Stryker Corporation Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160123822 | Sensor Assembly And Method For Measuring Forces And Torques - A sensor assembly comprises a base plate and a sensor member displaceable relative to the base plate. A spring arrangement operates in first and second stages in response to displacement of the sensor member relative to the base plate. Different resolutions of force and torque measurements are associated with the first and second stages. A light sensitive transducer senses displacement of the sensor member relative to the base plate and generates corresponding output signals. A collimator directs a plurality of light beams onto the light sensitive transducer so that the light beams strike different pixels of the light sensitive transducer to sense displacement of the sensor member relative to the base plate. | 05-05-2016 |
20160089283 | Patient Support Apparatus - Patient support apparatuses—such as beds, cots, stretchers, or the like—include a plurality of user controls that allow a caregiver to control the steering and/or driving of one or more wheels from multiple different locations around the patient support apparatus (e.g. head end, foot end, and/or the sides). The control is carried out by force sensors that detect both an orientation of the applied forces and a magnitude of the applied forces. Translational and/or rotational movement is effectuated, depending upon the magnitude and direction of the forces, as well as the physical location of the applied force relative to a reference point on the support apparatus, such as the center. One or more object sensors may also be included in the support apparatus to assist in steering and/or navigating. | 03-31-2016 |
20160066806 | Impedance Bootstrap Circuit for an Interface of a Monitoring Device - An interface for receiving electrical signals representative of a condition of a patient and for conveying representations of the electrical signals to a processing system. The interface includes at least one amplifier circuit configured to alter an amplitude of the electrical signal, a common-mode cancellation amplifier circuit coupled to the at least one amplifier circuit and configured to reduce common-mode signal noise in the electrical signals, and a bootstrap circuit coupled to the at least one amplifier circuit and configured to increase an effective input impedance at an input of the at least one amplifier circuit. | 03-10-2016 |
20150374386 | ANATOMICALLY GUIDED INSTRUMENTATION FOR TROCHLEAR GROOVE REPLACEMENT - A method for replacing a joint surface, which includes resecting a first portion of the joint surface to create a wall surface and inner resected surface. The wall surface ( | 12-31-2015 |
20150342741 | STEPPED TIBIAL BASEPLATE - Disclosed herein are tibial baseplates having a medial portion and a lateral portion, each of the medial and lateral portions having a proximal surface and a distal surface opposite the proximal surface. An intermediate portion joins the medial and lateral portions, wherein the intermediate portion has a proximal surface angled to the proximal surfaces of the medial and lateral portions about a longitudinal axis of the tibial baseplate. The proximal surface of the medial portion is stepped from the proximal surface of the lateral portion about the longitudinal axis. The proximal surfaces of the medial and lateral portions are configured to receive corresponding medial and lateral inserts. | 12-03-2015 |
20150250669 | PATIENT SUPPORT WITH IMPROVED CONTROL - A patient support includes a frame, a patient support surface supported at the frame, a display incorporated into the frame, and a user interface incorporated into the frame. The patient support frame includes a controller incorporated into the frame, which has a plurality of prompts stored therein. The user interface is in communication with the controller and may be used to select a selected prompt from the plurality of prompts stored in the controller. When a prompt is selected, the controller generates a display image or text associated with the selected prompt at the display in response to a passage of time or an input to provide a visual prompt to the user. | 09-10-2015 |
20150133943 | RESECTION GUIDE AND METHOD OF POSITIONING - A bone resection guide, which includes a profiling guide. The profiling guide includes a first planar bone contact surface, a first guide surface and at least one outline corresponding to at least a portion of a first implant. | 05-14-2015 |
20150112179 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE THAT IS CONFIGURED FOR MOVABLE CONNECTION TO AN IMPLANTED TRUNK AND THAT IS ABLE TO INDUCTIVE EXCHANGE SIGNALS WITH THE TRUNK - An implantable medical device for performing therapy or monitoring a physiological condition. The device includes components for connecting the device to a trunk line. These components connect the device to the trunk line in such way that the components move over the trunk line. Internal to these components are conductors, including a coil, that are arranged to complementary inductively exchange signals with conductors internal to the trunk line. As a result of this inductive signal exchange the implantable medical device at least one of: receives power signals; receives signals that regulate the operation of the device; or transmits signal representative of the physiological state monitored by the device. | 04-23-2015 |
20150100161 | System and Method for Interacting with an Object - System and methods for positioning a tool in a robotic system include determining primary position information for the tool at a first frequency and determining secondary position information for the tool at a second frequency. The tool is moved in a first position control mode and a second position control mode based on the primary position information and the secondary position information. At least one of the first and second frequencies in each of the first and second position control modes is adjusted. A difference between the first and second frequencies in the first position control mode is different than a difference between the first and second frequencies in the second position control mode. | 04-09-2015 |
20150094736 | System and Method of Controlling a Robotic System for Manipulating Anatomy of a Patient During a Surgical Procedure - System and methods of controlling a robotic system for manipulating anatomy of a patient during a surgical procedure include applying a force to the anatomy to generate a response by the anatomy. The response of the anatomy is measured and a characteristic of the anatomy is calculated based on the response. An instrument is autonomously controlled in relation to the anatomy based on the calculated characteristic. | 04-02-2015 |
20150094734 | ELECTRODE ARRAY AND DEPLOYMENT ASSEMBLY INCLUDING AN ELECTRODE ARRAY THAT IS FOLDED INTO A CANNULA THAT IS NARROWER IN WIDTH THAN THE ARRAY - An electrode array assembly with a frame that is foldable or bendable on which electrodes are disposed. The frame includes laterally spaced apart bridges. Tabs extend laterally outwardly from the bridges Electrodes are disposed on the tabs. Beams, also part of the frame, extend between the laterally adjacent bridges. The frame can be folded around the beams so as to cause the laterally spaced bridges to at least partially overlap. When the beams are so bent, the electrode array can be disposed in an access cannula that has a diameter less than the width of the unfolded array. | 04-02-2015 |
20150088184 | MOTORIZED MEDICAL/SURGICAL HANDPIECE THAT INCLUDES PLURAL MAGNETS DISPOSED WITHIN THE BORE OF THE MOTOR ROTOR - A surgical tool with an electric motor. The motor rotor includes a bore in which a number of magnets are disposed. Each magnet has an outer surface and two inner surfaces that extend inwardly towards a corner. One pole of each magnet is along the outer surface; the opposed pole is at the corner. The magnets are disposed in the rotor bore so that the corners of arcuately adjacent magnets have opposed magnetic polarities. | 03-26-2015 |
20150080299 | CONCENTRATED PROTEIN PREPARATIONS OF BONE MORPHOGENETIC PROTEINS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF - Disclosed herein are heretofore undescribed preparations of highly concentrated, solubilized proteins, such as but not limited to, Bone Morphogenetic Proteins. Such protein preparations can be formulated in an aqueous carrier at protein concentrations in excess of 10 mg/ml when using the methods of manufacture taught herein. Such methods yield stable protein preparations in either solubilized or lyophilized form. The protein preparations of the present invention are particularly beneficial when administered either locally or systemically, in part, because low administration volumes can be accomplished. This is especially important for local treatment of certain anatomic locations such as, for example, the synovial fluid of a joint when treating osteoarthritis with BMP-7 or the intradiscal space when treating degenerative disc disease with BMP-7. | 03-19-2015 |
20150057758 | INTRAOPERATIVE DYNAMIC TRIALING - A dynamic trialing method generally allows a surgeon to perform a preliminary bone resection on the distal femur according to a curved or planar resection profile. With the curved resection profile, the distal-posterior femoral condyles may act as a femoral trial component after the preliminary bone resection. This may eliminate the need for a separate femoral trial component, reducing the cost and complexity of surgery. With the planar resection profile, shims or skid-like inserts that correlate to the distal-posterior condyles of the final insert may be attached to the distal femur after the preliminary bone resection to facilitate intraoperative trialing. The method and related components may also provide the ability of a surgeon to perform iterative intraoperative kinematic analysis and gap balancing, providing the surgeon the ability to perform necessary ligament and/or other soft tissue releases and fine tune the final implant positions based on data acquired during the surgery. | 02-26-2015 |
20140343643 | IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE ARRAY ASSEMBLY INCLUDING A CARRIER WITH EMBEDDED CONTROL MODULES CONTAINED IN PACKAGES, THE PACKAGES EXTENDING OUTWARDLY SO AS TO EXTEND OVER THE CARRIER - An implantable electrode array that includes a carrier on which multiple spaced apart electrodes are disposed. Embedded in the module are control modules. The control modules are contained in packages. Portions of the packages extend outwardly from the carrier so as to be disposed against adjacent surfaces of the carrier. The packages contain conductive tracts that provide conductive links from the conductors internal to the carrier to the packaged control modules. | 11-20-2014 |
20140342976 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR MINIMALLY-INVASIVE SYSTEMIC DELIVERY OF PROTEINS INCLUDING TGF-BETA SUPERFAMILY MEMBERS - The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for systemic delivery of minimally-soluble bioactive agents such as, but not limited to, proteins of the TGF-β superfamily. According to the invention, an exemplary bioactive agent is BMP-7 The invention further provides for minimally-invasive systemic treatment of skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis as well as minimally-invasive systemic treatment of injured or diseased non-mineralized tissues and organs such kidneys. Practice of the invention eliminates adverse side effects at the site of intravascular delivery of the bioactive agent. | 11-20-2014 |
20140338529 | MEDICAL/SURGICAL SMOKE EVACUATOR THAT CONTINUALLY DRAWS WASTE INTO THE EVACUATOR TO CONTROL THE OPERATION OF THE EVACUATOR - A smoke evacuator that draws smoke generated during a medical surgical procedure away from the site at which the smoke is generated. The smoke evacuator includes a pump that draws air into a filter. A sensor internal to the filter monitors the smoke in the air stream drawn through the filter. Normally the pump runs at a low speed, a speed sufficient to draw some air in the filter. When the sensor detects the presence of an appreciable amount of smoke in the air stream the sensor sends a signal indicating the air stream is in this state to the pump controller. The controller then increases the pump speed to result in a like increase in the volume of air drawn through the smoke evacuator. Since the sensor is contained in the filter, a new sensor is installed in the system each time a new filter is installed. | 11-20-2014 |
20140336595 | PERIPHERAL ADMINISTRATION OF PROTEINS INCLUDING TGF-beta SUPERFAMILY MEMBERS FOR TREATMENT OF SYSTEMIC DISORDERS AND DISEASE - The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for accomplishing systemic delivery of minimally-soluble bioactive agents such as, but not limited to, proteins of the TGF-β superfamily via a peripheral mode of administration. According to the invention, an exemplary bioactive agent is BMP-7. The invention further provides for minimally-invasive systemic treatment of skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis as well as minimally-invasive systemic treatment of injured or diseased non-mineralized tissues and organs such kidneys. Practice of the invention eliminates adverse side effects at the peripheral site of intravenous administration of the bioactive agent. | 11-13-2014 |
20140336114 | Buffers for Controlling the pH of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins - The present invention provides formulations of cysteine knot proteins, including TGF-β superfamily proteins and bone morphogenic proteins that are pH stabilized. In particular, the present invention relates to the observation that certain buffers enhance the stability of cysteine knot proteins, including TGF-β superfamily proteins and bone morphogenic proteins. In particular, disclosed herein are liquid and lyophilized formulations prepared with a glycylglycine and tartaric acid buffers to stabilize the pH of the formulation. | 11-13-2014 |
20140324039 | POWER CONSOLE FOR SURGICAL TOOL CAPABLE OF RECEIVING TOOL MEMORY DATA OVER THE TERMINALS OVER WHICH POWER SIGNALS ARE SOURCED TO THE TOOL - A console for providing power to a surgical tool. Internal to the console is a power supply that supplies power, a processor that regulates the application of the power and a memory reader that reads data from a memory integral with the tool. The power is sourced over terminals also part of the console. The tool memory data are used to regulate the characteristics of the sourced power. An isolation circuit also internal to the console extends between the terminals over and the memory reader. The isolation circuit allows the memory reader to send read requests to the tool memory and receive data signals from the tool memory over the terminals while protecting the memory reader from the power signals sourced by the power supply. | 10-30-2014 |
20140291950 | MEDICAL SUPPORT APPARATUS - A medical chair includes a seat supported by a base and actuators adapted to both tilt and lift the seat with respect to the base. A controller controls the actuators to both lift and tilt the seat as the seat moves from the sitting position to the standing position. The movement from the sitting position to the standing position assists in the egress of an occupant from the chair, while the movement from the standing position to the sitting position assists in the ingress of an occupant to the chair. A backrest on the chair remains substantially vertically oriented during movement between the sitting and standing position so as to provide more comfort to the occupant during the sit-to-stand or stand-to-sit movement. The backrest also moves in a manner that generally keeps the occupant's torso vertically aligned with his or her hips during this movement. | 10-02-2014 |
20140277391 | STENT AND METHOD OF USE - A stent configured for implantation in a body lumen includes a plurality of radially expandable circumferential segments, and an axially expandable connecting member connecting adjacent circumferential segments of the plurality. The stent has a relaxed, axially contracted configuration in which the connecting member is contracted axially and each circumferential segment is nested with at least one adjacent circumferential segment. The stent also has a delivery, axially expanded configuration in which the connecting member is expanded axially, and an axial distance between adjacent circumferential segments of the plurality is greater than when the stent is in its relaxed configuration. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277094 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A vaso-occlusive device delivery assembly includes a pusher assembly having a proximal end, a distal end, and a pusher lumen extending therebetween; a vaso-occlusive device; and a tubular member mechanically connecting the pusher assembly to the vaso-occlusive device, the tubular member having a proximal end, a distal end, a tube lumen extending therebetween, and a detach zone, wherein the proximal end of the tubular member extends into the pusher assembly lumen at the distal end of the pusher assembly. A heat generating member is disposed in the tube lumen, such that, when activated, the heat generating member generates heat that melts or otherwise thermally degrades the tubular member at the detach zone, thereby detaching the vaso-occlusive device from the pusher assembly. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277093 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A vaso-occlusive device delivery assembly includes a pusher assembly and a vaso-occlusive device detachably coupled to the pusher assembly by an attachment member is frictionally secured within a lumen of the pusher assembly. A heat generating member is disposed in the pusher assembly lumen, along with a pressure generating material, such that, when heat is generated by the heat generative device, the pressure generating material increases a pressure in the pusher assembly lumen, thereby dislodging the attachment member from the pusher assembly and detaching the vaso-occlusive device from the pusher assembly. | 09-18-2014 |
