| 11th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 53 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120065451 | PROCESS FOR THE REGENERATION OF A COPPER, ZINC AND ZIRCONIUM OXIDE-COMPRISING ADSORPTION COMPOSITION - The invention relates to a process for the regeneration of a copper-, zinc- and zirconium oxide-comprising adsorption composition after use thereof for the adsorptive removal of carbon monoxide from substance streams comprising carbon monoxide and at least one olefin, in which the adsorption composition is heated to a temperature in the range from 160 to 400° C. and a regeneration gas is passed through the adsorption composition, wherein the regeneration gas comprises 1000 to 3000 ppm of oxygen in an inert carrier gas. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065452 | PROCESS FOR THE ACTIVATION OF A COPPER-, ZINC- AND ZIRCONIUM OXIDE-COMPRISING ADSORPTION COMPOSITION - The invention relates to a process for the activation of a copper, zinc and zirconium oxide-comprising adsorption composition for the adsorptive removal of carbon monoxide from substance streams comprising carbon monoxide and at least one olefin wherein
| 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065453 | Counter Weapon Containment - A radioactive containment composition may be created for containing radionuclides from a radioactive material by mixing a clay mineral with water. This mixture may form an aqueous clay suspension, which in turn can be refined by filtering to remove coarse material. The aqueous clay suspension may be applied to a radioactive material, allowing the radionuclides to be exchanged with cations in the aqueous clay suspension. The resulting aqueous slurry may be collected, heated and analyzed. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065454 | TETHERED AND/OR VISUALLY CODED BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICES AND RELATED METHODS - Bracytherapy devices include a respective tether attached to a proximal end portion of the strands. The tether can be color-coded to match a color associated with the corresponding strand. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065455 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF REPAIRING OF NEURAL NETWORKS - A method and system for re-establishing a pathway in a damaged or severed neural network includes an imaging device, an alignment device and a treatment device. An accurate image of the damaged neural network is created. An alignment device imparts wave energy into a damaged region of the neural network to direct re-growth axons into a remaining endoneurial tube to direct axon growth back to the correct targets to re-establish the severed neural network. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065456 | PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE THROUGH ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD EXPOSURE - The invention includes a method of treating and preventing a neurological disorder, such as Alzheimer's Disease, in a subject in need thereof by positioning an electromagnetic field emitting source proximal to the subject and exposing the subject to an electromagnetic field having a predetermined frequency for a predetermined absorption period. Preferably, each individual treatment (comprising exposure to the predetermined frequency for the predetermined absorption period) is continued at a predetermined schedule (preferably daily) for a predetermined treatment period. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065457 | FLUID PRESSURE GENERATING MEANS - A fluid pressure generating means ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065458 | IMPLANTABLE DEVICE WITH COMMUNICATION MEANS - The invention relates to an implantable device, e.g. a Deep Brain Stimulation device ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065459 | ANGLED SURGICAL INTRODUCER - The invention describes a surgical introducer comprising a proximal tip portion and a distal tip portion, wherein each tip portion comprises a notch, a base portion comprising an angle, wherein the base portion is between the proximal tip portion and the distal tip portion and wherein the base portion is wider than the remainder of the introducer. The introducer can be used for insertion of arms of a urethral sling into a patient. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065460 | IMPLANTABLE ACCESS PORT SYSTEM - An implantable injection port comprises a base. A first gear is coupled to the base, and a first anchor is coupled to the first gear. A second gear is coupled to the base, and a second anchor is coupled to the second gear. A top portion of the injection port is spaced apart from the base of the port and has a first plurality of top teeth that engage with a first plurality of gear teeth on the first gear. This engagement occurs prior to rotation of the second gear. The top portion rotates, which causes rotation of the first gear, which in turn causes movement of the first anchor through the anchor opening of the base and into the tissue of the patient. The first gear and the second gear rotate non-simultaneously. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065461 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING SUTURES AND IMPLANTS - A medical device for the delivery of sutures and implants through tissue of a patient's body. The medical device includes a handle, an elongated shaft member, a needle carrier, and a slideable mechanism. A method of delivering a suture or an implant includes inserting and deploying a medical device including a handle, an elongated shaft member, a needle carrier, and a slideable mechanism into tissue of a patient's body. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065462 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TREATMENT OF VAGINAL ANTERIOR REPAIRS - An apparatus for repairing cystocele including an adjustable support member, a pair of superior support arms continuously knitted with said support member, and a pair of inferior support arms continuously knitted with said support member, wherein the distance between the pair of superior support arms and pair of inferior support arms can be increased or decreased by modifying the shape of the support member. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065463 | FORTIFIED MESH FOR TISSUE REPAIR - A mesh to repair a hole in a muscle wall includes a resilient mesh body and fortifying structure such as mesh portions of thicker weave than other portions, or strengthening members that can be engaged with the mesh and then removed from the mesh once the mesh is place over the hole. The same principles can be applied to a plug that is engaged with the mesh for filling the hole. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065464 | FLEXIBLE ACTUATOR MANDREL FOR TISSUE APPOSITION SYSTEMS - The invention provides devices, systems and methods for tissue approximation and repair at treatment sites. The devices, systems and methods of the invention will find use in a variety of therapeutic procedures, including endovascular, minimally-invasive, and open surgical procedures, and can be used in various anatomical regions, including the abdomen, thorax, cardiovascular system, heart, intestinal tract, stomach, urinary tract, bladder, lung, and other organs, vessels, and tissues. The invention is particularly useful in those procedures requiring minimally-invasive or endovascular access to remote tissue locations, where the instruments utilized must negotiate long, narrow, and tortuous pathways to the treatment site. In addition, many of the devices and systems of the invention are adapted to be reversible and removable from the patient at any point without interference with or trauma to internal tissues. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065465 | Method of Providing for the Minimization of Extravasation During Arthroscopic Surgery - The devices and methods shown provide for the minimization of extravasation during arthroscopic surgery. The extravasation minimization device allows a surgeon to drain excess fluids from the soft tissue surrounding the surgical field while also providing a stable surgical portal for arthroscopic surgical instruments. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065466 | Endoscopic Instrument - An endoscopic instrument includes a control wire having a push rod at its distal end and an end effector assembly having first and second effector elements such as scissors blades mounted on a clevis. The effector elements are operated by a cam-pin on the push rod riding in cam-slots defined in the effector elements. According to one aspect of the invention, the effector elements are symmetrically opened even when the push rod is canted relative to the clevis. According to another aspect of the invention, the effector elements can be rotated into a closed configuration that minimizes the distal dimension across the effector elements. In addition, the effector elements, when in the closed configuration, can rotate together to facilitate insertion of the end effector into an entry portion of an endoscope. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065467 | ROBOTIC CATHETER SYSTEM AND METHODS - The apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a flexible sheath instrument, a flexible guide instrument, and a tool. The flexible sheath instrument comprises a first instrument base removably coupleable to an instrument driver and defines a sheath instrument working lumen. The flexible guide instrument comprises a second instrument base removably coupleable to the instrument driver and is threaded through the sheath instrument working lumen. The guide instrument also defines a guide instrument working lumen. The tool is threaded through the guide instrument working lumen. For this embodiment of the apparatus, the sheath instrument and guide instrument are independently controllable relative to each other. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065468 | MULTI-VIEWING ELEMENT ENDOSCOPE - There is provided herein a tip section of a multi-viewing element endoscope, the tip section comprising: two or more side-pointing viewing elements positioned at or in proximity to a distal end of said tip section, wherein each of said two or more side-pointing viewing elements having a discrete illuminator associated therewith, wherein the field of view provided by the two or more side-pointing viewing elements covers a front and side views; a working channel configured for insertion of a surgical tool; and a pathway fluid injector for inflating and/or cleaning a body cavity into which the endoscope is inserted. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065469 | CATHETER WITH IMAGING ASSEMBLY - A catheter with an imaging assembly is disclosed. The catheter is used with a console for viewing and/or storing images obtained from the catheter. The catheter may be a feeding tube assembly. The imaging assembly on the feeding tube assembly allows a user to confirm placement of the feeding tube assembly in the patient's alimentary canal. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065470 | ROBOTIC SYSTEM TO AUGMENT ENDOSCOPES - A robotic system for steerable tip endoscopes includes a support arm, an endoscope gripping assembly rotatably connected to the support arm by a rotation assembly, and a translation assembly operatively connected to the support arm. The endoscope gripping assembly is configured to grip any one of a plurality of differently structured endoscopes, the translation assembly is configured to move the support arm along a linear direction to thereby move an endoscope when held by the endoscope gripping assembly along an axial direction, and the rotation assembly is configured to rotate the endoscope along a longitudinal axis of rotation. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065471 | INTRODUCER GUIDE - An introducer guide ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065472 | PROTECTIVE SHEATH - A protective sheath including a first portion configured to receive a medical instrument and a second portion configured to accommodate movement of a distal end of said medical instrument within the second portion. The second portion is movably coupled to the first portion. The protective sheath is configured to control contamination of the medical instrument when the medical instrument and the protective sheath are placed within a patient. The protective sheath also includes a tube configured to assist the medical instrument when the medical instrument and the protective sheath are placed within said patient. The tube is disposed along a length of the protective sheath. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065473 | DIGITAL OTOSCOPE - An otoscope includes an instrument head, a tip element and an optical system. The instrument head has a distal insertion portion for insertion into an ear of a human or veterinary subject. The distal insertion portion has a distal opening. The tip element is releasably attached to the distal insertion portion. The tip element has a distal opening. The optical system is contained within the instrument head. The optical system includes a plurality of optical components. The optical system further comprises a viewing component for viewing of an image of a target of interest aligned along an optical axis disposed within said distal opening. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065474 | HEMOSTASIS VALVE ASSEMBLY - A valve assembly ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065475 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT SURGERY - A system for performing vascular surgery includes a first retractor blade and a second retractor blade and a fulcrum device. The first retractor blade includes a first grasping bar, and the second retractor blade comprises a second grasping bar. The first retractor blade and the second retractor blade are adapted to engage opposing edges of a subcostal incision in a patient. The fulcrum device includes a first fulcrum slot and a second fulcrum slot formed through opposing edges of the fulcrum device. The first fulcrum slot is adapted to receive the first grasping bar and the second fulcrum slot is adapted to receive the second grasping bar, such that the fulcrum device is adapted to apply leverage from the first retractor blade and the second retractor blade to spread the edges of the incision and to allow access to a chest cavity of the patient. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065476 | SELF-EXAMINATION APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SELF-EXAMINATION - The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for a self-examination. And more particularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and a method providing examination guide information for the self-examination. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065477 | MEDICAL TELEMETRY SYSTEM AND MEDICAL TELEMETER - A medical telemetry system include: a transmitter which transmits a first signal; a first medical telemeter which transmits a second signal including biological information of a patient, the first medical telemeter which receives the first signal and which performs an operation corresponding to information included in the first signal; and a monitor apparatus which receives the second signal. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065478 | INTERACTIVE BIOSENSING DEVICE AND METHOD THEREOF - The present invention discloses an interactive biosensing device and a method thereof. The interactive biosensing device is arranged on a living body and comprises a physiological detection module detecting physiological signals of the living body; a physical sensation module triggering at least one physical device according to control instructions; a first wireless transmission module receiving control instructions or sends out physiological signals; a storage module storing physiological signals and control instructions; a video module capturing images of the living body; a control module processing physiological signals and control instructions and controlling operations of the video module; and a display unit presenting the images captured by the video module. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065479 | ULTRASOUND PATCH - A wearable patch is provided for use on the body which preferably comprises an ultrasound sensor array, a transmission system coupled to the ultrasound sensor array adapted to provide signal information for ultrasound transmission into the body, and a receiver system coupled to the ultrasound sensor array adapted to receive signal information from the reflected ultrasound signal received from the body. A control circuitry is coupled to the transmission system and the receiver system. The patch is preferably provided with a wireless communication system to permit external control and or communication. Applications range from diagnostics and monitoring, to rehabilitation and wound healing. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065480 | STRESS MONITOR SYSTEM AND METHOD - A stress monitoring method includes the steps of acquiring a plurality of individual readings of at least one physiologic data parameter over a period of time, storing the plurality of individual readings, determining the average of at least a portion of the plurality of individual readings, and comparing at least one individual reading to the average to identify any differences between the average and the at least one individual reading. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065481 | Navigation System for Cardiac Therapies - An image guided catheter navigation system for navigating a region of a patient includes an imaging device, a tracking device, a controller, and a display. The imaging device generates images of the region of the patient. The tracking device tracks the location of the catheter in the region of the patient. The controller superimposes an icon representing the catheter onto the images generated from the imaging device based upon the location of the catheter. The display displays the image of the region with the catheter superimposed onto the image at the current location of the catheter. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065482 | DETERMINATION OF BLOOD PUMP SYSTEM PERFORMANCE AND SAMPLE DILUTION USING A PROPERTY OF FLUID BEING TRANSPORTED - The present invention provides methods and apparatuses related to measurement of analytes, including measurements of analytes in samples withdrawn from a patient. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065483 | RTLS TAG, RTLS READER AND LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USING THE SAME - A livestock management system according to the embodiment includes an RTLS tag attached to a livestock to transmit analysis information of a blood gathered from the livestock and ID information dedicated for the RTLS tag, a reader transmitting the analysis information and ID information transmitted thereto from the RTLS tag to a server and transmitting a distance value with respect to the RTLS tag to the server upon a request of the server, and the server calculating a position of the livestock having the RTLS tag based on the distance value transmitted thereto from the reader and transmitting position information of the livestock and the analysis information of the blood to a client according to the position of the livestock. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065484 | Determination of a Measure of a Glycation End-Product or Disease State Using Tissue Fluorescence - A method of determining a measure of a tissue state (e.g., glycation end-product or disease state) in an individual. A portion of the tissue of the individual is illuminated with excitation light, then light emitted by the tissue due to fluorescence of a chemical with the tissue responsive to the excitation light is detected. The detected light can be combined with a model relating fluorescence with a measure of tissue state to determine a tissue state. The invention can comprise various light excitation and detection configurations. The invention also can comprise correction techniques that reduce determination errors due to detection of light other than that from fluorescence of a chemical in the tissue. Other biologic information can be used in combination with the fluorescence properties to aid in the determination of a measure of tissue state. The invention also comprises apparatuses suitable for carrying out the method. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065485 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NON-INVASIVELY DETERMINING OXYGEN SATURATION OF VENOUS BLOOD AND CARDIAC OUTPUT USING NIRS - A method and apparatus for determining a venous oxygen saturation value (SvO2) of a subject is provided. The method includes the steps of: a) sensing a plurality of tissue regions on a subject using a NIRS oximeter adapted to determine a tissue oxygen saturation value (StO2) for each region, each region independent of the other regions and each region sensed using a NIRS oximeter sensor specific to that region, and determining a StO2 value for that region; b) assigning a coefficient to each region, each of which coefficients reflects a portion of the StO2 value for the region attributable to a composite venous blood return representative of the tissue regions measured; and c) determining a composite SvO2 value for the subject using the StO2 region values and the respective coefficients. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065486 | DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING AND COMMUNICATING BIOMETRIC DATA OF A DIVER - A system and method for monitoring biometric data of a diver and signaling those data from a first communication device to other communication devices, e.g., those of other divers, on a ship or buoy. A signal generated from a device of the diver can generate a diver identifier, an indication of a stress state of the diver and the diver's location. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065487 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR REDUCING THE PAIN OF GLUCOSE MONITORING AND INSULIN ADMINSTRATION IN DIABETIC PATIENTS - The various embodiments disclosed herein are devices that deliver electrical stimulation and/or vibration stimulation to the surface of skin in proximity to insulin injections and/or glucose testing in order to decrease or eliminate the pain of these procedures. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065488 | OPHTHALMIC ANALYSIS SYSTEM FOR MEASURING THE INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE IN THE EYE - The invention relates to an ophthalmic analysis system for measuring the intraocular pressure in an eye comprising an actuating device for contact-free deformation of the cornea, an observation system with which the deformation of the cornea can be observed and recorded, an analysis device with which the intraocular pressure can be deduced from the image information of the observation system, wherein split images of at least parts of the undeformed and/or deformed cornea can be recorded using the observation system. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065489 | Method and Apparatus Pertaining to Optimizing a Radiation-Treatment Leaf-Sequence Plan - Determine first information regarding physical-movement limitations pertaining to at least one multi-leaf collimator and also determine second information regarding movement of the treatment target with respect to the given patient. Then, while optimizing a radiation-treatment leaf-sequence plan, constrain individually-planned leaf positions as a function, at least in part, of the first information, the second information, and planned positions of adjacent leaves. By one approach, the first information can comprise information regarding a speed (such as a maximum speed) at which individual leaves of the multi-leaf collimator are able to move during a treatment session. By one approach, the second information can comprise information regarding a distance (such as a maximum distance) that one or more parts of the treatment target may possibly move as compared to a presumed position used during the optimizing of the radiation-treatment leaf-sequence plan. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065490 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IN VIVO DETECTION OF CLOTS WITHIN CIRCULATORY VESSELS - A device and method of using the device to detect the presence and composition of clots and other target objects in a circulatory vessel of a living subject is described. In particular, devices and methods of detecting the presence and composition of clots and other target objects in a circulatory vessel of a living subject using in vivo photoacoustic flow cytometry techniques is described. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065491 | ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR INFLUENCING AND/OR DETECTING MAGNETIC PARTICLES - The present invention relates to an arrangement and a method for influencing and/or detecting magnetic particles in a region of action, in particular for monitoring of intra-cerebral or intra-cranial bleeding using Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI). A common coupling unit per coil of a coil array is provided for coupling all signals for generating the magnetic fields to the set of common coils. Further, the same coils are used for acquiring detection signals. In this way a small scanner can be built that can be left permanently or can be provided periodically to the patient, in particular for bleeding monitoring. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065492 | ENERGETIC MODULATION OF NERVES - A system for treatment includes a focused ultrasound energy source for placement outside a patient, wherein the focused ultrasound energy source is configured to deliver ultrasound energy towards a blood vessel with a surrounding nerve that is a part of an autonomic nervous system inside the patient, and wherein the focused ultrasound energy source is configured to deliver the ultrasound energy from outside the patient to the nerve located inside the patient to treat the nerve. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065493 | ENERGETIC MODULATION OF NERVES - A method to apply a nerve inhibiting cloud surrounding a blood vessel includes creating a treatment plan, wherein the treatment plan prescribes application of the nerve inhibiting cloud towards at least a majority portion of a circumference of a blood vessel wall, and applying the nerve inhibiting cloud towards the majority portion of the circumference of the blood vessel wall for a time sufficient to inhibit a function of a nerve that surrounds the blood vessel wall. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065494 | ENERGETIC MODULATION OF NERVES - A method to deliver focused ultrasound energy from a position outside a skin of a patient to a nerve surrounding a blood vessel, includes placing the patient on a table in a substantially flat position, moving a transducer into a position inferior to ribs, superior to an iliac crest, and lateral to a spine of the patient, maintaining the transducer at the position relative to the patient, and delivering focused ultrasound energy through the skin of the patient without traversing bone, wherein the direction of the focused ultrasound is directed from a lower torso to an upper torso of the patient. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065495 | NEEDLE BIOBSY IMAGING SYSTEM - Imaging techniques. Radiation is directed from a source onto a sample using an endoscope having cellular or subcellular resolution. The endoscope includes one or more fibers. The fibers have a proximate end and a distal end, and the distal end is lensless. A focal plane of the endoscope is substantially at a tip of the distal end. Radiation from the sample is directed onto a detector to diagnose or monitor the sample. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065496 | APPARATUS FOR IMAGING A BODY PART - Apparatus for imaging a body part of a subject, for example using MRI, is described. The apparatus includes a housing for at least partially surrounding a body part (e.g. a head) and a first fiducial marker assembly retained at least partially within the housing that includes one or more fiducial markers and a datum feature. The position of the datum feature is fixed relative to the one or more fiducial markers. The first fiducial marker assembly is moveable with respect to the housing and the datum feature is accessible from outside of the housing. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065497 | Three Dimensional Minimally-Invasive Spinal Imaging System and Method - A method and system is disclosed that is operable to generate a location value associated with an implant that has been implanted in a predetermined location of a vertebra of a spine. The location value can be utilized to generate a three-dimensional animation of the spine in motion. The system includes a plurality of implants that include a controller having a memory. The implants also include a telemetry unit connected with the controller that is used to wirelessly transmit and receive data. In addition, the implants include an acoustic generator that is configured to generate an acoustic pulse in response to a signal from the controller. An external control unit is wirelessly connected with the implant for receiving various data values from the implant. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065498 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE THERAPY OF MITRAL REGURGITATION - A system and method of treatment of mitral valve insufficiency using an implantable medical device is described. The system uses a C-arm X-ray device configured to produce computed-tomographic (CT)-like images, and to superimpose the CT-like images on a fluoroscopic image taken with the same X-ray device as a part of the treatment procedure. The fluoroscopic images are used to guide a catheter in the patient so as to place the medical device in a proper position. The efficacy of the procedure may be assessed using a non-invasive or minimally invasive acoustic imaging technique. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065499 | MEDICAL IMAGE DIAGNOSIS DEVICE AND REGION-OF-INTEREST SETTING METHOD THEREFORE - A medical image diagnosis device according to the present invention has a medical image acquiring unit that acquires a medical image, a three-dimensional image constructing unit that constructs a three-dimensional image containing a motional internal organ region in the medical image, a sectional image generator that generates a two-dimensional sectional image serving as a reference image from the three-dimensional image, a region dividing unit that divides the reference image into plural regions on the basis of a criterion for region division, and a region-of-interest setting unit that calculates motion states of the plural regions, specifies at least one region of the plural regions on the basis of the calculated motion states, and sets as a region of interest a region of the medical image in which the specified region is contained. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065500 | RADIOPAQUE EMBEDDED INTO DESICCANT FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A molded desiccant article for placement in an implantable medical device includes an affixed radiopaque marker. The radiopaque marker may serve to provide information regarding the make and model of the device or may be used for purposes of determining whether the desiccant was placed in the device. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065501 | Renal Injury Inhibiting Devices, Systems, and Methods Employing Low-Frequency Ultrasound or Other Cyclical Pressure Energies - Improved devices, systems, and methods treatment of patients can be used to help mitigate injury to the kidneys by applying cyclical mechanical pressure energy at low intensities. The energy often be selectively directed from non-invasive transducers disposed outside the patients. The energy will typically comprise low frequency ultrasound energy, shock wave energy, or the like, and may induce the generation and/or release of nitric oxide, thereby enhancing perfusion and ameliorating tissue damage. Superimposed micro and macro duty cycles may help avoid thermal and other injury to tissues of the patient during treatment. Bilateral treatments are facilitated by a support structure that orients at least one transducer toward each kidney. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065502 | System for controlled delivery of medical fluids - A system for controlled delivery of medical fluids to a patient includes an inlet conduit attached to a source of a medical fluid and an outlet conduit connected to the patient. The inlet and outlet conduits are interconnected by a multiple stage control valve assembly and a pair of syringes. The control valve assembly is alternated between a first state wherein the inlet conduit communicates with a first syringe for transmitting fluid from the source to the first syringe, a second state wherein the first syringe communicates with a second syringe and is isolated from the inlet conduit and the outlet for transmitting fluid from the first syringe to the second syringe, and a third state wherein the second syringe communicates with the outlet and is isolated from the inlet and the first syringe for transmitting fluid from the second syringe to the patient through the outlet. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065503 | RADIOPAQUE MARKERS FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A radiopaque marker for inclusion within an implantable medical device (IMD) may comprise one or more radiopaque articles selected from a predetermined set of radiopaque articles. The one or more radiopaque articles may be carried by an object formed of or including, a desiccant. The predetermined set of radiopaque articles may undergo a single qualification process that approves the use of any combination of one or more of the articles as a radiopaque marker within an IMD. This allows a potentially-limitless number of markers to be made available based on a single qualification process. The radiopaque marker may serve to provide information such as the make, model, and feature set of the device. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065504 | Method for measuring the viscoelastic properties of biological tissue employing an ultrasonic transducer - The present invention relates to a Method of measuring the viscoelastic properties of biological tissues employing an ultrasonic transducer equipped with elements converting the ultrasonic waves reflected by these biological tissues into electrical signals, different elements being grouped to form sub-apertures such that the acquisition of electrical signals from the elements of the same sub-aperture is carried out simultaneously, each of these sub-apertures being intercepted by an ultrasonic wave propagation axis at an acoustic center (Ca). | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065505 | ULTRASOUND STRAIN IMAGING BASED ON LATERAL DISPLACEMENT COMPENSATION - Embodiments for forming a strain image by compensating for displacement in a later direction in an ultrasound system are disclosed. In one embodiment, an ultrasound system includes: an ultrasound data acquisition unit configured to acquire first ultrasound data where compression is not applied to a target object and second ultrasound data where compression is applied to the target object; and a processing unit configured to compensate for displacements in axial and lateral directions in the second ultrasound data based on the first ultrasound data and second ultrasound data, the processing unit being further configured to form a strain image based on the first ultrasound data and the axial and lateral displacement compensated second ultrasound data. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065506 | Mechanical, Electromechanical, and/or Elastographic Assessment for Renal Nerve Ablation - A transducer arrangement causes target tissue of the body to vibrate and senses resulting vibration of the target tissue. Changes in one or more mechanical properties of the target tissue are measured based on the sensed vibration. Changes in one or more electromechanical properties of the target tissue can also be measured based on the sensed vibration and various electrical parameters. An output indicative of the measured changes in the one or more mechanical and/or electromechanical properties of the target tissue is generated. Changes in elasticity of the target tissue, for example, can be measured based on the sensed vibration, such as changes resulting from ablation of the target tissue. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065507 | REDUCTION OF MOTION ARTIFACTS IN ULTRASOUND IMAGING WITH A FLEXIBLE ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER - Reduction of motion artifacts from flexible transducers are provided in ultrasound imaging. Temporal and/or amplitude modulation of an acoustic radiation force impulse pushing pulse may be designed to control the motion of a moveable transducer. The motion may be controlled to stabilize the transducer in one position or in a predictable (e.g. linear) movement in order to better estimate tissue displacement. Reduced motion artifact may be provided with transmitted waveforms requiring less time and power than required of a brute force approach. For example, pre-loading transmissions may not be provided. As another example, pre-loading transmissions may require less than 10 ms. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065508 | ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING A TARGET IMAGE - An ultrasound imaging system and method include acquiring ultrasound data of an anatomical structure, generating a live image based on the ultrasound data, and displaying the live image. The system and method include displaying a target image of the anatomical structure. The system and method include comparing the live image to the target image. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065509 | ULTRASOUND METHOD AND PROBE FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC NOISE CANCELLATION - A method of ultrasound imaging includes acquiring ultrasound data with a plurality of transducer elements. The ultrasound data includes a plurality of signals. The method includes detecting an electromagnetic noise signal during the process of acquiring the ultrasound data. The method also includes modifying the plurality of signals based on the electromagnetic noise signal to generate a plurality of noise-cancelled signals. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065510 | ULTRASOUND SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING QUALITY-OF-FIT - An ultrasound imaging system and method include generating an image from ultrasound data of an anatomical structure and fitting a model to the image, the model including a standard view of the anatomical structure. The system and method include calculating a quality-of-fit of the image to the model. The system and method include displaying an indicator based on the quality-of-fit of the image to the model. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065511 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEDICAL IMAGE SEARCHING - An intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging system and catheter with an intuitive interface for rapid operator interaction using acquired medical images. In an embodiment, an IVUS imaging system and catheter are used to acquire a sequence of a specific area of interest in the human anatomy, for example, tomographic images of a coronary artery. The IVUS imaging system displays at least one tomographic image of the area of interest. The IVUS imaging system generates and displays at least one longitudinal image, wherein the longitudinal image represents a cut-plane of the sequence of tomographic images. The IVUS imaging system further includes a touch screen, wherein the system recognizes touch movements to facilitate searching the sequence of images. Touch movements in a longitudinal direction may pan the longitudinal image in the longitudinal direction. Touch movements in the transverse direction may rotate the cut-plane of the longitudinal image. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065512 | ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS AND ULTRASONIC IMAGE PROCESSNG APPARATUS - According to one embodiment, there is provided an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus Which comprises a volume data acquisition unit configured to acquire volume data by scanning a three-dimensional region including at least part of a fetus with an ultrasonic wave, a detection unit configured to detect NT data which corresponds to an NT region of the fetus and a longitudinal direction of the NT region with reference to an image which is generated by using the volume data and corresponds to a predetermined sagittal slice including the NT region, a measurement unit configured to measure thicknesses with respect to positions in the NT region and a line-of-sight direction with reference to the longitudinal direction and an image generation unit configured to generate an image indicating at least one of thicknesses of the NT region. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065513 | 3D ULTRASOUND SYSTEM FOR EXTENDING VIEW OF IMAGE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE 3D ULTRASOUND SYSTEM - A 3D ultrasound system and a method for operating the same. The 3D ultrasound system includes a scanning unit which generates a plurality of volume images with respect to an object by using ultrasound signals; a processor which identifies a first point with respect to a first volume image from among the plurality of volume images and identifies a second point with respect to a second volume image from among the plurality of volume images; and a control unit which overlaps the first and second volume images based on the first and second points. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065514 | Cardiohealth Methods and Apparatus - Methods and apparatus for improving measurements of cardiovascular health status in a given individual are provided. The comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health includes at least two components: risk factor assessment based on epidemiologic studies and functional status of the individual. Structural studies of the individual can also be included in the comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health. The invention aims to improve detection, treatment, devices, and administration of cardiovascular risk assessment. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065515 | ULTRASONIC PROBE AND ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT USING SAME - An ultrasonic diagnostic equipment of the present invention includes: an ultrasonic transducer body transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; a swing shaft ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065516 | ORGANIC PIEZOELECTRIC MATERIAL, ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER, ULTRASOUND PROBE, AND ULTRASOUND MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING SYSTEM - Disclosed is an organic piezoelectric material which has excellent piezoelectric characteristics and excellent handling properties. Also disclosed are an ultrasound transducer using the organic piezoelectric material, an ultrasound probe, and an ultrasound medical diagnostic imaging system. Specifically disclosed is an organic piezoelectric material which contains a base material that is formed from a resin, and a specific compound (1) that has at least one linking group selected from among specific linking groups. The organic piezoelectric material is characterized in that the relation shown below is satisfied when the CLogP values of the specific compound (1) and the base material are respectively represented by CLogP(1) and CLogP(base material). Relation: |CLogP(1)−CLogP(base material)|≦3.0. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065517 | System and Method for Reducing Angular Geometric Distortion in an Imaging Device - A system and method are provided for significantly reducing or substantially eliminating angular geometric distortions in devices designed for imaging and/or inspection of an interior portion or surface of a cavity. A series of processing steps or methods may be employed to eliminate Non-Uniform Rotational Distortion (NURD) in such devices, for example, unidirectional and bi-directional intravascular ultrasonic (IVUS) imaging systems. The system may include a processor and an electronic module which control operation of a transducer assembly provided at a distal end of a catheter assembly. The system invokes a first processing step or method to collect and store raw angle and line data, as well as one or more of second and third processing steps or methods which adjust for NURD experienced during backlash of a bi-directional imaging system and a fourth processing step or method which performs a line-to-line correlation function. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065518 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MULTILAYER IMAGING AND RETINAL INJURY ANALYSIS - Systems and methods are provided for imaging an eye and identifying retinal or subretinal features that may be indicative of pathologies such as macular degeneration and traumatic brain injury. An infrared or near-infrared image of an eye is interdependently smoothed and segmented and attributes of the image are determined. The attributes are indicative of retinal or subretinal features. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065519 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COLLECTING OPTICAL DATA FOR USE IN TIME RESOLVED OPTICAL IMAGING OF A TURBID MEDIA - There is provided a method and a system for collecting optical data for use in time resolved optical imaging wherein excitation light of a tunable wavelength is directionally propagated to impinge on a plurality of illumination points at the surface of a region of interest in a turbid media, comprising for example a biological tissue such as that comprised in small animals or in human organs. Light re-emitted with a different wavelength from a fluorescent marker present in the tissue is collected and directionally propagated towards a detector. A filter located in a path of the light rejects photons outside a fluorescence emission spectrum of the fluorescent marker while maintaining selectivity of the re-emitted light. The detector produces time resolved optical signals useful for optical image reconstructions. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065520 | OPTICAL MEASUREMENT APPARATUS - An optical measurement apparatus has a light source section, a light receiving section, and a light guiding section. The light source section has a light emitting surface that emits light. The light receiving section has a light receiving surface that receives the light emitted by the emitting surface of the light source to be incident into a body through a surface of the body and which is emitted out of the body after propagating inside the body, the receiving surface facing a direction orthogonal to the emitting surface of the light source, and the receiving section outputting a signal indicative of an amount of the light received by the receiving surface. The light guiding section is provided on a path of the light emitted from the emitting surface and received by the receiving surface to change a traveling direction of the light. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065521 | NEEDLE BIOBSY IMAGING METHOD - Imaging techniques. Radiation is directed from a source onto a sample using an endoscope having cellular or subcellular resolution. The endoscope includes one or more fibers. The fibers have a proximate end and a distal end, and the distal end is lensless. A focal plane of the endoscope is substantially at a tip of the distal end. Radiation from the sample is directed onto a detector to diagnose or monitor the sample. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065522 | Patient Monitoring Apparatus - A patient monitoring system including a sensing-recording device that attaches to a patient and a probe utilized by attending personnel at a trauma site. After an initial interaction between the probe and the sensing-recording device, the sensing-recording device samples one or more physiological parameters and stores time stamped readings in a first memory. The probe is adapted to take other measurements, download the data from the first memory of the sensing-recording device, manipulate the collective data and return data to a second memory in the sensing-recording device. The sensing-recording device continues to accumulate data in the first memory during transport of the patient from a trauma, site to a medical facility. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065523 | DVT DETECTION - A device comprising a light transmission and detection system having transducers ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065524 | MOTION DETERMINATION APPARATUS - The invention relates to a motion determination apparatus for determining motion of a moving object, wherein the motion determination apparatus ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065525 | PRESSURE GAUGE, BLOOD PRESSURE GAUGE, METHOD OF DETERMINING PRESSURE VALUES, METHOD OF CALIBRATING A PRESSURE GAUGE, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM - A pressure gauge for determining at least one pressure value describing a pressure of a fluid flowing in a pulsating manner in a phase of the pulsating flow, includes a pulse wave characterizer. The pulse wave characterizer is configured to obtain transmit time information of a pulse wave, and amplitude information of the pulse wave. The pressure gauge additionally includes a pressure value determiner configured to obtain a first pressure value describing a pressure of the fluid in a first phase, on the basis of the transmit time information and while using a mapping. The pressure value determiner is further configured to obtain a second pressure value describing a pressure of the fluid in a second phase, on the basis of the first pressure value and the amplitude information while using a mapping. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065526 | PIEZOELECTRIC SENSOR FOR MEASURING PRESSURE FLUCTUATIONS - The invention relates to a piezoelectric sensor for the improved measurement of mechanical variables such as force, pressure or measurement variables which are derived there from, particularly a PVDF film sensor having an improved sensitivity and temperature stability of the measurement signal for pressure measurements that vary in time and/or space, and for the one- and two-dimensional determination of the position and propagation velocity of pressure fluctuations and pressure waves with a single measurement sensor at a measurement location. A preferred field of application of the invention is the non-invasive, low strain and continuous measurement of the pulse rate and the systolic and diastolic blood pressure of humans and animals by determining the velocity and the signal form of the pulse waves. The object of the invention is to allow the measurements of the blood pressure and the pulse rate, for example even in the case of emergency patients having only a very low blood pressure and patients having circulatory disorders in the extremities, for example patients which have developed diabetes or the “smoker's leg”, by using only one sensor at a measurement location due to the improved measurement sensitivity of the piezoelectric sensor, with the result that the continuous application of a pressurized jacket for continuously measuring and monitoring the blood pressure is not necessary. The present invention solves this problem in that a plurality of parallel strips of a piezoelectric material ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065527 | Methods and Systems for Monitoring Aterial Stiffness - Implanted systems and methods for monitoring a patient's arterial stiffness are provided. An implanted sensor is used to produce a signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume for a plurality of beats of the patient's heart. A pulse duration metric is determined for each of a plurality of pulses of the signal, wherein each pulse of the signal corresponds to a beat of the patient's heart. Arterial stiffness is monitored based on the determined pulse duration metric for the plurality of pulses of the signal. This can include monitoring arterial stiffness based on a dispersion of the pulse duration metric and/or an average of the pulse duration metric. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065528 | PRE-EJECTION INTERVAL (PEI) MONITORING DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Provided herein are implantable systems, and methods for use therewith, for monitoring a patient's pre-ejection interval (PEI). A signal indicative of cardiac electrical activity and a signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume are obtained. One or more predetermined features of the signal indicative of cardiac electrical activity and the signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume are detected. The patient's PEI is determined by determining an interval between the predetermined feature of the signal indicative of cardiac electrical activity and the predetermined feature of the signal indicative of changes in arterial blood volume. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065529 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR QUANTITATIVE MEASURE OF CURRENT OF INJURY DURING LEAD FIXATION - A method and system is provided for measuring current of injury (COI) during lead fixation. The method and system sense cardiac signals from a lead within a chamber of the heart while the lead is in a pre-fixation position and capture a baseline waveform from the cardiac signals while the lead is in the pre-fixation position. The baseline waveform is representative of an interface between the lead and a tissue region proximate a tip of the lead before the lead is actively attached to the tissue region of the heart. The method and system further sense cardiac signals from the lead within the chamber of the heart when the lead is in a post-fixation position and capture a post-fixation waveform from the cardiac signals when the lead is in the post-fixation position. The post-fixation waveform is representative of an interface between the lead and the tissue region proximate the tip of the lead after the lead is actively attached to the tissue region of the heart. The method and system calculate a COI indicator based on an automatic comparison of the baseline and post-fixation waveforms. The method and system further identify a COI feature of interest in the baseline and post-fixation waveforms and calculates at least one of a COI index, a COI area, a COI differential and a COI ratio based on the COI feature of interest in the baseline and post-fixation waveforms. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065530 | IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD, AND IMAGE PROCESSING PROGRAM - The systolic timings of myocardia at various positions of a heart are analyzed and evaluated. An image processing apparatus | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065531 | Rapid Visual Cuing Apparatus for Cardiac EKG Rhythms - The present invention is a visual cuing device which allows users to rapidly and easily identify ECG/EKG cardiac arrhythmias and twelve lead ECG/EKG arrhythmias. A visual cuing device contains a plurality of panels with a plurality of graphically displayed ECG/EKG abnormalities alternated with visually high-contrast, solid colored text sections. A visual cuing device may also contain additional tools, such as a heart rate reference line, time reference line or baseline window to aid in analysis and interpreting ECG/EKG strips. A visual cuing device may also be adapted to display using a touch screen or other user interface. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065532 | Implantable Medical Devices Employing Electroactive Polymers For Sensing Cardiac Motion and/or Causing Cardiac Compression - Disclosed herein is a system for monitoring a motion of a cardiac tissue. The system includes a motion sensor configured to operably couple to the cardiac tissue. The motion sensor includes an electroactive polymer and is further configured to result in a deflection in the electroactive polymer when the cardiac tissue undergoes the motion. The deflection in the electroactive polymer generates an electrical event. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065533 | Positive Airway Pressure System and Method - A CPAP system and method which allows the control of released gases from the patient circuit. Coordination of blower speeds and the amount of released gases to improve patient therapy are disclosed. Methods and systems to control patient CO2 retention within the patient mask and to measure patient metabolic function are disclosed. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065534 | DIAGNOSTIC NANOSENSOR DEVICE AND METHOD FOR BREATH ANALYSIS - A hand-held portable device detects the concentration of gas such as ammonia, and displays the concentration, by whether it exceeds a threshold and/or in numerical concentration. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065535 | GAS ANALYSIS APPARATUS HAVING A COMBINATION OF GAS DEHUMIDIFIER AND GAS CONVERTER - An apparatus for measuring nitrogen monoxide in exhaled air by way of a gas sensor unit ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065536 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NEUROLOGICAL EVALUATION - A device and method for acquiring and processing a patient's brain electrical activity is provided. Noise contamination during acquisition and transmission of the brain electrical signals is reduced by providing differential amplifiers in the patient sensor in close proximity to the electrodes. A guarding technique is applied in the patient sensor to avoid inductive coupling of low frequency environmental noise. Radio-frequency (RF) filters and a Faraday cage assembly are also provided in the patient sensor to reduce electromagnetic interference. The brain electrical signals acquired by the electrodes are transmitted through shielded cables to a handheld base unit for signal processing. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065537 | SYSTEM FOR IN VIVO DETECTION OF A FUNCTIONAL AREA OF THE HUMAN BRAIN LEADING TO A HEMISPATIAL NEGLECT SYNDROME IN CASE OF LESION - A system for detecting a functional area ( | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065538 | ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC (EMG) DEVICE FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF MUSCLE INJURIES - An electromyographic (EMG) device for the diagnosis and treatment of muscle injuries associated with pain, stiffness, and movement disorders which is configured for diagnosing chronic and recurrent muscle pain and which includes two active EMG electrodes and an EMG reference electrode which when attached to the subject patient can measure and display electromyographic signals. The device includes an integrated stimulator that can be used for treating chronic and recurrent muscle pain, by evoking stimulation, or E-stim, location. The device includes a visual display system for displaying raw and processed EMG and is configured to provide for audio feedback based on the raw EMG. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065539 | USE OF IMPEDANCE TECHNIQUES IN BREAST-MASS DETECTION - A device is described for measuring electrical characteristics of biological tissues with one or a plurality of electrodes and a processor controlling the stimulation and measurement in order to detect the presence of abnormal tissue masses in the breast and determine probability of tumors containing malignant cancer cells being present in a breast. The device has the capability of providing the location of the abnormality, at least to the quadrant. Either single or multiple source electrodes can be used. Either palpable lumps can be evaluated or screening or breasts, whether with palpable masses or not, can be accomplished. The method for measuring electrical characteristics includes placing electrodes and applying a voltage waveform in conjunction with a current detector. A mathematical analysis method is then applied to the collected data, which computes spectrum of frequencies and correlates magnitudes and phases with given algebraic conditions to determine mass presence and type. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065540 | Temperature sensor with calibrated analog resistive output - Thermometric apparatus includes at least one body-surface sensor, which is configured to be placed at a location on a body surface of a patient and generates a sensor output that varies according to a body-surface temperature at the location. Analog conversion circuitry is coupled between the at least one body-surface sensor and a connector for coupling to a patient monitor. The circuitry is configured to convert the sensor output into an output resistance across the connector that is indicative of a corrected temperature of the patient. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065541 | BIOPSY APPARATUS HAVING INTEGRATED FLUID MANAGEMENT - A biopsy apparatus includes a driver assembly to be grasped by a user and a disposable biopsy probe assembly for releasable attachment to the driver assembly. The driver assembly includes a first vacuum path having a first one-way valve configured and arranged to permit a negative pressure fluid flow toward a vacuum source and to prevent a positive pressure fluid flow away from the vacuum source. The disposable biopsy probe assembly includes a second vacuum path having a second one-way valve configured and arranged to permit the negative pressure fluid flow from a sample basket and to redundantly prevent the positive pressure fluid flow toward the sample basket. In some embodiments, a fluid management tank may be fluidically interposed in the second vacuum path to prevent a flow of residual biopsy biological material from the sample basket to the vacuum source. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065542 | BIOPSY DEVICE TISSUE SAMPLE HOLDER WITH REMOVABLE TRAY - A biopsy device comprises a body, a needle, a cutter, and a tissue sample holder. The tissue sample holder comprises an outer cup and a cap. A tray retains severed tissue samples from a biopsy procedure. In some versions, the tray is selectively detachable from the cap in a one-handed operation by the user. The tray may be ejected into a sample container, such as a formalin cup. The cap may include a threaded portion that is configured to engage a complementary threaded portion of a sample container to seal the sample container once the tissue samples have been transferred to the sample container from the tissue sample holder of the biopsy device. One or more ports may be provided in the cap to manage excess fluid within the outer cup of the tissue sample holder, and/or to provide integrated access for a marker delivery device. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065543 | FLEXIBLE BIOPSY NEEDLE - A flexible biopsy needle assembly includes a flexible coring stylet that is slidably disposed within a flexible outer cannula. The stylet includes an elongated body, a tip, a sampling notch adjacent to the tip, and at least one ferrule along the length of the body. The cannula includes an elongated tubular body defining a lumen sized for sliding passage of the stylet, a cutting edge at the opening of the lumen, and an array of slits along the length of its body. The slits are sized to allow the diameter of the ferrule(s) to extend partially therein. The slits and ferrule(s) interact to limit or control the flexibility of the cannula at the location of the slits. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065544 | HEALTH MONITORING DEVICE, DEVICE MODULES AND METHOD - The present invention relates to a health monitoring device for measuring blood or tissue indicators and a strip cassette. The device comprises a body having first and second openings, a piercing means being connected to the body and having a piercing head, the piercing means being arranged to extend from the first opening and cockable and releasable for piercing the skin with the piercing head, and a space into which a number of sensor strips can be arranged so that the strips can be brought out from the body one at a time. The device further comprises a shutter that is functionally connected to the body and has a first position arranged to tightly close the first and second openings, and a second position for allowing one sensor strip to be pushed from the first opening into sampling position and for exposing the first and second openings. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065545 | SAMPLING DEVICES AND METHODS UTILIZING BIASED CAPILLARY ACTION - A device is constructed so as to define a capillary channel that draws a body fluid form a proximal portion of the capillary channel toward a distal portion. A counterbore defining a “ledge” not substantially normal to the center line of channel causes the meniscus of body fluid to be “biased” into a non-radially-symmetric shape. In one example, the bias draws the body fluid toward a testing element that is set into a groove in the main body of the device. In another example, hydrophilic and/or hydrophobic regions are created on or in device to produce the biasing effect. In certain configurations, device requires less blood to be drawn into the capillary channel for a successful test than if the biasing effect were not created. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065546 | MEASUREMENT AND ESTIMATION METHOD FOR ORTHOPEDICS DIAGNOSIS - A measurement and estimation method for orthopedics diagnosis is disclosed, which includes providing a resonant frequency of a bone, providing a bone length of the bone, providing a correction parameter, and calculating a bone density according to the resonant frequency, the bone length, and the correction parameter. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065547 | DEVICES FOR PREVENTION OF PRESSURE ULCERS - A support surface, such as an underpad, for preventing pressure sores in a patient is a multi-layer textile assembly having a skin contact layer formed from a fabric of synthetic filament yarns woven to provide air permeability and moisture vapor permeability and having a thickness of less than 1 mm. An absorbent middle layer is formed from a breathable microfiber fabric woven to provide for moisture transition from an upper surface of the middle layer to a bottom surface of the middle layer. The skin contact layer and the middle layer are stitched together using a stitching pattern optimized to produce an open pattern with minimal puckering. A bottom layer is formed from a breathable, waterproof fabric woven from synthetic yarn to produce a moisture vapor transfer rate within the range of 5,000 to 20,000 grams per meter squared per 24 hours. The three layers are attached together around their outer edges. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065548 | Orthopaedic Implant With Sensors - A monitoring system includes an implant having at least one sensor and configured for at least partial insertion into a patient, a microchip associated with the implant and the sensor, the microchip configured to receive at least a first signal from the sensor, and a transmitter associated with the microchip for transmitting a second signal, representative of the first signal. The monitoring system also includes a receiver located outside of the patient, the receiver configured receive the transmitted second signal and a display device associated with the receiver, the display device configured to provide an audible or visual representation of the second signal to a user. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065549 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING VESTIBULO-OCULAR FUNCTION - A system for assessing vestibulo-ocular function includes a motion sensor system adapted to be coupled to a user's head; a data processing system configured to communicate with the motion sensor system to receive the head-motion signals; a visual display system configured to communicate with the data processing system to receive image signals from the data processing system; and a gain control device arranged to be operated by the user and to communicate gain adjustment signals to the data processing system. | 2012-03-15 |
| 20120065550 | System and Method for Determining Patient Follow-Up Subsequent to an Orthopaedic Procedure - A method of determining patient follow-up subsequent to an orthopaedic procedure includes determining the number of cycles of use of an orthopaedic joint of the patient. If a predetermined threshold is exceeded, communication with an orthopaedic care provider is initiated. A patient monitoring system is also disclosed. | 2012-03-15 |
