УСТРОЙСТВО КАЛИБРОВКИ НА ОСНОВЕ ИСПОЛНИТЕЛЬНОГО ЭЛЕМЕНТА ДЛЯ КАТЕТЕРА, РЕАГИРУЮЩЕГО НА ДАВЛЕНИЕ

Изобретение относится к медицине. Устройство калибровки включает исполнительный элемент и зажимное приспособление для крепления дистального конца медицинского зонда. Исполнительный элемент выполнен с возможностью прижимания к дистальному наконечнику зонда и приложения множества векторов силы. Векторы силы имеют соответствующие амплитуды и углы относительно дистального конца, с целью деформации дистального наконечника. Измерительное устройство предназначено для измерения амплитуды векторов силы, приложенной исполнительным элементом. Процессор данных калибровки осуществляет прием от зонда первых данных измерений, указывающих деформацию дистального наконечника под воздействием векторов силы, прием от измерительного устройства вторых данных измерений, указывающих амплитуду векторов силы, и расчет на основании информации об углах, а также первых и вторых данных измерений коэффициентов калибровки, обеспечивающих определение векторов силы как функции от первых данных измерений. 2 н. и 14 з.п.

СИСТЕМА РАЗМЕЩЕНИЯ ИМПЛАНТИРУЕМОГО КРЕПЕЖНОГО ЭЛЕМЕНТА, СПОСОБ СБОРКИ ТАКОЙ СИСТЕМЫ И КРЕПЕЖНЫЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ (ВАРИАНТЫ)

Группа изобретений относится к медицине. Система размещения для чрескожной доставки и имплантации крепежного элемента имплантируемого элемента для контроля и/или обработки данных о физиологических состояниях тела пациента или для доставки лечебного препарата содержит канюлю устройства ввода, полый толкатель, имеющий отверстие, оболочку и крепежный элемент, помещенный внутрь полого толкателя. Крепежный элемент содержит проксимальный стабилизирующий элемент, имеющий сжатую конфигурацию и развернутую конфигурацию, дистальный стабилизирующий элемент, имеющий сжатую конфигурацию и развернутую конфигурацию, перемычку между проксимальным стабилизирующим элементом и дистальным стабилизирующим элементом. В сжатой конфигурации проксимальный стабилизирующий элемент проходит через отверстие полого толкателя, при этом крепежный элемент имеет позиционирующую консоль для крепления крепежного элемента, проходящую от дистального стабилизирующего элемента, к которой прикреплен имплантируемый элемент. Способ ...

ИМПЛАНТИРУЕМЫЙ КРЕПЕЖНЫЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ

Группа изобретений относится к медицине и в целом относятся к системе и способу чрескожной доставки, имплантации и фиксации крепежного элемента в целевом участке. Имплантируемый крепежный элемент содержит проксимальный стабилизирующий элемент, проходящий от проксимального конца к дистальному концу, дистальный стабилизирующий элемент, проходящий от проксимального конца к дистальному концу, перемычку, проходящую от дистального конца проксимального стабилизирующего элемента к проксимальному концу дистального стабилизирующего элемента, и позиционирующую консоль, проходящую от проксимального конца дистального стабилизирующего элемента, причем проксимальный и дистальный стабилизирующие элементы имеют сжатую конфигурацию и выполнены с возможностью перехода к развернутой конфигурации. Система развертывания для чрескожной доставки и имплантации крепежного элемента содержит канюлю устройства ввода, толкатель и оболочку. Способ использования системы развертывания содержит следующие этапы: продвижение ...

АЛГОРИТМ ПОДГОНКИ СЕТКИ

НЕДОРОГАЯ ПЛОСКАЯ ПРУЖИНА ДЛЯ ДАТЧИКА УСИЛИЯ

МЕДИЦИНСКОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО И СПОСОБ ДЛЯ ОБЛЕГЧЕНИЯ ВЫБОРА ИМПЛАНТАТА ДЛЯ АННУЛОПЛАСТИКИ

ЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНЫЙ К ДАВЛЕНИЮ ЗОНД С ВЫСОКОЙ ЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОСТЬЮ

... 1. Медицинский зонд, содержащий: ! вводимую трубку, имеющую продольную ось и имеющую дистальный конец; ! дистальный кончик, который расположен на дистальном конце вводимой трубки и сконфигурирован для введения в контакт с тканью тела; ! стык, который соединяет дистальный кончик с дистальным концом вводимой трубки; и ! датчик стыка, заключенный внутри зонда, для распознавания положения дистального кончика относительно дистального конца вводимой трубки, причем датчик стыка содержит первый и второй подузлы, которые расположены внутри зонда на противоположных соответствующих сторонах стыка, и каждый подузел содержит один или более магнитных измерительных преобразователей. ! 2. Зонд по п.1, в котором магнитный измерительный преобразователь содержит катушки, и где первый подузел содержит первую катушку, имеющую ось первой катушки, параллельную продольной оси вводимой трубки, и где второй подузел содержит две или более вторых катушек в разных соответствующих радиальных местоположениях в пределах ...

ДИСПЛЕЙ КАТЕТЕРА, ПОКАЗЫВАЮЩИЙ УГОЛ НАКЛОНА И ДАВЛЕНИЕ

... 1. Способ отображения информации, включающий в себя этапы, на которых: ! получают измерение в отношении инвазивного зонда внутри тела объекта, по меньшей мере, одного параметра зонда, выбранного из группы параметров, состоящей из угла изгиба зонда и давления на зонд; и ! в соответствии с измерением отображают на экране дисплея иконку, представляющую, по меньшей мере, один параметр зонда для наблюдения оператором зонда. ! 2. Способ по п.1, в котором зонд содержит дистальный наконечник, изгибающийся в упругом соединении, и в котором этап получения измерения включает в себя измерение деформации соединения вследствие зацепления ткани в теле дистальным наконечником. ! 3. Способ по п.2, в котором зонд содержит катетер, который вводится в полость сердца объекта и захватывает ткань сердечной мышцы. ! 4. Способ по п.3, дополнительно включающий в себя этап, на котором прилагают энергию через дистальный наконечник для абляции ткани сердечной мышцы, при этом оператор контролирует приложение энергии ...

Einrichtung zum Steuern einer Läsionsgröße

System zum Durchfahren einer Ablation an einem Zielgewebe während einer medizinischen Prozedur, wobei das System Folgendes umfasst: einen länglichen, flexiblen Katheter, der dazu eingerichtet ist, während der medizinischen Prozedur in einen Patienten eingeführt zu werden, wobei der Katheter einen distalen Bereich aufweist, einen Ablationskopf, der an dem distalen Bereich des Katheters angeordnet ist, wobei der Ablationskopf dazu eingerichtet ist, sich während der medizinischen Prozedur in Kontakt mit dem Zielgewebe zu befinden, einen Kraftsensor, der wirksam mit dem Ablationskopf zur Messung einer Kontaktkraft, die auf den Ablationskopf ausgeübt wird, gekoppelt ist, wobei der Kraftsensor dazu ausgelegt ist, ein Signal in Antwort auf die Kontaktkraft auszugeben, eine Leistungsquelle, die wirksam mit dem Ablationskopf zur Energieversorgung des Ablationskopfes gekoppelt ist, und ein Steuerungs- oder Regelungssystem, das zum Empfangen des Signals von dem Kraftsensor und zum Erzeugen einer Abfolge ...

Methods and apparatus for securing a line

Circadian rhythm detection

A method for detecting a circadian rhythm of a user, the method comprising acquiring 201 measurement data indicating the user’s sleep time and determining a user’s sleep-wake rhythm of the user on the basis of the measurement data; determining 202 a first phase value based on the sleep-wake rhythm, acquiring 203 skin temperature measurement data for at least one 24-hour measurement period, fitting 204 the skin temperature measurement data to a cosine waveform, and evaluating 205 a quality of the fitting. If the quality is above a threshold, a circadian phase of the user is determined 208 on the basis of a combination of the first phase value and the second phase value. If the quality of the fitting is below the threshold, the circadian phase of the user is determined 206 on the basis of the first phase value without the second phase value. The computed circadian phase or a parameter derivative of the computed circadian phase is output via an interface to be presented to the user.

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

BLUTFLUSS OKKLUDIERENDE, TEMPERATURE-MEASURING CATHETERS

PROCEDURE FOR THE CHARACTERISATION OF A FLEXIBLE KNITTING KOMPRESSIONSORTHESE

ANCHOR FOR IMPLANTIERBAREN MEDICAL DEVICE

SYSTEMS FOR THE EVALUATION OF ELECTRODE CONTACT

CATHETER EQUIPPED WITH A SENSOR

DEVICE FOR REFLEKTROMETRI INVESTIGATION AND MEASUREMENT OF BODY CAVITIES

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

SYSTEMS TO THE PROOF OF FABRIC CONTACT AND THE NEEDLE PENETRATION DEPTH WITH STATIC LIQUID PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS

Radiofrequency ablation catheter with optical tissue evaluation

Systems and methods for performing RF ablation while monitoring the procedure 5 using low coherence interferometry (LCI) data are described. A catheter includes a distal section, a proximal section, a multiplexer, and a sheath coupled between the distal section and the proximal section. The distal section includes one or more electrodes configured to apply RF energy to a portion of a sample in contact with the electrode. The distal section also includes a plurality of optical elements 10 configured to transmit one or more beams of exposure radiation away from the distal section of the catheter. The proximal section includes an optical source configured to generate a source beam of radiation and a detector configured to generate depth-resolved optical data. The multiplexer is configured to generate the one or more beams of exposure radiation from the source beam of radiation.