20140277092 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A vaso-occlusive device delivery assembly includes a pusher assembly having proximal and distal ends, a conductive sacrificial link disposed at the distal end of the pusher assembly, and a vaso-occlusive device secured to the pusher assembly by the sacrificial link. The pusher assembly includes first and second conductors extending between the proximal and distal ends thereof. The sacrificial link is electrically coupled between the first and second conductors, such that the first conductor, sacrificial link and second conductor form an electrical circuit, and, when a disintegration current is applied through the sacrificial link through the first and second conductors, the sacrificial link thermally disintegrates, thereby releasing the attachment member and vaso-occlusive device from the pusher assembly. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266733 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH PATIENT INFORMATION SENSORS - A patient support apparatus includes multiple sensors used to monitor aspects of a patient positioned on a support surface of the patient support apparatus. The outputs from the sensors are used, alone or in combination with other signals, to perform any one or more of the following: distinguishing between new and old patients entering onto the support surface; automatically zeroing a scale system on the support apparatus; distinguishing between objects and humans positioned on the support surface; determining if a patient is sleeping or awake; monitoring and characterizing movement levels of the patient; recording for subsequent display a log of likely events regarding the support surface; proposing identifications of objects added to or removed from the support surface; automatically re-arming a patient exit alert system; recording force outputs prior to and during a patient exit from the support apparatus; and transmitting the recorded force outputs to a remote location. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266057 | BATTERY CAPABLE OF WITHSTANDING THE EFFECTS OF LIQUID SUBMERSION - A battery ( | 09-18-2014 |
20140265502 | MEDICAL SUPPORT APPARATUS - A medical chair comprising a base having one wheel having a brake; and a manual braking mechanism for selectively actuating the brake at the wheel; and a control system operable to control the brake in response to a signal or lack of signal at the chair. Further, the control system includes an actuator, which is coupled to the manual braking mechanism to move the manual braking mechanism to a braking or unbraking position. For example, the actuator may comprise a solenoid, the solenoid being coupled to the manual braking mechanism. | 09-18-2014 |
20140265497 | MEDICAL SUPPORT APPARATUS - A medical chair includes a seat supported by a base and actuators adapted to both tilt and lift the seat with respect to the base. A controller controls the actuators to both lift and tilt the seat as the seat moves from the sitting position to the standing position. The movement from the sitting position to the standing position assists in the egress of an occupant from the chair, while the movement from the standing position to the sitting position assists in the ingress of an occupant to the chair. A backrest on the chair remains substantially vertically oriented during movement between the sitting and standing position so as to provide more comfort to the occupant during the sit-to-stand or stand-to-sit movement. The backrest also moves in a manner that generally keeps the occupant's torso vertically aligned with his or her hips during this movement. | 09-18-2014 |
20140265181 | RECONFIGURABLE TRANSPORT APPARATUS - A transport apparatus includes a frame, a lift mechanism supporting the frame, and a litter deck for supporting a person. The litter deck is adapted to be reconfigured between a chair configuration and a cot configuration. The litter deck is also adapted to be removably mounted to the frame, with the litter deck being adapted to be supported by the frame while the litter deck is in its chair configuration and also while being reconfigured between its chair configuration and its cot configuration. | 09-18-2014 |
20140259420 | RECONFIGURABLE PATIENT SUPPORT - A patient support includes a base, a deck for supporting a patient, and a lift mechanism supporting the deck on the base and configured to adjust the orientation of the deck while allowing the head and foot sections of the deck to be articulated with respect to the seat section of the deck. | 09-18-2014 |
20140259414 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH REMOTE COMMUNICATIONS - A patient support apparatus includes a computer supported thereon that acts as a thin client for at least one network service available on a remote network to which the patient support apparatus has access. The thin client architecture of the patient support apparatus enables the patient support apparatus to dynamically change its functions, algorithms, features and other aspects more easily. The thin client architecture may be applied to generating alerts, performing maintenance functions, analyzing sensor data—including, but not limited to—weight sensors used to detect weight distributions on the patient support apparatus, implementing patient care protocols, performing patient assessments, accumulating information for billing, and monitoring patient movement. The patient support apparatuses may also function as local WiFi hotspots and/or as software access points to the healthcare network and/or the Internet. One or more Software-as-a-Service applications may run on the patient support apparatus. | 09-18-2014 |
20140259412 | PATIENT SUPPORT - A compact patient support provides a full range of motion and function while optimizing compactness and achieving an improved “low height” position. Casters joined to the base of the support have a low profile and provide mechanical braking about a swivel axis and a rotational axis of the wheels. The low profile of the casters allows for a more compact base. The lift mechanism includes a lift actuator with the motor mounted on the upper of two stacked X-frames allowing for shorter cables and harnesses and allowing for a more compact folding of the X-frames when the support is in a lowered position thereby reducing bulk and contributing to the overall compactness of the patient support. | 09-18-2014 |
20140259400 | PATIENT SUPPORT WITH MICROCLIMATE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A microclimate management support, for placing under a person's body, includes a flexible breathable upper layer and a generally liquid impermeable intermediate layer beneath the upper layer. An inlet operative to be in fluid communication with the space between the two layers for delivering a gas to the space to control the moisture under the upper layer and increase the wicking of moisture away from the interface between the patient and the upper layer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140257303 | MILL HEAD FOR A BONE MILL, THE MILL HEAD HAVING ONE OR MORE CONTAINMENT RINGS THAT PREVENT UNWANTED DISCHARGE OF THE CONTENTS OF THE BONE MILL - A mill head for replaceable attachment to a base so as to collectively form a bone mill. The mill head includes: a first opening in which bone stock is introduced into the head; a cutting device that converts the bone stock into bone chips; a second opening through which the bone chips are discharged; and a third opening through which a motor integral with the base is attached to the cutting device. Internal to the mill head are containment rings. The containment rings prevent the discharge of material through the third opening. The containment rings are services the internal component of the mill head on which the cutting device rests. | 09-11-2014 |
20140257293 | BONE PADS - Disclosed herein are systems and methods for bone preparation with designed areas having accurate tolerance profiles to enable improved initial fixation and stability for cementless implants and to improve long-term bone ingrowth/ongrowth to an implant. A method of preparing a bone surface to receive a prosthetic implant thereon having an articular surface and a bone contacting surface includes resecting the bone surface at a first location to create a first resected region having a first tolerance profile with a first cross-section, resecting the bone surface at a second location to create a second resected region having a second tolerance profile with a second cross-section less dense than the first cross-section, and contacting the bone contacting surface of the prosthetic implant with the first resected region. | 09-11-2014 |
20140249570 | DELIVERY WIRE FOR OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A delivery wire assembly for delivery of an occlusive device to a location in a patient's vasculature includes a delivery wire conduit having a proximal tubular portion connected to a distal coil portion, and a conduit lumen extending through the proximal tubular portion and the distal coil portion. The delivery wire assembly also includes a core wire disposed in the conduit lumen and having a distal end coupled to an occlusive device. The distal coil portion of the delivery wire assembly includes a plurality of zones and the plurality of zones decrease in stiffness distally along the length of the distal coil portion of the delivery wire assembly. | 09-04-2014 |
20140249531 | TOOL WITH BIOABSORBABLE MATERIAL FOR INTRAOPERATIVE USE - A surgical system for performing a surgical procedure includes a machining tool and a stationary tool. The machining tool has a first contact surface having a hardness. The stationary tool has a second contact surface at least partially formed of a magnesium alloy. The second contact surface is biocompatible and bioabsorbable, and has a hardness. The hardness of the first contact surface is greater than the hardness of the second contact surface. | 09-04-2014 |
20140243991 | ANATOMICALLY GUIDED INSTRUMENTATION FOR TROCHLEAR GROOVE REPLACEMENT - A system for replacing a trochlear groove region of a femur. The system includes a prosthesis that includes a bone contact surface and a periphery that defines an outer perimeter. The bone contact surface has a plurality of protrusions and a spatial configuration with respect to one another. Additionally, the system includes a first template that has a plurality of guide holes and a first periphery that defines an outer perimeter that substantially corresponds with the periphery of the prosthesis. Also, included in the system is a second template that has a plurality of guide holes and a second periphery that defines an outer perimeter that substantially corresponds with the periphery of the prosthesis. The plurality of guide holes of the second template are spatially arranged with respect to the second periphery to substantially match the spatial configuration of the plurality of protrusions of the prosthesis. | 08-28-2014 |
20140243990 | BICRUCIATE RETAINING TIBIAL IMPLANT SYSTEM - A bicruciate retaining tibial implant baseplate includes a tibial baseplate with medial and lateral condylar portions configured to receive bearing inserts. The baseplate includes an anterior bridge connecting the medial and lateral portions. A posterior wall of the anterior bridge may be angled to provide downward force on a correspondingly angled anterior portion of the tibial eminence when the baseplate is implanted. A method of preparing the tibia for implant includes a punch tower and punch guide configured to both cut the anterior tibial eminence and provide protection to the tibial eminence during resection of the proximal tibia. | 08-28-2014 |
20140237721 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH BRAKING SYSTEM - A patient support apparatus includes a patient support surface, a manually operable brake operatively associated with the patient support surface, a manual brake activation handle or pedal for manually operating the manually operable brake, and an electrically powered actuator. The actuator is mechanically coupled to the manually operable brake and to the manual brake activation handle or pedal, and actuates the manually operable brake and moves the manual brake activation handle or pedal from a first position to a second portion in response to a signal at the patient support apparatus. | 08-28-2014 |
20140236038 | Method For Signal Encoding Evoked Responses - A method and apparatus for utilizing the benefits of encoded signal transmission and reception to enhance the performance of medical testing devices (100) adapted to evoke and measure biological response signals such as auditory evoked potentials (AEP), and the auditory brainstem response (ABR) signals in particular. Auditory stimuli, such as clicks, are presented to the ear of a human patient, in a predetermined encoded sequence, resulting in the generation of auditory responses and bio-electric response signals in the human patient. These response signals from the patient are acquired and observed, and are processed according to the predetermined encoded sequence in which the auditory stimuli were presented to the patient's ear in order to extract the desired auditory evoked potential signals or ABR signals. | 08-21-2014 |
20140232316 | CONTROL MODULE FOR A MOTORIZED SURGICAL TOOL, THE MODULE INCLUDING A TRIGGER SENSOR, A MOTOR ROTOR SENSOR AND A CONTROL CIRCUIT THAT ARE SEALED FROM THE AMBIENT ENVIRONMENT - A control module for a motorized powered surgical tool. The module includes a trigger sensor, a motor rotor position sensor and control circuit. The trigger sensor and motor rotor position sensor output their signals by monitoring magnetic fields associated with, respectively the trigger and the motor rotor. Based on signals from the trigger sensor and the motor rotor position sensor, the control circuit selectively applies energization signals to the windings of the motor. The module includes a shell that separates the trigger sensor, the motor rotor position sensor and the control circuit from the motor. The shell is formed from material that both shields the components within the shell from affects of the ambient environment and that allows the magnetic fields to be detected by the sensors. | 08-21-2014 |
20140200546 | Fluid Delivery Device And A Method of Delivering Fluid - A fluid delivery device is provided for delivering fluid to a target site such as an intervertebral disc during discography. The fluid delivery device includes pressure and volume sensors to determine the pressure and the volume of the fluid delivered to the intervertebral disc. The fluid delivery device is hand-held during use and includes a syringe assembly having a plunger with threads that enables controlled discharge of the fluid from the fluid delivery device by rotating the plunger in a housing of the fluid delivery device. The fluid delivery device includes a communication module to wirelessly transfer data to an external device outside of a sterile field, while the fluid delivery device is in the sterile field. The fluid delivery device may also include a physiological sensor to monitor involuntary pain responses based on changing physiological parameters such as increases in body temperature or blood pressure. | 07-17-2014 |
20140200182 | METHODS OF ADMINISTERING BONE MORPHOGENETIC PROTEIN COMPOSITIONS - The present invention relates to compositions of bone morphogenetic proteins, particularly solid and liquid formulations of such proteins comprising one or more stabilizing excipients. The invention further provides methods of producing the compositions, kits comprising the compositions and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of diseases of skeletal and non-skeletal tissues. | 07-17-2014 |
20140194882 | SURGICAL SAGITTAL SAW FOR ACTUATING A SAW BLADE WITH AN OSCILLATING HEAD, THE SAW HAVING A COUPLING ASSEMBLY FOR RELEASEABLY HOLDING THE SAW BLADE - A surgical sagittal saw for use with a complementary blade assembly that includes a static bar. The saw includes a head over which the blade assembly bar is seated. A clamp rod is able to mounted to the head to move along the longitudinal axis of the rod. The rod has a head that, as result of the longitudinal movement of the rod is moved towards and away from the head. A blade assembly is disposed on the saw head adjacent the rod. The rod can be positioned in a run state so that the rod head abuts the bar of the blade assembly so as to hold the blade assembly to the saw head. Alternatively, the rod can be repositioned in a load state the rod head is spaced from the saw head. This allows the blade assembly to be removed and replaced. A control member mounted to the saw head controls the movement of the rod. When the rod is moved from the load state to the run state, a biasing member places a force on the rod to hold the rod in the run state. | 07-10-2014 |
20140187486 | Peripheral Administration of Proteins Including TGF-beta Superfamily Members for Treatment of Systemic Disorders and Disease - The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for accomplishing systemic delivery of minimally-soluble bioactive agents such as, but not limited to, proteins of the TGF-β superfamily via a peripheral mode of administration. According to the invention, an exemplary bioactive agent is BMP-7. The invention further provides for minimally-invasive systemic treatment of skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis as well as minimally-invasive systemic treatment of injured or diseased non-mineralized tissues and organs such kidneys. Practice of the invention eliminates adverse side effects at the peripheral site of intravenous administration of the bioactive agent. | 07-03-2014 |
20140187473 | Compositions and Methods for Minimally-Invasive Systemic Delivery of Proteins Including TGF-Beta Superfamily Members - The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for systemic delivery of minimally-soluble bioactive agents such as, but not limited to, proteins of the TGF-β superfamily. According to the invention, an exemplary bioactive agent is BMP-7. The invention further provides for minimally-invasive systemic treatment of skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis as well as minimally-invasive systemic treatment of injured or diseased non-mineralized tissues and organs such kidneys. Practice of the invention eliminates adverse side effects at the site of intravascular delivery of the bioactive agent. | 07-03-2014 |
20140180397 | MULTILAYER STENT - A multilayer stent configured for implantation in a body lumen, including a tubular outer layer comprising a first plurality of struts defining an outer layer mesh pattern extending between first and second ends of the outer layer, and a tubular inner layer comprising a second plurality of struts defining an inner layer mesh pattern extending between first and second ends of the inner layer. The inner-layer is at least partially disposed within the outer layer, wherein at least a portion of the inner layer is attached to, or integrally formed with, at least a portion of the outer layer. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180387 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM - A stent delivery system includes an elongate delivery member; a self-expanding proximal bumper disposed on a distal region of the delivery member in a radially contracted configuration, where the proximal bumper is biased to expand to a radially expanded configuration; a self-expanding stent disposed over the delivery member in a radially contracted configuration distal of the proximal bumper; and a sheath disposed over the stent, proximal bumper, and delivery member, and configured to constrain the proximal bumper and stent in their radially contracted configurations, where the proximal bumper, when in its radially expanded configuration, has a cross-sectional dimension greater than an inner diameter of the sheath, such that the proximal bumper contacts the sheath and prevents movement of the stent proximal of the proximal bumper, and such that, as the delivery member is moved distally relative to the sheath, the proximal bumper pushes the stent in a distal direction. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180383 | IMPLANT DELIVERY ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE - A medical assembly for delivering an implant comprising a tubular resilient implant defining an inner lumen, the implant comprising a plurality of engaging members extending proximally an end thereof, the implant having a delivery configuration, and a released configuration, and a delivery assembly for delivering the implant, the delivery assembly comprising an outer tubular member extending through the inner lumen of the implant, the outer tubular member having a plurality of slots receiving therethrough the engaging members, with the implant being disposed in its delivery configuration on an outer surface of the outer tubular member, an inner tubular member coaxially disposed within the outer tubular member and movable relative to the outer tubular member, the inner tubular member having a first axial position that restrains the engaging members, and a second axial position to thereby release the implant from the delivery assembly. | 06-26-2014 |
