43rd week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 57 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080262289 | Blood Pump Having A Passive Non-Contacting Bearing Suspension - There is provided a non-contact, passively suspended blood pump that includes (a) a housing; (b) a pump rotor within the housing, wherein the pump rotor has a first end and a second end, and an axis of rotation; (c) a first axial thrust bearing across a first axial gap, between the first end and the housing, that axially suspends the first end; (d) a second axial thrust bearing across a second axial gap, between the second end and the housing, that axially suspends the second end; (e) a first radial hydrodynamic bearing that radially suspends the first end; and (f) a second radial hydrodynamic bearing that radially suspends the second end. Determining pump differential pressure by monitoring rotor axial position allows automatic physiologic control. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262290 | Implantable Sling Having Bladder Support - Surgical implants operative to simultaneously function as a pubovaginal sling for the treatment of incontinence and as a support member to effectuate cystocele repair. The implant comprises a first sling portion operative to be positioned beneath the urethra, per conventional pubovaginal sling surgery. The implant further includes a second bladder support portion extending from the sling support portion that is oriented to extend beneath and be surgically attached to a portion of the bladder to thus enable the same to be supported to a degree necessary to effectuate cystocele repair. The implant may be fabricated from a unitary piece of harvested tissue, synthetic material or combinations thereof. Preferably, the sling portion of the implant is fabricated from a synthetic material whereas the bladder support portion of the implant comprises a segment of harvested tissue sewn to the sling portion. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262292 | Method and Device for Wireless Energy Transmission From a Magnet Coil System to a Working Capsule - In a method and device for wireless energy transmission between a magnetic coil system, having multiple excitation coils located outside of a patient, to a working capsule located in the patient, the working capsule has at least one induction coil, and a positioning device determines the position and orientation of the working capsule relative to the magnetic coil system. Using the position and orientation information, the magnetic coil system generates a first magnetic field that exerts a force on the working capsule at a location of the working capsule in the patient. The magnetic system also uses at least one of the position or the orientation to generate a second magnetic field for energy transmission to the working capsule at the location within the patient. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262293 | Endoscopic operation assisting device - An endoscopic operation assisting device includes a first handle member and a second handle member, which are openable and closable. The first handle member includes, at the side of an opening and closing surface portion thereof, a groove forming an insertion section holding hole for holding an insertion section of an endoscope. Further, the first handle member includes, on a surface portion of the first handle member contraposed to the opening and closing surface portion, a step portion including a flat surface which is provided at a distal end side disposed toward the direction of a distal end portion of the insertion section and which is lower than a proximal end side. Meanwhile, the second handle member includes, at the side of an opening and closing surface portion thereof, a groove forming the insertion section holding hole. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262294 | ENDOSCOPIC SYSTEM WITH DISPOSABLE SHEATH - An endoscopic system includes a sheath having a flexible sheath body. A tip is attached to a distal end of the sheath body. A handle is attached to the proximal end of the sheath body. A steerable section may be provided in the sheath adjacent to the tip. Steering controls may then be provided on the handle for steering the steerable section. Lumens extend from the tip to the handle. The distal end of each lumen is sealed to the tip. Bodily fluids can only enter into the lumens and not other areas within the sheath. A shapelock assembly has an elongated hollow body positionable within the sheath body. The shapelock body may be switched between generally rigid and flexible conditions. The sheath provides a sterile barrier around the shapelock body. The shapelock assembly can be readily reused and the sheath may be disposable. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262295 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR VIEWING ANATOMIC STRUCTURE - Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for improving the visualization of an optical device, in particular a medical device. The device can include a lens cover that provides an offset between the distal end of an endoscope and the surrounding environment. At least a portion of the lens cover can have an ellipsoidal shape. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262296 | ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM - An endoscope system ( | 2008-10-23 |
20080262297 | System and Method for Image-Based Alignment of an Endoscope - Systems and methods for endoscopic procedures employ a first technique to ensure initial correct alignment of an endoscope ( | 2008-10-23 |
20080262298 | IN-VIVO IMAGE DISPLAY APPARATUS AND RECEIVING SYSTEM - A viewer includes a display unit. The display unit has a first display area for displaying an in-vivo image obtained by a first capsule endoscope received from a first receiver, and second display areas for displaying in-vivo images obtained by second capsule endoscopes received from second receivers. The viewer displays the in-vivo images in the first and second display areas, respectively. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262299 | ELECTRONIC ENDOSCOPE APPARATUS - An electronic endoscope apparatus includes: an electronic endoscope having a power amplifier for transmitting by radio or by cable an image pickup signal obtained from an image sensor; and a low noise amplifier for receiving the image pickup signal transmitted by radio and by cable. The apparatus further includes: a processor unit for producing a video signal from the image pickup signal; and a cable connection detection circuit for changing gain of the power amplifier or gain of the low noise amplifier, upon detecting a connection of a cable between the electronic endoscope and the processor unit, for transmitting the image pickup signal by cable. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262300 | ENDOSCOPIC SYSTEM WITH DISPOSABLE SHEATH - An endoscopic system includes a sheath having a flexible sheath body. A tip is attached to a distal end of the sheath body. A handle is attached to the proximal end of the sheath body. A steerable section may be provided in the sheath adjacent to the tip. Steering controls may then be provided on the handle for steering the steerable section. Lumens extend from the tip to the handle. The distal end of each lumen is sealed to the tip. Bodily fluids can only enter into the lumens and not other areas within the sheath. A shapelock assembly has an elongated hollow body positionable within the sheath body. The shapelock body may be switched between generally rigid and flexible conditions. The sheath provides a sterile barrier around the shapelock body. The shapelock assembly can be readily reused and the sheath may be disposable. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262301 | STEERABLE OVERTUBE - A steerable overtube is provided having an elongate shaft comprising an oversized accessory channel that is configured for the introduction and advancement of elongate medical devices having relatively large cross-sections. The distal end of the overtube shaft is bendable or deflectable in at least one direction, and is preferably includes a shape locking mechanism for temporarily maintaining the shape of the distal end of the overtube shaft. An oversized accessory channel is provided. The overtube may also include a fixation mechanism for securing the proximal end and/or distal end of the overtube against movement relative to the patient. A fiber optic elongate medical device is provided for use with the steerable overtube of the present invention. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262302 | Endoluminal and transluminal surgical methods and devices - An access device adapted and configured to be inserted through a natural biological orifice, and related surgical methods are provided. The access device includes a body, a nozzle means and means for delivering a pressurized flow of fluid to the nozzle means. The body is configured and dimensioned to be inserted through a natural bodily orifice and has proximal and distal end portions and defines at least one lumen therethrough to accommodate passage of one or more surgical instruments. The nozzle means is operatively associated with the body for directing pressurized fluid into the lumen to develop a pressure differential in an area within a region within the lumen to form a fluid seal around the one or more surgical instruments passing therethrough. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262303 | SYSTEM FOR DETECTING POSITION OF CAPSULE ENDOSCOPE IN SUBJECT - A system is for detecting a position of a device. The device is swallowed, passes through a subject, and includes a magnetic field generator generating a constant magnetic field. The system also includes a position transducer. The position transducer includes a magnetic detector detecting an intensity of a magnetic field component parallel to a constant magnetic field output from the magnetic field generator, and a position processor calculating a position of the device in the subject based on the intensity detected by the magnetic detector. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262304 | In-Vivo Sensing System Device and Method for Real Time Viewing - A system, device and method for a real time viewing of an in-vivo site. The in-vivo sensing system may include, for example an in-vivo sensing device ( | 2008-10-23 |