Radiofrequency ablation catheter with optical tissue evaluation

Systems and methods for performing RF ablation while monitoring the procedure 5 using low coherence interferometry (LCI) data are described. A catheter includes a distal section, a proximal section, a multiplexer, and a sheath coupled between the distal section and the proximal section. The distal section includes one or more electrodes configured to apply RF energy to a portion of a sample in contact with the electrode. The distal section also includes a plurality of optical elements 10 configured to transmit one or more beams of exposure radiation away from the distal section of the catheter. The proximal section includes an optical source configured to generate a source beam of radiation and a detector configured to generate depth-resolved optical data. The multiplexer is configured to generate the one or more beams of exposure radiation from the source beam of radiation.

Gastric resident electronics

Gastric resident electronics, devices, systems, and related methods are generally provided. Some embodiments comprise administering (e.g., orally) an (electronic) resident structure to a subject (e.g., a patient) such that the (electronic) resident structure is retained at a location internal to the subject for a particular amount of time (e.g., at least about 24 hours) before exiting said location internal to the subject. In some embodiments, the resident structure is a gastric resident electronic. That is to say, in some embodiments, the resident structure is configured for relatively long gastric residence and comprises an electronic component. In some embodiments, the structures and components described herein may comprise one or more components configured for the delivery of an active substance(s) (e.g., a pharmaceutical agent) to the subject. In some embodiments, the device has a modular design, combining an electronic component(s) with materials configured for controlled and/or tunable ...

Radiofrequency (RF) transmission system to find tissue proximity

A method includes receiving, from a probe that comprises electrodes and is positioned inside a cavity in an organ of a patient, (i) proximity signals indicative of 5 proximity of the electrodes to a wall of the cavity, and (ii) position signals indicative of positions of the electrodes within the cavity. Based on the proximity signals and the position signals, at least a portion of a volume of the cavity is represented by a sphere model 10 including multiple spheres. An estimated contour of the wall of the cavity is calculated based on the sphere-model. The estimated contour of the wall is presented to a user. Nt 04 CY) Co Q) CY) Q) LO LO 0) LO CV) CY) CY) (N ...

Catheter-gripping device which measures insertion force during a medical procedure

Anchor for an implantable sensor

An anchor for an implantable medical device, for example, and implantable physiologic sensor, includes a proximal hub portion, an intermediate portion extending radially and distally from the hub portion, and a distal portion extending distally from the proximal portion and adapted to engage an inner surface of a target vessel for securing the implantable medical device therein. The anchor can assume a collapsed configuration for delivery through a catheter, and an expanded configuration for fixation within the vessel once deployed. The intermediate portion extends from the proximal portion at an oblique angle, allowing the anchor to be retracted and re-collapsed within the delivery catheter after initial deployment, if re-positioning or removal of the implantable medical device is necessary or desired.

Expandable device and method for sensing temperature profile of a hollow body organ

Catheter and process for the temperature measurement of the vascular wall

USING LOCATION AND FORCE MEASUREMENTS TO ESTIMATE TISSUE THICKNESS

A method, including pressing a distal end of a medical probe against a wall of a body cavity, and receiving from the probe first measurements of a force exerted by the distal end on the wall. The method also includes receiving from the probe second measurements indicating a displacement of the wall in response to the force. The method further includes estimating a thickness of the wall based on the first and the second measurements. PROBE CALIBRATION METHOD 70- SELECT A FIRST BODY CAVITY WALL HAVING A FIRST THICKNESS 72-\ PRESS THE DISTAL TIP OF THE PROBE AGAINST THE SELECTED BODY CAVITY WALL 74- COLLECT A FORCE SENSOR INPUT INDICATING THE FORCE EXERTED BY THE DISTAL TIP ON THE WALL 761.., COLLECT A POSITION SENSOR INPUT INDICATING A DISPLACEMENT OF THE WALL IN RESPONSE TO THE FORCE 7811 CREATE A CALIBRATION MATRIX ENTRY BASED ON 78THE FORCE SENSOR AND THE POSITION SENSOR INPUTS ADDITIONAL PROMPT THE OPERATOR CALIBRATION FOR YE TO CHANGE THE FORCE THE SELECTED BODY APPLIED TO THE SELECTED ...

ESTIMATION OF TISSUE THICKNESS FROM RATE OF CHANGE OF CATHETER TEMPERATURE

Apparatus, consisting of a probe having a distal end that is configured to be inserted into contact with 5 tissue. An electrode is attached to the distal end, and there is a temperature sensor incorporated in the distal end and configured to output a temperature signal. A radiofrequency (RF) signal generator is configured to apply a pulse of RF electrical energy via the electrode 10 to the tissue, so as to heat the tissue. The apparatus includes processing circuitry that is configured to compute, based on the temperature signal, a rate of temperature change of the distal end following termination of the pulse, and to estimate a thickness of 15 the tissue in response to the rate of temperature change. 3559485v1 _ _ _ W__ - \ LO D (0WD(OD W OF N -0 0 < Z) 00 W 0c 0- 12 < Подробнее

A device for treatment of aneurysm

In a system, device and method for treating an aneurysm of a human or mammal patient an implantable member adapted to hold fluid is provided. The member is adapted to be placed in connection with a blood vessel having the aneurysm and to exercise a pressure on the aneurysm of said blood vessel. Fig.1 Fig.2 11 -110 J1 15 117 -104 108 Fig.3 Fig.4 101 301 301 ...

Guidewire having extendable contact sensors for measuring temperature of vessel walls

VEIN OCCLUSION DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CATHETER-BASED ABLATION

Medical devices and methods for deriving an indication of occlusion of a blood vessel from one or more physiologic sensor are disclosed. The physiological parameters contemplated for implementation in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure may include pressure, flow, force, temperature, or tension. An exemplary device comprises a catheter having an expandable chamber coupled to a distal end portion of the catheter shaft. In various embodiments, one or more physiologic sensors may be disposed on the catheter shaft and electrically coupled to control electronics that may be provided in a console for measurement of a physiologic signal. Alternatively, an external sensor may be disposed in fluid communication with a lumen of the catheter to derive a physiological parameter such as pressure via mechanical coupling of pressure distal to the expandable chamber to the fluid in the lumen. The parameters measured by the physiologic sensor(s) provide a measure of the physiological parameters ...

TEMPERATURE SENSING CATHETER

A thermal sensing catheter (114) for detecting and isolating unstable arterial plaque. Miniaturized temperature sensors (106), preferably in the form of microthermistors, are embedded into expandable presentation elements (110) disposed at the distal end of a catheter. The sensors (106) may then be deployed to measure the surface temperature of the inner wall of coronary arteries or other vessels at multiple sites to identify sites of elevated temperature indicative of unstable plaque. A plurality of thermal sensors (106) are embedded into the sides of polymeric or metallic sensing elements (108) which expand out from the centerline of a catheter (114) toward the inner vessel walls.

A DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF ANEURYSM

ORAL APPLIANCE MONITORING

A system for monitoring use of an oral appliance, the oral appliance (700) including a body that is positioned within an oral cavity of the user in use, the system including an appliance monitoring device (760) which in use is attached to or embedded within the oral appliance, the appliance monitoring device (760) including, at least one sensor, the at least one sensor including a pressure sensor that generates a signal indicative of a pressure, a data store and a processing device that analyses signals from the at least one sensor to determine a usage state, in response to a determination that the appliance is in use, generates usage data at least partially indicative of the use and stores the usage data in the data store. The system also includes one or more processing systems that acquire the usage data from the monitoring device and store an indication of the usage data and/or cause a representation to be displayed at least partially in accordance with the usage data.

TOUCH DETECTION BASED ON FREQUENCY RESPONSE OF TISSUE

A method includes measuring a first impedance-magnitude between a distal-electrode fitted at a distal end of a medical instrument in an organ of a patient and a surface-electrode attached externally to the patient, at a first electrical frequency. A second impedance-magnitude between the distal-electrode and the surface-electrode, is measured at a second electrical frequency. A difference between the first and second measured impedance-magnitudes is calculated. Based on the calculated difference, an indication of, whether the distal-electrode is in physical contact with tissue or immersed in blood is decided, and outputted.

LOW COST PLANAR SPRING FOR FORCE SENSOR

A flexible probe has an assembly in its distal end that includes a transmitter and a receiver that receives signals from the transmitter for sensing a position of the receiver relative to the transmitter. A pair of flat spring coils disposed between the transmitter and the receiver deform in response to pressure exerted on the distal tip when the distal tip engages a wall of a body cavity.

ULTRASOUND DEVICE FOR VULVOVAGINAL REJUVENATION

A handheld ultrasound device and corresponding methods used for rejuvenating the vulvovaginal area of the user. In general, the handheld ultrasound devices include a device body coupled to an acoustic coupler and a handle. The device body further includes internal components including an ultrasound transducer, an energy delivery element, and circuitry for controlling the ultrasound output. The methods of using the handheld ultrasound device include engaging the tissue in and around the vulvovaginal area with the energy delivery element, applying ultrasound energy to the vulvovaginal tissue from the energy delivery element and through the acoustic coupler, and affecting a measurable parameter associated with vulvovaginal rejuvenation.