20140180292 | SURGICAL SAGITTAL SAW BLADE ASSEMBLY THAT INCLUDES A GUIDE BAR INCLUDING BOTTOM, INNER AND OUTER BARS AND A BLADE HEAD THAT PIVOTS AROUND THE INNER BAR - A surgical sagittal saw blade that includes a guide bar to which a blade head is pivotally mounted. The guide bar includes a bottom bar; an inner bar disposed over the bottom bar; and an outer bar disposed over the inner bar. The inner bar has a distal end face that is curved and that is spaced inwardly of the distal ends of the bottom bar and the outer bar. The blade head has a base that pivots around the curved distal end face of the inner bar. | 06-26-2014 |
20140163558 | SURGICAL SAGITTAL SAW AND BLADE CARTRIDGE, THE BLADE CARTRIDGE HAVING REINFORCING RIBS INTEGRAL WITH THE BLADE BAR - A surgical sagittal and a saw blade cartridge. The saw has a head to which the blade cartridge is releasably mounted and a clamping assembly that releasably hold the cartridge to the head. The blade cartridge includes a blade bar, a blade head mounted to the bar and at least one drive rod that actuates the blade head. A rib projects from the blade bar to stiffen the cartridge. The rib extends over the blade bar so as to extend both proximally and distally relative to where the clamp assembly bears against the blade bar. The rib reduces skiving of the cartridge when a load is applied to either the top or bottom surface of the blade bar. | 06-12-2014 |
20140162273 | METHODS FOR DETECTING NEUTRALIZING ANTIBODIES FOR BONE MORPHOGENETIC PROTEINS - The present invention relates to methods of detecting neutralizing antibodies for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP). More particularly, it relates to a highly specific, robust, rapid and accurate cell-based assay for detecting the presence of anti-BMP neutralizing antibodies. | 06-12-2014 |
20140137322 | PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE INCLUDING LOCAL STATUS INDICATION, ONE-TOUCH FOWLER ANGLE ADJUSTMENT, AND POWER-ON ALARM CONFIGURATION - A patient handling device includes a deck for supporting a patient support surface, a controller, and a user interface. The user interface is actuatable by a user to record a state of a plurality of conditions of the patient handling device. The controller is in communication with the user interface and operable to monitor the plurality of conditions and to generate a first unified indication when all the conditions remain unchanged from their recorded state, and to generate a second indication when any of the conditions change from their recorded state. | 05-22-2014 |
20140135774 | INTEGRATED SYSTEM FOR CLEANING BONE STOCK AND TRANSFERRING THE BONE STOCK TO A MILL IN WHICH THE BONE STOCK IS MILLED TO FORM BONE CHIPS - A system for cleaning and milling bone to form bone chips. The system includes a shell into which bone stock is introduced. Internal to the shell is a cleaning element that removes soft tissue and other material surrounding the bone stock. The cleaned bone stock is transferred through an opening in the shell to a mill unit. The mill unit has a milling element against which the bone is disposed. The milling element, when actuated coverts the bone stock into bone chip. A motor drives both the cleaning element and the mill element. The shell and mill unit may be part of a head unit. The head unit is removably attached to a base in which the motor is disposed. | 05-15-2014 |
20140130937 | MANIFOLD FOR FILLING PLURAL CANNULAE, THE MANIFOLD INCLUDING A QUICK RELEASE MECHANISM FOR SIMULTANEOUSLY HOLDING AND RELEASING THE CANNULAE TO/FROM THE MANIFOLD - A system for loading plural cannulae with a substance that is to be injected into living tissue. This invention provides an efficient means of providing plural substance-filled cannulae for surgical procedures, such as vertebral augmentations. The system includes a mixing and delivery system, including a manifold. The manifold includes a housing with a plurality of channels that route the flow of the mixed substance from a single central channel to multiple sub-channels for the simultaneous filling of attached cannulae. The manifold also includes valves that regulate the flow of the substance out of the manifold. The open/closed states of these valves are inherently set as a function of the presence/absence of cannulae. A cartridge/plate releasably holds the multiple cannulae to the manifold. The release of the cartridge/plate results in the simultaneous release of the substance-filled cannulae from the manifold. | 05-15-2014 |
20140121674 | ASSEMBLY FOR PERCUTANEOUSLY INSERTING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE, STEERING THE DEVICE TO A TARGET LOCATION AND DEPLOYING THE DEVICE - An assembly for implanting a medical device such as an electrode array. The assembly includes a sheath that is disposed over the medical device and a core that supports the device. The sheath and core are connected to, respectively, first and second slides in a handpiece. An single actuator first moves one slide, typically the slide to which the sheath is attached. Once the first slide at least partially displaced both slides are moved to simultaneously retract the sheath and core away from the implantable medical device. The assembly includes a steering assembly for steering the sheath and implantable medical device. Some of the components forming the steering assembly are disposed on at least one of the slides. Tensioners prevent the steering cables of the steering assembly from being exposed to excessive force. | 05-01-2014 |
20140094817 | MOTORIZED BONE CEMENT MIXING AND DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH AN ENLARGED CONNECTOR FOR CONNECTING TO THE CANNULA THROUGH WHICH THE CEMENT IS INJECTED INTO THE PATIENT - A bone cement mixing and delivery system including a mixer, a delivery device, and a flexible extension tube. A connector is attached to a distal end of the flexible tube. The connector includes a housing, a fitting and an enlarged knob. A spindle that extends through the housing connects the fitting to the knob so the fitting rotates with the knob. A cannula is connected to the mixing and delivery system by placing the cannula fitting adjacent the connector fitting. The knob is rotated to result in the like rotation of the connector fitting. This causes the complementary threading on the connector fitting and the cannula fitting to engage. | 04-03-2014 |
20140091054 | METHOD OF FABRICATING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE THAT INCLUDES ONE OR MORE THIN FILM POLYMER SUPPORT LAYERS - An implantable medical device formed from one or more layers of thin film polymer is assembled by providing by adhesively securely one or more polymer coupons on individual rigid backings. After each coupon is shaped or components mounted to the coupon, the coupons are bonded together. The adhesive is dissolved to remove the device from the backing or backings to which it is attached. | 04-03-2014 |
20140090914 | MOTORIZED SLED FOR STAIR CHAIRS - A lightweight motorized and tracked sled for attachment to a variety of stair chairs is described. A power supply or power source provides power to a motor driving a track configured to engage a set of stairs. The motor and track can lift and support the stair chair and a patient thereon up or down one or more flights of stairs. The track driven by the motor has a length sufficient to simultaneously engage the lips or edges of a pair of sequential steps, but may be otherwise limited in length to reduce the weight of the track. To ensure that the sled and attached stair chair are stably supported while ascending or descending stairs, the sled may have rails, skis, or passive tracks having a length sufficient to ensure that the rails, skis, or passive tracks are always over the edge or lip of no fewer than two steps. | 04-03-2014 |
20140090488 | Flexible Piezocapacitive And Piezoresistive Force And Pressure Sensors - Flexible force/pressure sensors for producing electrical output signals proportional to forces or pressures exerted on the sensor include a thin, elastically deformable foam pad laminated between a pair of electrically conducive fabric sheets. A piezocapacitive embodiment of the sensor utilizes an elastically deformable perforated open-cell polyurethane foam pad preferably saturated with glycerin to increase the capacitance of the sensor. The piezocapacitive sensor section is preferably stacked onto a piezoresistive section having a second open-cell foam pad containing piezoresistive carbon particles to form a hybrid piezocapacitive/piezoresistive sensor. A third, “leaky dielectric” embodiment of a sensor includes a single open-cell foam pad which contains both a dielectric liquid and conductive particles. A low frequency such as d.c. to a few hertz is applied to a sensor to determine piezoresistive response of the sensor to forces or pressures and a higher frequency such as 30 KHz is applied to determine piezocapactive response. | 04-03-2014 |
20140088600 | SURGICAL SAGITTAL SAW WITH A DRIVE ASSEMBLY CAPABLE OF DISPLACING THE ATTACHED BLADE IN A CROSSED LOP PETTERN - A saw for pivoting a blade in a sagittal plane. The saw includes a drive assembly with at least one drive member. The drive assembly is configured to both reciprocate the blade in the sagittal plane and to simultaneously pivot the blade around an axis that extends through the sagittal plane. The drive assembly is configured to reciprocate and pivot the blade at different frequencies. Consequently the teeth ( | 03-27-2014 |
20140083969 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A VARIABLY REINFORCED ELONGATE MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of making a variably reinforced elongate medical device includes braiding a reinforcing sleeve from a first strand including a first material and a second strand including a second material, exposing a portion of the braided reinforcing sleeve to a selected environmental stimulus or contacting the portion of the braided reinforcing sleeve with a selected substance, to thereby substantially modify the first strand in the respective exposed or contacted portion, and removing the substantially modified first strand from the respective exposed or contacted portion of the braided reinforcing sleeve, while the second strand is retained in the respective exposed or contacted portion. | 03-27-2014 |
20140080413 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS FOR PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUSES - A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, cot, stretcher, or the like, uses the ability to communicate with a device via near field communication to determine that the device is physically proximate the support apparatus. The support apparatus uses this determination to associate itself with the device. In some instances, the associated device is a mattress positioned on the support apparatus; a footboard on the support apparatus; a medical device used with a patient supported on the support device; a nearby piece of furniture; another patient support apparatus; or an ID tag worn by a caregiver or patient, or attached to a piece of equipment. After the support apparatus and device are associated, they communicate information between each other using far field communication, which supports higher data transfer rates. Flux concentrators are added in some embodiments to extend and/or shape the range of near the field communication. | 03-20-2014 |
20140076644 | POWERED PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS - Powered patient support apparatuses—such as beds, cots, stretchers, or the like—include a plurality of user controls that allow a caregiver to control the steering and/or driving of one or more powered wheels from multiple different locations around the patient support apparatus (e.g. head end, foot end, and/or the sides). The control is carried out by force sensors that detect both an orientation of the applied forces and a magnitude of the applied forces. Translational and/or rotational movement is effectuated, depending upon the magnitude and direction of the forces, as well as the physical location of the applied force relative to a reference point on the support apparatus, such as the center. One or more object sensors may also be included in the support apparatus to assist in steering and/or navigating. | 03-20-2014 |
20140068869 | PATIENT/INVALID SUPPORT WITH PRESSURE REDUCING SYSTEM - A patient support includes a plurality of stacked layers of cushioning material, at least two of the layers comprising foam, each of the at least two layers having a different firmness, and at least one of the layers comprising a gel-based cushioning layer. | 03-13-2014 |
20140059768 | HOSPITAL BED - A patient support apparatus includes a deck, a plurality of side rails, a control panel, and a plurality of subsystems, such as a bed exit system that detects when a patient may exit from the support apparatus, or a lifting mechanism to raise and lower the deck. A controller is in communication with the control panel and is adapted to monitor conditions regarding the side rails and/or the other subsystems. At least one lamp is also provided on the patient support apparatus that is adapted to be illuminated in a first manner when a plurality of monitored conditions remain in a desired state, and in a second manner when at least one of the plurality of monitored conditions changes to an undesired state. | 03-06-2014 |
20140057463 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS CONNECTORS - A patient support apparatus—such as a bed, stretcher, cot, chair, operating table, or the like—includes at least one electrical connector having at least one magnet integrated therein for magnetically retaining the connector with a complementary connector. The connector and the complementary connector may be designed such that they are retained together substantially only by magnetic forces, rather than frictional forces. Multiple magnets may be included within the connectors such that the connectors only couple together in a specific orientation. The connector may connect the patient support apparatus to a mattress positioned thereon, to a wall outlet, to a removable footboard or headboard, to a removable pedestal, or to other devices. The connector may include an internal safety switch that turns on a high voltage connection only when a low voltage connection is established. | 02-27-2014 |
20140052123 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR VARYING OUTPUT INTENSITY OF ENERGY APPLIED TO AN ELECTROSURGICAL PROBE - An electrosurgical system is capable of selectively varying the power applied to an electrosurgical probe, without interruption or discontinuity, in a variable mode or providing a constant coagulation power value to the probe. In a fixed mode, power to the electrosurgical probe must be discontinued to change the power level output by the probe. A single controller is capable of operating the probe in the variable mode and the fixed mode. The controller includes an actuator for stopping the cutting operation and then switching to a constant coagulation output during either of the variable mode or the fixed mode. The controller of the system may selectively control a separate surgical tool. | 02-20-2014 |
20140051632 | Sustained-Release Formulations Comprising Crystals, Macromolecular Gels, and Particulate Suspensions of Biologic Agents - The present invention is directed to sustained release formulations of biologic agents which permit persistent bioavailability. Preferred biologic agents include bone morphogenetic proteins. Diseases susceptible to amelioration and/or treatment with the formulations of the present invention include skeletal tissue diseases such as, but not limited to, osteoarthritis and other osteochondral diseases. The sustained release formulations of the present invention are especially suitable for treatment of minimally-vascularized or non-vascularized tissue sites such as, but not limited to, intra joint, interarticular, or intraminiscal sites. | 02-20-2014 |
20140039351 | SENSING SYSTEM FOR PATIENT SUPPORTS - A sensing system for a patient support, such as a bed, cot, stretcher, or the like, provides data about the patient and/or the patient support itself. The sensing system may include a flexible sheet that houses a sensor array that detects interface pressures between the patient and the support surface on the patient support. A user interface allows a caregiver to control operational parameters of the sensor array, including alarms. A color coded map may be displayed on the user interface highlighting the patient's currently experienced interface pressures. A control system coupled to the sensor array may map the sensor outputs to the body of the patient in order to correlate the interface pressures to specific parts of the patient's body. Shear pressure may, in some embodiments, also be detected by the sensor sheet. | 02-06-2014 |
20140031831 | SURGICAL TOOL SYSTEM INCLUDING A NAVIGATION UNIT THAT RECEIVES INFORMATION ABOUT IMPLANT THE SYSTEM IS TO IMPLANT AND THAT RESPONDS TO THE RECEIVED INFORMATION - A surgical tool system for fitting an implant to a patient. The system includes a handpiece that is used to fit the implant. The handpiece is capable of reading data from a memory integral with the implant. The system includes a surgical navigation system capable of monitoring the position of the handpiece relative to the patient. Based on the data read by the handpiece from the memory of the implantable device and the data regarding the position of the implant the navigation system presents information regarding the procedure. This information includes data regarding the position of the implant relative to the patient or textual information based on the type of implantable device. If the implant is being improperly position, the surgical navigation system presents a warning or inhibits actuation of the handpiece. | 01-30-2014 |