20080262305 | ROTARY SELF-ADVANCING ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM, PROGRAM, AND METHOD FOR DRIVING ROTARY SELF-ADVANCING ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM - A rotary self-advancing endoscope system which produces propulsion by rotating, with a motor, a rotating cylindrical body provided on an outer periphery side of an insertion portion main body and causes the insertion portion main body to move forward into an examinee's body, wherein the system is configured to periodically repeating a combination of a state in which the rotating cylindrical body forward-rotates at a predetermined RPM and a state in which the rotating cylindrical body is stopped from rotating and releases accumulated elastic energy and, when a drive current to the motor has reached a predetermined threshold value, reverse-rotate the motor. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262306 | ELECTRIC BENDING ENDOSCOPE - In the present invention, a remote control operation portion has a joystick provided therein, whose position is sensed by a potentiometer. Further, the joystick includes a gear, and engagement of the gear with a gear provided in a rotation axis of a servo motor allows the joystick to be moved by a drive force of the servo motor. Further, the remote control operation portion includes a drive/communication portion which detects position information of the potentiometer, drives the servo motor, and is capable of communicating with a control portion. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262307 | ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM, PROGRAM AND ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM CONTROL METHOD - An endoscope system having a two-stage depression button provided in an operation portion of an endoscope; a first switch changing from off to on by a first stage depressing operation of the depression button and maintaining the on state after the first stage; a second switch changing from off to on by a second stage depressing operation of the depression button; and a control unit controlling to provide an air feeding function when the first switch is on and provide a water feeding function without providing the air feeding function regardless of a state of the first switch when the second switch is on, the control unit controlling to provide the air feeding function with a delay of a predetermined time period so long as the first switch does not change from on to off within the predetermined time period when the first switch changes from off to on. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262308 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING CONTINUOUS FLOW ENDOSCOPY - A fluid irrigation system comprises a small, flexible endoscope and a flexible sheath which is positioned coaxially over the endoscope. A working channel of the endoscope provides a path for introducing an irrigant fluid into a target body lumen or cavity. The irrigant and other fluids may then be removed from the target body lumen or cavity through an axial passage of the sheath. The volume or pressure of the irrigant fluid introduced into the body lumen or cavity is controlled by adjusting the outflow of fluid drained through the sheath. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262309 | ENDOSCOPE AND ROTARY SELF-PROPELLED ENDOSCOPE - An endoscope of the present invention includes an insertion portion including a bending portion, an operation portion separate from the insertion portion, a bending operation wire that is inserted through the insertion portion and used for bending the bending portion in a predetermined direction with tugging in a forward/backward tugging direction, and connecting mechanisms that makes it possible to couple the insertion portion and the operation portion in a manner in which the bending wire is freely tugged in the operation portion. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262310 | ELECTRIC BENDING ENDOSCOPE - In the present invention, a logical block of an FPGA is configured by a serial communication unit, a serial communication control portion, an EEPROM controller, an abnormal signal processing portion, an LED controller, an operation mode controller, a DPRAM, a clutch signal input portion, a jig substrate input output portion, a RAM, a motor controller, a motor drive waveform generating portion, an RL (right and left) motor current F/B portion, a UD (up and down) motor current F/B portion, a potentiometer control portion, a thermistor control portion, an RL encoder control portion, a UD encoder control portion, and an FPGA block abnormality monitoring portion. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262311 | ELECTRIC BENDING ENDOSCOPE DEVICE - An electric bending endoscope device includes an endoscope with a driving unit, a control unit and an operation portion with a bending instruction portion. The operation portion includes a correction algorithm calculating portion in which the output range of instruction signal of the joystick is converted to coincide with the predetermined output range of the bending instruction portion instruction-signal being the operation signal outputted by the operation portion according to the joystick being the bending instruction portion to be fitted to the operation portion, to generate the bending instruction portion operation-signal. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262312 | SHADOWING PIPE MOSAICING ALGORITHMS WITH APPLICATION TO ESOPHAGEAL ENDOSCOPY - In connection with imaging an inner surface of a body lumen, a mosaiced image is created from discrete images or a video produced with a small camera, as the camera is moved through the lumen. In one embodiment, a tethered capsule with a scanning optical fiber provides the images, although other types of endoscopic cameras can instead be used. A surface model of the lumen and camera pose estimates for each image or frame are required for this task. Camera pose parameters, which define camera alignment, are determined for six degrees-of-freedom. The size of each frame projected as a strip on the surface model depends on the longitudinal movement of the camera. The projected frames are concatenated, and the cylinder is unrolled to produce the mosaic image. Further processing, such as applying surface domain blending, improves the quality of the mosaic image. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262313 | Electronic Gastrointestinal Screening - Gastrointestinal screening includes disposing a self-contained electronic capsule in a gastrointestinal tract. The electronic capsule is adapted to acquire data that is responsive to one or more physical conditions in the gastrointestinal tract and to compare the acquired data with stored threshold data to generate a discrete output relating to the condition of the gastrointestinal tract. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262314 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR MEASURING VIBRATIONS USING SPECTRALLY-ENCODED ENDOSCOPY - An apparatus and method according to an exemplary embodiment of to the present invention can provide imaging information associated with at least one portion of a sample. For example, at least two first different wavelengths of at least one first electromagnetic radiation within a first wavelength range may be provided on the portion of the sample so as to determine at least one first transverse location of the portion. At least two second different wavelengths of at least one second electromagnetic radiation may also be provided within a second wavelength range provided on the portion so as to determine at least one second transverse location of the portion. It is possible to obtain a relative phase between at least one third electromagnetic radiation electromagnetic radiation being returned from the sample and at least one fourth electromagnetic radiation returned from a reference to determine a motion of the portion or of particles within or on the portion, whereas the motion is effectuated by at least one of a sound wave. Further, the imaging information of the portion can be provided based on the first transverse location, the second transverse location and the motion. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262315 | Inspection method with endoscope - An endoscopic inspection method includes staining step and super magnified observation step. In the staining step, a distal end surface of a distal end portion of an endoscope which includes a distal end opening of a channel and a first lens that forms a super high-power observation optical system is held in contact with the tissue surface of the observation subject region such that the staining fluid supplied via the channel penetrates to the gap between the distal end surface and the tissue surface to eliminate the mucus on the tissue surface. The tissue surface having the mucus eliminated is stained with the staining fluid. In the super magnified observation step, the first lens which forms the super high-power observation optical system provided at the distal end portion is brought into contact with the tissue surface that has been stained with the staining fluid such that the observation at the cellular level is performed. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262316 | Light Source Apparatus and Endoscope Provided with Light Source Apparatus - A light source apparatus of the present invention comprises a semiconductor light emitting device which emits light, a wavelength converting member which receives the light emitted by the semiconductor light emitting device and emits light of a wavelength longer than that of the original light, and a wavelength selecting member which is disposed between the semiconductor light emitting device and the wavelength converting member and reflects and transmits the incident light with different reflectivity and different transmittance depending on the wavelength of the incident light. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262317 | LIGHT-SOURCE DRIVER FOR PORTABLE ENDOSCOPE - A light-source driver for a light-source unit detachable from an endoscope body of a portable endoscope is provided. The light-source driver includes a first switch, a pilot lamp, a warning lamp, a second switch, and a light-switching block. The first switch switches its status between the On-state and Off-state in connection with the attachment and detachment of the light-source unit to the endoscope body. The pilot lamp indicates that the illumination light source is being energized. The warning lamp indicates that the output voltage of a battery has dropped below a predetermined value. The second switch switches the status of the warning lamp between the On-state and Off-state in connection with the On-state and the Off-state of the first switch. The light-switching block switches the pilot lamp to the Off-state and further enables the second switch when the second switch is set to the On-state and the output voltage has declined to or below the predetermined value. The second switch is set to the Off-state when the light-source unit is detached from the endoscope body. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262318 | MINIMALLY OPEN INTERBODY ACCESS RETRACTION DEVICE AND SURGICAL METHOD - Devices, systems and methods for minimally open orthopedic spine surgery are disclosed. A first flexible screw-based retractor is designed to be coupled to each pedicle screw inserted into adjacent vertebral bodies. A retractor system is provided in which a first retractor blade is mounted to one of the screws and a second movable retractor blade is moved away from the first blade, in a medial direction, to create a working channel through which the disc space may be accessed for passing instruments and implants. Light may be incorporated into the device to illuminate the surgical field. One or all of the retractor blades may be made of a sterilizable plastic or metal and be disposable or reusable. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262319 | Device for Measuring Brain Parameters | 2008-10-23 |
20080262320 | System for Monitoring a Physical Parameter of a Subject - A system for monitoring a physical parameter of a subject includes a sensor, a transmitter, a repeater, and a base station. The sensor is located within the body of the subject and is operable to sense a physical parameter of the subject. The transmitter is electrically connected to the sensor, and is operable to transmit a spread spectrum encoded signal using a digital spreading code, the encoded signal carrying information indicative of the sensed physical parameter and being transmitted to a local region outside the body. The repeater is located in the local region, is movable with the subject, and is operable to receive the transmitted encoded signal and retransmit it to a remote region outside the body. The base station is located in the remote region and is operable to receive and decode the retransmitted encoded signal. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262321 | Early Detection of Harmful Agents: Method, System and Kit - A portable system for detecting agents present in a sample is disclosed. The system comprises a sensing device, having a substrate formed with a plurality of reaction chambers and a plurality of channels interconnecting at least a portion of the plurality of reaction chambers, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of reaction chambers comprises a sensor, capable of generating a detectable signal when exposed to the agents. The system further comprises a detector, which receives signals from the sensing device and provides an image of sensors generating the optical signals. The portable system is connected to a communication network via a communication unit. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262322 | INDICATOR METRICS FOR INFECTION MONITORING - A method for monitoring an infection in proximity to an implantable medical device includes monitoring an indicator of infection in proximity to an implanted medical device; determining whether the indicator crosses a first threshold indicative of infection for a first period of time; and issuing a first alert if the indicator crosses the first threshold for the first period of time. The method further includes determining whether the indicator crosses a second threshold indicative of infection for a second period of time. A value associated with the second threshold is less indicative of an infection than a comparable value associated with the first threshold. The second period of time is greater than the first period of time. The method further includes issuing a second alert if the indicator crosses the second threshold for the second period of time. The first and second alert may be the same or different. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262323 | MULTI-PARAMETER INFECTION MONITORING - Methods for monitoring an infection in proximity to an implantable medical device include monitoring a first indicator of infection in proximity to a medical device implanted in a patient; monitoring a second patient parameter; and determining whether the combination of the first indicator and the second parameter are indicative of infection in proximity to the implanted device. If a determination is made that the combination of the first indicator and the second parameter are indicative of infection, an alert may be issued. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262324 | Measurement Head For Non-Invasive Blood Analysis - The present invention provides an efficient approach of attaching and fixing a measurement head for a spectroscopic system to a variety of different parts of the skin of a patient. The measurement head preferably features a compact design providing a flexible handling and offering a huge variety of application areas taking into account the plurality of properties of various portions of the skin. Furthermore, the measurement head features a robust and uncomplicated optical design not requiring a lateral shifting of the optical axis of the objective. Such transverse relative movements between the objective and a capillary vessel in the skin are preferably performed by mechanically shifting the skin with respect to the objective of the measurement head. Moreover, the measurement head is adapted to host one or more pressure sensors measuring the contact pressure between the measurement head and the skin. This pressure information can further be exploited in order to calibrate the spectroscopic analysis means, to regulate the contact pressure within predefined margins specifying an optimum range of contact pressure for spectroscopic examination of capillary vessels. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262325 | TISSUE PROFILE WELLNESS MONITOR - A tissue profile wellness monitor measures a physiological parameter, generates a tissue profile, defines limits and indicates when the tissue profile exceeds the defined limits. The physiological parameter is responsive to multiple wavelengths of optical radiation after attenuation by constituents of pulsatile blood flowing within a tissue site. The tissue profile is responsive to the physiological parameter. The limits are defined for at least a portion of the tissue profile. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262326 | Signal Processing Method and Apparatus for Processing a Physiologic Signal such as a Photoplethysmography Signal - A signal processing method of processing a physiologic signal, such as a Photoplethysmography Signal having at least some cardiac components and/or respirator components in the physiologic signal, the processing including the steps of: Identifying a potential cardiac and or respiratory components of a physiologic signal wherein the potential cardiac and or respiratory components have a series of peaks and valleys; Calculating a comparison of the durations of a peak to valley sub-component and a valley to peak sub component of the potential cardiac and or respiratory components; and Utilizing the calculated comparison to evaluate the potential cardiac and or respiratory components. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262327 | Apparatus for evaluating biological function, a method for evaluating biological function, a living body probe, a living body probe mounting device, a living body probe support device and a living body probe mounting accessory - The apparatus for evaluating biological function of the present invention has living body probes | 2008-10-23 |
