| 40th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 65 |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120253188 | REDUCING RISK OF COMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH TISSUE ABLATION - Methods and systems are described that reduce risks of hematologic, metabolic, and renal complications in a mammal, such as a human, undergoing tissue ablation. One such method includes inserting a probe into a mammal and ablating abnormal tissue in the mammal by emitting a first amount of energy from the probe. In some embodiments, after emitting the first amount of energy, a method can include denaturing proteins released from cells in the abnormal tissue by emitting a second amount of energy from at least one of the first probe or a second probe inserted into the mammal. Furthermore, some embodiments can be implemented such that during or after the emitting the energy from a probe, a composition is administered to the mammal in an effective amount to denature proteins released from cells in the abnormal tissue. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253189 | CAVITY-FILLING BIOPSY SITE MARKERS - The invention provides materials, devices and methods for marking biopsy sites for a limited time. The biopsy-marking materials are ultrasound-detectable bio-resorbable powders, with powder particles typically between about 20 microns and about 800 microns in maximum dimension, more preferably between about 300 microns and about 500 microns. The powders may be formed of polymeric materials containing cavities sized between about 10 microns and about 500 microns, and may also contain binding agents, anesthetic agents, hemostatic agents, and radiopaque markers. Devices for delivering the powders include tubes configured to contain the powders and to fit within a biopsy cannula, the powders being ejected by action of a syringe. Systems may include a tube containing powder, and a syringe containing sterile saline. The tube may be configured to fit within a biopsy cannula such as a Mammotome® or SenoCor 360™ cannula. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253190 | CONTRAST-ENHANCED ULTRASOUND ASSESSMENT OF LIVER BLOOD FLOW FOR MONITORING LIVER THERAPY - A method for assessing a liver includes acquiring image information including contrast-enhanced ultrasound images of the liver. A location of the main hepatic artery (MHA) and a location of the main portal vein (MPV) of the liver are identified in at least one of the contrast-enhanced ultrasound images of the liver. Time-intensity information corresponding to perfusion of a contrast agent in the MHA and the MPV is obtained. A biomarker index value (BW) which is a function of the time-intensity information corresponding to the perfusion of contrast agent in the MHA and the time-intensity information corresponding to the perfusion of contrast agent in the MPV is determined. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253191 | PORPHYRIN NANOVESICLES - The application relates to a nanovesicle comprising a bilayer of at least 15 mol % porphyrin-phospholipid conjugate, wherein the conjugate comprises a porphyrin, porphyrin derivative or porphyrin analog covalently attached to the phospholipid side chain. The nanovesicle can be used for photothermal therapy, photoacoustic imaging, and fluorescence imaging. The application also discloses a method of preparing the said nanovesicle. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253192 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CHEMICAL ABLATION - Thermochemical ablation techniques may provide ablation of bodily tissue using chemical reaction energy. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253193 | CATHETER WITH VARIABLE STIFFNESS - Medical devices and methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include an elongate inner member having a guidewire lumen extending therethrough. An outer member may be disposed about the inner member. An inflation lumen may be formed between the inner member and the outer member. The medical device may be configured to have a first stiffness when the inflation lumen is free of inflation media and a second stiffness different from the first stiffness when inflation media is disposed within the inflation lumen. In addition, the inner member may include a collapsible region that is configured to deflect radially inward when inflation media is disposed within the inflation lumen. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253194 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ULTRASOUND IMAGING - A first ultrasound pulse is applied to biological tissue to create shear waves in the biological tissue, a focused ultrasound pulse is transmitted into the biological tissue, one or more ultrasound signals is received from the biological tissue, and shear waves are detected in the biological tissue based on the received one or more ultrasound signals. At least one shear wave propagation property associated with the detected shear waves is determined, and the determined at least one propagation property is displayed. Ultrasound beam steering is used to improve measurement accuracy. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253195 | ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS, ELASTIC IMAGE STORAGE/REPRODUCTION METHOD, AND ELASTIC IMAGE STORAGE/REPRODUCTION PROGRAM - An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention includes: an ultrasonic probe which transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave to and from an object; a phasing addition means that generates RF signal frame data of a sectional part of the object on the basis of a reflected echo signal measured by the ultrasonic probe; a displacement measurement means that generates displacement frame data by measuring displacement of tissue of the sectional part on the basis of a pair of RF signal frame data items acquired at different times; an elastic information calculation means that generates elastic frame data by calculating elastic information, which indicates hardness or softness of tissue of the sectional part, on the basis of the generated displacement frame data; an elastic image configuration means that generates an elastic image on the basis of the elastic frame data; an image display device which displays the elastic image; and a memory in which the elastic image is stored. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253196 | ULTRASOUND EXAMINATION APPARATUS AND ULTRASOUND EXAMINATION METHOD - The ultrasound examination apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is an ultrasound examination apparatus for observing an inside of a body of a living subject and includes: a transmitting probe that transmits ultrasonic waves to an inside of an examination target which is a part of the living subject; a receiving probe that detects microscopic displacement on a surface of the examination target without contact with the examination target, to detect reflected ultrasonic waves which are the to ultrasonic waves reflected from the inside of the examination target; | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253197 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FLUSHING BUBBLES FROM A CATHETER OF AN INTRAVASCULAR ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM - An intravascular ultrasound imaging system includes a catheter that is insertable into a patient blood vessel. A flushing assembly is in fluid communication with a lumen of the catheter. The flushing assembly flushes air bubbles formed in acoustically-favorable medium in the catheter lumen in response to an event other than a user-initiated flushing prompt. The flushing assembly includes a reservoir containing acoustically-favorable medium for input into the catheter lumen, and a pump coupled to the reservoir. The pump pumps the acoustically-favorable medium from the reservoir to the catheter lumen. A connector is in fluid communication with the reservoir. The connector is coupleable with the catheter lumen. A controller is coupled to the pump. The controller is configured and arranged for controlling operation of the pump. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253198 | ULTRASOUND IMAGING APPARATUS - Ultrasound imaging apparatus including a two-dimensional array of plural transducer elements distributed two-dimensionally and transmits and receives ultrasonic waves while scanning an area to be imaged to create an ultrasound three-dimensional image. Transducer elements are divided into plural element blocks including a first element block of which a size in a second direction of an arrangement surface of the two-dimensional array is larger than a size in a first direction of the surface, and a second element block of which a size in the first direction is larger than a size in the second direction. Each of the element blocks is divided into a predetermined number of groups to form a transmit beam and plural receive beams in the area to be imaged. Further included is a selecting means for making transmit/receive channels of the transducer elements grouped to be one channel in each of the groups. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253199 | ULTRASONIC PROBE AND ULTRASONIC PROBE MANUFACTURING METHOD - According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic probe includes a transducer element, a backing material, and a buffer layer. The transducer element vibrates to transmit and receive an ultrasonic wave. The buffer layer is provided on the back side of the transducer element. The backing material is provided on the back side of the buffer layer and damps an ultrasonic wave from the transducer element. The buffer layer has a Poisson ratio larger than that of the backing material. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253200 | LOW-COST IMAGE-GUIDED NAVIGATION AND INTERVENTION SYSTEMS USING COOPERATIVE SETS OF LOCAL SENSORS - An augmentation device for an imaging system has a bracket structured to be attachable to an imaging component, and a projector attached to the bracket. The projector is arranged and configured to project an image onto a surface in conjunction with imaging by the imaging system. A system for image-guided surgery has an imaging system, and a projector configured to project an image or pattern onto a region of interest during imaging by the imaging system. A capsule imaging device has an imaging system, and a local sensor system. The local sensor system provides information to reconstruct positions of the capsule endoscope free from external monitoring equipment. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253201 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR MONITORING AND ASSESSING MOBILITY - A system and methods are provided relating generally to physical activity and more specifically to tools for monitoring and assessing physical activity by capturing images of a subject's movement including range of motion, gait, balance and activities of daily living at different time periods and comparing those images to stored data. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253202 | Optoelectronic Device for The Detection of Uterine Cervical Cancer, Comprising A Self-Positioning Attachment - The disclosure is directed to a minimally-invasive diagnostic device for Papanicolaou testing and for an alternative examination method for taking a cell sample. The portable device analyzes cervical tissue using simultaneous electrical and optical measurements. The device examines different areas of cervical tissue, taking electrical measurements in different frequency ranges and optical measurements in three different wavelengths. Once obtained, the measurements are processed in accordance with mathematical formulae obtained from multiple measurements of healthy and cancerous tissues. Three possible responses can be obtained: healthy tissue, cancerous tissue, or the presence of human papilloma virus. A device attachment permits use of the device for self-detection after determining proximity to the cervix, and also includes an accessory for performing the alternative method of taking a cell sample for laboratory analysis to obtain an immediate response for use by the user or another person. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253203 | METHOD OF VIEWING A SURFACE - A method of viewing a surface comprising taking at least a first image from a first position and a second image from a second position to allow for comparative analysis and diagnosis of the surface. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253204 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PHOTOTHERAPEUTIC TREATMENT OF RECTAL DISEASES - A phototherapeutic system for providing phototherapy to a patient's lower parts of a gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the phototherapeutic system including a capsule sized and shaped for insertion into the rectum, the capsule including one or more phototherapeutic light sources. A method for intra-luminal phototherapy of the lower parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract including inserting a phototherapeutic device including one or more phototherapeutic light sources into the rectum, activating the light sources, and providing light at a dose suitable for providing a phototherapeutic effect. Related apparatus and methods are also described. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253205 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MEASURING BLOOD FLOW - An apparatus for measuring blood flow includes a detection part and a signal processing part. The detection part includes a blood flow detector for measuring a blood flow of a measured portion of an object, which makes contact with the measured portion, and a force detector for detecting a contact force between the blood flow detector and the measured portion. The signal processing part produces a corrected blood flow in reflection of an error of the blood flow due to the contact force. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253206 | MEASUREMENT APPARATUS, MEASUREMENT METHOD, INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, AND PROGRAM - A measurement apparatus includes a signal generation unit generating a measurement signal for measuring a bioelectrical impedance, a first electrode pair making contact with the left and right sides of a body of a person under measurement to supply the measurement signal generated to the body, a second electrode pair placed adjacent to the first electrode pair and making contact with the left and right sides of the body, a bioelectrical impedance measurement unit measuring the bioelectrical impedance of the person under measurement based on an electrical signal obtained from the second electrode pair in response to supplying of the measurement signal, and an electrocardiogram signal measurement unit measuring an electrocardiogram signal of the person under measurement based on the electrical signal obtained from the second electrode pair. The bioelectrical impedance measurement unit and the electrocardiogram signal measurement unit concurrently operate in parallel. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253207 | HEART FAILURE MONITORING - Techniques for transmitting diagnostic information stored in an implantable medical device (IMD) based on patient hospitalization are described. For example, the IMD may transmit higher resolution diagnostic information to a clinician and/or an external device during a hospitalization period to aid the clinician in evaluating heart failure treatment and when discharge is proper. This higher resolution diagnostic information may include one or more patient metrics automatically generated and transmitted by the IMD at least once every two hours. During a post-hospitalization period, the IMD may transmit lower resolution diagnostic information to a clinician that indicates a risk level of re-hospitalization. The lower resolution diagnostic information may include the risk level and/or patient metrics once a day, for example. In this manner, the IMD transmitted diagnostic information may be tailored to the specific heart failure monitoring needed by the patient. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253208 | Sphygmomanometer Having Function of Calculating Risk Degree of Circulatory System Disease - An electronic sphygmomanometer having a function to calculate an index value of risk of circulatory system disease from measured blood pressure information includes a CPU, a memory, and a display. The CPU calculates the blood pressure of a person being examined based on pressure changes of an air bladder as measured by a pressure sensor. The memory stores data of the measured blood pressure together with time information of the measurement. The CPU calculates an index value of risk of circulatory system disease of the person being examined based on a difference between a blood pressure value obtained from a measurement and a blood pressure value obtained from a previous measurement and an elapsed time between the measurement and the previous measurement, A display part displays the calculated index value of risk of circulatory system disease of the person being examined together with the measured blood pressure. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253209 | VENOUS PRESSURE MEASUREMENT APPARATUS - A non-invasive venous pressure measurement apparatus is provided, including: a first cuff attached to a portion including a vein and an artery in a living body; a pressure control unit that changes a first applied pressure applied by the cuff to the portion; a pulse wave detection unit that detects a pulse wave from a pressure received by the cuff from the portion; another pulse wave detection unit that detects another pulse wave including at least an arterial pulse wave in another portion of the living body; an analyzing unit that analyzes a correlation between the two pulse waves, which are changed as the applied pressure is changed by the pressure control unit changes; and a venous pressure calculation unit that calculates a venous pressure based on the applied pressure and a result of analysis by the analyzing unit. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253210 | Cuff of Sphygmomanometer - A cuff of a sphygmomanometer includes a fluid bladder connected to a main body of the sphygmomanometer via a tube and a band-shaped wrapping body that encloses the fluid bladder. The band-shaped wrapping body includes two longitudinal sides and two lateral sides. A weight section is provided along a longitudinal side of the band-shaped wrapping body that faces a peripheral end of a user's arm when the cuff is mounted to the arm in accordance with an expected method of use. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253211 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VARYING BLOOD FLOW TO IDENTIFY AUTOREGULATORY RANGES IN A PATIENT - A method may include controlling a bypass pump to introduce blood flow variations to a patient. The method may also include analyzing blood volume in the brain of the patient with respect to the blood flow variations and determining, based on the analyzing, whether an autoregulatory mechanism associated with the brain is operating properly. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253212 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING MICROVIBRATION FEATURE QUANTITY - A microvibration feature quantity apparatus includes a beat signal receiver receiving a beat signal output from a Doppler sensor, which radiates a radiation wave at a predetermined frequency to a body to be observed and senses part of the radiation wave reflected by the body to output the beat signal at a frequency corresponding to a difference in frequency between the radiation wave and the reflected part of the wave, a frequency converter transforming the received beat signal into a frequency-domain signal, and a beat signal feature quantity calculator using the frequency-domain signal to derive a beat signal feature quantity exhibiting an abrupt change with respect to time of a vibration velocity of the microvibration, thereby accurately calculating a feature quantity of the microvibration raised in the body. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253213 | TWA MEASURING ELECTROCARDIOGRAPH, TWA MEASURING METHOD, AND TWA MEASUREMENT SYSTEM - A TWA measuring electrocardiograph includes: a transformation coefficient storing section configured to store a transformation coefficient for deriving a Frank's vector electrocardiogram; an electrocardiograph controlling section configured to produce a scalar electrocardiogram from electrocardiographic signals of measurement electrodes adapted to be attached to a subject, and configured to derive the Frank's vector electrocardiogram from the scalar electrocardiogram by using the transformation coefficient; and a TWA measuring section configured to measure a presence of TWA based on the derived Frank's vector electrocardiogram. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253214 | Multistage method and system for estimating respiration parameters from acoustic signal - A multistage system and method for estimating respiration parameters from an acoustic signal. At a first stage, the method and system detect and isolate portions of the signal that exhibit long-term, moderate amplitude noise by analyzing cumulative energies in the signal, and portions of the signal that exhibit short-term, high amplitude noise by analyzing peak energies in the signal. At a second stage, the method and system filter heart sound from the signal energy envelope by applying an adaptive filter that minimizes the loss of respiration sound. At a third stage, the system and method isolate respiration phases in the signal by identifying trends in the energy envelope. Once respiration phases are isolated, these phases are used to estimate respiration parameters, such as respiration rate and I/E ratio. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253215 | Dual path noise detection and isolation for acoustic ambulatory respiration monitoring system - Dual path noise detection and isolation for an acoustic respiration monitoring system detects noise in an acoustic signal recording lung sounds using two discrete noise detection techniques. A first technique detects portions of the signal that exhibit long-term, moderate amplitude noise by analyzing cumulative energy in the signal. A second technique detects portions of the signal that exhibit short-term, high amplitude noise by analyzing peak energy in the signal. Noisy portions of the signal are isolated using the combined results of the dual path detection. A respiration parameter is estimated using the signal without resort to the noisy portions and information based at least in part on the respiration parameter is outputted. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253216 | Respiration analysis using acoustic signal trends - The present invention isolates respiration phases in an acoustic signal using trend analysis. Once respiration phases are isolated, they are used to estimate respiration parameters. An exemplary method comprises receiving an acoustic signal recording body sounds; identifying candidate peaks at maxima of the signal; identifying candidate valleys at minima of the signal; selecting significant peaks from among the candidate peaks using heights of the candidate peaks; selecting significant valleys from among the candidate valleys using heights of the candidate valleys; detecting silent phases in the signal based at least in part on rise rates from the significant valleys; isolating respiration phases in the signal based at least in part on the significant valleys and the silent phases; calculating respiration parameter estimates based at least in part on the respiration phases; and outputting the respiration parameter estimates. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253217 | PREDICTION OF BREATHING SIGNAL AND DETERMINING NON-PERIODICITY OF BREATHING USING SIGNAL-PHASE HISTOGRAM - A method of processing breathing signals of a subject includes obtaining breathing signals of a subject, obtaining a signal-phase histogram using the breathing signals, wherein the signal-phase histogram comprises a plurality of data points, each of the data points having at least a phase value and a signal value, determining a reference value using at least some of the plurality of data points from the signal-phase histogram, determining whether a difference between the reference value and a signal value that is associated with a current respiratory cycle exceeds a threshold, and generating an output when the difference exceeds the threshold. A method of predicting breathing signal is also provided. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253218 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EUCAPNIC VOLUNTARY HYPERVENTILATION TESTING - A method and apparatus provide more efficient eucapnic voluntary hyperventilation (EVH) testing by using a low pressure demand valve that has low resistance during rapid breathing and by monitoring air flow to the subject from a pressurized tank using measurements of change in the tank's pressure. A second stage Scuba regulator is modified to provide a demand valve that has low resistance during rapid breathing. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253219 | Methods for Recommending Neurophysiological Disorder Therapy - Neurophysiologic information such as quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) is used in a method for classifying, diagnosing, and treating physiologic brain imbalances. Neurophysiologic information is also used to guide sample selection in clinical tests for psychopharmacologic drug candidates. Finally, neurophysiologic information is used for remotely assessing and treating patients with physiologic brain imbalances. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253220 | Methods and Systems for Determining Optimum Wake Time - A system for determining optimum wake time is disclosed whereby the system comprising includes a receiver for receiving electroencephalogram (EEG) data. The system further includes a processor configured to generate at least one frequency band based on the EEG data received, wherein the processor is further configured to determine an optimum wake time based on a relative low point on the at least one frequency band. The system also includes an indicator configured to provide notification of the optimum wake time. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253221 | STIMULATORY EFFECT ESTIMATION DEVICE, SLEEP DEPTH ESTIMATION DEVICE, STIMULATORY EFFECT ESTIMATION METHOD, AND VEHICLE CONTROL DEVICE - A stimulatory effect estimation device includes a stimulus generator | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253222 | THERMAL SURGICAL MONITORING - An apparatus is disclosed for monitoring a thermal surgical procedure including a thermal camera for monitoring temperature at a plurality of locations within at least a portion of a surgical field undergoing thermal surgical treatment and generating a series of thermal images based on said monitoring, a processor for processing the thermal images, and a display for displaying, in real time, a series of display images indicative of temperature at the plurality of positions. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253223 | Surgical Access and Nerve Surveillance - An expandable tip cannula system, comprising: a hollow cannula shaft having a proximal end and a distal end; and an expandable tip mounted at the distal end of the hollow cannula shaft, the expandable tip comprising a plurality of generally-triangular shaped petals held together in a radially-inwardly tapered arrangement between adjacent petals, each petal comprising a nerve sensing electrode disposed therein. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253224 | SKIN TEST IMAGE ANALYSIS APPARATUSES AND METHODS THEREOF - An apparatus and method for making an apparatus for skin testing includes a housing with an opening which defines a field of view of a skin testing region, an image sensing apparatus, an illumination apparatus, a binding apparatus, and an image processing controller. The image sensing apparatus is positioned with respect to the housing to capture images in the field of view provided by the opening. The illumination apparatus is positioned within the housing to direct light towards a portion of the field of view provided by the opening. The binding apparatus detachably secures the housing over the skin testing region and maintains a fixed distance between the image sensing apparatus and the skin testing region. The controller is configured to analyze test samples sites in each of the captured images from the image sensing apparatus and provide a skin test result for each of the test sample sites. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253225 | ASPIRATION BIOPSY APPARATUS AND METHOD - An aspiration apparatus includes a barrel having a needle receiving end and a piston receiving end. The barrel has an inner diameter and an outer diameter. The piston receiving end of the barrel has substantially the same inner diameter as the inner diameter of the barrel. The barrel has an opening therein through a sidewall of the barrel. The opening is between the needle receiving end and the piston receiving end. The opening is distant from the needle receiving end. The aspiration apparatus also includes a needle sealingly attached to the needle receiving end of the barrel, and a piston having an end which substantially seals to the inner diameter of the barrel. The piston is capable of a number of positions including a first position near the needle receiving end, a third position past the opening in the barrel. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253226 | BIOPSY DEVICE WITH CENTRAL THUMBWHEEL - A biopsy device comprises a probe and a holster. The probe has a distally extending needle including a transverse tissue receiving aperture. A cutter is translatable relative to the needle to sever tissue protruding through the aperture. A thumbwheel is manually operable to rotate the needle to reorient the angular position of the aperture about the longitudinal axis defined by the needle. The thumbwheel is positioned obliquely with the longitudinal axis. A cable driven mechanism in the holster drives the cutter. A rotatable tissue sample holder is coupled with the probe, and has chambers configured to receive tissue samples communicated proximally through a lumen defined by the cutter. A piezoelectric motor in the holster drives the tissue sample holder. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253227 | MEDICAL DEVICE - A medical device that includes an outer tube assembly that includes a straight outer tube, an inner tube assembly that includes a straight inner tube disposed within the outer tube, and at least one interference member on the outer tube assembly and at least one interference member on the inner tube assembly. The inner tube and the outer tube are configured to rotate relative to each other to resect tissue at a distal end of the inner and outer tubes. The interference members are configured to prevent a force exerted along a longitudinal axis of the inner tube from separating the inner and outer tubes without rendering the medical device unusable. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253228 | ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND-GUIDED BIOPSY NEEDLE - A notched tissue-collection needle configured similarly to a fine-needle-aspiration needle is provided with a cutting edge disposed in the notch and configured to excise tissue into the notch for collection. A stylet may be provided through a lumen of the needle during introduction into a patient body. The needle may be provided with echogenicity-enhancing features. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253229 | Tissue Sampling Device And Method - A tissue sampling device includes a cannula having an elongate tubular body with a sharpened coring tip. A shaft extends within the cannula and is coupled with a cutter having an axially advancing wire extending between a distal end of the shaft and the sharpened coring tip. The axially advancing wire is movable in a cutting path defining an arc about the longitudinal axis, by way of rotating the shaft relative to the cannula. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253230 | ADJUSTABLE-THROW BIOPSY NEEDLE - Among other things, there is disclosed a biopsy needle system in which the needle is capable of obtaining more than one length of sample. Generally, the needle includes an inner stylet, an outer cannula, and a handle connected to the stylet and cannula. The stylet has a notch that is extendable from the cannula to accommodate a tissue sample. An insert member is provided for attachment to the handle to make the amount of exposed notch smaller. Consequently, when the insert member is not attached to the handle, the needle can obtain a larger sample of tissue, and when the insert member is attached to the handle, the needle can obtain a smaller sample of tissue. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253231 | CONFUSER CROWN SKIN PRICKER - A blood sampling device designed to divert attention from the pain involved in the puncture of the skin tissue by increasing comfort when lancing the skin by affecting the sensation and perception of pain. Projections on the distal end of a skin pricker contact the skin surface to confuse the nerves in the area of the prick to make the prick less noticeable. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253232 | METHOD FOR CREATING COLOR SCALE FOR DETERMINATION OF MASTICATORY PERFORMANCE - A method for creating a color scale which can be used as a more objective determination criteria in order to analyze the color change characteristics of a gum with the progression of mastication of individuals with healthy teeth and jaw and to use for evaluation of masticatory performance by a color-changeable chewing gum is provided. A method for creating a color scale in which the number of times of mastication by individuals with healthy teeth and jaw and the color difference of the color developed by the gum after mastication are determined by having a plurality of individuals with healthy teeth and jaw masticate a color-changeable chewing gum to determine a regression equation of the color developed by the gum after mastication and the color difference of gums before and after mastication and further determining a regression equation of the number of times of mastication and the color difference of gums before and after mastication. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253233 | ALGORITHM FOR QUANTITATIVE STANDING BALANCE ASSESSMENT - A system, method, and apparatus is provided for calculating a risk of falls from pressure measurements. Pressure data may be measured by a pressure sensor matrix, such as a pressure mat. Multiple snapshots of pressure data may be generated, each with a plurality of pressure points corresponding to coordinates in the pressure sensor matrix. Pressure-based metrics, including center of mass and center of pressure, may be derived from the pressure measurements. The plurality of centers of pressure and other pressure-related parameters may be used to generate a statistical model that predicts the risk of falls. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253234 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANALYZING GAIT USING FABRIC SENSORS - A system for analyzing gait using textile sensors is disclosed. A system includes a sock sensing system, which comprises a sock and at least one switch, tension sensor, or pressure sensor for sensing a posture or movement; and a processor configured to receive signals from the sock sensing system and to analyze a gait parameter, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the gait parameter using a signal from the sock sensing system as a trigger point. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253235 | DEVICE FOR KNEE EVALUATION AND RELATIVE BRACE - A device for evaluating motion of a knee and for forming a brace which includes a first plate having four holes therein, a femoral arm, a tibial arm formed with a rectangular portion from which extends to a semi-circular portion having a central opening and an arcuate opening which for a first 25-30 degrees is an arc of a circle, for a subsequent 105-110 degrees is a spiral and is an arc of a circle from 135-140 to 180 degrees, a second plate having five holes therein and a small circular plate having a linear scale centrally thereof, a graduated arcuate scale and another arcuate opening configured to overlap the arcuate opening of the semi-circular portion of the tibial arm. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253236 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR DELIVERING EXTERNAL THERAPEUTIC STIMULATION TO ANIMALS AND HUMANS - This invention described herein includes methods and apparatuses for externally delivering therapeutic stimulation to animals and humans to help improve their health, condition and performance. The invention includes various wearable, attachable, and embeddable devices that deliver multiple forms of therapeutic stimulation or vibration such as mechanical, tonal, audio, light, and electrical pulses. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253237 | CATHETER WITH MULTIPLE ULTRASOUND RADIATING MEMBERS - A method of delivery ultrasonic energy and a therapeutic compound to a treatment site and an ultrasonic catheter system are disclosed. The ultrasonic catheter system comprises a tubular body having a proximal end, a distal end and a treatment zone located between the distal end and the proximal end, a fluid delivery lumen, at least one ultrasound radiating element positioned in the treatment zone, wiring electrically coupled to the at least one ultrasound radiating element and extending through the tubular body and terminating at a connector, and a control system comprising external circuitry and an isolation pod that is configured to be electrically connected to the connector, the isolation pod being positioned between the tubular body and the external system and comprising an isolation barrier and circuitry for driving the ultrasound radiating element. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253238 | COMPOSITIONS FOR SOLUBILIZING CELLS AND/OR TISSUE - Solubilizing compositions are provided. The compositions comprise at least one zwitterionic surfactant and at least one nonionic surfactant. In one embodiment, the compositions may be useful for solubilizing and remodeling and/or removing tissue on or beneath a patient's skin, optionally in conjunction with the application of energy to a region of interest on the skin. In one embodiment, at least one analyte may be collected and analyzed from the solubilized tissue. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253239 | ENERGETIC MODULATION OF NERVES - A system for applying focused ultrasound energy to a nerve surrounding an artery of a patient includes a piezoelectric array comprising a plurality of piezoelectric elements, a controller configured to control at least a subset of the piezoelectric elements so that at least one of the piezoelectric elements in the subset is in a signal transmitting mode, in a signal sensing mode, or both, a first platform on which the piezoelectric elements are coupled and a second platform, wherein the second platform is configured to support at least a part of the patient, a programmable generator configured to generate output power for one or more of the piezoelectric elements, and a programmable processor configured to process a signal sensed by at least one of the piezoelectric elements. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253240 | PRESSURE PULSE/SHOCK WAVE METHOD FOR GENERATING WAVES HAVING PLANE, NEARLY PLANE, CONVERGENT OFF TARGET OR DIVERGENT CHARACTERISTICS - An apparatus for generating pressure pulse/shock waves (PP/SWs) is disclosed which comprises a pressure pulse/shock wave (PP/SW) source, a housing enclosing said PP/SW source, and an exit window from which wave fronts of waves generated by said PP/SW source emanate. The wave fronts have plane, nearly plane, convergent off target or divergent characteristics. In one embodiment, an extracorporeal shock wave system provides a planar wave for the treatment of tissue. A parabolic reflector is provided in order to propagate the planar wave through a membrane and to the tissue of a human subject. A piezoelectric, electrohydraulic or electromagnetic source may be used to develop the wave. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253241 | "TEACH AND REPEAT" METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS - The present invention provides a device for controlling a physical therapy device adapted for accepting external commands, comprising:
| 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253242 | GAIT REHABILITATION MACHINE AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A gait rehabilitation machine and a method of using the same are provided for lower-limb rehabilitation. The gait rehabilitation machine includes: a frame; a rear supporting member provided at the frame so that the back side of a human body can lean against the rear supporting member; a thigh supporting member corresponding to a thigh of the human body and pivotally connected to the frame; a shank supporting member corresponding to the corresponding shank of the human body, pivotally connected to the thigh supporting member, and having a petal to be stepped on by the human body; a knee supporting member corresponding to the corresponding knee of the human body and provided at the thigh supporting member or the shank supporting member; and a transmission device for driving the shank supporting member to move. Thus, a patient can do lower-limb gait rehabilitation exercise without using a suspension system. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253243 | MASSAGING DEVICE - A massaging device includes a base part, vibrators configured to be brought into contact with target parts of a user and to massage the target parts with vibration, and springs each including a first end fixed to the base part and a second end attached to the corresponding one of the vibrators. The spring constants of the springs are set based on skin stress of the target parts. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253244 | METHOD AND DEVICE TO ALLEVIATE CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME AND DYSFUNCTIONS OF OTHER SOFT TISSUES - The present invention is a device and method to manipulate soft tissues such as tendons using a manipulator that works in conjunction with an orthopaedic device, such as a brace. The manipulator can be an electro-mechanical device. The manipulation can alleviate symptoms of soft tissue dysfunctions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist tenosynovitis and tendonitis, cubital tunnel syndrome, neck tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Manipulation alleviates the inflammation and pressure and the concomitant associated pain and other symptoms of the dysfunction. The manipulation, combined with the orthopaedic aspect of the device, allows the limb to rest and recover between manipulative treatments in a suitably stationary position. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253245 | Therapeutic device and method for scar tissue therapy having intermediate and opposed heads - A therapeutic device includes a power unit for cyclically moving a therapeutic head unit at a frequency selected to cause compression wave energy to propagate through body tissue to a target scar tissue structure. The therapeutic head unit includes a plurality of differently shaped therapeutic heads to be pressed against the body surface. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253246 | TAPPING DEVICE FOR PRODUCING BEAUTIFUL SKIN - In the tapping device for producing beautiful skin, a Head contacts with skin. A Tapping mechanism pats the skin facing the Head with a Pad. The Tapping mechanism is equipped with the Pad at one end, and has a Shaft from which the Head projects and rolls back by piston actions. A Biasing member biases the Shaft toward one side of the piston actions. A Wire rod empowers the Shaft towards the direction resisting the biasing power of the Biasing member when tension is provided. An Actuator provides tension intermittently in a Wire rod, the tension of the wire rod and biasing of the bias member providing piston actions. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253247 | BALANCE DEVICE - A device that supports a motion for restoring an inclination angle of a body to a reference direction is provided. A balance device comprises a sensor, at least one flywheel, and a controller. The sensor is configured to detect an inclination angle of the body with respect to the reference direction. The at least one flywheel is arranged on the balance device so that an axis of the flywheel is non-parallel to a yaw axis of the body when the balance device is attached to a user. The yaw axis of the body corresponds to a longitudinal direction of the body. In addition, the yaw axis coincides with the reference direction when the user stands erect. The controller is configured to change a rotation rate of the flywheel based on an inclination angle detected by the sensor. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253248 | Apparatus and System for Manipulating Soft Tissue - An apparatus and system are disclosed for manipulating soft tissue. The apparatus includes a support member, a plurality of substantially circular voids disposed through the support member, and a plurality of spherical members. Each substantially circular void is positioned in alignment with a substantially hemispherical recess having a concave surface defining a spherical member receiving space. Each spherical member is positioned within a spherical member receiving space and is rotatable within one of the spherical member receiving spaces about an infinite number of axes of rotation. Each concave surface of the substantially hemispherical recess is made from a first material and an outer surface of each spherical member is made from a second material. The first material and the second material are selected such that a static coefficient of friction between the first material and second material facilitates rotation of the spherical members within the spherical member receiving spaces. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253249 | Neuromodulation System and Method For Treating Apnea - The present disclosure provides systems and methods for treating apnea by controlled delivery of a swallow stimulus to a subject in which apnea is detected. In the systems and method, burst electrical or mechanical stimulation to one or more swallow-related nerves and/or muscles can be timed for delivery between the expiratory phase of the respiration cycle, following detection of an apneic event in the subject. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253250 | INFLATABLE FOOT CUSHION - An inflatable foot cushion to reduce the force amplifications upon the heel of a foot received therein when the body is in a supine position. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253251 | Adjustable Brace Apparatus - An adjustable brace apparatus provides, in an exemplary embodiment, a pair of elongate wings configured for wrapping about and substantially conforming to a portion of a body of a user, an adjustment sleeve configured for slidably receiving each of the wings, and a tightening means slidably engaged and suspended within the adjustment sleeve. The tightening means is removably engagable with each of the wings, thereby enabling the wings to substantially float and selectively overlap atop one another within the adjustment sleeve. In use, with each of the wings slidably inserted into the adjustment sleeve and overlapped as necessary to substantially approximate the circumference of the user's body portion, and with the tightening means removably engaged with the wings, the user is able to selectively position, wrap, and engage the wings around the user's body portion, and selectively draw the wings closer against the user's body portion using the tightening means. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253252 | ORTHOPEDIC PRESSURE DEVICE - An orthopedic pressure device comprises (a) a semi-rigid or rigid main body configured to contour the curvature of a portion of a wearer's anatomy, (b) an adjustable strap for securing the main body to the wearer, and (c) a displacing mechanism disposed in the main body for applying perpendicular force to the soft tissues of the wearer. The displacing mechanism comprises a lace and tensioning system for adjusting the perpendicular force to the soft tissues. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253253 | Adjustable-Sole, Hinged Equinus Brace With Toe Wedge - Devices and processes used to treat ankle equinus. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a brace and the corresponding method of use to treat equinus by stretching the Gastrocnemius muscle. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253254 | Hip Traction Device, System, and Methods - A hip traction device, system, and associated methods are disclosed. Such a device may include a base having a proximal end and a distal end, a guide coupled to the base, a carrier configured to move along the guide upon receiving a force from a tensioner to move the carrier toward the distal end of the base, causing a leg to be put in tension, and a single body coupling mechanism either removably attachable or permanently attached to the carrier and configured to securely attach to a lower portion of a leg, such that the portion of the leg moves with the carrier during operation of the tensioner. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253255 | ADHESIVE PATCH - An adhesive patch easily applied to the skin. An adhesive patch | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253256 | Undergarment for hernia relief and other purposes - A brief style elastic undergarment designed for the particular needs of a portly person having an enlarged abdomen. The undergarment is constructed of elastic spandex material and has a high cut back and a low cut front so the waistband traverses the torso passing across the small of the back thence under the abdomen. The undergarment further comprising an auxiliary elastic waistband specifically intended to hold abdominal hernias in, and an attached supporting undershirt. Thus the elastic in the briefs and the auxiliary band press small hernias back into the abdominal cavity. For use by males, there is a hole through which the penis and scrotum project to avoid being compressed and allowing a snug, pressure fit across the front. The garment may be used as sleepwear and athletic wear. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253257 | Blood reservoir with a separate vent and a sucker chambers - The present invention consists of a venous blood reservoir that has a separate blood chamber to filter vent blood and a separate chamber to filter sucker blood. The two blood chambers are separated by a common wall and are in fluid communication along their top assuring that vacuum applied to the top of either is equally applied to the other. A mean to form communication across the wall allows the user to either accumulate sucker blood in its chamber while letting vent blood to flow freely to the venous blood chamber. Alternately, user can let the blood in the sucker chamber to combine with the venous blood freely too. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253258 | OCULAR SYSTEM WITH ANCHORING IMPLANT AND THERAPEUTIC AGENT - Ocular implants, delivery devices and methods for treating ocular disorders are disclosed. One method involves inserting an implant on one side of an eye. The implant has an anchor on a distal end portion and an outlet opening that is disposed proximal of the anchor. The implant is advanced across the eye to the other side of the eye. The anchor is inserted into eye tissue on the other side of the eye. A therapeutic agent is eluted using the implant. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253259 | MODULAR GASTROINTESTINAL PROSTHESES - A modular system for therapy within a gastrointestinal system. The system includes anchoring or attachment functionality embodied in a low-profile implant technology and removable therapy components, which can be reversibly attached to these low-profile implants to accomplish various therapies. This modular design allows the physician to tailor the therapy to the patient's needs. The modular system has the potential to create conduits for diversion and/or restriction of food and organ secretions and to facilitate the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and T2DM. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253260 | GASTROINTESTINAL PROSTHESES - A system for therapy within a gastrointestinal system includes anchoring or attachment functionality embodied in a low-profile implant technology and removable therapy components, which can be reversibly attached to these low-profile implants to accomplish various therapies. This design allows the physician to tailor the therapy to the patient's needs. The system has the potential to create conduits for diversion and/or restriction of food and organ secretions and to facilitate the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and T2DM. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253261 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTOGENETIC MODULATION OF CELLS WITHIN A PATIENT - Cells within a patient are optogenetically modulated to treat various neurological disorders. In one example, a method includes delivering a viral vector including a genetic agent encoding for one or more light-sensitive proteins to a delivery site within a patient. The viral vector includes retrograde and/or anterograde transport properties such that the viral vector is configured to transduce the genetic agent into cells at the delivery site and into cells in a plurality of sites proximal and remote to the delivery site. A bioelectrical signal(s) related to a neurological condition of the patient is sensed, e.g. using an implanted electrode. Optical stimulation is delivered to cells transduced with the genetic agent by the viral vector to treat the neurological condition of the patient. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253262 | Switch Validation Circuit and Method - A switch operated therapeutic agent delivery device is described. Embodiments of the operated therapeutic agent delivery device include a switch that can be operated by a user, a device controller connected to the switch through a switch input where the device can actuate the device when certain predetermined conditions are met, and a switch integrity subcircuit which is used to detect a fault or a precursor to a fault. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253263 | Two-Part Electrotransport Device - A switch operated therapeutic agent delivery device is described. The device comprises two parts, which are assembled by a user prior to use. A first part contains a power supply and circuitry for the device; and a second part comprises electrodes and reservoirs containing the therapeutic agent to be delivered. The action of combining the two parts of the device causes the two parts to be irreversibly coupled together, completes an electrical connection between the two parts, and closes one or more switches, thereby connecting a power source, such as a battery, into the device's circuitry, thereby powering the device on so that it is ready for use. The device can then be attached to a patient, who can operate the device by pressing a button in a proper sequence. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253264 | PHOTOCHEMICAL INTERNALIZATION METHOD - The invention relates to methods of introducing drugs into cells which are located in body cavities. In particular, it provides a photosensitizing agent for use in a method of introducing a drug molecule into the cytosol of a cell located within a body cavity, said method comprising the step of contacting said cell with said photosensitizing agent and said drug molecule, and irradiating the cell with light of a wavelength effective to activate the photosensitizing agent. Such methods are particularly suitable for use in the delivery of cytotoxic drugs in the treatment of cancer, especially bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, colorectal cancer and cancers of the oral and nasal cavity. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253265 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR THE TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF MALIGNANCY IN ENTERIC DISEASES USING NON-THERMAL PLASMA - Non-thermal plasma is a partly ionized gas, which can be generated by a high-voltage electric field at a low pressure. Disclosed herein are apparatuses and methods for treating an enteric disease in vivo using non-thermal plasma. The disclosed apparatuses have a first conduit comprising a lumen and a tip; a first electrode disposed within the lumen of the first conduit; a second electrode comprised of a metal conduit disposed within the first conduit; an insulator disposed within the lumen of the first conduit, the insulator configured to electrically insulate the first electrode from the second electrode; and a gas channel disposed between the outer surface of the metal conduit and the inner surface of the first conduit, the gas channel being capable of feeding a gas from a gas source to the tip, wherein when the potential is applied, the gas is ionized to produce the non-thermal plasma. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253266 | Extradural Infusion Suction System and Method to Drain Fluid Collection in the Extradural Space of Spinal Cord - A minimally invasive method of and apparatus for aspirating purulent material from an epidural abscess, or the like, in a patient includes a dual concentric catheter system having an inner infusion catheter and an outer suction catheter, the infusion catheter able to be advanced relative to and beyond the suction catheter. The catheter system is introduced into the extradural space through percutaneous entry and advanced to an epidural abscess of interest. Infusion is used to dislodge purulent material ahead of the infusion catheter toward side openings in the suction catheter where it is aspirated. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253267 | COMBINED OTIC AND MEDICATION DISPENSER AND METHOD FOR TREATING OTIC INFECTIONS - A method of treating a mammal presenting with an otic infection attributable to a pathogenic bacteria is accomplished by passing a hollow shaft having a first and second end through the tympanum of the mammal. The first end is sufficient to pierce the tympanic membrane, but flexible enough such that it buckles under the force necessary to damage any surrounding tissues in the tympanic cavity. The first end of the hollow shaft, after it pierces the tympanic membrane, extends into the tympanic cavity to aspirate a volume of effluence contained therein. The aspirated effluence is expelled out the second end of the hollow shaft. A volume of medicament (less than the volume of effluence withdrawn) is then injected through the same hollow shaft and into the tympanic cavity to treat the infection. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253268 | DEVICE FOR COLLECTING SAMPLES - The present invention relates to a device ( | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253269 | ANESTHETIC INJECTION SYSTEM - Systems for injecting fluids and/or other materials into a targeted anatomical location, in particular, an intra-articular space, include a handpiece assembly having a proximal end and a distal end, a needle extending from the distal end of the handpiece assembly, a fluid delivery module comprising a cassette and a fluid transfer device. A conduit is generally configured to place the fluid delivery module in fluid communication with the handpiece assembly. Medications, formulations and/or other fluids or materials contained within vials that are secured to the fluid delivery module can be selectively delivered into an anatomy through a needle located at the distal end of the handpiece assembly. In some embodiments, ultrasound or other imaging technologies can be used to locate a joint or other targeted anatomical location. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253270 | VARIABLE FLOW INFUSION PUMP SYSTEM - An implantable infusion pump system is disclosed. The pump system preferably includes an implantable pump and a programmable module. The module may provide for varying flow rates of fluid being dispensed from the pump or may provide for a constant flow rate of such fluid. In the case of varying flow rate capabilities, the module preferably includes one or more sensors to determine information relating to the flow rate, electronics for analyzing the flow rate information, and a mechanism for physically altering the flow rate. In certain embodiments, the module includes a hermetically sealed housing. Methods of dispensing a medicament to a patient utilizing such a system are also disclosed, as are variations of the pump system. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253271 | DRIP CHAMBER AND FLUID LEVEL SENSING MECHANISM FOR A FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM - The fluid injector system includes a source of injection fluid, a pump device, and a fluid path set in fluid connection with the source of injection fluid and the pump device. The fluid path set includes a drip chamber including an elongated body and a raised projection. A fluid level sensing mechanism is operably associated with a fluid control device, and includes a drip chamber support for supporting the drip chamber body and a fluid level sensor associated with the drip chamber support. The drip chamber support is adapted to support the drip chamber body such that the raised projection is in operational contact with the fluid level sensor and the fluid level sensing mechanism is operable to transmit ultrasonic or light energy through the raised projection to be sensed by the fluid level sensor for sensing the injection fluid level in the drip chamber. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253272 | NEEDLELESS INJECTOR - A pistol-shaped needleless injector includes a readily replaceable barrel ( | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253273 | NEEDLELESS INJECTOR DRUG CAPSULE AND A METHOD FOR FILLING THEREOF - A method for tilling needleless injector capsules with liquid drug, whereby dissolved gas within the drug is replaced by a less soluble gas in order to reduce the inclusion of gas bubbles, or to prevent the growth of bubbles during storage and thereby prevent breakage of the capsules. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253274 | Medicament Delivery Device - The present invention relates to a medicament delivery device comprising a distal housing part ( | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253275 | MULTI-PLANE MOTION CONTROL MECHANISM - A hand-holdable steering mechanism is used as part of a medical device such as a catheter or an endoscope to allow movement of a steerable distal portion of the catheter or endoscope. The mechanism can include a housing and an actuation system. The actuation system is adapted for one-handed operation by a user, and it allows the user to achieve 360 degree articulation of the steerable distal portion. The actuation system can include a first actuator and a second actuator where the first and second actuators are movable with respect to each other. The first actuator can be at least partially disposed within the second actuator. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253276 | ROBOTICALLY GUIDED CATHETER - A system is used for robotically controlling movement of a human-controllable catheter, wherein the catheter has a distal end and at least one position sensor for generating or receiving signals used for determining six dimensions of location and orientation information of the distal end of the catheter. The system uses a robotic control mechanism for holding and manipulating a human-controllable catheter and a computer operatively communicating with the robotic control mechanism for driving the robotic control mechanism to (i) translationally move a distal end of a human-controllable catheter in a vicinity of a target, (ii) deflect a distal end of a human-controllable catheter, and (iii) rotate a human-controllable catheter in a vicinity of a target. The computer determines roll of a human-controllable catheter using six dimensions of location and orientation information based on signals generated or received from at least one position sensor on a human-controllable catheter. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253277 | STEERING MECHANISM - A hand-holdable steering mechanism is used as part of a medical device such as a catheter or an endoscope to allow movement of a steerable distal portion of the catheter or endoscope. The mechanism can include a housing, a first actuator, and a second actuator. The first actuator is configured to move the steerable portion along a first plane when the first actuator is moved between first and second positions. The second actuator is configured to move the steerable portion along a second plane different than the first plane when the second actuator is moved between first and second positions. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253278 | CATHETER AND PRODUCTION METHOD THEREOF - A catheter is provided which allows medical treatment of the vascular aneurysm to be carried out with certainty and safely. The catheter includes a catheter main body including a first lumen for supplying and discharging expanding fluid therethrough and a second lumen into which an elongated instrument for the medical treatment is fitted, a balloon provided at a distal end portion of the catheter main body and communicating with the first lumen such that the balloon is expanded and contracted by supply and discharge of the expanding fluid thereto and therefrom, respectively, and a communication section open to an outer face of the balloon, communicating with the second lumen, and isolated from the inside of the balloon. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253279 | CATHETER INTRODUCTION - A method of introducing a catheter | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253280 | CATHETER FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE CARDIAC PACING SURGERY AND METHOD OF USE - An assembly of a pulmonary venting catheter and a pacing wire disposed therethrough whereby the pacing wire is extended from the distal end of the catheter tube during pacing mode, eliminating the need for exchanging the venting catheter with a pacing catheter to begin pacing after venting. The pacing wire includes a flexible distal end for a first conductor to conductively engage heart tissue after the pacing wire is extended from the catheter distal end; a second conductor, also exposed outside the catheter distal end, completes the circuit. The pacing wire is lockable in unextended and extended positions at the proximal end portion of the assembly. A method for venting and pacing a patient's heart during cardiac surgery is described, which includes retracting the catheter distal end from the pulmonary artery after venting mode, into the right ventricle during pacing mode, whereafter the pacing wire is extended for pacing. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253281 | BALLOON WITH INTEGRAL RETENTION OF A DILATION ELEMENT - A balloon catheter is provided with integral channels for securing dilation elements to the outside of the balloon. The dilation elements have an anchor portion and an intermediate portion that are disposed within first and second longitudinal cavities in the channels. The balloon may be manufactured by extruding a parison and blow molding the parison with the dilation elements installed within the channels. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253282 | MEDICAMENT CONTAINER - The invention relates to a medicament container for a liquid medicament, the medicament container comprising a bag with an outlet, the bag being compressible or shrinkable by subjection of at least a part of the medicament container to an energy source. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253283 | INJECTION EQUIPMENT AND MEDICAL LIQUID INJECTING SYSTEM HAVING SAME - Provided is a injection equipment capable of alleviating the force required of a user to inject a medical liquid. A housing chamber S | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253284 | COLONIC CLEANSING DEVICE - The present invention may provide devices suitable for insertion into a body passage. The devices may include a conduit and a distal head region located at the distal end of said conduit. A plurality of apertures on the surface of said head region and conduit may be used to direct a liquid spray outwards from said device. The apertures may be designed and spatially arranged such that when the device is inserted into a body passage, the liquid spray emitted from said apertures may be capable of both reducing the frictional contact between the device and the walls of said passage and of cleansing said passage of undesired solid and other particulate matter. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253285 | Cannula Seal - Trocar seal assemblies are disclosed which consist of a helically-shaped seal positioned within a trocar's cannula; wherein, as an instrument is inserted through the central bore of the helically-shaped seal, the helically-shaped seal expands, thereby increasing the diameter of the central bore. In other embodiments, a protective member is positioned within a retaining member; wherein the protective member is configured as a helix and, as an instrument is inserted through the central bore of the helix, the helix expands, thereby increasing the diameter of the central bore. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253286 | ARRANGEMENT FOR DELIVERING A FLUID MEDICAMENT - The invention relates to an arrangement for delivering a fluid medicament, the arrangement comprising a medicament container that comprises an array of separated reservoirs. Each reservoir comprises a defined charge of a fluid medicament and is separately dischargeable. The reservoirs are flexible and connected by a connecting element. The arrangement further comprises a dosage apparatus comprising a releasing actor designed to activate the release of the charge of fluid medicament from a reservoir to a needle. The dosage apparatus comprises a transportation arrangement designed to provide the releasing actor with reservoirs to be released, or designed to move the releasing actor to a reservoir to be released next. | 2012-10-04 |
| 20120253287 | MEDICAMENT DELIVERY DEVICE - The present invention relates to a medicament delivery device comprising a housing having opposite distal and proximal ends; a medicament container holder releasably connected to said housing; a medicament container arranged inside said medicament container holder; a threaded plunger rod arranged to pass through a first inner wall of the housing and arranged to act on a stopper in the medicament container; a lead screw member coaxially connected to the threaded plunger rod by co-acting first slidably-and-rotatably-locked means; wherein said device further comprises a nut coaxially connected to the threaded plunger rod by a treaded engagement between them, connected to the lead screw member by co-acting non-slidable-and-rotatable means, and connected to the housing by co-acting second slidably-and-rotatably-locked means; a primary dose member coaxially rotatable on the lead screw member when the device is in a non-activated state and connected to the lead screw member by co-acting third slidably-and-rotatably-locked means when the device is in an activated state; a locking member fixedly connected to the housing and releasably connected to the lead screw member by co-acting locking means; a first spring force means arranged between the first inner wall of the housing and the nut, wherein the first spring force means is in a pre-tensioned state when said locking means are engaged and the device is in the non-activated state; a secondary dose member rotatably connected to said primary dose member via a pinion gear; dose setting means connected to the primary dose member by co-acting fourth slidably-and-rotatably-locked means, such that when the device is to be set from the non-activated state to the activated state, the dose setting means are manually manipulated in a pre-determined direction, whereby the locking means are released and the lead screw member is distally moved a pre-determined distance by the first spring force means independent of the size of a dose to be set. | 2012-10-04 |