HAPTIC FEEDBACK DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATION OF A MEDICAL TOOL

A haptic feedback device receives a signal reflecting pressure exerted by a medical tool against an anatomical surface. A fastener secures the feedback device to, for example, a wrist of an operator. A haptic exertion component exerts haptic stimulation to the operator based on the received signal such that when the received signal reflects a pressure being exerted by the medical tool against the anatomical surface of a patient is in a defined range for operation of the medical tool, the exertion component exerts haptic stimulation at a predetermined level that indicates pressure of the medical tool is being exerted in the defined range. Otherwise, the exertion component does not exert a level of haptic stimulation that is equal to or more than the predetermined level or the exertion component exerts a level of haptic stimulation to the operator that is more than the predetermined level.

FINGER RING ELECTROCARDIOGRAM MONITOR AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A finger ring health status monitoring device [100] comprising an inner ring member [210] and an outer ring member [220] positioned radially outward from and operably connected to the inner ring member [210]. The inner ring member [210] features a conductor characterized by at least one physiological-type sensor, and an annular bladder that defines an adjustable aperture sized to receive a finger of a patient [910, 920]. Adjustment of the aperture is accomplished by rotating the outer ring member in a first direction about an axis of rotation common to the outer ring member [220] and to the inner ring member [210], thereby causing the bladder to expand radially inward so as to reduce an inside diameter of the aperture. Rotating the outer ring member [220] in a second direction opposite the first direction causes the bladder to contract, thus increasing the inside diameter of the aperture.

AUTOMATIC ABLATION TRACKING

A method for performing a medical procedure includes bringing a probe into contact with an organ in a body of a patient. A map of the organ is displayed, and the location of the probe relative to the map is tracked. A therapy is applied via the probe at multiple tissue sites in the organ with which the probe is brought into contact. Stability of the contact between the probe and the tissue sites is assessed while applying the therapy. The map is automatically marked, responsively to the assessed stability, to indicate the tissue sites at which the therapy was applied.

CALIBRATION SYSTEM FOR A PRESSURE-SENSITIVE CATHETER

A calibration apparatus includes a fixture, which is coupled to accept a probe so that a distal tip of the probe presses against a point in the fixture and produces first measurements indicative of a deformation of the distal tip relative to a distal end of the probe, in response to pressure exerted on the distal tip. A sensing device is coupled to the fixture and is configured to produce second measurements of a mechanical force exerted by the distal tip against the point. A calibration processor is configured to receive the first measurements from the probe, to receive the second measurements from the sensing device and to compute, based on the first and second measurements, one or more calibration coefficients for assessing the pressure as a function of the first measurements.

IN-VIVO CALIBRATION OF CONTACT FORCE-SENSING CATHETERS USING AUTO ZERO ZONES

A method for the in vivo re-calibration of a force sensing probe such as an electrophysiology catheter provides for the generation of an auto zero zone. The distal tip of the catheter or other probe is placed in a body cavity within the patient. Verification that there is no tissue contact is made using electrocardiogram (ECG) or impedance data, fluoroscopy or other real-time imaging data and/or an electro-anatomical mapping system. Once verification that there is no tissue contact is made, the system recalibrates the signal emanating from the force sensor setting it to correspond to a force reading of zero grams and this recalibrated baseline reading is used to generate and display force readings based on force sensor data. Location data based on information provided by a location sensor for these auto zero zone locations is stored in system memory. During a procedure the probe may be placed in this auto zero zone for re-calibration or may be automatically recalibrated if it is found to ...

REAL-TIME ESTIMATION OF TISSUE PERFORATION RISK DURING MINIMALLY INVASIVE MEDICAL PROCEDURE

A method for performing a medical procedure, includes coupling a tip of a probe to tissue in an organ of a patient in order to apply the medical procedure using the probe. A force exerted by the tip on the tissue and a displacement of the tip created by the force are measured. A dependence of the force on the displacement is calculated. Based on the calculated dependence, a risk level of perforation of the tissue is estimated.

OTOSCOPE

The present invention refers to an otoscope (10) comprising a handle portion (12) allowing a user to manipulate the otoscope (10) during its application; and a head portion (14) exhibiting a substantially tapering form extending along a longitudinal axis (A) of the head portion (14), wherein the head portion (14) has a proximal end (16) adjacent to the handle portion (12) and a smaller distal end (18) adapted to be introduced in an ear canal of a patient's outer ear. The otoscope (10) further comprises an electronic imaging unit positioned at the distal end (18) of the head portion (14), especially at a distal tip (35) of the head portion (14), the otoscope (10) further comprising a probe cover moving mechanism (65) configured to move at least a portion of an at least partially transparent probe cover (60) adapted to be put over the head portion (14), especially configured to move the probe cover (60) with respect to at least one optical axis (X; X1, X2) of the electronic imaging unit ( ...

CONFORMAL CATHETER

This invention is an invasive probe apparatus including a flexible, elongate probe (20), having a distal end (22) for insertion into the body of a subject. The probe includes first and second position sensors (28, 30), fixed in a known relation to the distal end, which generates signals responsive to position coordinates thereof, and at least one contact sensor (70) along a radial surface thereof, which generates signals responsive to the contact of the radial surface with a surface inside the body. The apparatus further includes signal processing circuitry (36), which receives the position/responsive and contact/responsive signals, and processes them to determine the locations of a plurality of points along the length of a portion of the probe in a vicinity of the first and second position sensors.

Device and method for micro-elastography

Device and method associated with vibratory micro-elastography for qualitative and/or quantitative measurements of viscoelastic properties such as the elasticity and/or the viscosity of a viscoelastic medium and more particularly of a human or animal biological tissue carried out inside the human or animal body. This method may be carried out using a probe (20) introduced into the human or animal body, which probe (20) is connected to an external controller (24) via a filiform tube (25).

Thoracic Endoscope For Surface Scanning

Drawing force

DEVICE AND PROCESS OF MICRO-ELASTOGRAPHIE.

Dispositif et procédé associé de micro-élastographie vibratoire de mesures qualitatives et/ou quantitatives de propriétés viscoélastiques telles que l'élasticité et/ou la viscosité d'un milieu viscoélastique et plus particulièrement d'un tissu biologique humain ou animal mis en oeuvre à l'intérieur du corps humain ou animal. Ce procédé pouvant être réalisé à l'aide d'une sonde 20 introduite dans le corps humain ou animal, laquelle est reliée à un contrôleur externe 24 par un tube filiforme 25.

dispositivo médico para facilitar a seleção de um implante de anuloplastia

SMART EXPANDABLE MEMBER FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS

Devices and methods for assessing the compliance of vessel lumens and hollow portions of organs are described. The devices and methods are particularly adapted for determining the compliance of the native heart valves to facilitate the later implantation of a prosthetic heart valve. The devices are typically catheter-based having an expandable member fixed to a distal end of the catheter. Located within the expandable member is an imaging member. The methods typically comprise deploying the balloon percutaneously to a target location, expanding the balloon, and determining the compliance of a lumen, particularly a cardiac valve. An optical coherence tomography apparatus is a preferred apparatus for determining compliance.

SHAPE SENSING DEVICES FOR REAL-TIME MECHANICAL FUNCTION ASSESSMENT OF AN INTERNAL ORGAN

A system and method for functioning organ assessment include a sensing enabled flexible device (102) having an optical fiber configured to sense induced strain continuously over a length of the flexible device. The flexible device includes a manipulation mechanism (105) configured to permit engagement with an interior wall of an organ over the length. An interpretation module(115) is configured to receive optical signals from the optical fiber between two phases of movement of the organ while the organ is functioning and to interpret the optical signals to quantify parameters associated with the functioning of the organ.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING EFFECTIVE DELIVERY OF ABLATION THERAPY

A system and method for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy to a tissue (12) in a body (14) is provided. A three-dimensional anatomical map of the tissue (12) is generated and displayed with the map defining a corresponding volume (74). An index is generated corresponding to a location (76) within the volume (74) with the index indicative of a state of ablation therapy at the location (76). The index may be derived from one or more factors such as the duration an ablation electrode (52) is present at the location (76), the amount of energy provided, the degree of electrical coupling between an ablation electrode (52) and the tissue (12) at the location (76) and temperature. A visual characteristic (e.g., color intensity) of a portion of the anatomical map corresponding to the location (76) is then altered responsive to the index.

CATHETER WITH PIEZO ELEMENTS FOR LESION DIAGNOSTICS

Catheter lesion diagnostics are disclosed. In some embodiment, a diagnostic apparatus (2) includes an expandable catheter, comprising a catheter body (4) having an expandable portion (6), the expandable portion (6) including a plurality of spaced piozoelectric elements (28), and a controller (26) that controllably produces and receives a signal from elelments (28) of said plurality.

Depicting force

A force exerted on a distal end of an elongate medical device can be determined. A graphical representation of the distal end of the elongate medical device and a graphical representation of the force exerted on the distal end of the elongate medical device can be computed. The graphical representation of the force can emanate from the graphical representation of the distal end of the elongate medical device. A first dimension of the graphical representation of the force can be increased in response to a longitudinal force being exerted on the distal end of the elongate medical device. A second dimension of the graphical representation of force can be increased in response to a lateral force being exerted on the distal end of the elongate medical device.