20080262328 | Pulse Oximetry Grip Sensor and Method of Making Same - A probe for use with a pulse oximeter apparatus is disclosed, as are a fixture for and a method of making the probe. The probe includes a housing and two fiber optic bundles. The first bundle has an emitter portion at one end, and is used for conducting light from a source thereof to the emitter portion from which the light is transmitted for transillumination through a body part. The second bundle is for conducting the transilluminated light incident upon a detector portion thereof to the pulse oximeter apparatus. The housing is overmolded onto the bundles so that the emitter and detector portions are securely positioned diametrically opposite each other across an opening defined by the housing. The overmolding makes the alignment of the emitter and detector portions largely impervious to movement of the body part when placed within the opening and thus between the emitter and detector portions. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262329 | Analyte Monitoring Device and Methods of Use - An analyte monitor includes a sensor, a sensor control unit, and a display unit. The sensor has, for example, a substrate, a recessed channel formed in the substrate, and conductive material disposed in the recessed channel to form a working electrode. The sensor control unit typically has a housing adapted for placement on skin and is adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The display unit has a receiver for receiving data transmitted by the transmitter of the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of a level of an analyte. The analyte monitor may also be part of a drug delivery system to alter the level of the analyte based on the data obtained using the sensor. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262330 | Analyte Sensors and Compositions for Use Therein - The present invention relates to analyte sensors and compositions, membranes for use in analyte sensors. For example, an analyte sensor is provided that comprise an electrode surface comprising an enzyme; an a biocompatible analyte permeable composition comprising a nitric oxide generating agent. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262331 | INFECTION MONITORING - Implantable medical devices include a sensor capable of detecting an indicator of infection in proximity to the device. Sensed information regarding the indicator of infection is provided to the device for a time period of between two hours and six months after the device is implanted. A determination may be made as to whether the sensed information is indicative of infection. The determination may be made in the implanted device or in an external device in wireless communication with the implanted device. If the information is indicative of infection, an alert may be issued from the implanted device or an external device. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262332 | INFECTION MONITORING - A method includes monitoring an indicator of infection in proximity to an implanted active therapy delivering medical device and providing information regarding the monitored indicator to the implanted medical device. The method further includes determining whether the information regarding the monitored indicator is indicative of infection in proximity to the implanted medical device. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262333 | Analytical Method and Investigation System - Metabolism diseases are evaluated by using a sensor to measure concentration of a medically significant analyte in a human or animal body fluid. The measurement data are correlated with the concentration of a medically significant analyte in body fluid over a time period of at least eight hours. An analytical facility analyzes time intervals within the time period to determine a stability parameter that characterizes the analyte concentration dynamics of change. The analytical facility further analyzes the stability parameters to determine disease-related particularities of metabolism. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262334 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR PREDICTING PHYSIOLOGICAL VALUES - The invention relates generally to methods, systems, and devices for measuring the concentration of target analytes present in a biological system using a series of measurements obtained from a monitoring system and a Mixtures of Experts (MOE) algorithm. In one embodiment, the present invention describes a method for measuring blood glucose in a subject. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262335 | Skin screw electrode - Electrodes providing excellent recording and physical stability. The present invention encompasses electrodes that include a plurality of small teeth that possess a novel design shape and orientation. The shallow and relatively long teeth preferably run parallel to the rim of the electrode that presses against the patient's skin. When the electrode is twisted onto skin, the tiny teeth penetrate the stratum corneum and move nearly horizontally under the stratum corneum, thus anchoring the electrode securely to the skin. The electrodes of the present invention cause minimal discomfort to the patient since the small teeth do not extend to the pain fibers which are located in deeper layers of the skin. The electrodes may house a wide diversity of electronic components to enable numerous experimental and medical implementations. The electrodes the present invention may also be used wirelessly either singularly or as an array so that no electrode leads extend away from the patients body. The electrodes of the present invention may be fabricated using precision photo-chemical etching techniques that are well known in the art. The present invention also includes an electrode installation device that preferably employs the electrodes of the present invention. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262336 | Physiological Signal Detection Module, Multi-Channel Connector Module and Physiological Signal Detection Apparatus Using the Same - Provided is a physiological signal detection module which has a heating member and a multi-channel connector. The heating member maintains an electrode's contact with a user skin at a constant temperature, and the multi-channel connector module for electrical connection transmits the physiological signal to an external physiological signal detection apparatus. It is possible to prevent the skin from being directly contacted with the electrode in the cold state and have a less impact given by a change of the impedance due to a skin temperature based on the change of the season and external temperature, so that the stable physiological signal can be detected without distortion. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262337 | Method and Apparatus for Mapping and/or Ablation of Cardiac Tissue - An apparatus for mapping and/or ablating tissue includes a braided conductive member that may be inverted to provide a ring-shaped surface. When a distal tip of the braided conductive member is retracted within the braided conductive member, the lack of protrusion allows the ring-shaped surface to contact a tissue wall such as a cardiac wall. In an undeployed configuration, the braided conductive member is longitudinally extended, and in a deployed configuration, the distal end of the braided conductive member is retracted to invert the braided conductive member. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262338 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC NAVIGATION OF A MAGNETIC STIMULATION PROBE - A system and method is disclosed that can be used to track and navigate an instrument relative to a patient. The system can include an electromagnetic tracking system to track an electromagnetic stimulation probe, such as a transcranial magnetic stimulation probe. The system can, according to various embodiments, provide a tracking device on the probe, track the coil of the probe, provide a field relative to the probe, and determine the position of the patient based upon the field produced by the probe. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262339 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Amyloid Plaque in the Brain - Amyloid plaque in the brain of a subject is imaged in an MRI system with or without the use of a contrast agent. Contrast is achieved using a spin-echo pulse sequence that is both respiratory gated and cardiac gated to reduce motion artifacts at the very high image resolution required to see plaque. A preparatory pulse sequence is used to insure longitudinal magnetization remains constant for all the acquired views even if the effective TR changes during the scan due to irregular breathing. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262340 | Moving Table Mri - The invention relates to a MRI system and to a method for producing an image with such an system. In order to provide a MR imaging technique with a high efficient MR signal acquisition, which provides a high level of comfort to a patient, a MRI system and method are suggested, where image data from an object are acquired while the object is moving with variable speed relative to the MRI system, and where the image data are combined and an image of the object is reconstructed. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262341 | Active blood vessel sleeve methods and systems - Methods, apparatuses, computer program products, devices and systems are described that include accepting one or more blood vessel sleeve dimensions based on blood vessel data from an individual; and making a rapid-prototyped blood vessel sleeve at least partly based on the one or more blood vessel sleeve dimensions. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262342 | CT-Enhanced Fluoroscopy - Real-time, enhanced imaging of remote areas, too minute for CT imaging, is made possible through a probe having a radiopaque tip as well as radiopaque volume markers. When deployed, the markers outline the space containing the tip such that both the tip and the volume containing the tip are viewable on a fluoroscope. This device may be used in conjunction with or independently of 3-D volumes created from CT scans and 3-D tip sensors. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262343 | DEVICE FOR DETECTING SPATIAL POSITION - The invention relates to a device for detecting spatial position, which can be attached via a mounting device to a surgical instrument, which has a longitudinal axis, wherein the mounting device has a through opening, which is penetrated by the instrument, wherein the mounting device is mounted so as to be rotatable around the longitudinal axis of the instrument, and wherein the mounting device can be immobilized in an axial and a radial direction via two angular ball bearings. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262344 | RELATIVE VALUE SUMMARY PERFUSION MAP - Disclosed is a system and method for diagnosing a perfusion condition in the human brain. The process used includes measuring parameter values at a location of interest in one hemisphere and determining relative differences between those measured values against values measured at a substantially symmetrically opposite location in the other hemisphere. These relative differences are used to generate a composite output which is displayed using different colors. Each color is reflective of a different tissue state, e.g., ischemic core, penumbra, etc. If the substantially symmetrically opposite location is abnormal, and thus, is not a good reference, an alternative reference location which is not substantially symmetrically opposite the location of interest is chosen, and a relative difference map generated. Alternatively, an absolute value map can be generated. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262345 | Image registration of multiple medical imaging modalities using a multiple degree-of-freedom-encoded fiducial device - Disclosed is a system and method for registering images from two medical imaging modalities in a six-degree-of-freedom coordinate space, for the purpose of providing real time registered imagery for optimization of medical procedures. The system and method uses fiducial that is visible to the first imager and in a fixed position and orientation relative to the second imager. The first imager may be an X-ray device such as a C-arm fluoroscope, and the second imager may be a Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) device. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262346 | Method And Apparatus For Blood Vessel Parameter Determinations - An apparatus and method for the determination of the flow, the coronary reserve and relative coronary reserve of a specific coronary artery. The apparatus and method employ a three-dimensional model ( | 2008-10-23 |
20080262347 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING INTEGRITY OF AN IMPLANTED DEVICE - A system for detecting the integrity of a previously implanted prosthetic device may include a detector including a sensor configured to detect signals from the implant and securing means for securing the sensor in a sensing position relative to the implantable device. The system also may include a power source configured to provide power to the sensor and a computation means for processing data communicated by the detector and for displaying the processed data for diagnosing. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262348 | ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus generates volume data by performing three-dimensional scan of a three-dimensional region with an ultrasonic wave. An input unit sets or changes at least one of a plurality of correlated scan conditions for the three-dimensional scan. A determination unit determines the other scan conditions of the plurality of scan conditions on the basis of at least one scan condition that is set or changed. A display unit displays at least one of the set or changed scan condition and the determined scan conditions. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262349 | Ultrasonic Cancer Treatment Enhancer and Cell Killer - There is provided an ultrasonic cancer treatment enhancer and cell killer that can significantly improve the effect of treating cancer by ultrasonic irradiation while ensuring a high level of safety. The ultrasonic cancer treatment enhancer and cell killer comprise metal semiconductor particles and can be activated upon ultrasonic irradiation to kill or destruct cancer cells. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262350 | Ultrasound Apparatus and Method to Treat an Ischemic Stroke - An apparatus and a method are disclosed to treat a patient sustaining cerebral ischemia or an ischemic stroke in the brain. The method supplies an ultrasound emitting device | 2008-10-23 |
20080262351 | Microbeamforming Transducer Architecture - A method for ultrasound imaging utilizes microbeamforming within a transducer probe in electrical communication with a base ultrasound system. The transducer elements are arranged in sub-arrays or subsets, and the transducer includes a cross-point/summation switch in communication with each sub-array, and the base ultrasound system. In the microbeamforming operation, the signals received at the receiving elements comprising a sub-array are summed to generate a composite sub-array signal for same sub-array, and a set of composite sub-array signals corresponding to a particular receive beamforming pattern is defined using a signal controlling the output of the cross-point switch. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262352 | Clutter Suppression in Ultrasonic Imaging Systems - A method for ultrasonic imaging includes transmitting ultrasonic radiation toward a target and receiving the ultrasonic radiation reflected from a region of the target. A main reflected signal and an auxiliary reflected signal are defined. The reflected signals have different respective main and auxiliary beam patterns. A difference between the main reflected signal and the auxiliary reflected signal is taken, so as to generate an output signal containing a reduced level of clutter in comparison with the main reflected signal. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262353 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FAST VOLUME RENDERING OF 3D ULTRASOUND IMAGE - The invention provides a method and apparatus for fast volume rendering of 3D ultrasound image, comprising a dividing step, a calculating step, a determining step, a morphological closing operation step and a filling step, wherein each flat grid can be entirely filled by obtaining gray-scale values for all pixels inside the grid through interpolating; for the non-flat grid, the steps of dividing, calculating, determining and filling are performed repeatedly until the non-flat grid is subdivided into atomic grids to calculate gray-scale values for remaining pixels by projection. As the method can be finished in the rear end, no difficulty occurs in the implementation, and no process for being adapted to previous frames is required. Therefore, the method can improve the rendering speed effectively without degrading the quality of image to put 3D ultrasound imaging to the best use. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262354 | ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND METHOD OF GENERATING ULTRASONIC IMAGE - The invention provides an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that scans an object to be examined into which contrast medium bubbles are injected with ultrasonic waves to acquire an ultrasonic image of the object. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an image data generating unit that generates a plurality of image data indicating information on the shape of an object to be examined on the basis of echo signals returning from the object, a setting unit that sets an interesting area which is smaller than the entire image area to first image data, which is reference image data, among the plurality of image data, a vector generating unit that compares at least one second image data different from the first image data among the plurality of image data with data in the interesting area to generate a motion vector indicating the motion between the first image data and the at least one second image data, an image correcting unit that corrects the blur of the first image data and the at least one second image data on the basis of the motion vector, and an image generating unit that generates a display image on the basis of the plurality of corrected image data. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262355 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FAST 3D ULTRASOUND IMAGING - The present invention provides a method and apparatus for fast 3D ultrasound imaging. The method comprises data acquisition, desired data selection, data smoothing, table construction, ray casting, table look-up, ray synthesis and final result output. The apparatus comprises an acquisition module, a selection module, a smoothing module, a construction module, a ray casting module, a table look-up module, a synthesis module and an output module. The present invention can avoid a huge amount of unnecessary reconstruction calculations by smoothing preprocessing and constructing the reconstruction table and the gradient table as well as transforming coordinates of the points where necessary. The present invention has greater practical applicability, because the existing imaging technology demands that the radius for rotating the probe be identical to the radius of the probe. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262356 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ULTRASOUND IMAGING USING AN INERTIAL REFERENCE UNIT - Systems and methods for ultrasound imaging using an inertial reference unit are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ultrasound imaging system includes an ultrasound unit configured to ultrasonically scan at least one plane within a region of interest in a subject and generate imaging information from the scan. An inertial reference unit is provided that detects relative positions of the ultrasound unit as the ultrasound unit scans a plurality of plane. A processing unit is configured to receive the imaging information and the corresponding detected position and is operable to generate images of the region of interest. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262357 | TRANSMIT/RECEIVE CIRCUITRY FOR ULTRASOUND SYSTEMS - A transceiver for use in an ultrasound system is provided. The transceiver is configured to operate in a transmit mode and a receive mode. The transceiver comprises a high voltage switch, a low voltage switch and a resistor coupled to the high voltage switch and the low voltage switch. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262358 | THERMALLY ENHANCED PIEZOELECTRIC ELEMENT - A system and method for removing unwanted heat generated by a piezoelectric element of an ultrasound transducer. Some implementations have high thermal conductivity (HTC) material placed adjacent to the piezoelectric element. The HTC material can be thermally coupled to one or more heat sinks. Use of HTC material in conjunction with these piezoelectric element surfaces is managed to avoid degradation of propagating acoustic energy. Use of the HTC material in conjunction with heat sinks allows for creation of thermal paths away from the piezoelectric element. Active cooling of the heat sinks with water or air can further draw heat from the piezoelectric element. Further implementations form a composite matrix of thermally conductive material or interleave thermally conductive layers with piezoelectric material. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262359 | SYSTEM AND METHOD PROVIDING INTRACORONARY LASER SPECKLE IMAGING FOR THE DETECTION OF VULNERABLE PLAQUE - Apparatus and method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be provided for analyzing tissue. For example, the apparatus can include at least one first arrangement configured to illuminate at least one anatomical structure with at least one of at least one electro-magnetic radiation. The apparatus can also include at least one second arrangement that may include at least two wave-guiding arrangements associated with one another that are configured to receive a further electro-magnetic radiation reflected from the tissue and transmit at least one speckle pattern associated with the further electro-magnetic radiation. The wave-guiding arrangements may be structured so as to reduce crosstalk therebetween. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262360 | USING RESPIRATION DISTRESS MANIFESTATIONS FOR HEART FAILURE DETECTION - Systems and methods for diagnosing one or more respiration distress manifestations by implantably recognizing their occurrence and evaluating information about the same to provide an indication of present or impending worsening heart failure are discussed. Using information produced by an implantable respiration sensor circuit and an implantable physiological sensor circuit, such as at least one of a physical activity sensor circuit or a posture sensor circuit, an implantable or external processor circuit may detect a respiration disturbance and an associated subsequent arousal from stable state occurrence and thereafter evaluate over time arousal from stable state occurrences to provide the indication of present or impending worsening heart failure. In one example, information about a fluid level within a subject is used in determining the indication of worsening heart failure. In various examples, a regimen is initiated or adjusted in response to the indication of present or impending worsening heart failure. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262361 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALIBRATING CARDIAC PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS DERIVED FROM SIGNALS DETECTED BY AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Various techniques are provided for calibrating and estimating left atrial pressure (LAP) using an implantable medical device, based on impedance, admittance or conductance parameters measured within a patient. In one example, default conversion factors are exploited for converting the measured parameters to estimates of LAP. The default conversion factors are derived from populations of patients. In another example, a correlation between individual conversion factors is exploited to allow for more efficient calibration. In yet another example, differences in thoracic fluid states are exploited during calibration. In still yet another example, a multiple stage calibration procedure is described, wherein both invasive and noninvasive calibration techniques are exploited. In a still further example, a therapy control procedure is provided, which exploits day time and night time impedance/admittance measurements. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262362 | NON-INVASIVE BLOOD PRESSURE DETERMINATION METHOD - A method for estimating systolic and diastolic pressure is disclosed herein. The method includes obtaining a predetermined type of blood pressure data from a patient, and providing previously acquired blood pressure data obtained from a plurality of different subjects. The method also includes implementing the previously acquired blood pressure data to select systolic and diastolic amplitude ratios that most closely correlate with the predetermined type of blood pressure data obtained from the patient. The selected systolic and diastolic amplitude ratios are adapted to compensate for the effects of arterial compliance. The method also includes implementing the selected systolic and diastolic amplitude ratios to generate a systolic and diastolic blood pressure estimates. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262363 | MOBILE HEMODYNAMIC AND ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL INTERFACE TO PHYSIOLOGICAL MONITORS AND METHOD OF USE - Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for patient monitoring using a mobile workstation and one or more patient monitors. Certain embodiments include selecting a patient monitor via a mobile physiological monitoring workstation; acquiring physiological data from the patient monitor; and displaying the physiological data at the mobile physiological monitoring workstation. The data is transmitted over a network from the patient monitor to the mobile physiological monitoring workstation without a dedicated connection between the mobile physiological monitoring workstation and the patient monitor. Certain embodiments include at least one patient monitor capable of obtaining and transmitting physiological data for a patient; a mobile physiological monitoring workstation receiving physiological data; and a network enabling exchange of physiological data between the at least one patient monitor and the workstation. The workstation may select one or more of the at least one patient monitor from which to receive physiological data for the patient. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262364 | Monitoring Apparatus for Monitoring a User's Heart Rate and/or Heart Rate Variation; Wristwatch Comprising Such a Monitoring Apparatus - Monitoring apparatus ( | 2008-10-23 |
