    Abstract: A light therapy device for applying an image produced from a therapeutically effective aqueous liquid, is provided. The device includes a slide, prepared by Kirlian and/or corona discharge photography, of a sample of an aqueous liquid removed from a liquid-retaining body and mixed with ethanol, and a projection device with a light device which emits visible light and is designed to project the slide onto an object, in particular a living being, in such a way that a sample of the liquid contained in a container which is permeable to and can be irradiated by the visible light is arranged in a light path between a unit, which holds the slide, of the projection device and the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Andreas Korte
  • Patent number: 8685008
    Abstract: A device for treating an area of skin by scanning radiation to form a pattern of treatment spots on the skin includes an automated scanning system configured to receive an input beam generated by a radiation source and scan the received input beam to provide a sequential series of output beams that form a pattern of treatment spots on the skin, the automated scanning system including a generally cup-shaped scanning element configured to rotate about a rotational axis. The generally cup-shaped scanning element may include a plurality of lenslets arranged around the rotational axis, each lenslet configured to provide one of the output beams, such that as the rotating scanning element rotates about the rotational axis, the input beam is sequentially reflected by different lenslets surfaces to provide the sequential series of output beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Tria Beauty, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark V. Weckwerth, Patrick Reichert, David Youngquist, Harvey I-Heng Liu
  • Patent number: 8685072
    Abstract: A device and method for restoring functionality of blood vessels are disclosed. Laser energy is accurately and precisely applied in order to restore vessel functionality. This is accomplished by a controlled, reliable and specific shrinkage and/or strengthening of the vessel structure by controlled transport of laser radiation via an optical fiber to the treatment site. Laser wavelength is chosen according to the required penetration depth in tissue. In a preferred embodiment, wavelength of approximately 1470 nm is used. A mini-endoscope is preferably used to control the process by visual inspection from the inside of the vessel but other means may also be combined to control the procedure. Full 360° radial emission, i.e., delivery of laser radiation perpendicularly or fairly inclined relative to the veins axis, is beneficial, and is accomplished by means of a radial emitting fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Biolitec Pharma Marketing Ltd
    Inventor: Wolfgang Neuberger
  • Patent number: 8685012
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that will alter the fibrous strands in the fatty layers of the skin to reduce the appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue. Electromagnetic energy is used to selectively shrink or alternatively photoacoustically ablate the collagen in the constricting bands of connective tissue that causes the dimpled appearance of cellulite and adipose tissue while avoiding damage to the surrounding fatty cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: New Star Lasers, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Hennings, David J. Fullmer
  • Patent number: 8679102
    Abstract: A self-contained, hand-held device for providing a dermatological treatment includes a radiation source configured to generate one or more radiation beams, and an optical system configured to deliver the one or more radiation beams to the skin to provide a dermatological treatment. Each radiation beam includes a first axis beam profile and an orthogonal second axis beam profile. The optical system includes a first axis optic configured to influence the first axis beam profile of each radiation beam by a greater extent than the second axis beam profile of each radiation beam, and a second axis optic configured to influence the second axis beam profile of each radiation beam by a greater extent than the first axis beam profile of each radiation beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Tria Beauty, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Reichert, David Youngquist, Mark V. Weckwerth, Harvey I-Heng Liu
  • Publication number: 20140081358
    Abstract: Methods and systems for use in treating one or more patient's sensory impairment, e.g., associated with peripheral neuropathy. An exemplary system may be configured to generate treatment information for treating sensory impairment in at least one body portion using photonic energy from a therapeutic laser based on data indicative of damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: BIOLYST, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy Kelm, Philip S. Walter, Robert B. Weigel
  • Publication number: 20140074193
    Abstract: A device and method for dermatological use with one or a plurality of active components and a failsafe control. The device includes a light source configured to be toggled between an activated state and an inactivated state, a photosensitive detector configured to detect incoming light and a processing unit for the failsafe control. The processing unit is configured to concurrently determine whether light detected by the photosensitive detector is indicative of a safe operating proximity and is indicative of a safe operating skin tonal range; and activate the active components only when the processing unit determines that the device is within the safe operating proximity, and that the light reflected from the surface is indicative of the safe operating proximity and safe operating skin tonal range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventors: Josef LUZON, Martin GUROVICH