System and method for detecting sheathing and unsheathing of localization elements

A method of detecting whether a localization element is within or outside of an introducer sheath generally includes obtaining a localization signal from the localization element and detecting the state of the localization element relative to the sheath based upon the quadrature component of the localization signal. A baseline quadrature component is typically established with the localization element outside of the sheath. When the quadrature component deviates from this baseline value, it is indicative of the localization element being within the sheath. Conversely, when the quadrature component remains relatively close to the baseline value, it is indicative of the localization element being outside of the sheath. In an electrophysiology study, the state information can be used to take corrective action with respect to the data being collected.

Apparatus for the invasive use of oximeter probes

A reflectance oximeter probe is suitably disposed at a distal end of an elongated, substantially flat, semi-rigid chassis configured for insertion into an anatomical canal, for example in the esophagus, rectum or vaginal cavity of a human patient. The reflectance probe may also be suitably employed in many veterinary applications. An electrical connector extends from a proximal end of the chassis and terminates at a plug configured for mechanical and electrical connection to a pulse oximeter box. The reflectance probe includes first and second LED's mounted to an emitter assembly and a detector assembly spaced apart from and mounted substantially coplanar with respect to the emitter assembly. The reflectance probe generates and transmits signals to the oximeter box, the signals indicative of the dynamic oxygen saturation level of the blood perfused mucus membrane tissue.

Catheter for thermal and ultrasound evaluation of arteriosclerotic plaque

A device for percutaneous insertion into a fluid passageway of a human body, such as an artery is provided with one or more thermocouples disposed on a flexible, resilient wire lead and coupled to a temperature monitor. The wire lead includes a distal portion formed in a single, oval, looped shape or a double, ovoid or basket-like, looped shape with the thermocouples disposed on a side or tip of the shape. The wire lead is configured, e.g., by insertion in a guidewire, for slidable movement through the artery to an area of interest, e.g., at a buildup of arteriosclerotic plaque, on an inner surface of the artery, to bring the thermocouple into resiliently biased contact with the inner surface at the area of interest for measurement of the temperature there.

Endoscope apparatus

The endoscope apparatus comprises an endoscope having an elongate insertable part having a bendable part and a driving apparatus for bending and driving the bendable part, a first bending controlling apparatus for controlling the driving apparatus and a second bending controlling apparatus for controlling the driving apparatus independently of the first bending controlling apparatus when the first bending controlling apparatus is controllable.

Systems and methods for positioning multiple electrode structures in electrical contact with the myocardium

Systems and methods evaluate electrical contact between the myocardium and one or more electrodes inside the heart. The systems and methods electrically sense electrical contact between the myocardium and electrodes and generate unitary contact-indicating outputs indicating the presence or absence of electrical contact between the myocardium and each particular electrode. The systems and methods also correlate the electrode-specific unitary outputs to generate a compound contact-indicating output. The compound output represents the aggregate of the electrical contact between the myocardium and multiple electrodes on a multiple electrode array.

Tactile control device for a remote sensing device

The remote sensing device is added to a fibro-optic illuminating and viewing system such as a colonoscope. The directional sensing device is located in a flexible hood surrounding the distal end of the fiberscope. The sensor devices located in the hood at close spacings consist of semiconductive digital foam sheath with electrodes located on its inside surface. The sheath and electrodes are attached to an ohmmeter so that when the instrument contacts with the wall, e.g. of a colon, the pressure is measured. The completed circuit forms a signal which is used to direct the distal end of the fiberscope in a direction away from the point of greatest resistance so as to follow the lumen with greater safety. Contacts may also be positioned along the length of the endoscope so as to be activated by tension below the level of pressure required to disrupt the intestinal wall, or when used in other applications, at a level of pressure appropriate to that use.

Systems and methods for detecting tissue contact and needle penetration depth

A system for detecting tissue contact and penetration depth. The system comprises a needle sheath having a needle sheath inner diameter and a needle sheath outer diameter. A first conductive region is disposed on the needle sheath inner diameter. A needle having a needle insulation layer on the outer diameter upon which a second conductive region is disposed within the first conductive region. A dielectric layer is disposed between the first conductive tube and the second conductive tube. A capacitance sensor is coupled to the first conductive region and the second conductive region.

System and method for detecting sheathing and unsheathing of localization elements

A method of detecting whether a localization element is within or outside of an introducer sheath generally includes obtaining a localization signal from the localization element and detecting the state of the localization element relative to the sheath based upon the quadrature component of the localization signal. A baseline quadrature component is typically established with the localization element outside of the sheath. When the quadrature component deviates from this baseline value, it is indicative of the localization element being within the sheath. Conversely, when the quadrature component remains relatively close to the baseline value, it is indicative of the localization element being outside of the sheath. In an electrophysiology study, the state information can be used to take corrective action with respect to the data being collected.

Systems and methods for modular intraluminal device power transfer

Systems and methods are described for providing power transfer between modular intraluminal devices. A system embodiment includes, but is not limited to, a first intraluminal device and a second intraluminal device; the first intraluminal device including a body structure, a sensor, a processor, a data transmitter, and an energy storage module configured to power at least one of the sensor, the processor, or the data transmitter; the second intraluminal device including a second body structure, an energy storage device, and a docking structure, where the energy storage device is configured to transfer energy when the first intraluminal device and the second intraluminal device are coupled via the docking structure, the docking structure further configured to automatically decouple the first intraluminal device and the second intraluminal device subsequent to transfer of the energy.

Robotic surgical system

A robotic surgical system includes a track, a catheter holding device including a catheter receiving portion translatably associated with the track, a translation servo mechanism to control translation of the catheter holding device relative to the track, a catheter deflection control mechanism, a deflection servo mechanism to control the catheter deflection control mechanism, and a controller to control at least one of the servo mechanisms. The catheter receiving portion is adapted for quick installation and removal of a catheter. The catheter receiving portion may be rotatable, with a rotation servo mechanism to control the rotatable catheter receiving portion. The controller controls at least one of the deflection and rotation servo mechanisms to maintain a substantially constant catheter deflection as the catheter rotates. An introducer, which may be steerable, and an expandable, collapsible sterile tube may also be provided.

ROBOTIC CATHETER SYSTEM

A robotic catheter system includes a controller with a master input device. An instrument driver is in communication with the controller and has a guide instrument interface including a plurality of guide instrument drive elements responsive to control signals generated, at least in part, by the master input device. An elongate guide instrument has a base, distal end, and a working lumen, wherein the guide instrument base is operatively coupled to the guide instrument interface. The guide instrument includes a plurality of guide instrument control elements operatively coupled to respective guide drive elements and secured to the distal end of the guide instrument. The guide instrument control elements are axially moveable relative to the guide instrument such that movement of the guide instrument distal end may be controlled by the master input device.

ULTRASOUND DEVICE FOR VULVOVAGINAL REJUVENATION

A handheld ultrasound device and corresponding methods used for rejuvenating the vulvovaginal area of the user. In general, the handheld ultrasound devices include a device body coupled to an acoustic coupler and a handle. The device body further includes internal components including an ultrasound transducer, an energy delivery element, and circuitry for controlling the ultrasound output. The methods of using the handheld ultrasound device include engaging the tissue in and around the vulvovaginal area with the energy delivery element, applying ultrasound energy to the vulvovaginal tissue from the energy delivery element and through the acoustic coupler, and affecting a measurable parameter associated with vulvovaginal rejuvenation.

SLEEP PERFORMANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE

Sleep performance systems and methods of using the same are disclosed. The sleep performance systems can improve the quality of sleep by making one or more recommendations to the subject for increasing a sleep quality score. The sleep performance systems can have one or more electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes configured to measure a subject's brain activity during sleep. The sleep performance systems can have a processor configured to quantify the quality of the subject's slow-wave sleep by determining one or more sleep performance scores associated with the measured brain activity. The sleep performance systems can recommend and/or activate sleep improvement programs based on various threshold scores.

Catheter for thermal and ultrasound evaluation of arteriosclerotic plaque

A device for percutaneous insertion into a fluid passageway of a human body, such as an artery is provided with one or more thermocouples disposed on a flexible, resilient wire lead and coupled to a temperature monitor. The wire lead includes a distal portion formed in a single, oval, looped shape or a double, ovoid or basket-like, looped shape with the thermocouples disposed on a side or tip of the shape. The wire lead is configured, e.g., by insertion in a guidewire, for slidable movement through the artery to an area of interest, e.g., at a buildup of arteriosclerotic plaque, on an inner surface of the artery, to bring the thermocouple into resiliently biased contact with the inner surface at the area of interest for measurement of the temperature there.

MEDICAL ULTRASOUND DEVICE WITH FORCE DETECTION

A medical ultrasound device is disclosed. The device comprises an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end region (1). One or more ultrasound transducers (4) for generating acoustic radiation are positioned in the distal end region, inside the elongated body. A transmission element (5) which is substantially transparent to acoustic radiation is positioned in the radiation path of the acoustic radiation, and a controller unit is operatively connected to the ultrasound transducer. The transmission element and the one or more ultrasound transducers are mounted so that an acoustic path length (8) between the transmission element (5) and the ultrasound transducer (4) varies with contact force (10) imposed to the distal end region. The controller unit detects the acoustic path length between the ultrasound transducer and the transmission element and determines the contact force from the detected acoustic path length. In an embodiment, the medical device is an ultrasound RF ablation ...

SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PERFORMING MEDICAL PROCEDURES IN THE INTESTINE

A method for performing a medical procedure in an intestine of a patient is provided. The method comprises providing a system comprising: a catheter for insertion into the intestine, the catheter comprising: an elongate shaft comprising a distal portion; and a functional assembly positioned on the shaft distal portion and comprising at least one treatment element. The catheter is introduced into the patient, and target tissue is treated with the at least one treatment element. The target tissue comprises mucosal tissue of the small intestine, and the medical procedure can be configured to treat at least one of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). 1. A method for performing a medical procedure in an intestine of a patient , comprising:providing a system comprising:a catheter for insertion into the intestine, the catheter comprising:an elongate shaft comprising a distal portion; anda functional assembly positioned on the shaft distal portion and comprising at least one treatment element;introducing the catheter into the patient; andtreating target tissue with the at least one treatment element, wherein the target tissue comprises mucosal tissue of the small intestine;wherein the medical procedure is configured to reduce liver fat in the patient.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the medical procedure is further configured to reduce and/or prevent fibrosis of the liver.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the medical procedure is further configured to treat Type 2 diabetes.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the medical procedure is further configured to treat a disease or disorder selected from the group consisting of: Type 2 diabetes; Type 1 diabetes; “Double diabetes”; gestational diabetes; hyperglycemia; pre-diabetes; impaired glucose tolerance; insulin resistance; and combinations thereof.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein treating target tissue modifies at least one of (1) nutrient ...

System and method for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy

A system and method for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy to a tissue in a body is provided. A three-dimensional anatomical map of the tissue is generated and displayed with the map defining a corresponding volume. An index is generated corresponding to a location within the volume with the index indicative of a state of ablation therapy at the location. The index may be derived from one or more factors such as the duration an ablation electrode is present at the location, the amount of energy provided, the degree of electrical coupling between an ablation electrode and the tissue at the location and temperature. A visual characteristic (e.g., color intensity) of a portion of the anatomical map corresponding to the location is then altered responsive to the index.

A FIBER OPTIC FORCE SENSING CATHETER

TENSIONER TOOL AND SOCK WITH PRESSURE SENSOR GRID FOR USE THEREWITH

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLANTATION OF A PACING ELECTRODE

СИСТЕМА РАЗМЕЩЕНИЯ ИМПЛАНТИРУЕМОГО УСТРОЙСТВА

Изобретение относится к медицинской технике, а именно к системе прямого введения и имплантации устройства для контроля физиологических условий, например, в теле, включая, например, давление внутри воротных и печеночных вен. Система прямого введения имплантируемого устройства содержит канюлю, толкатель, управляемый механизм размещения, имплантируемое устройство и измеритель усилия, имеющий предел обратного усилия. Толкатель, управляемый механизм размещения и имплантируемое устройство расположены внутри канюли. Имплантируемое устройство с возможностью отсоединения прикреплено к управляемому механизму размещения, а управляемый механизм размещения расположен на дистальном конце толкателя и выполнен с возможностью управляемого высвобождения имплантируемого устройства, когда измеритель усилия достигнет предела обратного усилия после отвода назад толкателя. Использование изобретения обеспечивает возможность прямой, безопасной и надежной имплантации устройства в тело. 14 з.п. ф-лы, 12 ил.

КАРТИРОВАНИЕ ПО ДАННЫМ С ЗОНДА С ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕМ ИНФОРМАЦИИ О КОНТАКТЕ

... 1. Способ картирования, включающий в себя этапы, на которых: ! принимают входные сигналы, измеренные зондом в соответствующих местоположениях внутри полости тела субъекта; ! определяют в каждом из соответствующих местоположений соответствующее качество контакта между зондом и тканью в полости тела; ! отклоняют входные сигналы, для которых соответствующее качество контакта находится за пределами заданного диапазона; и ! создают карту полости тела с использованием неотклоненных входных сигналов. ! 2. Способ по п.1, в котором полость тела представляет собой камеру сердца. ! 3. Способ по п.1, в котором прием входных сигналов содержит прием сигналов от датчика положения в зонде, указывающих координаты дистального конца зонда внутри полости тела. ! 4. Способ по п.1, в котором прием входных сигналов содержит измерение физиологического параметра в местоположениях, а создание карты содержит картирование физиологического параметра по всей полости. ! 5. Способ по п.4, в котором измерение физиологического ...

ВЫПОЛНЕННЫЙ С ВОЗМОЖНОСТЬЮ ИМПЛАНТАЦИИ КРЕПЕЖНЫЙ ЭЛЕМЕНТ

Medical examination/treatment system e.g. electro-physiological mapping/ablation system, has computer for evaluating acquired parameter so that parameter is output as acoustic signal, whose property is adjusted based on evaluated parameter

The system has an acquisition unit for acquiring a parameter to be monitored during an examination or treatment. A display (2) is provided for outputting the acquired parameter. A computer (3) evaluates the acquired parameter such that the acquired parameter is output by the display as an acoustic signal, where property of the acoustic signal is adjusted based on the evaluated parameter. The acoustic signal is a polyphonic tone that includes a set of individual tones, where the polyphonic tone is a triad or a chord. An independent claim is also included for method of acquiring and outputting a parameter to be monitored during an examination or treatment.

Messung der relativen Impedanz

Apparatus and method for detecting and measuring condition of esophageal mucosa and indications of gastroesophageal reflux disease

FÖTALSONDE

CURVATURE-SENSITIVE CATHETER

Catheter with thin film pressure sensing distal tip

A mapping and ablation catheter has contact force sensing capabilities at a distal end. In one embodiment, the catheter includes a catheter body, a deflectable section, and a tip distal tip section which has a tip electrode with a thin-film pressure sensor that is adapted to detect a force vector applied to the tip electrode. The thin-film pressure sensor includes two opposing flexible and thin support members containing a pressure-sensitive material therebetween whose resistivity changes as a result of pressure and is detected by trace electrode intersections supported on interfacing surfaces of the flexible and thin support members. Used with a stop member having a conforming shape against which the thin-film pressure sensor abuts when a force vector is applied to the tip electrode, the pressure sensor can have a 2-D, radially-symmetrical shape, e.g., a disc or ring configuration, or a 3-D, radially-symmetrical shape, e.g., a conical configuration.

Medical apparatus system having optical fiber load sensing capability

Apparatus is provided for diagnosing or treating an organ or vessel, wherein a device having at least two optical fiber sensors disposed in a distal extremity thereof is coupled to processing logic programmed to compute a multi-dimensional force vector responsive to detected changes in the optical characteristics of the optical fiber sensors arising from deflection of the distal extremity resulting from contact with the tissue of the wall of the organ or vessel. The force vector may be used to facilitate manipulation of the catheter either directly or automatically using a robotic system.

Contact sensor and sheath exit sensor

A system and method is provided that allows for determining the local impedance of one or more electrodes of an electrode catheter. Such local impedance may be utilized to identify the relative position of an electrode catheter to a sheath of a guiding introducer. In another arrangement, local impedance of a catheter electrode can be utilized to calibrate a catheter electrode to provide improved contact sensing.

Device and method for measuring pressure exerted on a surface

Provided are methods and devices for measuring pressure exerted against a surface. In an aspect, the surface corresponds to the urethra and the device measures the pressure exerted against the urethra. Methods include treatment of a patient suffering urinary stress incontinence. A pressure sensor system is used to determine, pre-surgically, the minimum pressure required to alleviate incontinence. During surgery, the pressure sensor system is employed to ensure the surgical intervention provides a corresponding minimum pressure that was clinically identified. In this manner, the surgical intervention is precisely monitored and measured to insure the appropriate pressure is exerted on the urethra to alleviate stress incontinence, thereby improving surgical outcome and decreasing post-operative complications.

Determining apparatus and determining method

A photodynamic therapy apparatus as a determining apparatus is the photodynamic therapy apparatus for irradiating a tissue having absorbed photo-sensitive pharmaceutical, the photo-sensitive pharmaceutical absorbing an excitation light and emitting fluorescence, or a tissue absorbing the excitation light and emitting fluorescence, with the excitation light emitted from a tip portion of a laser catheter, including a connector, a light source, and a light detection unit. The laser catheter is capable of being attached/detached to/from the connector. The light source outputs the excitation light to the laser catheter via the connector. The light detection unit detects intensity or a spectrum of the fluorescence, the fluorescence being entered from the laser catheter via the connector, to determine whether the tip portion of the laser catheter contacts the tissue or not.

Robotic catheter system

A robotic catheter system includes a controller with a master input device. An instrument driver is in communication with the controller and has a guide instrument interface including a plurality of guide instrument drive elements responsive to control signals generated, at least in part, by the master input device. An elongate guide instrument has a base, distal end, and a working lumen, wherein the guide instrument base is operatively coupled to the guide instrument interface. The guide instrument includes a plurality of guide instrument control elements operatively coupled to respective guide drive elements and secured to the distal end of the guide instrument. The guide instrument control elements are axially moveable relative to the guide instrument such that movement of the guide instrument distal end may be controlled by the master input device.