20080262365 | Detection and/or Monitoring of Diastolic Heart Failure - In an implantable medical device for detecting and/or monitoring the progression of diastolic heart failure (DHF), and a corresponding method, a parameter is measured that is indicative of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and a variable is also measured that is indicative of the workload of the patient, and a relation is determined between LVEF and the workload, and DHF is detected and/or the progression of DHF is monitored, dependent on this relation. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262366 | Qt-Interval Measurement in the Electrocardiogram - A method and apparatus for measuring the QT interval of an electrocardiogram (ECG) signal is provided wherein the end of the T wave is identified from ECG data. The end of the T wave is defined as the first time of intersection at which an upright T wave of a first set of derived ECG signal data intersects an inverted T wave of a second set of derived ECG signal data. The intersection of the two sets of ECG data is along an isoelectric line within the trough after the positive T wave peak when the superimposed isoelectric baselines from the upright and inverted ECG signals demonstrate the best least squares fit. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262367 | GENERAL DIAGNOSTIC AND REAL-TIME APPLICATIONS OF DISCRETE HERMITE FUNCTIONS TO DIGITAL DATA - The present invention relates to general diagnostic and real-time applications of discrete Hermite functions to digital data. More specifically, the invention relates to methods and systems for the application of dilated discrete digital Hermite functions (DDHF) to biomedical data, for example, to extract features from digital signals, including but not limited to, ECGs, EMGs, EOGs, EEGs, and others, by expanding the measured signals using a computationally efficient technique. These digital Hermite functions form the basis for the new discrete Hermite transform, generated on a beat by beat basis, which provides information about the shape of the signals, such as that in the BCG artifact in an EEG or in an ECG interval, or any noise in any other electrical signal. An automated system and method for real-time interpretation of any abnormalities present in a digital biomedical signal is provided. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262368 | HEART SOUND TRACKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method provide heart sound tracking, including an input circuit, configured to receive heart sound information, and a heart sound recognition circuit. The heart sound recognition circuit can be coupled to the input circuit and can be configured to recognize, within a particular heart sound of a particular heart sound waveform, a first intra heart sound energy indication and a corresponding first intra heart sound time indication using the heart sound information from the particular heart sound waveform and the heart sound information from at least one other heart sound waveform. The particular heart sound can include at least a portion of one of S1, S2, S3, and S4. Further, the first intra heart sound energy indication and the corresponding first intra heart sound time indication can correspond to the at least a portion of one of S1, S2, S3, and S4, respectively. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262369 | Capnographic Sampling Catheter - The present invention seeks to provide a system for analyzing the exhaled breath of a subject, including a gas analyzer, sensitive to at least one component of the exhaled breath and a gas sampling catheter having a first end and a second end, the first end being in fluid flow communication with the gas analyzer, wherein the gas sampling catheter has a plurality of exhaled breath sampling holes formed therein. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262370 | Gas sensor - A method of determining the respiratory function of a subject is disclosed, the method comprising measuring the concentration of water vapour in the gas stream exhaled by the subject, and from the measured water vapour concentration determining the respiratory function of the subject. Mathematical techniques for analyzing the data obtained from the measurement of concentrations of gaseous components in an exhaled gas stream are also disclosed and their use in determining the lung function of a subject. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262371 | Method for Adaptive Complex Wavelet Based Filtering of Eeg Signals - A method for adaptive filtering of EEG signals in the wavelet domain using a nearly shift-invariant complex wavelet transform. EEG signal data is segmented into a set of K “trials” or “light averages” of M-frames of data each. These trials are overlapped by a number of frames P, where P2008-10-23 | |
20080262372 | Medical Device Adapted to the Monitoring of Muscle Behaviour in Patients - The present invention is related to a medical device for monitoring limb muscle behaviour in a patient, said limb corresponding to a leg, an arm, or the neck, said medical device comprising:
| 2008-10-23 |
20080262373 | Automated polysomnographic assessment for rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder - Methods and systems for diagnosing or assessing rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD). Muscle tone or activity variance during rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep intervals of a polysomnogram are compared. A threshold based on the NREM data is used to identify a subject-specific threshold for abnormality in the REM variance. A metric that includes the percentage of REM variance exceeding the threshold relates to RBD. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262374 | EVENT TRIGGERED INFECTION MONITORING - Implantable medical devices include a sensor module capable of detecting an indicator of infection in proximity to the device. The sensor module is activated following a detection of an event associated with the device, such as, for example, refill of an implantable infusion device or implantation. The sensor module is deactivated two or more hours following activation. Methods include detecting a first event associated with an implanted medical device; activating a sensor module of the implanted medical device at or after the detection of the first event; deactivating the sensor module two hours or more after the sensor module is activated; and determining whether information regarding the indicator of infection is indicative of an infection. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262375 | Apparatus For Measuring Tissue Samples Electrical Impedance - Apparatus for measuring the electrical impedance of a tissue sample comprises a probe and a sheath comprising an elongated tubular body having one closed end and one open end providing an internal cavity. The sheath is composed of a material which when contacted with a tissue sample is capable of providing a conductive path through the sheath between the electrodes and the tissue sample. The resistivity of the material forming the sheath when contacted with the tissue sample is greater than the resistivity of the tissue sample. The probe is received within the internal cavity of the sheath. The sheath is impervious to bacteria and viruses. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262376 | WIRELESS SENSOR SYSTEM FOR MONITORING SKIN CONDITION USING THE BODY AS COMMUNICATION CONDUIT - Devices and methods for measuring a local skin parameter or the presence or concentration of an analyte present in a biological medium are disclosed. A monitoring system comprising disposable sensor components and a network component for the collection of sensor information and for relaying this information for remote access and analysis is disclosed, where the sensor components and the network component communicate using the wearer as a signal propagation medium. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262377 | Respiratory System for Inducing Therapeutic Hypothermia - The present invention provides a method and apparatus for controlling a patient's body temperature and in particular for inducing therapeutic hypothermia. Various embodiments of the system are described. The system includes: a source of breathing gas, which may be in the form of a compressed breathing gas mixture; a heat exchanger or other heating and/or cooling device; and a breathing interface, such as a breathing mask or tracheal tube. Optionally, the system may include additional features, such as a mechanical respirator, a nebulizer for introducing medication into the breathing gas, a body temperature probe and a feedback controller. The system can use air or a specialized breathing gas mixture, such as He/O | 2008-10-23 |