20140026327 | ADAPTIVE CUSHION METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MINIMIZING FORCE CONCENTRATIONS ON A HUMAN BODY - An adaptive cushion for reducing pressure on body parts of a person positioned on a chair or bed includes an overlay cushion having a plurality of individual air bladder cells, each having thereon a force sensor. The cushion includes a controller for inflating and deflating individual air bladder cells to air pressures that tend to reduce the interface pressures sensed by the force sensors. A pressure reduction method includes varying the inflation pressure in a first air bladder cell while measuring the sum of the interface pressures exerted on all or a plurality of the air bladder cells, re-pressurizing the first cell to that air pressure for which a minimum total interface pressure was obtained, repeating this process for the remaining air bladder cells. | 01-30-2014 |
20140023469 | AMBULANCE COT AND LOADING AND UNLOADING SYSTEM - An ambulance cot and cot loading and unloading system for an emergency vehicle comprises a cot having a head end, a base for mounting to a deck of an emergency vehicle, a track mounted for linear movement along said base, and an arm mounted for linear movement along said track from a retracted position to an extended position. The arm is and configured to engage the cot, and wherein when the track is extended along the base and the arm is extended along the track the arm is extended from the base in an extended position and is configured for lifting the cot and providing cantilevered support to the cot while in the extended position. | 01-23-2014 |
20140020179 | X-Ray Compatible Patient Support Apparatus - A patient support apparatus, such as a stretcher, cot, bed, or the like, includes a patient support surface and a cartridge support surface positioned therebelow. The cartridge support surface supports a diagnostic imaging cartridge, such as an X-ray cartridge. The cartridge support surface includes a generally flat and smooth interior region surrounded by a peripheral region that is beveled to facilitate insertion of a cartridge between the patient and cartridge support surfaces. Handles for controlling the pivoting a portion of the patient support surface are positioned in a corner of the patient support surface where they, and their connected structures, are out of the way of the X-ray path. A joint between sections of the patient support surface is constructed to include, when the sections are flat, overlapping regions that reduce, if not eliminate, visual artifacts caused by differing amounts of X-ray absorption of the patient support apparatus. | 01-23-2014 |
20140012270 | JOINT STABILIZING INSTRUMENT AND METHOD OF USE - A joint spacer having a body and a series of extensions projecting therefrom is disclosed. A first of the series of extensions may include a curved section for housing a portion of a joint therein (e.g., the intercondylar notch of a knee), and a second and third of the extensions may be configured to abut an opposing portion of the joint. Once inserted, the joint spacer may maintain the spacing between, and the stabilization of, the joint during surgery. A fourth extension may be included with the spacer in which the extension may interact with an insertion-removal instrument. The insertion-removal instrument may include one end having an insertion geometry for use in inserting the spacer into the joint, and an opposing end having a removal geometry for removing the spacer. Related methods for inserting the joint spacer and various alternate joint distraction devices are also disclosed. | 01-09-2014 |
20140007353 | PATIENT TURNER - A patient turner for positioning on a mattress includes a base layer and a turning bladder layer, with the turning bladder layer being configured for positioning either immediately under the patient or under a non-supporting layer, which is immediately under the patient, and with the base layer supporting the turning bladder above the mattress. | 01-09-2014 |
20140005686 | Cannula Anchor | 01-02-2014 |
20130345652 | REMOVABLE INLET MANIFOLD FOR A MEDICAL/SURGICAL WASTE COLLECTION SYSTEM, THE MANIFOLD INCLUDING A HOUSING WITH A DRIP STOP, THE DRIP STOP PROJECTING OUT OF THE HOUSING - A removable manifold for a medical/surgical waste collection system. The manifold is dimensioned to be mounted to a receiver integral with the system. The manifold includes a includes at least one fitting through which waste is drawn into the manifold. The fitting opens through an inlet port into a void space internal to the manifold. A backflow prevention valve is disposed in the manifold void space. The backflow prevention valve includes a static hub to which a driver for engaging a complementary valve internal to the receiver. The valve regulates flow between the receiver and the down line components of the waste collection system. The valve is normally closed. When the manifold is fitted to the receiver the driver engages the valve so as move the valve to the open position. This allows fluid flow from the manifold and receiver to the downstream components of the system. | 12-26-2013 |
20130333328 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMPACTING SOLID MEDICAL WASTE - A system for collecting and compressing waste collected in a medical or surgical procedure. The system includes a bag for collecting the waste that is seated on a mobile cart. Once the waste is collected the bag is closed and, while on the cart, transported to a compactor. While on the cart, the bag is compacted. Air in the bag is discharged through a one-way valve fitted to the bag. The one way valve may be attached to a cartridge that is inserted into the bag opening. The air discharged from the bag is filtered prior to discharge into the ambient environment. The filter may be built into the one-way valve. | 12-19-2013 |
20130328627 | Impedance Bootstrap Circuit for an Interface of a Monitoring Device - An interface for receiving electrical signals representative of a condition of a patient and for conveying representations of the electrical signals to a processing system. The interface includes at least one amplifier circuit configured to alter an amplitude of the electrical signal, a common-mode cancellation amplifier circuit coupled to the at least one amplifier circuit and configured to reduce common-mode signal noise in the electrical signals, and a bootstrap circuit coupled to the at least one amplifier circuit and configured to increase an effective input impedance at an input of the at least one amplifier circuit. | 12-12-2013 |
20130325053 | INTRA-ANEURYSM DEVICES - Devices for occluding an aneurysm are provided. In particular, the device include an upper member that sits against the dome of the aneurysm, a lower member that sits in the neck of the aneurysm, and a means of adjusting the overall dimensions of the device. Also provided are methods of making and using these devices. | 12-05-2013 |
20130324794 | WIRELESS ENDOSCOPIC CAMERA - A system and method for wirelessly transmitting a video image signal from an endoscopic camera to a receiver or control unit for storage and/or display on a video monitor. Use of a frame-specific, variable compression algorithm capable of progressively encoding a data stream provides for a better performing and higher quality wireless endoscopic camera system capable of generating images at varying resolutions. Use of a short-range, high-performance wireless technology, such as Ultrawideband (UWB), improves the performance capabilities of the system, while minimizing power consumption and extending battery life. Implementations of error correcting codes, as well as the use of multiple transmitting and receiving antennas, further improve the fidelity of the wireless communication. | 12-05-2013 |
20130316949 | Compositions and Methods for Minimally-Invasive Systemic Delivery of Proteins Including TGF-Beta Superfamily Members - The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for systemic delivery of minimally-soluble bioactive agents such as, but not limited to, proteins of the TGF-β superfamily. According to the invention, an exemplary bioactive agent is BMP-7 The invention further provides for minimally-invasive systemic treatment of skeletal disorders such as osteoporosis as well as minimally-invasive systemic treatment of injured or diseased non-mineralized tissues and organs such kidneys. Practice of the invention eliminates adverse side effects at the site of intravascular delivery of the bioactive agent. | 11-28-2013 |
20130310866 | SURGICAL HANDPIECE WITH A COMPACT CLUTCH - A surgical handpiece with a rotating spindle for receiving the coupling head of a surgical attachment or a cutting accessory. A gear train has plural drive heads that simultaneously rotate at different speeds. A clutch assembly has pins that move along the length of the spindle. The clutch assembly sets the position of the pins so they will engage one of the drive heads. The spindle rotates with the drive head with which the clutch pins are engaged. | 11-21-2013 |
20130247286 | PERSONAL PROTECTION SYSTEM WITH A FAN THAT INCLUDES CURVED BLADES - A personal protection system with a hood and a helmet that is worn under the hood. Internal to the helmet is a fan that draws air into the hood. The fan has blades that are curved along their longitudinal axes. | 09-26-2013 |
20130245629 | SURGICAL DRILL WITH DRIVE SHAFT AND DRILL BIT THAT, AFTER DISENGAGING THE DRILL BIT FROM THE DRIVE SHAFT, ALLOWS THE DRILL BIT TO BE DRIVEN IN REVERSE - A chuck assembly for use with a surgical drill. The chuck assembly is configured to receive a drill bit. The chuck assembly includes an input drive shaft and a linear clutch coupled to the input drive shaft. The linear clutch has an inner coupler. The linear clutch transfers rotary motion from the input drive shaft to the inner coupler when the inner coupler is exposed to a displacing force that causes the inner coupler into engagement with the input drive shaft. A rotary clutch is coupled to the input drive shaft. The rotary clutch has an outer coupler. The rotary clutch transfers rotary motion from the input drive shaft to the outer coupler only when the input drive shaft rotates in a reverse direction. | 09-19-2013 |
20130227787 | PATIENT SUPPORT - The present invention provides a patient support that can be configured in an expanded configuration, for example to accommodate larger patients, and then reconfigured to a more compact configuration to ease maneuverability of the patient support through constricted passageways in a facility and/or to provide a low height patient support. Further, the present invention provides a barrier around the patient support surface which includes a panel that allows a patient to see through the barrier and which is optionally adaptable to change its transparency and/or color. | 09-05-2013 |
20130219628 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS - A patient support apparatus is provided. The patient support apparatus includes a plurality of therapeutic devices including a rotation device and a percussion-vibration device for carrying out rotation, percussion, and vibration therapy for a patient. The patient support apparatus includes a control system for controlling operation of the plurality of therapeutic devices. The control system comprises a touch-screen display segmented into a main menu portion and a data window portion. The therapeutic functions are represented by touch selectable buttons on the main menu portion. When any of these buttons are selected, a plurality of adjustable operating parameters appears in the data window portion. At the same time, the buttons corresponding to the therapeutic functions in the main menu portion remain visible such that an operator can easily select another therapeutic function. A method of tracking the therapeutic functions performed is provided. A rotation monitoring system and temperature control system of the patient support apparatus are provided. A display activation system is also provided. | 08-29-2013 |
20130206670 | Manifold Assembly with Tangential Intake Port - A manifold assembly ( | 08-15-2013 |
20130205507 | CUSHION BLADDER WITH MIDDLE LAYER HAVING GAPS AND VARIOUS POSITIONED INTERIOR WELDS - A cushioning device has two materials that are sealed together at their peripheral edges to form first and second sides and first and second ends. Positioned between the first and second materials is a middle material. The middle material has the top and bottom sides, a gap between the first side and the middle material and another gap between the second side and the middle material. In addition, the first material is sealed to the middle material's top side by a first set of interior welds. The second surface is sealed to the middle material's bottom surface by a second set of interior welds. The first set of welds on the middle material's top surface and the second set of welds on the middle material's bottom surface are not superimposed on each other or overlap each other. | 08-15-2013 |
20130205501 | PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS AND CONTROLS THEREFOR - A patient support apparatus system includes sensors adapted to sense a gesture of a person, or forces exerted by the person on the patient support apparatus, and to control the movement of a component of the patient support apparatus based on the gesture or forces. The movement of the patient support apparatus matches the direction of the person's gesture or applied forces. The speed of the gesture and magnitude of the applied force also influence the movement of the patient support apparatus component. The controlled movement may be the upward and downward motion of a patient support deck on the patient support apparatus, or it may be the pivoting of a section of the patient support deck, or it may be other movement. Control of the patient support apparatus is carried out based on the intent of the user, as evidenced by the user's gesture or applied forces. | 08-15-2013 |
20130190800 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - A device for bridging a neck of an aneurysm, comprises a junction region, one or more radially extending array elements secured to the junction region, each array element having an unfolded shape and a delivery shape; and a cover attached to the junction region, and extending over the delivery shape of the array elements, wherein each array element is attached at one end to the junction region and the array elements are constructed and arranged to unfold the cover when assuming their unfolded shape, and wherein the device further comprises a tip, and each array element is attached at another end to the tip, the tip comprising an opening through which a vaso-occlusive device or occlusion fluid may be delivered. | 07-25-2013 |
20130190236 | BMP-7 Variants with Reduced Immunogenicity - The invention is directed to bone morphogenetic proteins that have reduced immunogenicity. In particular, the invention is directed to human BMP-7 that has been modified to reduce immunogenicity through alteration of the amino acid sequence of wild-type BMP-7. | 07-25-2013 |
20130184743 | ELECTRICAL CONTACT FOR OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A delivery wire assembly for delivery of an occlusive device to a location in a patient's vasculature includes a delivery wire conduit having a proximal tubular portion coupled to a distal coil portion, the respective tubular and coil portions defining a conduit lumen. A core wire is disposed in the conduit lumen and having a distal end coupled to an occlusive device, wherein an elongate electrical contact body at least partially seated in the conduit lumen and coupled to a proximal end of the core wire, the electrical contact body and the proximal tubular portion forming a junction. A coil collar is disposed around the electrical contact body near the junction | 07-18-2013 |
20130184644 | BALLOON CATHETER AND METHOD OF USE - A balloon catheter includes an elongate support member defining first and second openings therein, open proximal and distal ends, and an axial lumen; and a balloon disposed on the elongate support member, the balloon defining a balloon interior through which the support member extends, where the balloon interior has a proximal end region, a middle region, and a distal end region, with the first opening located in the middle region, and the second opening located in the distal end region, such that the support member lumen is in communication with the balloon interior through each of the first and second openings, and such that a pressurized liquid introduced through the open proximal end of the support member will enter the balloon interior through the first opening, and subsequently exit the balloon interior through the second opening, back into the lumen, and out the open distal end of the support member. | 07-18-2013 |
20130174339 | PATIENT LIFT - The present invention provides a patient lift for transferring a person from a hospital bed to another patient support structure. The patient lift includes a mast, a boom, a stabilizer leg, and a coupler leg adapted to couple to the hospital bed. The boom is mounted to the top of the mast, and extends outwardly from a central vertical axis of said mast. In one aspect, the boom may rotate independently of the stabilizer leg about the central vertical axis while above the hospital bed and while within an angular distance of a side of the hospital bed. Once the boom moves past the angular distance, the boom and stabilizer leg may begin to rotate together about the central vertical axis. In another aspect, the boom is capable of being positioned in a stowed position above a footboard of the hospital bed. | 07-11-2013 |
20130172894 | SURGICAL SAGITTAL SAW CAPABLE OF ACTUATING A BLADE ASSEMBLY THAT INCLUDES A STATIC BAR AND A DRIVE ROD - A surgical sagittal saw capable of actuating an assembly that includes a static bar and at least one drive rod and a blade head, both of which are pivotally mounted to the bar. The saw includes a receiving surface on which the blade assembly bar is seated. A clamp removably holds bar in a static position against the receiving surface. The saw includes at least one drive pin. When the bar is mounted to the plate, the drive pin engages the assembly drive rod. A motor is connected to the drive pin to oscillate the pin. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172254 | Buffers for Controlling the pH of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins - The present invention provides formulations of cysteine knot proteins, including TGF-β superfamily proteins and bone morphogenic proteins that are pH stabilized. In particular, the present invention relates to the observation that certain buffers enhance the stability of cysteine knot proteins, including TGF-β superfamily proteins and bone morphogenic proteins. In particular, disclosed herein are liquid and lyophilized formulations prepared with a glycylglycine and tartaric acid buffers to stabilize the pH of the formulation. | 07-04-2013 |
20130158592 | EMBOLECTOMY CAGE - An embolectomy cage having an elongate axis and a circumference comprises a plurality of paired, closely spaced, substantially parallel, elongate members collectively defining a plurality of open cells, wherein individual elongate members of the pairs are connected at nodes located between respective pairs of axially adjacent cells and circumferentially adjacent cells, and wherein at least one elongate member spans each node without forming a connection to another elongate member. | 06-20-2013 |