Robotic surgical system and method for automated therapy delivery

A method of navigating a medical device through a body of a patient includes providing a topography of at least a portion of the body, accepting user input defining a navigation path, robotically navigating the medical device to a starting point on the path, and robotically navigating the medical device along the navigation path to an endpoint. Waypoints defining the navigation path may be input on a graphical representation of the topography using a user interface such as a pointing device or touchscreen. The navigation path may also be defined by tracing a substantially continuous path on the graphical representation. A therapy may be administered while robotically navigating the medical device along the navigation path, either forward or in reverse, or while navigating the medical device along a return path defined by a plurality of virtual breadcrumbs generated as the medical device traverses the navigation path.

Wireless catheter with base wireless transceiver

A medical probe, including a flexible insertion tube having a distal end for insertion into a body cavity and including one or more sensors mounted in the distal end, and a handle coupled to a proximal end of the insertion tube. The medical probe also includes a cable having a proximal end and a distal end, which is coupled to the handle so as to receive signals conveyed through the insertion tube from the one or more sensors, and a base unit coupled to the proximal end of the cable. The base unit contains a power source, and a probe wireless transceiver coupled to receive the signals from the cable and to communicate over a wireless connection with a control console.

Catheter with strain gauge sensor

A medical probe, including a flexible insertion tube, having a distal end for insertion into a body cavity of a patient and which is configured to be brought into contact with tissue in the body cavity. The probe further includes a sensor tube of an elastic material, contained inside the distal end of the insertion tube and configured to deform in response to forces exerted by the tissue on the distal end. The probe also includes a plurality of strain gauges fixedly attached to a surface of the sensor tube at different, respective locations and configured to generate respective signals in response to deformations of the sensor tube.

Optic-based contact sensing assembly and system

The invention relates to an optic-based sensing assembly and a system incorporating the assembly and related use of the assembly. In particular, the invention relates to an optic-based catheter assembly and related system used to determine contact between a catheter and surrounding proximate environment, such as tissue. An embodiment of such a system may, for example, be used for visualization, mapping, ablation, or other methods of diagnosis and treatment of tissue and/or surrounding areas. 121-. (canceled)22. An optical-based catheter system comprising:a catheter defining a body having a proximal end and distal end, the body defining a longitudinal axis;an electrode having a tip portion and a base portion wherein the base portion of the electrode includes an optically-interactive surface and at least a portion is received within the distal end of the catheter;at least one optical sensor provided within the tubular body of the catheter for interacting with the optically-interactive surface provided by the electrode;a light or energy source;a processor;a catheter mapping unit for use in mapping or visualizing the catheter location; anda fiber assembly for carrying light energy that is emitted, is reflected by the optically-interactive surface, and is received by the optical sensor.23. The system of claim 22 , wherein the processor determines a displacement associated with the tip portion using sensed changes in intensity of the light energy from that emitted and that reflected and received by the at least one optical sensor.24. A method for sensing contact force exerted by an electrode on a tissue comprising:directing light energy along at least a portion of a tubular body of a catheter;emitting the light energy across a spaced gap for interacting with an optically-interactive surface provided by a base portion of an electrode;receiving the light energy returning from the optically-interactive surface at an optical sensor, wherein the light energy is processed by a ...

FORCE PRESENTATION APPARATUS, FORCE PRESENTATION METHOD, AND FORCE PRESENTATION PROGRAM

Upon insertion of an insertion member into a living body vessel by an operator, a force individually applied to the living body vessel by the insertion member is measured by a force measuring unit, and based upon the force measured by the force measuring unit, information to be presented to an experiencing person is determined by a determination unit so that based upon the determined information, the corresponding force is presented to the experiencing person by a force presentation unit. 1. A force presentation apparatus comprising:a force measuring unit that measures a force individually applied to each of portions of the living body vessel by an insertion member when an operator inserts the insertion member into the living body vessel, from outside of the living body vessel in time series;a determination unit that determines a force to be transmitted to an experiencing person based upon the force measured by the force measuring unit;a presentation unit that transmits the force determined by the determination unit to the experiencing person; anda force transmission control unit that controls strength of the force to be transmitted by the presentation unit to the experiencing person and timing of switching the strength of the force based upon information of results of measurement in the force measuring unit in time series.2. The force presentation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the force measuring unit further comprises:a force detection unit that detects a force applied to the entire living body vessel by the insertion member, from the outside of the living body vessel;a point-of-time calculation unit that individually measures a point of time at which the force is applied by the insertion member to the living body vessel, based upon the force detected by the force detection unit; andan individual force calculation unit that individually calculates a force to be applied by the insertion member to the living body vessel,wherein upon insertion of the ...

MEASURING HEALTH PARAMETER USING TISSUE RECOVERY TIME

An oral care device () assesses a health parameter of gingival tissue of a user by means of a force-generating module () to apply a momentary force to the gingival tissue by applying a burst of compressed air or a burst of liquid to the gingival tissue, a sensor () to obtain a plurality of optical signals from the gingival tissue over time after the momentary force has been applied, a controller () to quantify, based at least in part on an analysis of the plurality of optical signals, the health parameter (e.g. inflammation of the gingival tissue), wherein the health parameter is based at least in part on an amount of time the gingival tissue takes to recover to the application of force; and a feedback module () to provide information to the user regarding the quantified health parameter. 1. An oral care device configured to assess a health parameter of gingival tissue of a user , the oral care device comprising:a force-generating module configured to apply a momentary force to the gingival tissue by applying a burst of compressed air or a burst of liquid to the gingival tissue;a sensor configured to obtain a plurality of optical signals from the gingival tissue over time after the momentary force has been applied;a controller configured to quantify, based at least in part on an analysis of the plurality of optical signals, a health parameter of the gingival tissue, wherein the health parameter is based at least in part on an amount of time the gingival tissue takes to recover to the application of force; anda feedback module configured to provide information to the user regarding the quantified health parameter.2. The oral care device of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is further configured to a baseline optical signal from the tissue prior to the application of force.3. The oral care device of claim 2 , wherein the controller is configured to determine an amount of time the gingival tissue takes to substantially match the obtained baseline optical signal.4. The oral ...

Electrical-signal-based electrode-tissue contact detection

A method includes disposing a pair of current-application electrodes in or on a body, including disposing an intrarenal current-application electrode of the pair in a renal artery. Two or more sensing electrodes are disposed in or on the body, including disposing one of the sensing electrodes on en external surface of skin. Control circuitry is activated to (a) apply an electrical current between the pair of current-application electrodes, (b) while applying the electrical current, sense an electrical signal between the sensing electrodes, including the sensing electrode disposed on the external surface of the skin, and (c) based on the electrical signal, ascertain a level of contact between the intrarenal current-application electrode and a wall of the renal artery. In response to the level of contact being less than a threshold level of contact, a disposition of the intrarenal current-application electrode in the renal artery is adjusted.

HEMODYNAMIC-SIGNAL-BASED ELECTRODE-TISSUE CONTACT DETECTION

A method includes disposing at least one pair of electrodes in or on a body of a subject, including disposing at least one intrarenal electrode of the pair in a renal artery. Control circuitry is activate to (a) apply electrical pulses between the pair of electrodes, (b) calculate at least one time-varying component of electrode-tissue impedance based on applying the pulses, (c) sense a periodic hemodynamic signal of the subject, (d) calculate a level of correlation between the at least one time-varying component of the electrode-tissue impedance and the periodic hemodynamic signal, and (e) based on the level of correlation, ascertain a level of contact between the at least one intrarenal electrodes and a wall of the renal artery. In response to the level of contact being less than a threshold level of contact, a disposition of the at least one intrarenal electrodes in the renal artery is adjusted. 1. A method comprising:disposing at least one pair of electrodes in or on a body of a subject, including disposing at least one intrarenal electrode of the pair in a renal artery of the subject; (a) apply electrical pulses between the pair of electrodes,', '(b) calculate at least one time-varying component of electrode-tissue impedance based on applying the pulses,', '(c) sense a periodic hemodynamic signal of the subject,', '(d) calculate a level of correlation between the at least one time-varying component of the electrode-tissue impedance and the periodic hemodynamic signal, and', '(e) based on the level of correlation, ascertain a level of contact between the at least one intrarenal electrode and a wall of the renal artery; and, 'activating control circuitry toin response to the level of contact being less than a threshold level of contact, adjusting a disposition of the at least one intrarenal electrode in the renal artery.24-. (canceled)5. The method according to claim 1 ,wherein activating the control circuitry to calculate the at least one time-varying component ...