20080262378 | IMPLANTABLE THERAPY DELIVERY SYSTEM HAVING MULTIPLE TEMPERATURE SENSORS - A system includes an implantable medical device and an implantable therapy delivery element. The device includes a housing, electronics disposed in the housing, and a first temperature sensor operably coupled to the electronics and located in proximity to the housing. The element has a proximal end portion configured to be operably couplable to the device and a distal end portion configured to be placed in a patient at a location removed from the device. A second temperature sensor located on the element between the proximal end and the distal end. The second temperature sensor is operably couplable to the electronics. The electronics are configured to compare a value associated with the first temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor to a value associated with the second temperature sensed by the second temperature sensor. The system may be used for monitoring an infection in proximity to the device. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262379 | REFINED INFECTION MONITORING - A method for monitoring infection in proximity to an implanted medical device includes monitoring an indicator of infection in proximity to the device and determining whether a value associated the indicator of infection crosses a first threshold indicative of infection. The method further includes detecting an event associated with the device. The event is capable of affecting the indicator of infection. The method also includes determining whether the value associated with the indicator of infection crosses a second threshold indicative of infection if the event is detected. The method may further include issuing an alert if (i) the first threshold is crossed and the event is not detected, or (ii) the second threshold is crossed and the event is detected. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262380 | BASELINE ACQUISITION FOR INFECTION MONITORING - A method includes obtaining a baseline value for an indicator of infection in proximity to an implantable medical device and monitoring the indicator of infection in proximity to the device. The method further includes determining whether the monitored indicator is indicative of infection in proximity to the device. The determination as to whether the monitored indicator is indicative of infection includes comparing a value associated with the monitored indicator to the baseline value. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262381 | Infant SID Monitor Based On Accelerometer - Techniques, devices and systems that monitor the orientation and breathing of an infant and wirelessly communicate the orientation/breathing data to a caregiver through a wireless interface to request intervention if an unsafe situation is detected. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262382 | Method and Apparatus for Acoustical Outer Ear Characterization - The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for characterizing acoustical properties of an outer ear | 2008-10-23 |
20080262383 | NEEDLE ASSEMBLY WITH SEPARABLE HANDLE - A needle assembly comprising an outer cannula having a restraining element, an inner rod capable of being removably inserted into a hollow cross-section of the outer cannula, a handle having a flexible restraining member with a restraining nub and a protruding element whereby a force applied to the protruding element disengages the restraining nub from the outer cannula restraining element and the handle can be removed and attached to the outer cannula. Other embodiments of the invention comprise a strike cap integrally connected to the inner rod whereby a force applied to the strike cap is directly transferred to the inner rod. Other embodiments of the invention comprise a rod attachment member connected to the inner rod and the handle having at least one handle attachment element whereby the inner rod attachment member cooperates with the handle attachment element to removably attach the inner rod to the handle. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262384 | Method and Devices for Screening Cervical Cancer - The present invention provides multi-parameter analysis methods for determining the presence or absence of pre-cancerous or cancerous cells in a cervical sample and for screening cervical abnormality in a cervical sample. The invention also provides an apparatus and automated methods for screening cervical abnormality in a sample. The invention further provides a sampling device and a sample collection assembly for collecting cell samples, including cervical samples. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262385 | Backflow Preventing Structure of a Blood Sampler, Luer Adapter, Blood Sampling Needle and Blood Sampling Holder - A backflow preventing structure of a blood sampler capable of preventing backflow of blood positively without causing a significant increase in the number of components and cost. The backflow preventing structure of a blood sampler comprises a hub ( | 2008-10-23 |
20080262386 | ANALYTICAL SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AN ANALYTE IN A BODY FLUID AND DISPOSABLE INTEGRATED PUNCTURING AND ANALYZING ELEMENT - An analytical system for detecting an analyte in a body fluid comprises a disposable integrated puncturing and analyzing element and a reusable analytical system. The integrated puncturing and analyzing element includes a puncturing element having a tip for generating a puncture wound in a body part and an elongated flat test strip having a top side and a bottom side. The analyzing instrument having a housing has a holder for holding an integrated puncturing and analyzing element, and a coupling unit which is provided such as to couple the puncturing element to a drive by means of which a puncturing movement of the puncturing element is driven, during which it is moved on a path of movement in the puncturing direction during an advancement phase and, after reaching a reversal point of the puncturing movement, is moved opposite to the puncturing direction in a return phase. The puncturing element is arranged to be parallel to the test strip and such as to be mobile with respect to the test strip along the movement path. The integrated puncturing and analyzing element is held in the holder such that, in a sample application position of the test strip, the top side of the test strip is facing upward and, in a puncturing position of the test strip, the tip of the puncturing element is moved beyond an end of the test strip which is its front end in the puncturing direction, in order to generate a puncture wound in a body part. A sample application area for manual application of a drop exiting from the puncture wound of the body part is provided on the top side of the test strip such that, in the sample application position, the drop is applied to the sample application area from directly above. The housing is shaped to allow access to the sample application area of a test strip positioned in the sample application position, and to allow access to the front end of a test strip which is positioned in the puncturing position. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262387 | PUNCTURING SYSTEM - The invention relates to a puncturing system for generating a puncture wound for obtaining a sample of a body fluid, comprising a press-on part to be pressed onto a body part in which a puncture wound is to be generated, a triggering means, by the actuation of which a user can trigger a puncturing motion of a puncturing element after the press-on part is pressed on, and a testing facility for determining at least one test parameter on which a sample-obtaining probability depends. A securing facility is also provided that, in a locked state, locks the triggering means such that no puncturing motion can be triggered, and, in a triggering state, releases the triggering means such that a puncturing motion can be triggered by actuation thereof, whereby the securing facility is transitioned from the locked state to the triggering state by the testing facility when the test parameter determined by the testing facility meets defined minimum requirements. A signaling facility is also provided for signaling a transition of the securing facility to the triggering state and/or for signaling that the securing facility is in the triggering state. The invention also relates to a method for preparing a puncturing system for generating a puncture wound. | 2008-10-23 |
20080262388 | Puncturing System For Collecting Body Fluid Sample - The invention relates to a microsampler puncturing system for collecting a body fluid from a body part, comprising a sample collection unit having a piercing element, and a puncturing instrument having a drive, by which a sample collection unit is movable on a movement path for piercing the piercing element into the skin of the body part and withdraw it again by means of a piercing and retraction movement, a setting device for setting the puncturing depth of the piercing wound to be generated, and a control device for controlling the piercing and retraction movement having the following sequentially executed movement phases: a forward phase (V), in which the piercing element is pierced up to a defined puncturing depth (dm), a retraction phase (R | 2008-10-23 |
20080262390 | Fiducials for placement of tissue closures - Fiducial markings are placed on a patient to identify surgical parameters such as locations for an incision or a surgical closure. | 2008-10-23 |