20130150295 | Sustained-Release Formulations Comprising Crystals, Macromolecular Gels, and Particulate Suspensions of Biologic Agents - The present invention is directed to sustained release formulations of biologic agents which permit persistent bioavailability. Preferred biologic agents include bone morphogenetic proteins. Diseases susceptible to amelioration and/or treatment with the formulations of the present invention include skeletal tissue diseases such as, but not limited to, osteoarthritis and other osteochondral diseases. The sustained release formulations of the present invention are especially suitable for treatment of minimally-vascularized or non-vascularized tissue sites such as, but not limited to, intrajoint, interarticular, or intraminiscal sites. | 06-13-2013 |
20130149294 | OSTEOGENIC DEVICES AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF FOR REPAIR OF ENDOCHONDRAL BONE, OSTEOCHONDRAL AND CHONDRAL DEFECTS - Disclosed herein are improved osteogenic devices and methods of use thereof for repair of bone and cartilage defects. The devices and methods promote accelerated formation of repair tissue with enhanced stability using less osteogenic protein than devices in the art. Defects susceptible to repair with the instant invention include, but are not limited to: critical size defects, non-critical size defects, non-union fractures, fractures, osteochondral defects, subchondral defects, and detects resulting from degenerative diseases such as osteochondritis dessicans. | 06-13-2013 |
20130149064 | ENERGY ABSORBING FASTENING SYSTEM - A fastening system includes an energy absorbing or impact indicator and at least one or more of the following: (1) a fastening base for mounting in an emergency vehicle, (2) a patient support engageable with a base, (3) a patient securement mechanism for securing a patient on a patient support, (4) a patient securement mechanism for securing a patient to a vehicle, (5) a patient support securement mechanism operable to secure a patient support in an emergency vehicle, or (6) a patient support securement mechanism operable to secure a patient support to a base, wherein the energy absorbing or impact indicator is located (1) at the patient securement mechanism, or (2) at the patient support securement mechanism, or wherein the energy absorbing or impact indicator is between (1) the base and the vehicle, (2) the patient support and the base, (3) the patient securement mechanism and the patient support, (4) the patient support and the emergency vehicle, (5) the patient and the emergency vehicle, or (6) the patient securement mechanism and the emergency vehicle, wherein the energy absorbing device or impact indicator has at least an energy absorbing state and a rigid state or indicates a level of impact at or between any of the respective component or components. | 06-13-2013 |
20130144267 | REINFORCED ELONGATE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - An elongate medical device includes an elongate core and a substantially flat sheet formed into a tubular body defining a longitudinal axis and disposed around at least a portion of the elongate core, where the flat sheet has a length, and where a cross-sectional thickness of the sheet varies along the length of the sheet. The tubular body has proximal and distal portions, and a cross-sectional thickness of the sheet forming the distal portion of the tubular body may be less than a cross-sectional thickness of the sheet forming the proximal portion of the tubular body. A cross-sectional thickness of the sheet forming the tubular body preferably tapers from the proximal portion to the distal portion. | 06-06-2013 |
20130140789 | WHEELED CHAIR WITH LEG RESTS - A leg rest for a patient transport device, such as a wheeled chair, bed, stretcher, cot, or the like, is movable between a stowed position underneath a seat and a use position extending forwardly from the seat. The leg rest includes a latch and a handle for releasing the latch. The latch is adapted to automatically retain the leg rest in whichever of the use and stowed positions it currently is in. Pulling on the handle releases the latch and allows the leg rest to be moved between the use and stowed positions. The leg rest includes a pad that is positioned, when the leg rest is in the use position, to contact a patient's calf. The leg rest is configured to both pivot about a pivot axis and to have two different sections that translate with respect to each other. | 06-06-2013 |
20130140788 | WHEELED PATIENT SUPPORT WITH FOOT RESTS - A wheeled chair for transporting patients includes a plurality of footrests for supporting a patient's feet thereon. Each footrest is pivotable between an up position and a down position, and includes a biasing mechanism for biasing the footrest toward the up position, or the down position, or whichever of the two positions the footrest is currently closer to. A swing mechanism swings the footrests from a use position in front of the seat to a stowed position alongside the seat. A trigger, such as a button, automatically activates the swinging. The swinging may take place about a vertical axis that is common to the axis about which the front caster wheels swivel. Pivot extensions may be included on the footrests that provide a tool for enabling a caregiver to manually pivot the footrest between the up and down positions with his or her foot. | 06-06-2013 |
20130140783 | BRAKES FOR MOBILE MEDICAL DEVICE - A brake system for a medical device, such as a cot, stretcher, bed, wheeled chair, or other medical device, includes a pin and toothed wheel arrangement wherein the selective insertion of a pin between teeth on the toothed wheel brakes the system, while the removal of the pin from between the teeth unbrakes the system. Multiple pins may be used with a single toothed wheel wherein the pins are offset from each other relative to the teeth so that, when one pin is inserted between teeth, the other pin is at least partially blocked from being inserted between the teeth. This effectively increases the resolution of the toothed wheel. The toothed wheel may be axially spaced from wheel(s) that roll on the ground. When so spaced, the toothed wheel, and all of the braking components associated therewith, may be enclosed within a housing separate from the rolling wheel(s). | 06-06-2013 |
20130140782 | WHEELED CHAIR - A wheeled chair for transporting patients includes a frame, a seat, a plurality of wheels, and a plurality of armrests. The armrests are pivotable about a common pivot axis that is oriented generally horizontally and that is positioned underneath the seat and forward of a back support. Each armrest may include a locking mechanism for holding the armrests in a use position. When locked in the use position, a user may apply an upward force on the armrests to lift the chair upwardly that does not cause pivoting of the armrests. The chair is designed to allow nesting with other chairs of similar design. The front wheels may be positioned laterally apart a greater distance than the rear wheels to allow a first chair to nestingly receive a rear portion of a second chair. Foley hooks may also be included on the chair for hanging a Foley catheter bag. | 06-06-2013 |
20130140780 | POLE AND TOPPER FOR MOBILE MEDICAL DEVICE - A wheeled medical device—such as a cot, stretcher, bed, wheeled chair, or other medical device—includes a pole on which is mounted a removable topper. The topper may include a plurality of IV hooks used to support an IV bag. The hooks may be defined in an endless ribbon that is circular, or that is another closed shape. No prongs, hooks, or other projections extend outwardly from the topper, thereby reducing the potential dangerousness of accidental impacts with the topper. Whether the topper includes hooks or not, it may also be used as an information communication medium, such as through the use of colors, shapes, or other structures that signify certain information. The information may identify characteristics of the patient associated with the medical device or characteristics of the medical device itself, or still other information. | 06-06-2013 |
20130140779 | BOTTLE HOLDER FOR MOBILE MEDICAL DEVICE - An oxygen, or other type of, bottle holder is attached to a medical device and includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion includes a cylindrical recess into which the bottom of the bottle is inserted. The upper portion includes a clamp that may include either a movable arm or movable fingers. The movable fingers pivot about a common pivot axis and are retractable into, and extendable out of, a housing. The movable arm includes different sections with different levels of curvature. A trigger may be included that automatically opens the clamp upon the insertion of the bottle therein, as well as automatic closing of the clamp thereafter, thereby relieving the user from having to manually manipulate the clamp for it to secure the upper end of the bottle. The device may be wheeled chair, cot, stretcher, bed, or other device that holds an oxygen bottle. | 06-06-2013 |
20130131680 | SURGICAL SAGITTAL SAW BLADE WITH A BIASING ASSEMBLY THAT URGES THE BLADE ASSEMBLY USED WITH THE SAW AWAY FROM THE SAW HEAD - A surgical sagittal saw for use with a complementary blade assembly that includes a static bar. The saw includes a head over which the blade assembly bar is seated. A biasing member mounted to the saw head normally places a force of the blade assembly bar that urges the bar away from the blade head. A coupling assembly releasably holds the blade assembly bar in the static state to the saw head. When the coupling assembly is in the run state, holding the blade assembly to the saw head, the coupling assembly does so in opposition to the force the biasing assembly exerts against the blade assembly bar. During the process of removing the blade assembly from the saw, the force of the biasing assembly assists in the removal of the blade assembly bar from the saw head. | 05-23-2013 |
20130117959 | CLEANING SYSTEM AND EQUIPMENT THEREFOR - A cleaning system includes a housing with a reservoir for holding waste, with the reservoir in fluid communication with a suction line, a pumping station for receiving waste from the reservoir, and a cleaning component for cleaning one or more surfaces on the housing or the station either automatically or based on an actuation signal input by a user. | 05-16-2013 |
20130117936 | Medical Equipment with Antimicrobial Components and/or System - A patient support includes a patient support surface, a barrier adjacent the patient support surface, with a portion of the barrier or patient support surface including at least one material suspended therein, applied thereto, or embedded therein having an antimicrobial property, and an energy generation system directing energy to the portion or another portion of the barrier or patient support surface, the energy comprising a current, a field, heat, sound waves, or light to provide antimicrobial treatment to the portion or the other portion. | 05-16-2013 |
20130116659 | MEDICAL DEVICE WITH BI-COMPONENT POLYMER FIBER SLEEVE - An elongate medical device having a longitudinal axis and a surface; and a continuous, helical bi-component fiber wound around at least a portion of the surface of the medical device along its longitudinal axis, wherein the bi-component fiber has a cross-section with a generally flattened side and an inner core encased in a sheath, and wherein the inner core is aligned about the medical device. | 05-09-2013 |
20130113057 | FORCE SENSING SHEET - A force sensing array includes multiple layers of material that are arranged to define an elastically stretchable sensing sheet. The sensing sheet may be placed underneath a patient to detect interface forces or pressures between the patient and the support structure that the patient is positioned on. The force sensing array includes a plurality of force sensors. The force sensors are defined where a row conductor and a column conductor approach each other on opposite sides of a force sensing material, such as a piezoresistive material. In order to reduce electrical cross talk between the plurality of sensors, a semiconductive material is included adjacent the force sensing material to create a PN junction with the force sensing material. This PN junction acts as a diode, limiting current flow to essentially one direction, which, in turn, reduces cross talk between the multiple sensors. | 05-09-2013 |
20130111664 | WHEELED CARRIAGE WITH BRAKE LOCK SYSTEM - A wheeled carriage for supporting a patient has a wheeled base having frame members supporting a plurality of caster wheel assemblies and a braking system. A moveable brake lock assembly, a brake lock actuator, and a swivel lock receiver are operatively connected to one of the caster wheel assemblies to define a locking caster wheel assembly. The brake lock assembly comprises an actuating member, a swivel lock member, and a brake member that are interconnected as a unit for simultaneous movement. The brake lock actuator is operable to selectively move the brake lock assembly into an engaged position via engagement with the actuating member such that the swivel lock member engages the swivel lock receiver and the brake member contacts a wheel of the locking caster wheel assembly thereby preventing rotation and swiveling of the wheel. | 05-09-2013 |
20130091961 | PRESSURE SENSING MAT - A pressure sensing sheet includes at least first, second, and third layers wherein the first and third layers each have conductive paths defined therein that are separated by nonconductive spacers. The orientation of the conductive paths of the first layer are transverse to the orientation of the conductive paths of the third layer. The second layer is made of material that has an electrical characteristic that changes with applied pressure, such as, but not limited to, piezoresistive or piezoelectric material. The first and/or third layers are made from multi-material sheets wherein a first type of material will repel conductive particles when subjected to an autocatalytic coating process, while the second type of material will bond with the conductive particles during the autocatalytic coating process. The use of different materials in the first and/or third layers facilitates the manufacturing of the conductive paths and nonconductive spacers. | 04-18-2013 |
20130091631 | Patient Support Apparatus With In-Room Device Communication - A patient support system includes a patient support apparatus—which may be a bed or the like—and one or more mobile electronic tags that are positionable in the room and which communicate wirelessly with the patient support apparatus. The electronic tags are attached to one or more of a patient, a medical device, or a caregiver. After detecting the tag(s), the patient support apparatus implements one or more patient care protocols, and provides alerts if the protocols are violated. The implementation may be automatic or require caregiver confirmation. The protocols can be for fall prevention, bed sore prevention, pneumonia prevention, caregiver hand washing, dialysis, and/or other purposes. The patient support apparatus determines the protocol(s) based on one or more of the following: the type of medical device, the specific patient, the presence or absence of the caregiver, and/or information transmitted to, or input into, the patient support apparatus. | 04-18-2013 |
20130090661 | DELIVERY GUN FOR DISPENSING BONE BEMENT FROM A CARTRIDGE, THE GUN HAVING A MULTI-LINK LINKAGE AND CAPABLE OF DISPENSING THE CEMENT AT DIFFERENT FLOW RATES - A delivery gun for discharging bone cement from a cartridge that includes a piston. The gun has a casing from which a drive rod and a disk extend. A drive assembly advances the drive rod and disk so that disk displaces the piston causing the discharge of cement. The drive assembly includes plural links that are pivotally connected to a trigger. The links are displaced in response to the manual displacement of a trigger. One of the links is configured to selectively engage the drive rod. When this particular link is engaged with the drive rod and displaced, the drive rod the drive rod is advanced at a first speed. When this link does not is not engaged with the drive rod, the drive rod is advanced by another link at a second speed. | 04-11-2013 |
20130076490 | LOCATION DETECTION SYSTEM FOR A DEVICE - A location detection system includes a device that is mobile for positioning at a location and has a unique device ID. The device also has circuitry for controlling one or more functions of the device and includes a network interface. A location transmitting device is provided that is spaced from the device for communicating a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the device to the device. The circuitry is operable to send device data, the unique device ID, and the unique location identifier from the device by way of the network interface. | 03-28-2013 |
20130066359 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE - A vaso-occlusive device includes a coil made from coil wire, wherein the coil wire includes a core containing a core material having a first electrical potential covered by a coating containing a coating material having a second electrical potential, wherein the second electrical potential is less than the first electrical potential. A method of manufacturing a vaso-occlusive device includes cladding a core with a magnesium containing coating to form a wire, wrapping the wire around a mandrel to form a coil, and heat-setting the coiled wire. A method of occluding a body cavity with a vaso-occlusive device includes delivering the vaso-occlusive device to a body cavity and inducing a reduction reaction in the body cavity and adjacent the vaso-occlusive device, wherein the reduction reaction reduces infections and promotes cell proliferation in the body cavity. | 03-14-2013 |
20130066180 | SYSTEM OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF SPACED APART DEVICES AND A COMMON BUS OVER WHICH POWER AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ARE DISTRIBUTED TO THE DEVICES - A system implantable components ( | 03-14-2013 |
20130062446 | BONE MILL INCLUDING A BASE AND A MILL HEAD SEPARATE FROM THE BASE, THE BASE INCLUDING A BIASING MEMBER THAT URGES THE MILL HEAD AWAY FROM THE BASE - A bone mill including a base and a mill head that is removably attached to the base. A cutting disc is moveably disposed in the mill head. A motor is disposed in the base. A spindle attached to the motor releasably engages the cutting disk. The spindle is also capable of movement towards and away from the motor. A spring holds the mill head away from the motor. In some versions of the invention, the spring urges the spindle towards the cutting disc. The biasing force exerted by the spring urges the spindle into engagement with the cutting disc. A locking assembly releasably holds the mill head to the base in opposition of the force exerted by the spring. | 03-14-2013 |
