16th week of 2016 patent applcation highlights part 4 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160106320 | BIOLOGICAL STATE ELIMINATING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A biological state estimating apparatus includes a pair of electrocardiographic electrodes, a photoplethysmographic sensor, and a controller that includes a peak detecting section, a pulse transmission time measuring section, a correlation information storing section, and a biological state estimating section. The electrocardiographic electrodes detect an electrocardiogram signal and the photoplethysmographic sensor, which has light-emitting and light-receiving elements, detects a photoplethysmogram signal. The controller detects peaks of the electrocardiogram and photoplethysmogram signals and determines a pulse transmission time from the time difference between the respective peaks of the photoplethysmogram and the electrocardiogram signal. Memory stores information determined in advance based on the relationship between pulse transmission time and biological state. The controller further estimates the biological state of the user on the basis of the pulse transmission time, and the correlation information stored in the correlation information storing section. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106321 | Method and System for Machine Learning Based Assessment of Fractional Flow Reserve - A method and system for determining fractional flow reserve (FFR) for a coronary artery stenosis of a patient is disclosed. In one embodiment, medical image data of the patient including the stenosis is received, a set of features for the stenosis is extracted from the medical image data of the patient, and an FFR value for the stenosis is determined based on the extracted set of features using a trained machine-learning based mapping. In another embodiment, a medical image of the patient including the stenosis of interest is received, image patches corresponding to the stenosis of interest and a coronary tree of the patient are detected, an FFR value for the stenosis of interest is determined using a trained deep neural network regressor applied directly to the detected image patches. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106322 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING STROKE VOLUME OF A PATIENT - A PPG system for determining a stroke volume of a patient includes a PPG sensor configured to be secured to an anatomical portion of the patient. The PPG sensor is configured to sense a physiological characteristic of the patient. The PPG system may include a monitor operatively connected to the PPG sensor. The monitor receives a PPG signal from the PPG sensor. The monitor includes a pulse trending module determining a slope transit time of an upslope of a primary peak of the PPG signal. The pulse trending module determines a stroke volume of the patient as a function of the slope transit time. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106323 | CARDIAC FUNCTION EVALUATION SYSTEM - A device adapted for determining cardiac viability, wherein said device includes: a cannula having a hollow body and at least a distal end adapted for insertion into a heart and operator end for adapted for an operator to position the catheter in the ventricular apex and adapted for connection to a plumbing system; an inflatable balloon positioned near to the distal end in fluid communication with the hollow body to allow for selected inflation of the balloon, a controller adapted to calculate the viability of the heart from pressure data detected within cannula or balloon which is inflated to various degrees with an incompressible fluid. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106324 | AURAL HEART MONITORING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A heart monitoring method is disclosed including an electroacoustic transducer such as an earphone coupled to a controller. The method proceeds with positioning a transducer in a person's ear in acoustic communication with the tympanum. Signals from the transducer are processed to determine the presence of pulsatile blood flow. The heart monitor may be incorporated into a portable media playback device alternating between playback and monitoring mode or performing both simultaneously using one earphone for each function. The heart monitor may be incorporated into a defibrillator to sense the presence of blood flow for use in a shock delivery decision. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106325 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING BIOMETRIC INFORMATION - Provided is an apparatus and method for detecting biometric information. The apparatus may include a biometric signal measurer comprising a light-receiving element and a plurality of light-emitting elements; and a processor including a tracking unit configured to sequentially drive the plurality of light-emitting elements, receive a signal detected by the light-receiving element, and determine a tracking line that connects at least two positions of a radial artery of the object from the received signal; and an analyzing unit configured to detect a pulse wave signal at the at least two points on the tracking line and analyze biometric information from the detected pulse wave signal. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106326 | Pressure Wave Measurement of Blood Flow - Methods and devices for measuring blood flow velocity are provided. The device may include a wave source and at least two detectors positioned along a blood vessel. The wave source, which may include an ultrasound transducer or a mechanical source, is configured to induce a pressure wave in blood flowing in a blood vessel. In one example, the detectors are both positioned downstream of the wave source, with respect to the direction of blood flow. In another example, one detector is positioned upstream of the wave source, and a second detector is positioned downstream of the wave source. The difference in time it takes for the induced pressure wave to reach the first and the second detectors is indicative of the velocity of blood flow in the vessel. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106327 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ACQUIRING BIO-INFORMATION - An apparatus for acquiring bio-information includes a light source configured to radiate a laser beam to a region of interest including a blood vessel; a sensor configured to sense, from the region of interest, a change of a laser speckle generated by the radiated laser beam; and a controller configured to obtain a bio-signal indicating a change in a blood flow in the blood vessel based on the sensed change of the laser speckle. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106328 | DETERMINING ARTERIAL PULSE TRANSIT TIME FROM TIME-SERIES SIGNALS OBTAINED AT PROXIMAL AND DISTAL ARTERIAL SITES - What is disclosed is a system and method for determining arterial pulse transit time (PTT) for a subject. In one embodiment, time-series signals are received for each of a proximal and distal arterial site of a subject's body which represent blood volume changes in the microvascular tissue at each site. A proximal and distal analytic signal is obtained which has a first component being a waveform of the respective time-series signal and a second component being a transform of the respective waveform. A phase function is determined for the first and second components of each analytic signal. The phase function obtained for the proximal waveform is then subtracted from the phase function obtained for the distal waveform to get a phase difference. The phase difference is analyzed with the subject's heart rate to determine an arterial pulse wave transit time between the two proximal and distal sites. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106329 | UTILIZING DIFFERENT COLOR CHANNELS FOR RGB-IMAGE-BASED DIFFERENTIAL HEART RATE DETECTION - Aspects described herein include a computer-implemented method for detecting heart rate signals. The method includes a step of capturing a first image and a second image of a region of interest. The second image is aligned with the first image in a first spectrum that is insensitive to a characteristic to obtain a correction. Then, a correction based upon the above-mentioned alignment is applied to the second image in a second spectrum that is sensitive to the characteristic. Additional aspects described an image capturing device and a computer-implemented method for updating a user-interactive activity. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106330 | CARDIAC MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD - A method of predicting cardiac disease includes the steps of: attaching a monitoring device to a patient; obtaining cardiac information from the patient using the monitoring device; transmitting the obtained cardiac information from the monitoring device to a data-computing device; analyzing the transmitted cardiac information using the data-computing device and a predictive model; building an indication report from the analyzed cardiac information; and outputting the indication report. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106331 | FRACTAL INDEX ANALYSIS OF HUMAN ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM SIGNALS - A system and method for Multifractal-Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (MF-DFA) on digitized Human EEG signals is presented. A list of Hurst exponents, or Hurst exponent spectrum (“h” values) are generated, and multifractal singularity spectrum indices (“D(h)” values) produce a graph that approximates an inverted parabola. The output multifractal DFA spectrum is able to represent key features of the internal neuronal dynamics for the cortical neurons underlying the scalp-placed electrode which records the signals. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106332 | ECG WAVEFORM DETECTING APPARATUS AND IMAGING APPARATUS - According to one embodiment, an ECG waveform detecting apparatus includes an input circuit and processing circuitry. The input circuit receives an ECG signal. The processing circuitry performs first detection of a specific waveform included in the ECG signal, performs update processing of a detection parameter for detecting the specific waveform based on a part of the specific waveform or result of the first detection, performs second detection of the specific waveform from the ECG signal by using the detection parameter after the update processing, and generates a synchronization signal based on information on the second detection. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106333 | DETACHABLE BIOSIGNAL COMPLEX SENSOR AND METHOD OF DETECTING BIOSIGNAL INFORMATION USING THE SAME - A detachable biosignal complex sensor includes a clip type structure including: a circuit module configured to receive a biosignal of a subject and perform signal processing on the biosignal, a first plate, and a second plate having an end thereof which is rotatably connected to an end of the first plate so that the clip type structure is configured to be fastened to an item; and a sensor and electrodes provided on outer surfaces of the first plate and the second plate and configured to obtain the biosignal and transmit the obtained biosignal to the circuit module. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106334 | BREAST CANCER IMAGING DEVICE THROUGH MICROWAVE SURFACE IMPEDANCE - A breast cancer imaging device with microwave surface impedance is a device which is used for imaging tumors in breast tissue using harmless electromagnetic waves in microwave band. It performs this function by using harmless electromagnetic waves without using X-ray. Thus, it can be performed in desired frequency, as many times as desired. Since compressing the breasts is no longer required, it is not a painful imaging process for the patient; moreover, it does not fail to detect the tumors that are close to the rib cage. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106335 | WIDEBAND BIO-IMAGING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - An imaging and recordation system is provided. The system includes a high-power, focusing antenna for illuminating biological tissue. The system further includes a power source for powering the antenna. The system further includes a data acquisition module, for recording the dielectric properties of tissues illuminated by the high-power, focusing antenna. The system illuminates the tissues using ultrashort electrical pulses. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106336 | Methods and Systems for Generating Integrated Substrate Maps for Cardiac Arrhythmias - An electrophysiology map, for example a map of arrhythmic substrate, can be generated by acquiring both geometry information and electrophysiology information pertaining to an anatomical region, and associating the acquired geometry and electrophysiology information as a plurality of electrophysiology data points. A user can select two (or more) electrophysiological characteristics for display, and can further elect to apply various filters to the selected electrophysiological characteristics. The user can also define various relationships (e.g., Boolean ANDs, ORs, and the like) between the selected and/or filtered characteristics. The user-selected filtering criteria can be applied to the electrophysiology data points to output various subsets thereof. These subsets can then be graphically rendered using various combinations of colorscale, monochrome scale, and iconography, for example as a three-dimensional cardiac electrophysiology model. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106337 | APPARATUS FOR MEASURING BODY FAT AND METHOD THEREOF - Provided is a method of measuring body fat of a user, the method including: measuring a first impedance by using a 4-point measuring method; measuring a second impedance by using a 2-point measuring method; determining a bio impedance by using the first impedance and the second impedance; and determining a body fat percentage by using the bio impedance and body information of the user. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106338 | INTRAOPERATIVE IMAGE REGISTRATION BY MEANS OF REFERENCE MARKERS - A method for incorporating tomographically obtained image data from a patient into a system for surgical planning and/or intraoperative navigation involves tomographic image data or image data obtained by X-ray recordings from at least one defined body area of the patient by at least one first recording appliance, wherein a first reference body having at least one surface is arranged on the patient and is recorded by the first recording appliance at the same time. The recorded image data representing the first reference body are compared with known geometric data from the first reference body in order to obtain distortion information. The recorded image data are equalized by a computation unit based on the distortion information to obtain equalized image data which have further image data from the same body area superimposed to obtain superimposed image data that is presented on a display. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106339 | SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DATA COLLECTION AND ASSESSING OUTCOMES - A computer-implemented method is disclosed. The computer-implemented method comprises receiving, by a computer system, ingestible event marker (IEM) system information from a receiver worn by a subject, the IEM system information comprising information associated with ingestion of medication by the subject, wherein the receiver is configured to communicate with the computer system; receiving, by the computer system, contextual information associated with the subject; and calculating, by the computer system, a composite risk score based on the IEM system information and the contextual information associated with the subject. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106340 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING RESPIRATION RATE FROM A VIDEO - What is disclosed is a system and method for determining respiration rate from a video of a subject. In one embodiment, a video is received comprising plurality of time-sequential image frames of a region of a subject's body. Features of pixels are extracted from that region from each image frame and vectors formed from these features. Each image frame has an associated feature vector. A N×M video matrix of the vectors of length N is constructed such that a total number of columns M in the video matrix correspond to a time duration over which the subject's respiration rate is to be determined. The video matrix is processed to obtain a matrix of eigenvectors where principal axes of variations due to motion associated with respiration are contained in a first few eigenvectors. One eigenvector is selected from the first few eigenvectors. A respiration rate is obtained from the selected eigenvector. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106341 | DETERMINING RESPIRATORY PARAMETERS - A pulmonary measurement system includes a pulmonary measurement device that includes a mouthpiece with an airflow path and a sensor positioned in the airflow path; and a controller communicably coupled to the sensor. The controller includes a processor and instructions stored in memory and is operable to execute the instructions with the processor to perform operations including identifying a measurement from the sensor; identifying a particular equation stored in the memory, the particular equation developed using data analytics and including an input parameter that is based on the identified measurement; and based on the identified measurement and the particular equation, determining a value of absolute lung volume. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106342 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING LUNG FUNCTION - A measurement assembly of a personal health monitoring system for measuring the lung capacity of a person. In an embodiment, the measurement assembly includes a sensor assembly includes a sensor that is configured to sense the force of a fluid exhaled by the person onto the sensor and output a force measurement. In addition, the measurement assembly includes a control assembly coupled to the force sensing assembly, the control assembly configured to receive the force measurement from the sensor. Further, the measurement assembly includes a housing configured to support each of the sensor assembly and the control assembly. The sensor is disposed on an external surface of the housing. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106343 | BREATH ANALYSIS SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SCREENING INFECTIOUS DISEASES - Breath analysis systems and methods test for infectious diseases in exhaled breath gas or condensate. An automatic breath sampling system can obtain reliable samples over a variety of clinical situations. In some variations, the system is modular system and can protect the equipment and clinician from contamination. In some variations, the system can be a point-of-care rapid-result instrument. In some variations, can be configured for off-line analysis in which case the collected sample is presented to a stand-alone analyzer for measurement. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106344 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETECTING MOVEMENT DISORDER - A platform for diagnosing movement disorder is disclosed. The platform comprises at least one inertia-sensing unit that comprises at least one accelerometer, wherein the inertia-sensing unit measures a user's movement; a power unit that provides power at least to the inertia-sensing unit; a processing unit that performs signal processing on the user's movement and quantifies the movement into a data; a diagnosing unit that analyzes the data to diagnose whether a movement disorder occurs by comparing the data to a database, where the database includes at least information about the user's movement characteristic; and a communication unit that establishes a communication with a computer, a mobile device or a computer server. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106345 | PERSON SUPPORT APPARATUSES WITH MOTION MONITORING - A person support apparatus, such as a bed, cot, stretcher, or the like, includes an exit detection system that utilizes an occupant motion parameter to determine whether to issue an alert or not. The motion parameter may be based on the weight and motion of the occupant. Successive positions of the occupant are determined in order to calculate a velocity of the occupant. In some embodiments, the kinetic energy of the occupant is used to determine if an alert should be issued. Objects positioned on the person support apparatus may also be detected and tracked. Auto-zeroing of a built-in scale, as well as automatic recognition of the removal, movement, and/or addition of objects is also provided. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106346 | DETECTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF HEAD IMPACTS - Systems and methods are provided for determining an acceleration at a location of interest within one of a user's head and neck. At least one of linear acceleration data, angular acceleration data, angular velocity data, and orientation data is produced using at least one sensing device substantially rigidly attached to an ambient-accessible surface of the user's head. The location of interest is represented relative to a position of the at least one sensing device as a time-varying function. An acceleration at the location of interest is calculated as a function of the data produced at the sensing device and the time-varying function representing the location of interest. The calculated acceleration at the location of interest is provided to at least one of the user and an observer in a human-perceptible form. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106347 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING BOWEL HEALTH - In accordance with one aspect of the present technique, a method includes receiving a plurality of images of an abdominal region from an image capture device. The method further includes identifying a bowel tissue and a peristaltic portion of the bowel tissue from the plurality of images. The method further includes determining a peristalsis property of the bowel tissue based on the peristaltic portion. The peristalsis property includes at least one of a percentage of the peristaltic portion within the bowel tissue and an amount of peristalsis in the peristaltic portion. The method also includes assessing a health the bowel tissue based on the peristalsis property of the peristaltic portion. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106348 | PERSONAL HYGIENE ITEM - The present invention provides a personal hygiene item. In simple terms, one of the main features of the present invention is to provide a low-cost personal hygiene item capable of providing a multi-component detection function. The personal hygiene item of the present invention mainly comprises a first material layer and a second material layer. The first material layer is made of hydrophobic material, and the second material layer is disposed thereon. Also, the second material layer comprises a discolored portion. In actual practice, a fluid under test contacts with the corresponding discolored portions via the hydrophobic layer of second material layer for a color changing reaction. Meanwhile, since the hydrophilic performance of the discolored portion is better than the hydrophilic performance of the hydrophilic layer, the back permeation of the fluid under test can herein be prevented. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106349 | TRANSCUTANEOUS ANALYTE SENSORS, APPLICATORS THEREFOR, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - The present embodiments relate generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present embodiments provide sensor applicators and methods of use with pushbutton activation that implant the sensor, withdraw the insertion needle, engage the transmitter with the housing, and disengage the applicator from the housing, all in one smooth motion. Some embodiments contemplate engagement of the transmitter with the housing after release of the applicator. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106350 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MODE SWITCHING - Systems and methods described provide dynamic and intelligent ways to change the required level of user interaction during use of a monitoring device. The systems and methods generally relate to real time switching between a first or initial mode of user interaction and a second or new mode of user interaction. In some cases, the switching will be automatic and transparent to the user, and in other cases user notification may occur. The mode switching generally affects the user's interaction with the device, and not just internal processing. The mode switching may relate to calibration modes, data transmission modes, control modes, or the like. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106351 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNAL - A physiological signal processing apparatus and a method for the same. The physiological signal processing apparatus includes a first light-emitting element, a second light-emitting element, a light control module, an image sensing module and an analyzing module. The light control module is capable of controlling the first light-emitting element to emit a first light beam and the second light-emitting element to emit a second light beam on a light guide panel for a finger to touch. The image sensing module is capable of sensing the first light beam and the second light beam reflected by the light guide panel and acquiring an image signal of the finger. The analyzing module is capable of analyzing the image signal extracted by the first light beam to acquire a first physiological signal and analyzing the image signal extracted by the second light beam to acquire a second physiological signal. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106352 | FLEXIBLE OPTICAL SOURCE FOR PULSE OXIMETRY - An optical source for guiding light to a target of a patient includes at least one light source configured to emit red light and infrared light. The at least one light source is embedded within a light-conducting sheet. A photodistributor is spaced from the at least one light source. The photodistributor includes a light-emitting surface and at least one light-receiving surface optically coupled to the light-conducting sheet. The photodistributor is configured to discharge at least a portion of the emitted red light and at least a portion of the emitted infrared light into a target. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106353 | Device for Cross Flow Filtration - A whole blood filtration device is provided with a filter membrane separating a feeding volume and a clean side of the filter membrane from each other. The feeding volume communicates with a first feeding side opening and with a second feeding side opening. The filter membrane has pores with a pore size that ensures permeability of the filter membrane to blood plasma/serum and that retains blood cells. The first feeding side opening can be coupled to a first blood pump for feeding blood from the first feeding side opening into the feeding volume so that blood plasma/serum permeates the filter membrane and blood cells, retained by the filter membrane, exit from the feeding volume through the second feeding side opening. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106354 | DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTING DEVICE AND DIAGNOSIS SUPPORTING METHOD - A diagnosis supporting device includes a display, an imaging unit configured to capture a subject, an eye gaze detector configured to detect an eye gaze direction of the subject from a captured image captured by the imaging unit, a gaze point detector configured to detect a gaze point of the subject in a display region of the display, based on the eye gaze direction, an output controller configured to display, on the display, a diagnosis image that includes a person image and a geometric pattern image, and in which at least one of contrast, color density, and a degree of transmittance of the person image or the geometric pattern image is changed over time, and an evaluator configured to calculate an evaluation value of the subject, based on the gaze point detected by the gaze point detector when the diagnosis image is displayed. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106355 | System and Method for Monitoring a Subject's Eye - A system and a method for monitoring subject's eyes are disclosed. In one embodiment, spectral profiles of a frame substantially around a subject's eye are received from an image capturing device. Further, a state of the subject's eye in the frame is detected using the spectral profiles received from the image capturing device. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106356 | MUSCLE CONDITION CHANGE DETERMINATION APPARATUS, MUSCLE CONDITION CHANGE DETERMINATION METHOD, AND RECORDING MEDIUM - A muscle condition change determination apparatus includes a circuit. The circuit configures: a change information acquisition unit; and a type determination unit. The change information acquisition unit acquires change information indicating changes in a plurality of muscle indicators. The type determination unit determines the type of change in a muscle condition according to the change information. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106357 | CEREBROVASCULAR ANALYZER - The present invention relates to a cerebrovascular analysis system which enables early diagnosis of various incurable cerebrovascular diseases such as cerebral thrombosis by measuring an elastic coefficient, blood vessel compliance, blood flow resistance, and blood flow in each cerebrovascular branch. The measurement is achieved by biomechanically analyzing blood vessels in the brain using an electrocardiogram, phonocardiogram, electroencephalogram, pulse wave, and ultrasonic doppler signal as basic data in order to measure biomechanical properties and blood flow properties of blood vessels in the brain for the diagnosis of cerebrovascular diseases. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106358 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING NEUROLOGICAL DISEASE - A system and method of detecting eye movements of a subject for the diagnosis of neurological disorders. The method includes tracking eye movements of the subject, identifying microsaccades from the tracked eye movements, and characterizing microsaccade dynamics of the identified microsaccades to determine one or more parameters, such as microsaccade direction, microsaccade velocity, microsaccade magnitude, microsaccadic peak velocity-magnitude relationship, microsaccade duration, and infersaccatic intervals. The method also includes comparing the one or more determined parameters with a corresponding control parameter, assessing the comparison to determine differences between the one or more determined parameters and the corresponding control parameters, and generating a report including the diagnosis of neurological disorder based on the assessment. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106359 | SPHINCTER TEST CATHETER - The sphincter test catheter includes a catheter body, the proximal end of which forms a probe. Corresponding electric lines which are led to a recording unit run through the catheter body. The sphincter test catheter has at least one pressure sensor and a position sensor in combination with either a pH value sensor or an impedance sensor. The combination depends on which sphincter is to be monitored. The position sensor is combined with a pH value sensor in order to monitor the lower esophageal sphincter while the position sensor is combined with an impedance sensor when monitoring the urethral sphincter. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106360 | EXERCISE FEEDBACK PROVISION APPARATUS AND METHOD - An exercise feedback provision apparatus includes an acquirer configured to acquire exercise intensity information including either one or both of user biometric information and user movement information, and a controller configured to verify whether the exercise intensity information is in a predetermined range, and generate a control signal based on a result of the verifying. The apparatus further includes a feedback provider configured to output a tactile feedback based on a pattern corresponding to the control signal. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106361 | SLEEP SURFACE INSERT SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF - A sleep surface insert system and method for positioning under, for example, an infant on a sleep surface. The sleep surface insert system includes an insert and a blower system. The insert includes a top liner and a bottom liner. The top liner and bottom liner define first and a second hollow spaces therebetween. Further, the top liner includes first and second pores such that the first pores extend through the top liner from the first hollow space and the second pores extend through the top liner from the second hollow space. In addition, the blower system is configured to provide air flow into the first and second hollow spaces defined in the insert such that the air flow is configured to flow into the insert and out of at least one of the first pores and the second pores. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106362 | Real-Time Evaluation of CPR Performance - A computer-implemented method for providing summary information for lifesaving activities is disclosed. The method involves sensing one or more activities that are repeatedly and cyclically performed on a victim by a rescuer; identifying a cyclical timing interval over which performance is to be analyzed for a integer number of cycles of the one or more activities, and gathering data from the sensing of the one or more activities during the time interval; generating, from analysis of the one or more activities, summary data that condenses data sensed for the one or more activities into a summary of the one or more activities; and providing, for display to a user, a visual summary of the performance of the one or more activities over the identified time interval. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106363 | Algorithms for Diabetes Exercise Therapy - Safe and effective exercise poses a specific set of challenges for subjects diagnosed with diabetes. These challenges include the coordination of exercise with blood glucose monitoring and insulin administration. Failure to coordinate these factors effectively can lead to various pathologies related to aberrant blood glucose levels. Presented herein are methods, systems, algorithms, computer program products, and computer-executable code for exercise guidance and instruction specific to diabetes relief and management. The approaches as disclosed herein can help ameliorate, slow, or reduce a likelihood of developing a diabetic condition. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106364 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTIVE GUIDANCE OF EATING BEHAVIOR AFTER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY - Apparatuses and methods for corrective guidance of eating behavior of a patient equipped with a gastric restriction device. The apparatus provides continuous monitoring or one or more parameters related to food passing through the gastric restriction device. Each monitored parameter is processed to provide a visual indication of the current eating behavior. The visual indication is used as input to the patient or a caregiver to modify the eating behavior. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an emergency relief mechanism that automatically relieves excess pressure developing in the gastric restriction device. In some embodiments, the apparatus is enabled to deliver an appetite suppressant to modify the eating behavior. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106365 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EXTRACTING ANAEROBIC THRESHOLD - A method and apparatus for extracting an anaerobic threshold are provided. The apparatus may acquire an electromyogram (EMG) signal, and may extract an anaerobic threshold based on a change in the EMG signal. The apparatus may extract a heart rate corresponding to the anaerobic threshold as an anaerobic threshold heart rate. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106366 | NECK-WORN PHYSIOLOGICAL MONITOR - The invention provides a neck-worn sensor that is a single, body-worn system that measures the following parameters from an ambulatory patient: heart rate, pulse rate, pulse oximetry, respiratory rate, temperature, thoracic fluid levels, stroke volume, cardiac output, and a parameter sensitive to blood pressure called pulse transit time. From stroke volume, a first algorithm employing a linear model can estimate the patient's pulse pressure. And from pulse pressure and pulse transit time, a second algorithm, also employing a linear algorithm, can estimate systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Thus, the sensor can measure all five vital signs along with hemodynamic parameters. It also includes a motion-detecting accelerometer, from which it can determine motion-related parameters such as posture, degree of motion, activity level, respiratory-induced heaving of the chest, and falls. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106367 | WEARABLE HEALTH SENSOR - A monitoring device ( | 2016-04-21 |