  • Publication number: 20140074195
    Abstract: An apparatus for delivering multiple forms of electromagnetic radiation and method for its use are disclosed. One embodiment provides a method for providing treatment using electromagnetic radiation therapy. The method comprises receiving a power input initiating a radiation unit. The radiation unit comprises one or more light emitting diodes, one or more laser diodes, and a frequency generator. The light emitting diodes are initiated to provide emission of electromagnetic radiation in continuous wave form mode and the laser diodes are initiated to provide for emission of electromagnetic radiation in continuous wave form mode. The frequency generator is controlled to provide a frequency generator waveform at a frequency to convert the output of the laser diodes from continuous wave form mode to pulse wave form mode, maintain the output of the light emitting diodes in continuous wave form mode, and cause emission of an electromagnetic field proximate the radiation unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventor: Dror Irge
  • Publication number: 20140074194
    Abstract: Provided are dermatological medical devices and methods comprising a distal end for positioning at a region proximal a target therapeutic region of tissue, an output port at the distal end, an energy source that generates optical energy, which is output from the output port to the target therapeutic region of tissue, and a control device that controls the optical energy at the target therapeutic region of tissue for increasing a temperature of the target therapeutic region of tissue for a period of time to a temperature that is less than an injurying temperature and induces an expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) at the target therapeutic region of tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Dermal Photonics Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Dunleavy, Vladimir Krylov
  • Publication number: 20140067023
    Abstract: The microfabricated prosthetic device uses local, direct, and wavelength-specific optical stimulation to achieve an action potential from a single or small group of neurons within the central nervous system (CNS). The device is biocompatible, mechanically flexible, and optically transparent. The device can also use integrated electrodes for additional input/output (IO) locations, signal verification, feedback, wireless communication, and characterization of the electrochemically-evoked potential received from the activated neuron. The purpose of the device is to act as a neural interface prosthetic. The prosthetic is designed as the central component of a brain machine interface (BMI).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
    Inventors: Joseph J. Register, Stephen E. Saddow, Christopher L. Frewin, Edwin Weeber
  • Publication number: 20140066974
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a menstrual pain treatment device, which is used bu being brought into close contact with a menstrual pain treatment area of the body or by being attached to a color light treatment area of the body using a double-sided adhesive tape or a hydro gel pad, and which comprises a pad- or patch-shaped main body for accommodating a battery and a PCB having a light source, a light source operation controller, and a treatment device operation button. The present invention treats menstrual pain by concentrating a colored light for treats menstrual pain by concentrating a colored light for treating menstrual pain on the menstrual pain treatment area of the body through the light emitting outlet in the patch-shaped main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicants: COLOR SEVEN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kyong Jun Park
  • Patent number: 8664198
    Abstract: A method for constructing a compound of immunologically modified nanotubes and method for using the compound to deliver immunoadjuvants to tumor cells and to produce targeted, synergistic photophysical and immunological reactions for cancer treatment. To prepare the immunologically modified nanotubes, carbon nanotubes are dissolved in a solution of glycated chitosan, an immunostimulant, hence using glycated chitosan as a surfactant for rendering the aqueous solution of nanotubes stable. The compound can be used for treatment of cancer. The method includes steps of intratumorally administering immunologically modified nanotubes and administering laser irradiation of the target tumor. The nanotube serves as a carrier to deliver immunoadjuvants to the tumor cells and serves as a light-absorbing agent in a cell body of a tumor in a host.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: The University of Central Oklahoma
    Inventor: Wei R. Chen
  • Patent number: 8656931
    Abstract: A dermatological treatment method includes directing laser energy having a wavelength of 2.79 ?m onto skin. According to disclosed methods, the energy can function to ablate a first portion of epidermal tissue, coagulate an underlying second portion of epidermal tissue, and promote collagen formation in tissue of the underlying dermis. In an exemplary treatment apparatus, a laser using a YSGG gain medium is mounted in a handpiece. The handpiece may include a two-axis scanner to allow for uniform scanning of the energy over the tissue surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Cutera, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott A. Davenport, David A. Gollnick, Steven Christensen, Dean A. MacFarland, Robert Bernhard Estrada
  • Patent number: 8657811
    Abstract: An intravascular diagnostic or therapeutic apparatus capable of removing blood in an intravascular lumen to be observed using a minimally invasive method is provided. The apparatus includes high-intensity pulsed light generating means and high-intensity pulsed light transmitting means for transmitting high-intensity pulsed light, capable of irradiating the interior of a blood vessel with high-intensity pulsed light, producing water-vapor bubbles and temporarily removing the blood in the blood vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Keio University