20130061396 | PATIENT/INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT - A patient support for supporting a patient includes an inflatable mattress defining a support surface and a pneumatic system for inflating the inflatable mattress. The pneumatic system includes a pressurized reservoir for holding pressurized air and selectively releases pressurized air from the reservoir to the mattress. | 03-14-2013 |
20130060278 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT INCLUDING HOUSING, A CUTTING ACCESSORY THAT EXTENDS FROM THE HOUSING AND ACTUATORS THAT ESTABLISH THE POSITION OF THE CUTTING ACCESSORY RELATIVE TO THE HOUSING - An instrument for treating tissue during a medical procedure includes a hand-held portion and a working portion. The hand-held portion is manually supported and moved by a user and the working portion is movably coupled to the hand-held portion. A tracking device is attached to the hand-held portion for tracking the instrument. The tracking device is in communication with a control system, which is used to keep the working portion within or outside of a boundary. A plurality of actuators are operatively coupled to the working portion. The control system instructs the actuators to move the working portion relative to the hand-held portion during the medical procedure in order to maintain a desired relationship between the working portion and the boundary. | 03-07-2013 |
20130042414 | AIR INLET FOR PATIENT SUPPORT DEVICE - A method and apparatus for coupling and decoupling an air supply hose to an inflatable device. The inflatable device may be adapted to support a patient, such as an air mattress or an inflatable patient transfer mat that rides on an air cushion. The method and apparatus utilize an air inlet that normally assumes a flat orientation. The air inlet includes resilient members that allow the air inlet to flex out of the flat orientation in response to a compressive force. The compressive force changes the air inlet's orientation into a generally round orientation that is sized to accept an air supply hose. A collar on the air supply hose is able to frictionally engage an edge in the air inlet in order to prevent undesired removal of the hose from the inlet. Magnets may be used to help return the inlet to the flat orientation when not in use. | 02-21-2013 |
20130019883 | MULTI-POSITION LIMB HOLDER - A limb holder generally includes a limb holder assembly, a sled or yoke assembly, a pylon and support bar assembly, a clamp assembly, and a retractor assembly. A limb, such as a leg, is supported by the limb holder. The limb holder is supported by a sled which can move along a support bar that is supported by virtue of a mounting pylon. The mounting pylon is fixed in place by a clamp assembly, the clamp assembly being attached directly to a bed, table, or other patient support. The limb holder can also receive one or more retractor assemblies capable of retracting an incision, such that a user may manipulate a patient's limb during a procedure in which the use of retractors is desired. | 01-24-2013 |
20130018401 | Surgical tool system with quick release coupling assembly - A surgical tool system with a handpiece and a cutting accessory that has inner and outer hubs. The handpiece has a spring biased lock ring that abuts a complementary stop member integral with the accessory outer hub to hold the accessory to the handpiece. An RFID chip is disposed against an inner wall of the accessory outer hub. An elastomeric seal pressed against the inner wall of the accessory outer hub provides environmental protection for the RFID chip. The seal has a rib that extends around the outer perimeter of the proximal end of the outer hub so as to form a seal between the accessory and an adjacent inner wall of the handpiece. Stop tabs extend inwardly from the seal to prevent the drive hub disposed inside the outer hub from falling out. | 01-17-2013 |
20120330429 | PROSTHETIC IMPLANT AND METHOD OF IMPLANTATION - A prosthetic implant useful in a cementless application is disclosed. The implant may include a curved bone facing surface and one or more pegs or keels. Preferably, the implant is implanted on a bone surface that has been prepared so as to allow for a snap fit between the implant and the bone. | 12-27-2012 |
20120310270 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - In one embodiment, a neck bridge for bridging the neck of an aneurysm includes a junction region, a number of radially extending array elements attached to the junction region, and a cover attached to one or both of the junction region and an array element. The array elements are configured to be positioned within the aneurysm after the neck bridge is deployed from a delivery device. In a second embodiment, the neck bridge includes a junction region and a braided or mesh-like structure secured to the junction region. The braided or mesh-like structure is made from an elastic material. | 12-06-2012 |
20120303053 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICES WITH IN-SITU STIFFENING - A vaso-occlusive device includes a first coil made from a first substantially non-expansile material, and a second coil at least partially co-wound with the first coil and made from a second expansile material. The second coil has a contracted state and an expanded state, in which the second coil expands radially and/or longitudinally. The vaso-occlusive device has increased stiffness when the second coil is in its expanded state. | 11-29-2012 |
20120271344 | MEDICAL IMPLANT DETACHMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An implant assembly comprises an elongated pusher member, and an implantable device (e.g., a vaso-occlusive device) mounted to the distal end of the pusher member. The implant assembly further comprises an electrolytically severable joint disposed on the pusher member, wherein the implantable device detaches from the pusher member when the severable joint is severed, and a return electrode carried by the distal end of the pusher member (e.g., a coil disposed about the pusher member) in proximity to, but electrically isolated from, the severable joint. The implant assembly further comprises a terminal carried by the proximal end of the pusher member in electrical communication with the severable joint. | 10-25-2012 |
20120267910 | AMBULANCE COT AND LOADING AND UNLOADING SYSTEM - An ambulance cot loading and unloading apparatus includes a base for mounting to an emergency vehicle deck and an arm mounted for linear movement along the base, which is configured for engaging an ambulance cot. A drive mechanism is provided for raising the arm, which is configured in the presence of an applied force with a first magnitude on the arm to raise the arm at a first speed and in the presence of an applied force on the arm with a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude to raise the arm at another speed or speeds lower than the first speed. | 10-25-2012 |
20120259354 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE COIL DELIVERY SYSTEM - An occlusive coil delivery device includes an occlusive coil having a plurality of open pitched windings at a proximal end thereof, and a delivery wire assembly having a proximal tubular portion, a distal coil portion and a lumen, and a delivery wire adapter having a proximal end and a distal end. The delivery wire assembly having a delivery wire forming a first conductive path and extending through the lumen from a proximal end of the delivery wire assembly to a location distal of the distal coil portion, and a second conductive path formed by the proximal tubular portion and distal coil portion. The distal end of the adapter comprising a plurality of fingers configured to interface between adjacent open pitched windings of the proximal end of the occlusive coil, with the proximal end of the delivery wire adapter secured to a distal portion of the delivery wire. | 10-11-2012 |
20120235830 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR PATIENT HANDLING DEVICES - A patient handling device communication system enables patient handling devices, such as bed, cots, stretchers, and the like, to communicate with other patient handling devices. Communication from one or more patient handling devices may thereby be forwarded to other patient handling devices. Such information may also be forwarded to a healthcare communication network. The patient handling devices may form a mesh network for communicating information amongst themselves and/or to the healthcare communications network. | 09-20-2012 |
20120234105 | ELASTICALLY STRETCHABLE FABRIC FORCE SENSOR ARRAYS AND METHODS OF MAKING - Force or pressure transducer arrays have elastically stretchable electrically conductive polymer threads disposed in parallel rows and columns that contact at intersections thereof a piezoresistive material which has an electrical resistivity which varies inversely with pressure or force exerted thereon to form a matrix array of force or pressure sensor elements. The threads are fixed to a single one or pair of flexible elastically stretchable substrate sheets made of thin sheets of an insulating polymer such as PVC, or for greater elasticity and conformability to irregularly-shaped objects such as human body parts, an elastically stretchable fabric such as LYCRA or SPANDEX. Elastic stretchability of the sensor arrays is optionally enhanced by disposing either or both row and column conductive threads in sinuously curved, serpentine paths rather than straight lines. | 09-20-2012 |
20120232479 | BALLOON CATHETER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A tubular catheter support member comprises a plurality of annular segments stacked along a longitudinal axis of the catheter, and a plurality of beams connecting respective annular segments in the stack, wherein the beams meet the respective annular segments at oblique angles, and wherein the beams collectively form a helix around the longitudinal axis of the catheter. | 09-13-2012 |
20120226343 | STENT DELIVERY SYSTEM - A stent delivery system includes a delivery member, a frictional interfacing member disposed on a distal region of the delivery member, the frictional interfacing member comprising a plurality of perfusion channels, a self-expanding stent disposed over the respective frictional interfacing member and delivery member in a radially contracted configuration, and a sheath defining disposed over the respective self-expanding stent, frictional interfacing member, and delivery member, wherein the frictional interfacing member resists axial and/or rotational movement of the stent relative to the delivery member while the stent is in its radially contracted configuration, and wherein the perfusion channels permit fluid to flow from an interior region of the sheath proximal of the frictional interfacing member to an interior region of the sheath distal of the frictional interfacing member. | 09-06-2012 |
20120209310 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE DELIVERY SYSTEM - A vaso-occlusive device delivery system includes a delivery wire assembly having a core wire disposed in a delivery wire lumen, and a vaso-occlusive device having a tapered proximal end and defining a vaso-occlusive device lumen, wherein a tether is disposed in the lumen and secured to the core wire. A link may be attached to each of the core wire, the proximal end of the vaso-occlusive device, and the tether. Alternatively, the system may include a transition member attached to the vaso-occlusive device and secured to the core wire. | 08-16-2012 |
20120209309 | VASO-OCCLUSIVE DEVICE - A vaso-occlusive device includes a first wire having a first cross-sectional geometry and a second wire having a second cross-sectional geometry, where the first cross-sectional geometry is different from the second cross-sectional geometry. The first wire may be wound to form a first coil, where the second wire is wound to form a second coil defining a lumen therein, and where the first coil is disposed at least partially in the lumen. The first wire and the second wire may be co-wound to form a single coil. | 08-16-2012 |
20120176221 | LOCATION DETECTION SYSTEM FOR A PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE - A location detection system for a facility includes a patient handling device with a communication module with a unique ID, a locator fixed relative to the handling device for transmitting a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the handling device, and a receiver mounted to the patient device for receiving the unique location identifier. A processing station remote from the handling device and the locator receives the unique location identifier and the unique ID and further correlates the unique ID with a patient supported by the handling device wherein the processing station can track the handling device and the patient supported thereby such that the location of the patient and handling device can be determined and monitored remotely from the handling device. | 07-12-2012 |
20120172271 | WATER SOLUBLE BARRIER FILM CONFORMAL COATING COMPOSITION - An alkaline composition having a pH ranging from about 8.5 to about 10 comprising a first substantially hydrophilic nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant having an HLB value ranging from about 12 to about 15; a second substantially hydrophilic nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant having an HLB value ranging from about 16 to 20; a bio-film permeation agent; and an aqueous solvent, wherein a total amount of the first substantially hydrophilic nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant and the second substantially hydrophilic nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant in the alkaline composition ranges from about 2 to about 20 percent by weight of a total weight of the alkaline composition. | 07-05-2012 |
20120123466 | AXIALLY VARIABLE RADIAL PRESSURE CAGES FOR CLOT CAPTURE - A device for removing a blood clot from a lumen of a vessel, the device comprising a pusher and an expandable tubular cage fixedly engaged to the pusher. The tubular cage has a proximal end, a distal end, and a wall extending therebetween. The wall comprises a plurality of bands of cells axially arranged along the tubular cage, wherein one band of cells comprises at least one skiving cell having a cell wall with a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a central portion between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The central portion deforms radially inward in response to a radially applied force to a greater extent than the distal portion. | 05-17-2012 |
20120117730 | PATIENT SUPPORT WITH WIRELESS DATA AND/OR ENERGY TRANSFER - A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, cot, stretcher, gurney, surgical table, or the like, is disclosed that includes at least one form of wireless energy transfer and/or at least one form of wireless communication amongst its components. The wireless energy transfer may include the inductive transfer of electrical energy from the main body of the patient support apparatus to a mattress positioned thereon that uses electrical energy. Alternatively, the wireless energy transfer may include the inductive transfer or electrical energy from a stationary power station to the patient support itself. Or, the patient support apparatus may include both types of inductive energy transfer. The wireless communication may be between a controller on the main body of the patient support apparatus and a controller within, or coupled to, the mattress. | 05-17-2012 |
20120116494 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL ENDOPROSTHESIS DELIVERY SYSTEM - Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery systems and articles are provided. | 05-10-2012 |
20120102648 | PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE - A patient handling device, such as a bed, stretcher, cot, or the like, includes a deck on which a patient may lie and which is surrounded by siderails. Control panels may be mounted on the siderails in a staggered fashion to improve the ease of accessing the control panels. A handle assembly may be included near the top of the Fowler section of the deck which allows a pair of handles to be squeezed independently for manual pivoting of the Fowler section. Squeezing one handle does not increase the force required to subsequently squeeze the other handle. The pivoting of the Fowler section may also be carried out automatically through an electrical actuator. The raising of the deck may be carried out through an electrical pump that pumps hydraulic fluid, and which may be activated near the top end of the stroke of a reciprocating pedal. | 05-03-2012 |
20120101561 | STENT DELIVERY CATHETER WITH RAPID EXCHANGE CAPABILITIES - A stent delivery system having rapid exchange capabilities for delivering a self-expandable stent. The system includes a delivery catheter and a sheath positionable in the lumen of the delivery catheter. The delivery catheter includes an elongate shaft extending distally from a hub assembly. The elongate shaft includes a lumen extending therethrough and a guidewire port providing access to the lumen at a location intermediate the proximal and distal ends of the elongate shaft. The sheath is positionable in the lumen of the delivery catheter such that the sheath extends across the guidewire port to close off the guidewire port to allow a stent to be passed through the sheath from proximal of the guidewire port to distal of the guidewire port. | 04-26-2012 |
20120090089 | TRANSPORT APPARATUS - A transport apparatus includes a base, a sling, a support frame mounted to the base. The support frame extends over the base and is configured to move from a first position spaced above the base at a first height wherein the support frame may be extended over and proximate a support surface for engaging the sling when placed on the support surface to a second position spaced above a second height greater than the first height once engaged with the sling wherein when the support frame and the sling are raised to the second position the sling is raised above the support surface so that a person supported on the sling may be lifted off the support surface with the sling and moved away from the support surface by the base. Further, the sling may be rotatably mounted to the support frame to facilitate reorientation of the person. | 04-19-2012 |
20120075464 | VIDEO MONITORING SYSTEM - A monitoring system includes a camera adapted to capture images and output signals representative of the images. The camera may include one or more depth sensors that detect distances between the depth sensor and objects positioned within the field of view of the one or more cameras. A computer device processes the image signals and or depth signals from cameras and determines any one or more of the following: (a) whether a patient care protocol has been properly followed; (b) what condition a patient is in; (c) whether an infection control protocol has been properly followed; and (d) whether steps have been taken to reduce the risk of a patient from falling. Alerts may be issued if any conditions of importance are detected. | 03-29-2012 |