20160106368 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING MOVEMENT DETECTION BASED ON AIR PRESSURE DATA - An approach is provided for determining movement information for at least one user device based, at least in part, on air pressure sensor data. The approach involves determining reference air pressure data associated with a reference set of devices. The approach also involves processing and/or facilitating a processing of the reference air pressure data to cause, at least in part, a classification of the reference air pressure data into one or more candidate movement status categories. The approach further involves determining air pressure sensor data associated with at least one user device. The approach also involves determining at least one movement status category for the at least one user device from among the one or more candidate movement status categories based, at least in part, on the classification. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106369 | A SYSTEM FOR VISUALIZING BODY AREAS - The invention is a system comprising an adaptor ( | 2016-04-21 |
20160106370 | PERSONAL CLOUD WITH A PLURALITY OF MODULAR CAPABILITIES - A personal cloud structure for a portable computing device such as a tablet personal computer (PC), mobile phones, portable media players, or the like. The personal cloud structure may be fitted with memory, a network connection, two-way wireless charging, external memory slots, external connections and other components to create a portable personal cloud. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106371 | COOPERATIVE SENSING METHOD AND TERMINAL FOR PERFORMING COOPERATIVE SENSING - A cooperative sensing method of a terminal, the method including transmitting a request to a cooperative terminal connected with the terminal, to verify a sensing performance capability of the cooperative terminal, receiving, from the cooperative terminal, first capability information generated in response to the request, and selecting, by the terminal, a sensing terminal based on the first capability information and second capability information generated by verifying a sensing performance capability of the terminal. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106372 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING AUTOREGULATION - A method for monitoring autoregulation includes, using a processor, receiving a blood pressure signal and an oxygen saturation signal from a patient. The method also includes determining a linear correlation between the blood pressure signal and the oxygen saturation signal and determining a significance value associated with the linear correlation. The method further includes providing a signal indicative of the patient's autoregulation status to an output device based on the linear correlation and the significance value. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106373 | INTRAVASCULAR SENSING METHOD AND SYSTEM - Methods and systems for calculating a corrected Fractional Flow Reserve. Methods include delivering a pressure sensing device including a pressure sensor to a location in an artery having a stenosis, positioning the pressure sensor distal to the stenosis, measuring the distal pressure, measuring the proximal pressure, and calculating a corrected Fractional Flow Reserve using the measured proximal and distal pressures and applying a correction factor or correction equation. The correction factor or correction equation corrects for changes in the measured distal pressure caused by a presence of the pressure sensing device. A data set of correction factors or correction equations may be stored in a memory component of the system. The corrected Fractional Flow reserve may approximate the Fractional Flow Reserve that would be obtained if a different sized device was used to measure the distal pressure, such as a pressure sensing guidewire having a 0.014 inch outer diameter. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106374 | Photoacoustic Wave Signal Converter and Probe Incorporating Photoacoustic Wave Signal Converter - A photoacoustic wave signal converter includes a receiving portion that receives a photoacoustic wave signal generated from a detection object in a specimen that has absorbed light, detected by an ultrasonic probe and a signal conversion portion that generates a conversion signal corresponding to an ultrasonic signal generated when the ultrasonic probe receives an ultrasonic wave on the basis of the photoacoustic wave signal received by the receiving portion and outputs the conversion signal that is generated to an ultrasonic imager. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106375 | Means for Rendering Key Respiratory Measurements Accessible to Mobile Digital Devices - An acoustic means for rendering key respiratory measurements accessible to hand-held mobile digital devices with audio input capabilities (such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants, mobile gaming platforms, and tablets). One or more embodiments comprise: a compact and portable whistle ( | 2016-04-21 |
20160106376 | Methods and Systems for Mapping Local Conduction Velocity - The local conduction velocity of a cardiac activation wavefront can be computed by collecting a plurality of electrophysiology (“EP”) data points using a multi-electrode catheter, with each EP data point including both position data and local activation time (“LAT”) data. For any EP data point, a neighborhood of EP data points, including the selected EP data point and at least two additional EP data points, can be defined. Planes of position and LATs can then be defined using the positions and LATs, respectively, of the EP data points within the neighborhood. A conduction velocity can be computed from an intersection of the planes of positions and LATs. The resultant plurality of conduction velocities can be output as a graphical representation (e.g., an electrophysiology map), for example by displaying vector icons arranged in a uniform grid over a three-dimensional cardiac model. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106377 | Photoacoustic Imager and Photoacoustic Imaging Method - A photoacoustic imager includes a light source portion, a detection portion, and an imaging portion, and the imaging portion is configured to generate a photoacoustic wave image indicating a detection object in motion by acquiring difference data of signals acquired on the basis of a plurality of photoacoustic wave signals detected at different times of generated photoacoustic wave signals. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106378 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING AN ARRHYTHMIC CARDIAC EVENT FROM A CARDIAC SIGNAL - What is disclosed is a system and method for detecting an arrhythmic or non-arrhythmic event from a cardiac signal obtained from a subject. In one embodiment, a plurality of different cardiac signals are received and are transformed into frequency domain signals which, in turn, are changed such that a dominant frequency in each of the signals is substantially aligned to form a matrix of feature vectors. The feature matrix is used to train a classifier. A cardiac signal from the subject is received and transformed to a frequency domain signal. The frequency domain signal is changed such that a dominant is substantially aligned with a dominant frequency of signals used to train the classifier. The subject's frequency domain signal is provided as a new feature vector to the classifier. The classifier uses the new feature vector to classify the subject as having an arrhythmic or a non-arrhythmic event. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106379 | SP02 TONE MODULATION WITH AUDIBLE LOWER CLAMP VALUE - A patient monitor device includes one or more sensors which measure physiological parameters of a patient, a controller which controls an audio source to generate an audible tone and adjust the pitch of the audible tone to indicate the measured physiological parameter according to a mapping scheme, the audio source which generates the audio tone, and an audio output device which outputs the audible tone. The mapping scheme clamping a frequency of the audible tone after reaching a predetermined threshold. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106380 | APPARATUS FOR USE IN THE PERFORMANCE OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPY AND METHOD OF PERFORMANCE - An apparatus for use in the conduct of cognitive behaviour therapy comprises a surround vision system, sets of recorded scenes each set relating to the same theme, each set representing a different level of difficulty to the individual receiving therapy in dealing with the theme; a controller for controlling the displaying images of a set on the screens of the surround vision system; and a command device. The command device is adapted to communicate with the controller and is used by a person overseeing the delivery of therapy to the individual or by the individual receiving therapy for controlling the display of scenes on the surround vision apparatus. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106381 | ULTRASOUND PROBE WITH TACTILE INDICATOR - A method and apparatus actuate a tactile indicator on a hand-contacted surface of the handheld ultrasound probe based upon a parameter of the handheld ultrasound probe. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106382 | SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS FOR STATIONARY DIGITAL CHEST TOMOSYNTHESIS (S-DCT) IMAGING - Systems and related methods for stationary digital chest tomosynthesis (s-DCT) imaging are disclosed. In some aspects, systems include a stationary x-ray source array with an array of x-ray pixels configured to generate x-ray beams at different viewing angles relative to a subject to be imaged that is stationary, a stationary area x-ray detector configured to record x-ray projection images of the subject, a physiological gating apparatus for monitoring at least one physiological signal of the subject and defining a physiological phase and a time window based on the at least one physiological signal, and a computing platform configured to activate the x-ray pixels based on the physiological phase and the time window and upon receipt of the at least one physiological signal from the physiological gating apparatus in order to synchronize x-ray exposure with the at least one physiological signal of the subject. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106383 | TOMOSYNTHESIS WITH SHIFTING FOCAL SPOT AND OSCILLATIG COLLIMATOR BLADES - In a tomosynthesis system a static focal spot is moved in a direction opposite to and generally synchronized with the directional movement of an x-ray source and X-ray collimator blades are moved during each exposure in synchronization with the shifting of the static focal spot. The synchronized movement of the static focal spot, x-ray tube and collimator blades helps keep the effective focal spot fixed in space relative to the breast, detector or both during the entire duration of the exposure and keeps the x-ray field on the detector and breast static. The shifting collimator blades follow an oscillating pattern over the multiple x-ray exposures of a tomosynthesis scan. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106384 | X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS, METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME, AND X-RAY IMAGING SYSTEM - An x-ray imaging apparatus and a method of controlling the x-ray imaging apparatus are provided. The x-ray imaging apparatus includes x-ray detectors, and a user interface configured to display sizes of the x-ray detectors, and display a modality in which an x-ray detector, among the x-ray detectors, is usable, while a size of the x-ray detector is displayed. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106385 | X-RAY IMAGING APPARATUS, METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME, AND X-RAY IMAGING SYSTEM - An x-ray imaging apparatus and a method of controlling the x-ray imaging apparatus are provided. The x-ray imaging apparatus includes x-ray detectors configured to store detector identification data of the x-ray detectors, and a controller configured to receive the detector identification data from the x-ray detectors, and search for detector pairing data of usable x-ray detectors that match with the received detector identification data. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106386 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TASK-BASED DATA GENERATION AND WEIGHTING FOR CT SPECTRAL IMAGING - Various methods and systems for weighting material density images based on the material imaged are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for dual energy imaging of a material comprises generating an odd material density image, generating an even material density image, applying a first weight to the odd material density image and a second weight to the even material density image, and generating a material density image based on a combination of the weighted odd material density image and the weighted even material density image. In this way, the image quality may be improved without increasing a radiation dosage. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106387 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ENHANCED X-RAY COMPUTING ARRAYS - An x-ray imaging system utilizes enhanced computing arrays. A plurality of x-ray illumination source positions are utilized to produce x-ray radiation at each of the x-ray illumination source positions and to project x-ray radiation towards an object. A detector detects x-ray radiation from the object and transmits detector images for each of the illumination source positions. A memory buffer stores the detector images from the detector. A graphics processing unit formats the detector images and constructs a complete frame data set with the detector images for each of the illumination source positions. Another graphics processing unit receives the complete frame data set and performs image reconstruction on the complete frame data set. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106388 | BREAST CANCER DETECTION SYSTEM, BREAST CANCER DETECTION METHOD, BREAST CANCER DETECTION PROGRAM, AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM HAVING BREAST CANCER DETECTION PROGRAM RECORDED THEREON - A model calculating device calculates a mammary gland normal architecture model that scatters in a fan shape from the nipple toward the greater pectoral muscle with respect to the X-ray image of the breast. An orientation extracting device extracts linear components orientations of a region image texture that form a shape of a shadow in the breast X-ray image using a Gabor filter. A lesion determining device compares the mammary gland orientation in the normal architecture model calculated by the model calculating device and the orientation extracted by the orientation extracting device with respect to a region of interest in the X-ray image of the breast including architectural distortion candidates of the mammary gland detected by a preprocessing device to calculate a feature quantity based on a difference between the orientations and determines whether the candidates are an architectural distortion of the mammary gland based on the feature quantity. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106389 | X-RAY APPARATUS AND X-RAY IMAGING METHOD - An X-ray apparatus includes a controller controlling generation of an X-ray and adjusting at least one of a plurality of image frames generated based on the X-ray passed through an object, and an X-ray generator generating the X-ray. The X-ray corresponds to a pulse signal including a plurality of pulses, in which at least one of a pulse rate or a pulse amplitude is variable. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106390 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SECURING A PERIPHERAL ULTRASOUND DEVICE - Implementations described and claimed herein provide systems and methods for securing a device for acquiring cardiac data points from a patient. In one implementation, the device includes a patient interface and a probe. The patient interface includes an anchor having a patient side adapted for attaching to a surface of the patient and a probe side disposed opposite the patient side. The patient interface further includes a synchronizer having a plurality of synchronization features corresponding to a plurality of imaging locations on the patient. The synchronizer is mounted to the anchor and adapted to engage the probe. A window extends through the anchor and the synchronizer. The plurality of synchronization features are positioned around the window. Each of the synchronization features includes a unique set of keys identifying one of the plurality of imaging locations. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106391 | Three Dimensional (3D) Vector Flow Imaging with BiPlane Phased Array Transducer - An ultrasound imaging system ( | 2016-04-21 |
20160106392 | ULTRASONIC ARRAY FOR BONE SONOGRAPHY - This invention relates to methods and devices for use in ultrasound imaging. Ultrasonic methods, systems and low-frequency annular transducer array devices for bone image guidance, particularly during spinal fusion surgery and the process of pedicle screw insertion are provided. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106393 | ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS AND ULTRASOUND PROBE - An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a transformer, a first power source, a second power source, and a switching unit. The transformer includes a primary winding and a secondary winding, and drives an ultrasound transducer based on a voltage generated in the secondary winding. The first and second power sources cause a potential difference. The switching unit switches a connection path between the primary winding and at least one of the first and second power sources to a first connection path that connects the first power source to one end of the primary winding and the second power source to the other end, a second connection path that connects the first power source to the other end and the second power source to the one end, or a ground connection path that connects the first power source or the second power source to the ground through the primary winding. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106394 | METHOD OF PROVIDING INFORMATION USING PLURALITY OF DISPLAYS AND ULTRASOUND APPARATUS THEREFOR - Provided is an ultrasound apparatus including a first display configured to display an ultrasound image; a control panel including a second display that is different from the first display and configured to display a plurality of control items related to the ultrasound image; and a controller configured to select at least one control item from among the plurality of control items based on a location of an input tool located on the second display, and to control the first display to display the selected at least one control item and an indicator representing the location of the input tool together with the ultrasound image. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106395 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SUPER-RESOLUTION ULTRASOUND IMAGING - Systems and methods for ultrasound imaging capable of achieving spatial resolutions that can resolve objects smaller than 300 μm are described. Ultrasound is transmitted to and steered over a volume-of-interest that contains a microbubble contrast agent to individually excite microbubbles. Signal data is acquired in response to the transmitted ultrasound, and a plurality of images are reconstructed by beamforming the acquired signal data. The spatial resolution of the beamformed images can be further increased using techniques that determine the position of the microbubble within each image to a greater level of accuracy than the point spread function (“PSF”) of the ultrasound system. The images can also be combined to produce a single high resolution image of the volume-of-interest using, for instance, a maximum pixel projection technique. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106396 | PROBE CONTROL METHOD AND APPARATUS - Disclosed are a probe control method and apparatus and an ultrasound system which apply a mounting signal used to sense a mounting status of a probe, detect the mounting signal transferred through a cable, and automatically activate/deactivate the probe according to a change in a sensed mounting status. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106397 | ULTRASOUND APPARATUS AND METHOD OF GENERATING ULTRASOUND IMAGE - A method of generating an ultrasound image includes transmitting an ultrasound signal to a predetermined point included in an object and receiving at least three response signals reflected from the predetermined point; extracting a plurality of response signal pairs by combining the received at least three response signals two-by-two; obtaining a plurality of pieces of prediction vector information, each of the pieces of prediction vector information indicating a prediction velocity magnitude and a prediction velocity direction of the predetermined point, based on reception angles and Doppler frequencies of the response signals included in the plurality of response signal pairs; and determining vector information indicating a velocity magnitude and a velocity direction of the predetermined point, based on the plurality of pieces of prediction vector information. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106398 | System and Method to Identify Abnormal Menstrual Cycles and Alert the User - A system and method to identify abnormal menstrual cycles and alert the user comprising an electronic device running a software application. The software application includes a method that processes and analyzes data and determines when the user exhibits signs and symptoms that require medical attention. The method receives, compiles, and analyzes information regarding at least one of the user's general symptoms, number of days bleeding, mood changes, heavy menstrual flow, inter-menstrual bleeding, and bleeding after sex. The method determines and alerts the user when the information, signs and/or symptoms the user is experiencing indicate that the user's menstrual cycle may be critically abnormal or that the user may have a heavy abnormal period and alerts the user regarding the severity, prompting the user to call her doctor as soon as possible. The method further determines and alerts the user when the user should seek medical attention and contact her doctor at the phone number the user provided upon downloading the software application. If the user did not specify her doctor's phone number or address, the system will use GPS technology to provide a list of all gynecologists and primary care physicians in close proximity to the user's location. The method will also provide the user with a call button to directly call the doctor from within the software application. Additionally, if the user consents, the system and method can capture and compile patient information and statistics and build a database to be used for research purposes. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106399 | BIORESORBABLE SELF-FOLDING TOOLS FOR SURGERY, SINGLE CELL CAPTURE AND MANIPULATION - Microgrippers adapted to capture, manipulate, and contain single cells in both in vitro and in vivo cell applications are disclosed. The energy required to actuate these microgrippers is derived from the release of residual stress and does not require any wires, tethers, or batteries. Because the microgrippers are made from biocompatible and biosorbable materials, they do not accumulate in tissue. Accordingly, they can be used for in vivo applications, such as for gripping single cells in tissue biopsies. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106400 | ENDOSCOPIC SIDE RELEASE BIOPSY VALVE - A biopsy valve for an endoscope includes a valve body that is laterally divided into an upper portion having a first height and a lower portion having a second height, a through hole provided along a central, longitudinal axis of the valve body, and a tab disposed between the upper portion of the valve body and the lower portion of the valve body. The upper portion and the lower portion are hingedly connected such that the upper portion is configured to rotate about a hinge and move relative to the lower portion, which is generally stationary. The upper portion is biased in a closed position in which suction is maintained in the endoscope. Exerting an upward or a downward force on the tab rotates the upper portion about the hinge into an open position in which suction is released in the endoscope. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106401 | HAND-HELD ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL SYSTEM - A hand-held electromechanical surgical device is configured to selectively connect with a surgical accessory. The surgical device includes a power-pack, an outer shell housing, and a gasket. The power-pack is configured to selectively control a surgical accessory. The outer shell housing includes a distal half-section and a proximal half-section, the distal half-section and the proximal half-section together defining a cavity configured to selectively encase substantially the entire power-pack therein. The gasket is located between the distal half-section and the proximal half-section of the outer shell housing. The gasket is configured to create a seal between the distal half-section and the proximal half-section and to provide a sterile barrier between the power-pack and an outside environment outside the outer shell housing. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106402 | SUTURE SECURING SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS - A suture securing system is provided for use in closing a vessel puncture site while eliminating the need for sutures to be manually tied in knots. The system may include an elongate body comprising a shaft and a barrel slidably mounted on the shaft. A knot replacement element may include an outer surface and an inner lumen configured to receive suture lengths. The knot replacement element may be at least partially positioned within the distal end of the barrel adjacent to the distal portion of the shaft and may be configured to selectively fasten the suture lengths together over the vessel repair site. The system may also include a snare configured to draw the suture lengths through the knot replacement element and at least a portion of the elongate body. A trimmer member may be configured to selectively trim the suture lengths extending from the knot replacement element. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106403 | BIORESORBABLE DETACHABLE TIP DESIGN FOR ADHESIVE-BASED EXTRAVASCULAR CLOSURE DEVICE - A vascular closure device includes a vessel locating device, a sealant delivery device, a detachable sealing tip, and a suture. The vessel locating device includes an expandable portion configured to extend through and temporarily seal a vessel puncture from within a vessel. The sealant delivery device is configured to deliver a first volume of flowable sealant to the vessel puncture along an exterior of the vessel. The detachable sealing tip is carried at a distal end of the vessel locating device. The suture is connected to and extends proximally from the detachable sealing tip. The detachable sealing tip is configured for release within the first volume of flowable sealant upon withdrawal of the vessel locating device through the first volume of flowable sealant. The suture is anchored at a location proximal of the detachable sealing tip. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106404 | Detachable Articulating Endoscopic Tool Cartridge - A medical instrument is provides that includes a handle, a shaft, and a tool insert. The tool insert is attachable to the shaft by a threaded connection which engages a slot connection and to the handle and by a retaining member for actuation of the tool. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106405 | TRANSITIONAL GEOMETRY FOR AN EXPANDABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A medical instrument is provided including a device having an expandable portion and a transitional portion. The transitional portion has a spiral cut on the outer surface, and is aligned with the distal portion of a catheter. The transitional portion may be secured to the catheter by a sleeve which is coupled to both the catheter and the transitional portion. Alternatively, the portion of the transitional portion having the spiral cut may be embedded within the catheter. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106406 | ADAPTER, EXTENSION, AND CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL DEVICES - An assembly including an adapter assembly and an extension assembly for connecting an end effector to an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The adapter assembly includes first and second pusher assemblies configured for converting rotational motion into linear motion and a drive member for transferring rotational motion. The extension assembly includes at least one flexible band assembly for transferring the linear motion from the adapter assembly and a trocar assembly configured for converting rotational motion into linear motion. Also provided is a connection assembly for connecting a first tubular member to a second tubular member. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106407 | HOLDING DEVICE FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A holding device for surgical instruments, in particular for minimally invasive surgery, which device comprises a holding arm. The holding arm serves to hold an instrument support at the distal end of which a surgical instrument is mounted. The instrument is operated by way of a drive device. To permit a simple replacement of the instrument support, the drive device is connected to the holding arm by way of a holding device, such that the drive device can easily be changed from a drive position to a replacement position. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106408 | Orthopedic Tools for Implantation - The present application is generally directed to improved instruments and instrument features for distraction and tissue retraction. In particular, the present application is directed to distraction blades and wide blocking blades that can be used together, or individually, to assist in the distraction of bone and the retraction of tissue during a surgical procedure, such as a spinal fusion procedure. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106409 | IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO ASSEMBLIES FOR USE IN KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY - An assembly ( | 2016-04-21 |
20160106410 | Minimally invasive surgical technique to perform vaginal ostioplastic and anus tightening - A method to perform mini-invasive vaginal ostium plastic surgery and anal tightening procedures, includes:
| 2016-04-21 |
20160106411 | Suture Having a Restraining Element at an End and Method and Use Thereof - Polymeric fibers, and apparatuses for and methods of processing such fibers to be useful as sutures, where at least one end of a fiber includes a termination feature. The termination feature is formed through the application of energy to a coiled region of the fiber. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106412 | Method of Performing a Mastopexy Procedure - The present invention relates to a method of performing a mastopexy procedure. The method includes the steps of:
| 2016-04-21 |
20160106413 | CANNULA SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PARTIAL THICKNESS ROTATOR CUFF REPAIR - A trans-soft tissue anchor implantation system in one embodiment includes a positioning wire having a tissue penetrating distal tip, a cannula for passage through the soft tissue and a suture anchor. The cannula has an axial lumen therethrough sized to accommodate at least the positioning wire, a thin-walled distal portion and a tissue engaging feature, such as an arcuate groove, on at least a portion of an outer surface of the cannula proximal of and adjacent to the distal portion. Tissue, such as a tendon, expands into the groove allowing a surgeon to manipulate the tissue with the cannula. Also featured is a cannula having a first curved section having a first thin-walled distal portion and a second curved section having a second thin-walled distal portion, the first and second curved sections capable of being moved relative to each other from an initial, low-profile configuration, with the second section nesting at least partially within the first section to present less than a full circumference of cannula to the soft tissue, to a second, larger configuration defining an axial cannula lumen therethrough. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106414 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COUPLING SOFT TISSUE TO A BONE - A method and apparatus for surgically repairing a tear in soft tissue is disclosed. A plurality of collapsible tubes are positioned about the suture. The collapsible tubes are pushed through soft tissue and orthopedic mesh on opposite sides of a tear in soft tissue. When tension is applied to the suture, the tubes are compressed to fix the suture to the soft tissue and draw the soft tissue portions together. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106415 | SUTURE STITCHES FOR CONTINUOUS SURGICAL SUTURING - A suture stitch for subcuticular suturing for reduced or minimized scarring and reduced suturing time. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106416 | MEDICAL IMPLEMENT FOR MANIPULATING SUTURES PARTICULARLY USEFUL IN ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY - A medical implement for transport of a suture shuttle, comprising a handle including a proximal portion configured for manual gripping by a user, a distal portion, an internal passageway for a suture shuttle, extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the handle; an intermediate portion formed with a thumb depression facing a first direction; the proximal portion comprising a slot extending from the internal passageway to a lateral face of the handle for enabling side-loading of a suture shuttle into a proximal portion of the internal passageway, the slot facing a second direction; the slot extending longitudinally from a proximal end of the handle to an intersection with the thumb depression, wherein at the intersection the slot is exposed in the first direction, and a roller rotatably mounted at the thumb depression. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106417 | SURGICAL SUTURING DEVICE, METHOD AND TOOLS USED THEREWITH - An apparatus for remotely and subcutaneously positioning a tethering strand in tissue includes a housing, an actuator coupled with the housing for longitudinal reciprocation relative to the housing, and a nested pair of needles including a first needle coupled with the housing and a second needle coupled with the actuator. One of the needles has a sharpened tip and another one of the needles has a blunted tip. The first needle has a first length and the second needle has a second length, and the first length and the second length are selected so that advancement of the second needle using the actuator causes the sharpened tip to project beyond the blunted tip, and so that retraction of the second needle using the actuator causes the blunted tip to project beyond the sharpened tip. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106418 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH LOCKOUT MECHANISM - A surgical instrument comprising a handle assembly, an elongated portion, a head portion, an approximation mechanism, and a lockout mechanism is disclosed. The handle assembly comprises a movable handle and a stationary handle. The elongated portion extends distally from the handle assembly and defines a longitudinal axis. The head portion is disposed adjacent a distal portion of the elongated portion, and comprises a first jaw member and a second jaw member. The approximation mechanism comprises a drive member disposed in mechanical cooperation with the first jaw member and is configured to longitudinally move the first jaw member in relation to the second jaw member. The lockout mechanism is configured to selectively permit actuation of the movable handle to eject fasteners from the second jaw member. The lockout mechanism comprises a pin extending from the movable handle and is slidingly engaged with a slot in the drive member. | 2016-04-21 |
20160106419 | SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE - The present invention, in accordance with various embodiments thereof, relates to a surgical device for at least one of cutting and stapling a section of tissue. The surgical device includes a housing including at least two drivers. The surgical device also includes an anvil mechanically attachable to the housing and moveable relative to the housing between an open position and a closed position. The first driver operates to move the anvil relative to the housing to an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position. The second driver operates to move at least a portion of the housing relative to the anvil between the intermediate position and the closed position. | 2016-04-21 |