    Inventors: Tsunenori Arai, Eriko Suga, Erika Yamashita, Hikaru Futami
  • Publication number: 20140052221
    Abstract: A hand-held self-contained nerve-stimulation device and method using light to provide a source of precise stimulation on one or more nerve fibers. In some embodiments, this simulation is provided through a device and method wherein a laser- or LED-light source is mounted to the handpiece. Light is passed from the light source through optical tip to simulate nerves. In some embodiments, the device is constructed from non-magnetic material such as glass, plastic or ceramics. In some embodiments, the light emanating from the optical tip can be controlled manually or automatically. In some embodiments, the handpiece contains a self-contained power source, such as batteries. In some embodiments, the handpiece is at least in part, activated by remote control in order to prevent moving the handpiece during activation. Some embodiments include a unit operable to sense a response of nerve stimulation and to suppress a laser-ablation surgery operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: James S. Webb, Charles I. Miyake, Mark P. Bendett, Charles A. Lemaire
  • Patent number: 8652188
    Abstract: To provide a light irradiation device capable of easily removing and reducing hair with low power light without burden on skin. The light irradiation device according to the present invention includes a light source giving pulses of light in a wavelength range from 400 to 1200 nm and a light guide distributing the pulses of light given from the light source with energy intensity of 0.2 to 10 J/cm2 at a predetermined distance from the light outgoing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Chosei Hamada, Masako Yamasaki, Takashi Matsuzaki
  • Patent number: 8653392
    Abstract: A handpiece for a medical instrumentation device is formed with manually deformable ribs on an outer sleeve. The ribs align with conductive surfaces inside the handpiece that make contact with an internal flexible electronic circuit to activate the device when force is applied to the ribs. Removing the force deactivates the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: BIOLASE, Inc.
    Inventors: John Berger, Dmitri Boutoussov
  • Patent number: 8652187
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for making and using devices that generate optical signals, and optionally also electrical signals in combination with one or more such optical signals, to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a sensory-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to treat nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or the central nervous system (CNS) and provide sensations to stimulate and/or simulate “sensory” signals in nerves and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human) to treat other sensory deficiencies (e.g., touch, feel, balance, visual, taste, or olfactory) and provide sensations related to those sensory deficiencies, and/or to stimulate (i.e., trigger) and/or simulate a motor-nerve signal in nerve and/or brain tissue of a living animal (e.g., a human), for example to control a muscle or a robotic prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathon D. Wells, Andrew Xing, Mark P. Bendett, Matthew D. Keller, Charles A. Lemaire
  • Publication number: 20140046241
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for cosmetic treatment of non-acneic oily skin, comprising the step consisting in: exposing said non-acneic oily skin to a first quasi-monochromatic light of artificial origin having a dominant wavelength peak between 300 and 700 nm, better still between 400 and 650 nm, even better still between 560 and 620 nm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventors: Corinne Granger, Helene Pernot
  • Publication number: 20140046409
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a light source apparatus for photo-diagnosis and phototherapy. The light source apparatus includes a first light source, a second light source, a light-guide, an interference filter, and a compensation filter. The first light source is non-coherent, and the second light source is coherent. The light-guide delivers light emitted from the first light source and the second light source. The interference filter is disposed on an optical path of the first light source. The compensation filter is disposed between the first light source and the light-guide, and compensates for an output spectrum of the first light source and converts the output spectrum of the first light source into a predetermined reference output spectrum. Here, the light emitted from the second light source is reflected by the interference filter to be incident to the light-guide and the light from the first light source passes through the interference filter at the same time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: KOREA ELECTROTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Uk KANG, Dae Sic LEE, Guang Hoon KIM, Min Woong JUNG, Garry V. PAPAYAN, Vladimir BEREZIN
  • Publication number: 20140039581
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for delivering visible or infrared biostimulatory energy to bone marrow to subjects having or developing Alzheimer's disease. The radiation is delivered to sites remote from the brain at a dose sufficient to cause stimulated mesenchymal stem cells to appear in the brain and degrade ?-amyloid. The energy may be coherent light and can be administered transcutaneously, subcutaneously, or via an intramedullary probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: RAMOT AT TEL-AVIV UNIVERSITY LTD.