METHOD FOR PREDICTING THE PROBABILITY OF STEAM POP IN RF ABLATION THERAPY

A method and apparatus that utilizes a force-time integral for real time estimation of steam pop in catheter-based ablation systems. The apparatus measures the force exerted by a contact ablation probe on a target tissue and an energization parameter delivered to the ablation probe. The exerted force and energization parameter can be utilized to provide an estimation of the probability of steam pop. In one embodiment, the force and energization metrics can be used as feedback to establish a desired contact force and energization level combination to prevent steam popping. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for delivering an energization parameter from a power source to a target tissue during a medical procedure using a processor connected to a storage medium that stores programming instructions to be carried out by the processor , the programming instructions comprising the following:receiving an output signal from a force sensor operatively coupled with an ablation head of a catheter in contact with the target tissue during the medical procedure, wherein the output signal is indicative of a contact force exerted on the ablation head by the target tissue;utilizing a zone of optimum combinations of the output signal and the energization parameter for the ablation head of the catheter, wherein each output signal and energization parameter combination within the zone of optimum combinations (i) ensures that the ablation head is energized at a power sufficiently high to form a lesion on the target tissue and (ii) maintains the energization parameter relative to the contact force such that an estimated probability of steam pop remains no greater than an acceptable value; anddelivering the energization parameter from the power source to the target tissue via the ablation head, wherein the delivered energization parameter is based on the zone of optimum combinations and the output signal from the force sensor.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the power source is configured to ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING CONTACT BETWEEN AN OPTICAL PROBE AND TISSUE AND AUTOMATING TISSUE MEASUREMENT

Methods and apparatus initiate a procedure performed by a probe on tissue. A signal is obtained from the probe, the signal varying with changes in a proximity of the probe to the tissue. The obtained signal is analyzed by a controller to determine whether the probe is within a predetermined distance of the tissue. The controller initiates the procedure when it is determined that the probe is within the predetermined distance of the tissue. The obtaining and analyzing may be repeated until the probe is determined to be within the predetermined distance of the tissue. The analyzing may include comparing the obtained signal to a predetermined threshold. 1. A method of initiating a procedure performed by a probe on tissue , the method comprising:(a) obtaining a signal from the probe, the signal varying with changes in a proximity of the probe to the tissue;(b) analyzing the obtained signal by a controller to determine whether the probe is within a predetermined distance of the tissue; and(c) the controller initiating the procedure when it is determined that the probe is within the predetermined distance of the tissue.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein steps (a) and (b) are repeated until the probe is determined to be within the predetermined distance of the tissue.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein step (b) includes comparing the obtained signal to a predetermined threshold.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the probe is determined to be in close proximity of the tissue when a value of the obtained signal is greater than the predetermined threshold.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the probe includes a receiver that measures a physical property to output the obtained signal.6. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the receiver also is used to perform the procedure.7. The method according to claim 6 , wherein the procedure is a diagnostic procedure.8. The method according to claim 5 , wherein the receiver is an optical ...

APPARATUSES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS FOR CONTACT FORCE SENSING

Aspects of the instant disclosure relate to an elongated medical device. In particular, the instant disclosure relates to apparatuses for sensing contact force. In various embodiments, a force sensing element including a tip and a catheter shaft, wherein the tip is configured to move relative to the shaft when an external force is applied to the tip comprising a transmitter configured to transmit a transmitter signal when external force is applied to the tip, a first plurality of sensors and a second plurality of sensors positioned proximate the transmitter, wherein each of the sensors is configured to receive the transmitter signal and the first plurality of sensors is longitudinally offset from the second plurality of sensors. 1. A force sensing element for an elongated medical device including a tip and a catheter shaft , wherein the tip is configured to move relative to the shaft when an external force is applied to the tip , the force sensing element comprising:a transmitter configured to transmit a transmitter signal when external force is applied to the tip;a first plurality of sensors and a second plurality of sensors positioned proximate the transmitter, wherein each of the sensors is configured to receive the transmitter signal and the first plurality of sensors is longitudinally offset from the second plurality of sensors.2. The force sensing element of claim 1 , wherein the first and the second plurality of sensors are capacitive sensors.3. The force sensing element of claim 2 , further comprising a filler material positioned between the transmitter and the first and the second plurality of sensors to form a dielectric layer claim 2 , and wherein the transmitter signals claim 2 , received by the first and the second plurality of sensors claim 2 , are indicative of a capacitance between the transmitter and each of the respective sensors.4. The force sensing element of claim 1 , wherein the first and the second plurality of sensors are resistive sensors.5. ...

Methods, systems, and apparatuses for detecting activation of an electronic device

Disclosed are devices and methods for detecting activation of an electronic device, including a biomedical and biometric device. The electronic device can operate in a low-power mode until it is determined that the electronic device is in close proximity to or in contact with a body, and activated. The electronic device can include a first sensor including a first capacitance sensor, a second sensor, and a controller coupled to the first sensor and the second sensor. The controller can receive a first signal from the first sensor and determine that the electronic device is in close proximity to or in contact with a body based on the first signal, and receive a second signal from the second sensor and determine that the electronic device is activated based on one or both of the first signal and the second signal. The electronic device can transition from the low-power mode to an active mode in response to determining that the electronic device is activated.

BLOOD FLOW SENSOR AND BLOOD FLOW MEASUREMENT DEVICE

To provide a blood flow sensor in which a fluctuation of measurement results is suppressed during measurement of the blood flow volume. A probe portion is provided with a sensor portion which has a laser diode generating laser light, a photodiode receiving light, and a sensor housing having a contact surface contacting a subject and which irradiates a subject with the laser light generated by the laser diode through the contact surface, receives reflected light from the subject in the photodiode, and outputs a signal relating to the received light amount, a holding portion holding the sensor housing so as to be movable in an up-and-down direction crossing the contact surface, and a coil spring absorbing and transmitting external force applied to the holding portion to the sensor portion. 1. A blood flow sensor comprising:a sensor portion which has a laser element generating laser light, a light receiving element receiving light, and a housing having a contact surface contacting a subject and which irradiates the subject with the laser light generated by the laser element through the contact surface, receives reflected light from the subject in the light receiving element, and outputs a signal relating to a received light amount;a holding portion holding the housing so as to be movable in a direction crossing the contact surface; anda transmission portion absorbing and transmitting external force applied to the holding portion to the sensor portion.2. The blood flow sensor according to claim 1 , whereinthe transmission portion is an elastic member connecting the holding portion and the sensor portion.3. The blood flow sensor according to claim 2 , whereinthe elastic member is a spring.4. A blood flow measurement device comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the blood flow sensor according to ;'}a calculation portion calculating a blood flow volume based on a signal output by the light receiving element; anda display portion displaying a ...

POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE

A surgical stapling system including a shaft assembly transmits actuation motions from an actuator and an end effector compresses and staples tissue. The end effector comprises an channel; an anvil having a staple forming surface is moveable relative to the channel between open and closed positions; the anvil having a magnet at the distal end; and a staple cartridge removably positionable within the channel. The staple cartridge comprises a body supported for a confronting relationship with the anvil in its closed position; a plurality of staple drivers located within the cartridge body support a staple; a Hall effect sensor located at the distal end of the body; and a microprocessor in communication with the Hall effect sensor. The Hall effect sensor and microprocessor receive power when the staple cartridge is positioned within the channel, and the system is operable to identify the staple cartridge. 1. A surgical stapling system comprising:an elongated shaft assembly configured to transmit actuation motions from an actuator; andan end effector for compressing and stapling tissue, the end effector operably coupled to the elongated shaft, the end effector comprising:an elongated channel;an anvil having a staple forming surface thereon, the anvil moveable to relative to the elongated channel between an open position and a closed position; the anvil having a magnet located at the distal end; anda staple cartridge removably positioned within the elongated channel, the staple cartridge comprising:a cartridge body supported for a confronting relationship with the anvil when the anvil is in the closed position;a plurality of staple drivers located within the cartridge body, wherein each one of the plurality of staple drivers supports a staple;a Hall effect sensor located at the distal end of the cartridge body; anda microprocessor in communication with the Hall effect sensor;wherein the Hall effect sensor and microprocessor receive power when the staple cartridge is ...

System and method for assessing coupling between an electrode and tissue

A system and method for assessing a degree of coupling between an electrode and tissue in a body is provided. Values for first and second components of a complex impedance (e.g., resistance and reactance or impedance magnitude and phase angle) between the electrode and the tissue are obtained. These values are used together with a standardization value indicative of a deviation from a reference standard by a parameter associated with at least one of the body, the electrode and another component of the system to calculate a coupling index that is indicative of a degree of coupling between the electrode and the tissue. The coupling index may be displayed to a clinician in a variety of ways to indicate the degree of coupling to the clinician. The system and method find particular application in ablation of tissue by permitting a clinician to create lesions in the tissue more effectively and safely. 121-. (canceled)22. A system for assessing a degree of coupling between a first electrode and a tissue in a body , comprising:a complex impedance sensor; and,an electronic control unit configured to acquire values for first and second components of a complex impedance between said first electrode and said tissue responsive to one or more signals output by said complex impedance sensor and to calculate a first coupling index responsive to said values and a first variable parameter associated with said system, said first coupling index indicative of a degree of coupling between said first electrode and said tissue.23. The system of wherein said electronic control unit is further configured claim 22 , in calculating said first coupling index claim 22 , to apply an offset to said values of said first and second components of said complex impedance responsive to said first variable parameter.24. The system of wherein said electronic control unit is further configured claim 22 , in calculating said first coupling index claim 22 , to scale at least one of said values of said first ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING IMPROVED TRANSDUCER-TO-TISSUE CONTACT

A catheter device system may include a plurality of transducers positionable in a bodily cavity defined by at least a tissue wall, each transducer configured to sense a degree of contact between the transducer and the tissue wall. A data processing device system may be configured by a program to receive a plurality of degree-of-contact signals respectively from the plurality of transducers, the signals respectively indicating a degree of contact between the transducer and the tissue wall; identify a particular transducer as belonging to a first transducer set and as exhibiting an improper contact arrangement with the tissue wall as compared to a predetermined tissue-contact state, based at least on an interaction with data associated with at least one of the received degree-of-contact signals; and, consequently, provide an indication of a contact-improvement procedure to facilitate an improved contact arrangement between the particular transducer and the tissue wall. 1. A system comprising:an input-output device system including a catheter device system, the catheter device system including a plurality of transducers, the plurality of transducers arranged in a distribution, the distribution positionable in a bodily cavity, the bodily cavity defined by at least a tissue wall, and each transducer of the plurality of transducers configured at least to sense a degree of contact between the transducer and the tissue wall;a data processing device system communicatively connected to the input-output device system including to the plurality of transducers of the catheter device system of the input-output device system; anda memory device system communicatively connected to the data processing device system and storing a first contact-improvement procedure in association with a first transducer set of the plurality of transducers, the memory device system further storing a program executable by the data processing device system,wherein the data processing device system is ...