20120065576 | DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM - A drug delivery system including a chamber, which is configured for enclosing or covering at least a surface of a patient, a source of a drug and a pressure source, which selectively pressurizes the chamber. In addition, the system includes a controller for controlling the transfer of the drug to the chamber wherein the drug is administered to the surface of the patient under pressure. | 03-15-2012 |
20120035641 | Surgical Obturator - An obturator has an elongated shaft with a first shaft portion and a second shaft portion within an obturator housing. The distal end of the first shaft portion creates a first shield and the distal end of the second shaft portion creates a second shield. A blade having a piercing tip and cutting edges is interposed between the first shield and the second shield. In use, once the piercing tip passes the body wall, the first shield moves to cover the piercing tip and protect internal organs from accidental injury while the cutting edges continue to cut the body wall. Once the second shield passes through the body wall, the second shield moves to cover the cutting edges. | 02-09-2012 |
20120004171 | NOVEL THERAPIES FOR CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE - The present invention provides methods for the treatment, and pharmaceuticals for use in the treatment, of mammalian subjects in, or at risk of chronic renal failure, or at risk of a need for renal replacement therapy. The methods involve the administration of certain proteins of, or based upon, the osteogenic protein/bone morphogenetic protein (OP/BMP) family within the TGF-β superfamily of proteins. | 01-05-2012 |
20120002394 | DISPOSABLE ATTACHABLE LIGHT SOURCE UNIT FOR AN ENDOSCOPE - An LED based light source unit for an endoscopic imaging system produces illumination for a camera through an endoscope. The light source unit includes an array of LEDs mounted to a thermally conductive substrate, a light guide to collect light emitted from the LEDs and to couple the light into a group of optical fibers within the endoscope, and an interface to allow the light source unit to be removably attached to the endoscope at the endoscope's external light port. The LEDs therein may be overdriven by power for increased light output. When the LEDs reach their lifetime, the light source unit can be discarded. | 01-05-2012 |
20110314602 | BED SIDERAIL - A bed siderail has a vertical siderail extension, a horizontal siderail extension, or both. A bed siderail has dual vertical siderail extensions. A bed has gap fillers pivotally mounted to the headboard and/or footboard, either in the manner of a hinge, or by means of a dual axis pivot, to fill gaps between the headboard/footboard and a siderail. A bed siderail has pivotally mounted gap fillers directed toward the headboard, footboard, or an adjacent siderail. A bed has slidably mounted gap fillers. A bed siderail has pivotally mounted gap fillers, to fill a gap between the siderail and a mattress, the gap fillers being either gravity- or cam-activated, or being integrally formed in the siderail support arms. A bed siderail is rotatable from a deployed to a stowed position, and is simultaneously stowed close-into or underneath the bed frame. | 12-29-2011 |
20110301516 | PATIENT/INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT - A patient support for supporting a patient includes an inflatable mattress defining a support surface and a pneumatic system for inflating the inflatable mattress. The pneumatic system includes a pressurized reservoir for holding pressurized air and selectively releases pressurized air from the reservoir to the mattress. | 12-08-2011 |
20110296624 | PATIENT/INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT - A patient support for supporting a patient includes an inflatable mattress having at least one bladder forming at least part of a patient support surface, a pneumatic system for inflating the inflatable mattress, and a control system. The control system including at least one sensor, which includes an emitter and a receiver, with the emitter directing light into the bladder. The receiver receives a reflection from the light directed into the bladder, and the control system detects the immersion of a patient into the mattress based on the reflection received by the receiver. | 12-08-2011 |
20110296623 | PATIENT/INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT - A patient support for a patient includes an inflatable mattress with at least one inflatable bladder. The bladder comprises a top panel formed from a different material than its side wall panel or panels. | 12-08-2011 |
20110295308 | LASER-CUT CLOT PULLER - A device for removing blood clots and methods of making and using the same. The clot pulling device may include a first spine, a second spine disposed parallel to the first spine, and a basket disposed between and coupled to the spines. In addition, a pushing member may be coupled to the first spine and extend proximally therefrom. | 12-01-2011 |
20110291372 | MEDICAL CART - A cart includes a first frame and a second frame supported for vertical movement relative to the first frame between at least one raised position and at least one lowered position. The second frame is adapted to support at least one tray wherein the tray can be moved by the second frame between at least two elevations to facilitate access to or transfer of the tray from the second frame. | 12-01-2011 |
20110289691 | PATIENT/INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT - A patient support for a patient includes a mattress with at least one air operated component and a cushioning layer forming a patient support surface. The mattress has a recessed portion beneath the patient support surface at the foot end of the mattress with an enclosure housed in the recess. The enclosure houses therein at least one pump for directing air to the air operated component and a controller for operating the pump. The enclosure has a central section and two side sections, with each of the sections having an upper side. The side sections are located on opposed sides of the central section and at opposed sides of the mattress at the foot end. The upper side of the central section is recessed below the upper sides of the side sections wherein the depth of the cushioning layer at the foot end between the side sections is maintained generally constant at least along the central portion of the mattress extending from the head end to the foot end. | 12-01-2011 |
20110282378 | DETACHABLE ANEURYSM NECK BRIDGE - A device for bridging a neck of an aneurysm, comprises a junction region, one or more radially extending array elements secured to the junction region, each array element having an unfolded shape and a delivery shape; and a cover attached to the junction region, and extending over the delivery shape of the array elements, wherein each array element is attached at one end to the junction region and the array elements are constructed and arranged to unfold the cover when assuming their unfolded shape, and wherein the device further comprises a tip, and each array element is attached at another end to the tip, the tip comprising an opening through which a vaso-occlusive device or occlusion fluid may be delivered. | 11-17-2011 |
20110277242 | HOSPITAL BED - A patient support apparatus includes a deck, a plurality of side rails, a control panel, and a plurality of subsystems, such as a bed exit system that detects when a patient may exit from the support apparatus, or a lifting mechanism to raise and lower the deck. A controller is in communication with the control panel and is adapted to monitor conditions regarding the side rails and/or the other subsystems. At least one lamp is also provided on the patient support apparatus that is adapted to be illuminated in a first manner when a plurality of monitored conditions remain in a desired state, and in a second manner when at least one of the plurality of monitored conditions changes to an undesired state. | 11-17-2011 |
20110270298 | METHODS FOR DELIVERING A PROSTHESIS TO A SITE IN A BODY - An endoprosthesis cover may be attached to the distal end of a delivery device. The cover may be generally cylindrical in shape and may have a lumen through it. An endoprosthesis may then be covered as it is delivered to a treatment site. | 11-03-2011 |
20110258779 | HOSPITAL BED - A patient support incorporates a lying surface and at least one siderail on at least one side of the support. The siderails are operable between a raised position, an intermediate position, and a lowered position. The siderails are biased along a first range of motion by a first biasing member, and are biased along a second range of motion by a second biasing member. In the intermediate position, the siderails may define a gap through which a patient can ingress or egress the bed. In the raised and intermediate positions, the siderails may define gaps between each other and/or between the siderails and a headboard and footboard, that are sufficiently small to prevent accidental egress, and sufficiently large to prevent pinching and entrapment. | 10-27-2011 |
20110257093 | THERAPIES FOR ACUTE RENAL FAILURE - The present invention provides methods for the treatment, and pharmaceuticals for use in the treatment, of mammalian subjects in, or at risk of, acute renal failure, or subject to, or at risk of, inflammation, neutrophil-mediated cell damage, and apoptosis resulting from tissue damage or injury. The methods involve the administration of certain proteins of the osteogenic protein/bone morphogenetic protein (OP/BMP) family within the TGF-β superfamily of proteins. | 10-20-2011 |
20110245760 | SYSTEM FOR USE DURING DISCOGRAPHY TO WIRELESSLY TRANSMIT DATA FROM HAND-HELD FLUID DELIVERY DEVICE INSIDE STERILE FIELD TO DEVICE OUTSIDE STERILE FIELD - A fluid delivery device is provided for delivering fluid to a target site such as an intervertebral disc during discography. The fluid delivery device includes pressure and volume sensors to determine the pressure and the volume of the fluid delivered to the intervertebral disc. The fluid delivery device is hand-held during use and includes a syringe assembly having a plunger with threads that enables controlled discharge of the fluid from the fluid delivery device by rotating the plunger in a housing of the fluid delivery device. The fluid delivery device includes a communication module to wirelessly transfer data to an external device outside of a sterile field, while the fluid delivery device is in the sterile field. The fluid delivery device may also include a physiological sensor to monitor involuntary pain responses based on changing physiological parameters such as increases in body temperature or blood pressure. | 10-06-2011 |
20110231996 | HOSPITAL BED - A patient support apparatus includes a frame, with a barrier, and a patient support surface supported in the frame. The apparatus further includes a control system with a controller, which is incorporated into the surface or the frame, and which is in communication with at least one functional component associated with the surface or the frame for controlling or monitoring the functional component. The control system further includes a touch-screen display in communication with the controller for controlling the functional component, which is positioned in the barrier between the exterior and interior side of the barrier wherein the display is incorporated into the barrier and accessible at the exterior or interior side for access by a user. The display is configured to allow the user to select the functional component and control or monitor a function associated with the selected functional component and includes a touch-selectable icon at the display representative of a function associated with the selected component, and with the icon operable to adjust the function of the selected component. | 09-29-2011 |
20110218560 | EMBOLECTOMY DEVICE - An embodiment is a catheter comprising a first elongate shaft having a proximal end, a distal end and a first lumen therethrough, a wire having a proximal end and a distal end at least partially disposed in the first elongate shaft, the distal end extending distally from the first elongate shaft, and a motion control apparatus connected to the proximal end of the wire, further comprising a device attached to the distal end of the wire for changing the shape of an embolus, wherein the device is configured to change the shape of the embolus to unclog a distal catheter lumen. | 09-08-2011 |
20110213406 | ANCHOR ASSEMBLIES IN STRETCH-RESISTANT VASO-OCCLUSIVE COILS - Vaso-occlusive devices are provided for occluding an aneurysm within the human vasculature. The vaso-occlusive device also includes a stretch-resisting member that extends through at least a portion of a lumen of the primary coil and is directly or indirectly attached to the primary coil at two locations axially separated from each other to prevent or minimize axial stretching of the primary coil. At one location, the stretch-resisting member is coupled to the primary coil via a flexible anchor assembly disposed within the lumen. In one embodiment, the anchor assembly may comprise an anchor coil and a link directly or indirectly coupled between the anchor coil and the stretch-resisting member. Alternatively, the anchor assembly may comprise a chain of twisted links. | 09-01-2011 |
20110162141 | HOSPITAL BED - A method of actuating a manually operable brake on a caster wheel of a patient support apparatus to stop motion of the apparatus includes electrically coupling the control system of the patient support to an actuator at the patient support, generating actuating signals with the control system based on input at the patient support apparatus, transmitting the actuating signals to the actuator to thereby actuate the actuator to output a driving force, and mechanically coupling the driving force of the actuator with the manually operable brake to thereby actuate the manually operable brake and thereby brake the caster wheels. | 07-07-2011 |
20110160723 | BIPOLAR CANNULA FOR USE WITH AN ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY HAVING A SEPARATE SUPPLY ELECTRODE - An electrosurgical system preferably used for denervation procedures of nerve tissue has a control unit and a pluggable electrode assembly. The electrode assembly has a preferably disposable cannula and a preservable supply electrode assembly. The cannula has a tubular body that projects axially from a preferably pointed distal end for piercing tissue to a proximal end engaged to a first coupling assembly of the cannula. The body carries a first contact exposed directly to the nerve tissue and connected electrically to a terminal of the first coupling assembly. The supply electrode assembly has a second coupling assembly and a supply electrode that projects axially and removably into a through-bore of the body when the tool is in an operating state. The second coupling assembly carries a terminal that abuts the first coupling assembly when the coupling assemblies are mated. Preferably the supply electrode carries a temperature sensor for temperature measurement of the targeted tissue and processing by the control unit. Preferably, the electrode assembly also includes a stylet having a rod that fits into the through-bore of the body when the supply electrode assembly is removed and the tool is in a tissue penetrating state. | 06-30-2011 |
20110144548 | PATIENT SUPORT WITH IMPROVED CONTROL - A patient support apparatus includes a frame, a patient support surface supported in the frame, and a plurality of functional components associated with the patient support surface or the frame. The apparatus further includes a control system, with a controller, incorporated into the patient support surface or the frame and in operative communication with at least one of the functional components for controlling the component. The control system further includes a touch-screen in communication with the controller for controlling the functional component, which is positioned in the barrier around the patient support surface, and accessible at the exterior or interior surface of the barrier for access by a user. The touch-screen is configured to allow the user to select one or more of the functional components and control a parameter associated with the selected functional component. In addition, an icon is generated at the touch-screen representative of the parameter associated with the selected functional component, and with icon changing in response to the user adjusting the parameter associated with the selected functional component wherein the change in the icon gives the user feedback on the degree of change made by the user to the parameter associated with the selected functional component. | 06-16-2011 |
20110104373 | METHOD OF CLEANING CONTAMINATED SURFACES - A method for cleaning contaminated surfaces of surgical waste management equipment. The method includes rinsing surfaces of the equipment with water to remove water soluble contaminants and waste material. A rinse solution is applied to the surfaces of the equipment to provide a residual film thereon. The rinse solution includes a first nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant having an HLB value ranging from about 12 to about 15, a second nonionic alkoxylated alcohol surfactant having an HLB value ranging from about 16 to 20, an aqueous solvent, and a bio-film permeation agent. A total of the first surfactant and the second surfactant in the composition ranges from about 2 to about 20 percent by weight of a total weight of the composition. | 05-05-2011 |
20110092890 | MICROCLIMATE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A microclimate management sheet, for placing against a person's body, includes a flexible generally fluid impermeable first layer, a flexible generally fluid impermeable second layer with a gas permeable region for facing a patient's body. The first layer is joined with the second layer in a manner to form a chamber between the first layer and the second layer. An inlet operative to be in fluid communication with a supply of gas and in fluid communication with the chamber is provided for delivering a gas to the chamber, with the gas permeable region for directing the gas the patient's body. | 04-21-2011 |
20110087416 | SPEED CONTROL FOR PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE - A patient handling device, such as a bed, stretcher, cot, or the like, includes a motor for driving one or more wheels to assist in the movement of the device. At least one proximity sensor is positioned on the device in order to detect the presence of one or more objects that may lie in the path of the device when it moves. A controller on the device determines the distance between itself and the object and automatically controls the speed of the device in a manner designed to reduce the likelihood of a collision and/or to mitigate the impact of a collision. The automatic speed control of the device may follow one or more predetermined profiles that correlate certain parameters, such as a distance to the object or relative velocity, with a maximum acceptable speed of the device. | 04-14-2011 |