    Inventors: Uri Oron, Hana Tuby, Dan Frenkel, Dorit Farfara
  • Patent number: 8632576
    Abstract: A system for treatment of a wound area of a patient including a first treatment pad comprising a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) for cleaning and exposing a wound area to ultraviolet light, a second treatment pad comprising removal ports for exposing the wound area to a negative pressure, and a control unit interoperably connected to the first and second treatment pads for providing a negative pressure and the ultraviolet light to the wound area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: ThermoTek, Inc.
    Inventor: Tony Quisenberry
  • Patent number: 8632577
    Abstract: An optical-signal vestibular-nerve stimulation device and method that provides different nerve stimulation signals to a plurality of different vestibular nerves, including at least some of the three semicircular canal nerves and the two otolith organ nerves. In some embodiments, balance conditions of the person are sensed by the implanted device, and based on the sensed balance conditions, varying infrared (IR) nerve-stimulation signals are sent to a plurality of the different vestibular nerves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Mark P. Bendett, James S. Webb
  • Publication number: 20140018783
    Abstract: The system for treating a region of the epidermis, comprising: —at least one laser energy source; —a time control device to generate a laser beam; —a laser energy focusing system arranged and produced to direct a laser beam on said region of the epidermis. The control device generates a laser beam comprising a plurality of composite pulses, emitted at a base frequency, each composite pulse comprising a sequence of sub-pulses at a higher frequency than said base frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: EL.EN. S.P.A.
    Inventors: Stefano Modi, Maurizio Scortecci, Damiano Fortuna, Tiziano Zingoni, Leonardo Masotti, Gabriele Clementi, Nicola Zerbinati
  • Publication number: 20140012353
    Abstract: Techniques for elevating CD34+ cell level in peripheral blood using light are disclosed herein. In one example, a light generating device is positioned to a body part of a patient, and a beam of light generated by the light generating device is directed to the body part of the patient to increase CD34+ cell level in the peripheral blood of the patient. In various embodiments, the beam of light is direct to a body part of the patient that is CD34+ stem/progenitor cell and/or precursor cell that give rise to CD34+ stem/progenitor cell rich. In various embodiments, the body part is the abdomen of the patient rich in adipose tissue. In various embodiments, the light beam has one or more wavelength in the range of 400 to 1300 nm. In various embodiments, the light beam is a low intensity light beam of generated by a power of 1-12 mW.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Marvin A. Prescott
  • Patent number: 8623063
    Abstract: Provided is a medical treatment apparatus using laser beams, which is used for treating arthritis, myositis, chronic pains and so on. A medical treatment apparatus using laser beams includes: a body; a main laser unit irradiating a main laser beam in a direction perpendicular to an area to be treated; a plurality of auxiliary laser units irradiating auxiliary laser beams to form a focus on a central axis of the main laser beam; and an angle adjustment unit adjusting a focal distance by rotating the auxiliary laser units. The medical treatment apparatus using laser beams is capable of easily varying the angle and distance of the focus of irradiated laser beams. In addition, a treatment effect can be enhanced by the laser beams having different intensities, and the absorption rates of the laser beams can be controlled based on the color of light which is separately irradiated onto the skin of an affected area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Soung Don Chung
  • Patent number: 8617147
    Abstract: A method for providing vision correction to a patient. The method includes: (a) measuring the degree of vision correction needed by the patient and determining the location and shape of refractive structures that need to be positioned within the cornea to partially correct a patient's vision; (b) directing and focusing femtosecond laser pulses in the blue spectral region within the cornea at an intensity high enough to change the refractive index of the cornea within a focal region, but not high enough to damage the cornea or to affect cornea tissue outside of the focal region; and (c) scanning the laser pulses across a volume of the cornea or the lens to provide the focal region with refractive structures in the cornea or the lens. Again, the refractive structures are characterized by a change in refractive index, and exhibit little or no scattering loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: University of Rochester
    Inventors: Wayne H. Knox, Krystel R. Huxlin
  • Patent number: 8608786
    Abstract: An apparatus for delivering multiple forms of electromagnetic radiation and methods for its use are disclosed. An example embodiment may comprise a radiation unit having one or more light emitting diodes that emit electromagnetic radiation in continuous wave form and one or more laser diodes that emit electromagnetic radiation in continuous wave form. The radiation unit may be connected to a frequency generator that provides a waveform. The waveform may convert the continuous wave output of the laser diodes to pulse wave output, while leaving the continuous wave output of the light emitting diodes unaffected. The frequency generator may cause the emission of an additional electromagnetic field proximate the radiation unit. Associated apparatuses and methods for their use are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Dror Irge
  • Publication number: 20130331640
    Abstract: An optical therapeutic apparatus includes an ear shield for covering a wearer's ear, which has a plurality of acupuncture points; a hanging member including a connection portion connected to the ear shield; and a plurality of light emitters disposed within an interior portion of the ear shield in array manner to face the plurality of acupuncture points respectively. The plurality of light emitters includes a plurality of acupoint-stimulation elements, each corresponding to a respective one of the acupuncture points, at least two sets of the acupoint-stimulation elements are capable of emitting stimulation light beams at different time intervals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: Craig Nabat, Chung-Yang Mike Chen
  • Publication number: 20130324985
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel medical device for performing laser sweat ablation (LSA) therapy or skin tightening therapy comprising a skin contact member comprising a skin presenting platform of a smooth nature against which skin can smoothly travel and a laser discharge port, which port has a discharge angle between 20° and 60° with respect to the skin contact surface of said platform whereby, in use, laser energy discharging from said port does so at said constant discharge angle whatever the curvature of the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Steven Whiteley
  • Patent number: 8597338
    Abstract: An intracerebral probe (11) comprising a first part (20) with laser or cryogenic treatment means and further comprising a hollow second part (22) surrounding the first, the first part sliding inside the second part along its longitudinal axis (A); and a plurality of detectors (16) distributed along a portion of the second part (22) in such a manner as to be capable of identifying a brain dysfunction zone along the longitudinal axis (A) of the second part. Advantageously, the probe presents a lateral treatment window enabling the action of the treatment means to be directed. The invention also provides a kit and a treatment system including such a probe, and the use thereof of treating cell dysfunctions that give rise to neurological or psychiatric symptoms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris
    Inventor: Alexandre Carpentier
  • Publication number: 20130317573
    Abstract: A neuromodulation lead, comprising an elongated body, at least one electrode carried by the distal end of the elongated body, and at least one optical element carried by the distal end of the elongated body. The electrode(s) is configured for conveying electrical energy capable of modulating a neuronal element, and the optical element(s) is configured for conveying low-level laser energy capable of modulating a neuronal element. A method of treating a patient with an ailment comprises conveying electrical energy to a first neuronal element, thereby modulating the first neuronal element, and conveying low-level laser energy having a wavelength in the range of 600 nm-2500 nm to the first neuronal element, thereby modulating the first neuronal element. At least one of the conveyance of the electrical energy and the conveyance of the low-level laser energy treats the ailment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC NEUROMODULATION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Changfang Zhu, Dongchul Lee, Kerry Bradley