20110083272 | PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE - A patient handling device, such as a bed, stretcher, cot, or the like, includes a deck on which a patient may lie and which is surrounded by siderails. Control panels may be mounted on the siderails in a staggered fashion to improve the ease of accessing the control panels. A handle assembly may be included near the top of the Fowler section of the deck which allows a pair of handles to be squeezed independently for manual pivoting of the Fowler section. Squeezing one handle does not increase the force required to subsequently squeeze the other handle. The pivoting of the Fowler section may also be carried out automatically through an electrical actuator. The raising of the deck may be carried out through an electrical pump that pumps hydraulic fluid, and which may be activated near the top end of the stroke of a reciprocating pedal. | 04-14-2011 |
20110080016 | AMBULANCE COT AND LOADING AND UNLOADING SYSTEM - An ambulance cot loading and unloading apparatus includes a base for mounting to an emergency vehicle deck and an arm mounted for linear movement along the base, which is configured for engaging an ambulance cot. A drive mechanism is provided for raising the arm, which is configured in the presence of an applied force with a first magnitude on the arm to raise the arm at a first speed and in the presence of an applied force on the arm with a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude to raise the arm at another speed or speeds lower than the first speed. | 04-07-2011 |
20110056017 | PATIENT TRANSFER DEVICE - A patient transfer device includes a mat, with an upper side and a gas permeable lower side. The mat includes a chamber between its upper and lower sides, which is operable to be in fluid communication with an air source such that when air flows into the mat, the air will flow into the chamber and through the gas permeable lower side to form an air film between the mat and a surface on which the mat is supported at its lower side. In addition, the lower side of the mat is substantially planar when the mat is inflated. A system for controlling the inflation of the mat may be used that automatically adjusts for the inflation of the mat during patient transfer. | 03-10-2011 |
20110004979 | MEDICAL/SURGICAL PERSONAL PROTECTION SYSTEM INCLUDING A LIGHT ASSEMBLY ARRANGED SO THAT HEAT GENERATED BY THE ASSEMBLY IS EXHAUSTED AWAY FROM THE ASSEMBLY - A personal protection system for providing a sterile barrier around medical/surgical personnel. The system includes a helmet over which a hood or a toga suspended. Integral with the helmet is a ventilation fan. The helmet also includes a light assembly for illuminating the surgical field. The helmet includes a front nozzle from which air from the ventilation fan is discharged. The light assembly is mounted to the helmet and is located below the front nozzle. Air discharged from the front nozzle blows heat generated by the light assembly away from the light assembly. In some versions of the invention, the light assembly includes a control arm connected to the light assembly for pivoting the light assembly. | 01-13-2011 |
20100291170 | NOVEL THERAPIES FOR CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE - The present invention provides methods for the treatment, and pharmaceuticals for use in the treatment, of mammalian subjects in, or at risk of chronic renal failure, or at risk of a need for renal replacement therapy. The methods involve the administration of certain proteins of, or based upon, the osteogenic protein/bone morphogenetic protein (OP/BMP) family within the TGF-β superfamily of proteins. | 11-18-2010 |
20100287698 | TRANSPORT APPARATUS - A transport apparatus includes a movable base, a sling, and a support frame mounted to the base. The frame extends over the base and is configured to move from a position spaced above the base at a first height wherein the frame may be extended over and proximate a support surface for engaging the sling when placed on the surface to another position spaced at a height greater than the first height after engagement with the sling. The sling is adapted to be engaged by the frame, which provides lateral support to the sling, wherein when the frame and sling are raised to the greater height the sling is raised above the surface so that a person supported on the sling may be lifted off the surface with the sling and the frame and supported in a stabilized sitting position so that the person can moved away from the surface. | 11-18-2010 |
20100282666 | SINGLE PORT MANIFOLD - A manifold assembly for use in a medical waste collection device to direct fluid into the medical waste collection device while filtering material from the fluid. The assembly includes a manifold housing having a bottom and a wall extending upwardly from the bottom about a first axis. A support structure is disposed on the bottom and has a filter support surface spaced from the bottom to define a plurality of open spaces between the filter support surface and the bottom. The support structure has a ring defining an outer surface and spaced from the wall. At least one filter is supported by the filter support surface to filter the material from the fluid, the filter having a perimeter. A manifold cap is connected to the manifold housing to define a chamber therebetween, and an intake port is disposed on the manifold cap to direct the fluid into the chamber. An outlet port is disposed on the manifold housing, and a skirt is unitary with the cap and has an inner surface. The perimeter of the filter is trapped between the skirt inner surface and the support structure outer surface to prevent fluid received in the chamber from bypassing the filter as the fluid moves from the chamber to the outlet port. | 11-11-2010 |
20100228256 | SAGITTAL SAW BLADE WITH A STATIC BAR AND A MOVING DRIVE ROD AND BLADE CROWN, THE BAR HAVING SECONDARY OPENINGS - A surgical sagittal saw blade with a static blade bar shaped to be coupled to a sagittal saw. At least one drive rod extends through the bar. The drive rod is moveable within the blade bar. A blade crown, located outside the distal end opening of the blade bar is connected to the drive rod. The actuation of the drive rod by the saw results in the oscillation of the blade crown. Proximal to the distal end of the blade bar, the bar is formed with secondary openings. When the drive rod and blade crown are actuated, tissue entrained in the blade bar is discharged from the secondary openings. | 09-09-2010 |
20100209926 | METHODS FOR DETECTING NEUTRALIZING ANTIBODIES FOR BONE MORPHOGENETIC PROTEINS - The present invention relates to methods of detecting neutralizing antibodies for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP). More particularly, it relates to a highly specific, robust, rapid and accurate cell-based assay for detecting the presence of anti-BMP neutralizing antibodies. | 08-19-2010 |
20100146709 | PATIENT SUPPORT - A patient support includes a layer of fluid pressurized bladders, the bladders each having a chamber and an upwardly facing surface for facing and supporting a patient, and a cover over the layer of fluid pressurized bladders. Respective bladders in at least a group of the bladders each have a resilient body in its respective chamber to reform the shape of the respective bladder when a compression load on the respective bladder is removed wherein the pressure in the respective bladders is generally maintained without a powered supply of air. The cover has an upwardly facing patient surface and a bladder layer facing surface, with the patient surface for forming a patient support surface on the support, and the bladder layer facing surface for lying on the upwardly facing surfaces of the bladders. | 06-17-2010 |
20100117312 | MOTORIZED SLED FOR STAIR CHAIRS - A lightweight motorized and tracked sled for attachment to a variety of stair chairs is described. A power supply or power source provides power to a motor driving a track configured to engage a set of stairs. The motor and track can lift and support the stair chair and a patient thereon up or down one or more flights of stairs. The track driven by the motor has a length sufficient to simultaneously engage the lips or edges of a pair of sequential steps, but may be otherwise limited in length to reduce the weight of the track. To ensure that the sled and attached stair chair are stably supported while ascending or descending stairs, the sled may have rails, skis, or passive tracks having a length sufficient to ensure that the rails, skis, or passive tracks are always over the edge or lip of no fewer than two steps. | 05-13-2010 |
20100088119 | System and method for managing medical facility procedures and records - The invention facilitates the efficient administration of medical offices and patient records including visual coordination of room, patient, and task status indicators. The invention also enables improved document review and transcription management. | 04-08-2010 |
20100049152 | MEDICAL/SURGICAL WASTE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL SYSTEM INCLUDING A ROVER AND A DOCKER, THE DOCKER HAVING FEATURES FACILITATING THE ALIGNMENT OF THE DOCKER WITH THE ROVER - A waste collection and disposal system for use in health care facilities is provided. The system includes a mobile waste collection unit for moving between use areas in the health care facility to collect waste material generated during medical procedures including body fluids, body tissues, saline, etc. The waste collection unit includes stacked upper and lower waste containers for receiving the waste material. During use, the upper waste container can be emptied into the lower waste container for temporary storage. In addition, different vacuum levels can be provided in the waste containers during complex procedures. Once a user desires to empty the waste collection unit, the waste collection unit is wheeled to a docking station. At the docking station, the waste material is off-loaded to a waste drain and the waste collection unit is cleaned and rinsed for further use. | 02-25-2010 |
20090288254 | PATIENT SUPPORT BRAKE SYSTEM - A movable patient support includes a frame, a patient support surface supported at the frame, a base supporting the frame and having a plurality of bearing assemblies for moving the base along a floor surface. The support also includes a brake, a brake actuator for actuating the brake of at least one bearing assembly, and a brake bar coupled to the brake actuator. The brake bar is movable between a non-braking position and a braking position wherein the actuator causes the brake to move to its braking position. Further, the brake bar extends between the head end and the foot end of the frame and further has a portion extending outwardly from the brake actuator to at least close proximity to the bearing footprint defined by the bearing assemblies but within the frame footprint to thereby provide relatively easy access to the brake bar to an attendant standing adjacent one of the longitudinal sides of the frame. | 11-26-2009 |
20090255057 | PATIENT REPOSITIONING SYSTEM - A patient repositioning system includes a drive unit, which is adapted for mounting to a head end of a patient support, and a clamp assembly. The clamp assembly is mounted to a headboard, which releasably mounts to the drive unit. The clamp assembly is mounted in the headboard in a stowed position and is configured for deployment from the headboard for coupling to a panel on the patient support. The drive unit includes a housing and a winding assembly supported in and enclosed by the housing. The winding assembly includes at least one tether, which is adapted to couple to the clamp assembly when the headboard is mounted to the drive unit and when the clamp assembly is deployed from the headboard. The tether is further optionally adapted to decouple from the clamp assembly when the clamp assembly is moved to its stowed position in the headboard. | 10-15-2009 |
20090204683 | Systems and methods for remote viewing of patient images - A digital camera containing patient images is connected to an uploader computer and the patient's name or history is entered into the uploader computer. The uploader computer then connects to the Internet, connects to the secure host server, uploads the images to the host server and shuts down the Internet connection. After the physician selects a medical facility and the system verifies the physician's user I.D. and password, the host server constructs an HTML web page which includes a list of patients whose images were previously uploaded by the medical facility and are available for viewing The physician simply selects the name of a patient and the host server displays the patient information and images on the physician's computer. The system is password-protected at all levels and the operator for each medical facility determines who may have access to the medical facility images. | 08-13-2009 |
20090188042 | HOSPITAL BED - A patient support incorporates a lying surface and at least one siderail on at least one side of the support. The siderails are operable between a raised position, an intermediate position, and a lowered position. When unlocked and urged from the raised position to the intermediate position, a latching mechanism automatically locks the siderails in the intermediate position. When urged from the lowered position to the raised position, the locking mechanism permits the siderails to pass through the intermediate position without locking, and to subsequently lock at the raised position. In the intermediate position, the siderails may define a gap through which a patient can ingress or egress the bed. In the raised and intermediate positions, the siderails may define gaps between each other and/or between the siderails and a headboard and footboard, that are sufficiently small to prevent accidental egress, and sufficiently large to prevent pinching and entrapment. | 07-30-2009 |
20090178200 | EMERGENCY STRETCHER - A stretcher includes a patient support, a base, a plurality of support members supporting the patient support relative to the base, which are adapted and arranged to raise or lower the base relative to the patient support, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is actuatable between a locked position wherein the locking mechanism locks the support members at a fixed height and an unlocked position wherein the support members are released from being locked at the fixed height so that the base or the patient support may be moved relative to the other. Further, the locking mechanism is configured to provide a stop for the support members and absorb energy from the support members are release and the support members engage the stop. | 07-16-2009 |
20090178198 | EMERGENCY STRETCHER - A stretcher includes a patient support, a base, and a plurality of support members, which supports the patient support relative to the base. The support members are adapted and arranged to raise or lower the base relative to the patient support. The stretcher also includes a releasable locking link between the patient support and a fixable point at the base. | 07-16-2009 |
20090159535 | METHOD OF COLLECTING MEDICAL WASTE IN A WASTE COLLECTION UNIT USING DISPOSABLE MANIFOLD WITH STAGED WASTE FILTERING/PROCESSING - A method of collecting medical waste in a waste collection unit using a disposable manifold and filter assembly. The disposable manifold and filter assembly includes a manifold housing with a plurality of inlets, a neck extending from the manifold housing to define an outlet, and a filter basket disposed in the manifold housing. The method includes inserting the neck into the waste collection unit to direct the medical waste passing through the disposable manifold and filter assembly into the waste collection unit. Tubes are connected to the inlets of the manifold housing to provide a path for the medical waste to travel from a target site, e.g., a patient, to the manifold housing. A vacuum is drawn in the waste collection unit to pull the medical waste through the tubes and into the disposable manifold and filter assembly where the medical waste is processed/filtered in a plurality of stages. | 06-25-2009 |
20090085718 | Wireless hand-control of a device by means of a wirelss button - A system for providing wireless remote control over one or more devices. Included in the system is at least one wireless button that can be placed at various locations and which communicates with at least one sensor when the wireless button and sensor are brought within close proximity to one another. According to one embodiment, a wireless button can only be activated when the button is located within an authorized activation area. In another embodiment, a wireless button can only be activated by an authorized user. In yet a further embodiment, a wireless button can only be activated by an authorized user when the button is located within an authorized activation area. | 04-02-2009 |
20090048555 | DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM - A drug delivery system including a chamber, which is configured for enclosing or covering at least a surface of a patient, a source of a drug and a pressure source, which selectively pressurizes the chamber. In addition, the system includes a controller for controlling the transfer of the drug to the chamber wherein the drug is administered to the surface of the patient under pressure. | 02-19-2009 |
20090044339 | SHEARLESS PIVOT FOR BED - A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, or the like, includes a support deck with a head section pivotable between a generally flat orientation and a raised orientation. As the head section pivots from the flat orientation to an intermediate orientation, the pivot axis of the head section remains generally stationary. As the head section pivots from the intermediate orientation to the raised orientation, the pivot axis of the head section moves. The support deck may include an intermediate section attached to the head section wherein a foot end of the intermediate section moves linearly in a horizontal plane as the head section pivots from the intermediate orientation toward the raised orientation. | 02-19-2009 |
20090031498 | CPR DROP MECHANISM FOR A HOSPITAL BED - A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, or the like, includes a support deck having a plurality of pivotable sections adapted to support a patient thereon. A head section of the support deck generally supports a patient's torso and is movable between a generally horizontal orientation and a raised orientation. A CPR drop assembly allows the head section to be pivoted relatively quickly to the horizontal orientation in order to allow CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to be administered to the patient. The drop assembly may include a foot pedal having both a mechanical and electrical link to an actuator. The drop assembly may also be configured to operate in different manners depending upon the angular orientation of the head section at the time the drop assembly is initially activated. | 02-05-2009 |