Systems and methods for monitoring organ activity

A medical device for monitoring physical, chemical, or biological characteristics of an organ, such as the urinary bladder. The medical device may include an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. The device may further include an end-effector assembly extending distally from the distal end of the elongate member. The end-effector assembly may also include a plurality of sensing elements for detecting abnormal organ function. Each of the plurality of sensing elements may include one or more of mechanical, visual, chemical, and biological sensors.

Image-Guided Closed-Loop Robotic System for Automated Whole-Cell Patch Clamping Electrophysiology of Neurons In Vivo

In an automated methodology for in vivo image-guided cell patch clamping, a cell patch clamping device is moved into position and targeted to a specific cell using automated image-guided techniques. Cell contact is determined by analyzing the temporal series of measured resistance levels at the clamping device as it is moved. The difference between successive resistance levels is compared to a threshold, which must be exceeded before cell contact is assumed. Pneumatic control methods are used to achieve gigaseal formation and cell break-in, leading to whole-cell patch clamp formation. An automated robotic system capable of performing this methodology automatically performs patch clamping in vivo, automatically locating cells through image guidance and by analyzing the temporal sequence of electrode impedance changes. By continuously monitoring the patching process and rapidly executing actions triggered by specific measurements, the robot can rapidly find target cells in vivo and establish patch-clamp recordings. 1. A method for automated image-guided whole-cell patch clamping , comprising the steps of:automated imaging of fluorescently-labeled in vivo cells to produce at least one image of potential target cells;identifying and determining the present location of at least one target cell by automated analysis of the at least one potential target cells image;open-loop positioning a pipette of an automated cell patch clamping device, the pipette having a tip, by causing the tip of the pipette to be lowered to a predetermined depth in preparation for initiation of target cell contact; [ taking a stack of images around the location of the pipette tip; and', 'automatically detecting the initial location of the pipette tip from the stack of images;, 'determining the initial location of the pipette tip by the steps of, 'iteratively lowering the tip of the pipette toward the present location of the target cell by a pre-set amount;', 'measuring the resistance at pipette tip ...

Smart device for bladder mapping

Systems, devices and methods for the treatment of bladder conditions using bladder visualization without the need for optical elements and for subsequent direct electrical pacing are provided. The systems, devices and methods generally apply pacing stimulus directly to the bladder wall, from one or more of the inner and outer bladder surfaces.

FORCE SENSING CATHETERS HAVING SUPER-ELASTIC STRUCTURAL STRAIN SENSORS

Various embodiments concern a system for measuring a force on a catheter. The catheter can comprise a proximal segment, a distal segment, and an intermediary segment comprising at least one strut. Each strut can extend from the proximal segment to the distal segment. Each strut can be formed from a super-elastic metal alloy material, such as nitinol. The plurality of struts can be configured to resiliently support the distal segment with respect to the proximal segment while permitting relative movement between the distal segment and the proximal segment. The system can comprise control circuitry configured to measure, for each of the plurality of struts, a change in an electrical property of the super-elastic metal alloy material of the strut when the distal segment moves relative to the proximal segment to determine a magnitude and direction of the force. 1. A system for measuring a force on a catheter , the system comprising: a proximal segment;', 'a distal segment; and', 'an intermediary segment comprising at least one strut, each strut extending from the proximal segment to the distal segment, each strut formed from a super-elastic metal alloy material, the at least one strut configured to resiliently support the distal segment with respect to the proximal segment while permitting relative movement between the distal segment and the proximal segment; and, 'a catheter comprisingcontrol circuitry configured to measure, for each of the at least one strut, a change in an electrical property of the super-elastic metal alloy material of the strut when the distal segment moves relative to the proximal segment.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control circuitry is configured to calculate a magnitude and a direction of the force based on the changes in the electrical property of the super-elastic metal alloy material of the at least one strut.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising a display claim 2 , wherein the control circuitry is configured to graphically ...

Cardiac tissue elasticity sensing

A system and method are provided for assessing the compliance of internal patient tissue for purposes of catheter guidance and/or ablation procedures. Specifically, the system/method provides for probing internal patient tissue in order to obtain force and/or tissue displacement measurements. These measurements are utilized to generate an indication of tissue elasticity. In one exemplary embodiment, the indication of elasticity is correlated with an image of the internal tissue area and an output of this image including elasticity indications is displayed for a user. 128-. (canceled)29. A method , comprising:receiving a first force signal from a catheter as the catheter is displaced relative to an internal tissue location;receiving a first displacement signal indicative of movement of the catheter between a reference position and the internal tissue location; andprocessing said first force signal and said first displacement signal to generate a tissue characteristic value for the internal tissue location.30. The method of claim 29 , further comprising:selecting a level of ablation power based at least in part on said tissue characteristic value; andproviding said level of ablation power to an ablation electrode disposed proximate to a distal end of the catheter.31. The method of claim 30 , wherein said level of ablation power is selected at least in part to control a lesion dimension created at the internal tissue location by said providing said ablation power.32. The method of claim 29 , wherein generating said tissue characteristic value comprises generating a tissue elasticity value for the internal tissue location.33. The method of claim 29 , wherein generating said tissue characteristic value comprises generating an ablation lesion characterization for the internal tissue location.34. The method of claim 29 , further comprising:receiving a second force signal from the catheter as displaced relative to the internal tissue location;receiving a second displacement ...

OPTICAL FORCE SENSING CATHETER SYSTEM

Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward systems and methods for detecting force applied to a distal tip of a medical catheter. In some embodiments, a medical catheter with a deformable body near a distal tip of the catheter deforms in response to a force applied at the distal tip, and a force sensor detects various components of the deformation. Processor circuitry may then, based on the detected components of the deformation, determine a force applied to the distal tip of the catheter. 1. A force-sensing catheter system comprising:a catheter tip;a deformable body coupled to the catheter tip and includes a lumen that extends along a longitudinal axis of the force-sensing catheter system, the deformable body is configured and arranged to deform in response to a force exerted on the catheter tip; anda manifold extends through the lumen of the deformable body, the manifold is coupled to the catheter tip and a proximal end of the deformable body, the manifold configured and arranged to deliver irrigant to the distal tip.2. The force-sensing catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the manifold is further configured and arranged to transmit a portion of the force exerted on the catheter tip claim 1 , proximally claim 1 , to the proximal end of the deformable body.3. The force-sensing catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the manifold and deformable body are further configured and arranged to emulate a desired lateral-to-axial compliance ratio of the force-sensing catheter system by transmitting a portion of the force exerted on the catheter tip through the manifold.4. The force-sensing catheter system of claim 1 , further including a hollow tip stem including an inner and outer diameter claim 1 , and an aperture that extends through a length of the tip stem claim 1 , the outer diameter of the tip stem is coupled to the catheter tip and the deformable body claim 1 , and the manifold is coupled to and extends through the inner diameter of the tip stem.5. The force ...

DYNAMIC ABLATION AND SENSING ACCORDING TO CONTACT OF SEGMENTED ELECTRODES

A system includes an expandable distal end of a catheter and a processor. The expandable distal end has multiple electrodes that are configured to be placed in contact with a tissue in an organ and to apply ablative power to tissue. The processor is configured to, during application of the ablative power, determine whether a physical contact between the electrodes and tissue meets a predefined contact quality, and, if the physical contact of an electrode among the electrodes with the tissue does not meet the predefined contact quality, re-use the electrode for electrophysiological (EP) sensing. 1. A system , comprising:an expandable distal end of a catheter having multiple electrodes that are configured to be placed in contact with tissue in an organ and to apply ablative power to tissue; and during application of the ablative power, determine whether a physical contact between the electrodes and tissue meets a predefined contact quality; and', 'if the physical contact of an electrode among the electrodes with the tissue does not meet the predefined contact quality, re-use the electrode for electrophysiological (EP) sensing., 'a processor, which is configured to2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the ablative power comprises at least one of a radiofrequency (RF) power outputted by an RF generator and irreversible electroporation (IRE) pulses outputted by an IRE pulse generator.3. The system according to claim 1 , and comprising a switching assembly configured to switch the electrode between a generator of the ablative power and an EP sensing system claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to control the switching assembly to (i) initially connect the electrode to the generator and (ii) subsequently connect the electrode to the EP sensing system for re-using the electrode for EP sensing.4. The system according to claim 3 , wherein each of the electrodes comprises a plurality of electrode segments claim 3 , and wherein the switching assembly and the ...

Temperature control mechanisms for stable shape sensing

A fiber optic shape sensing system includes an elongated fiber optic shape sensing device ( 116 ) having a proximal region and a distal region. The distal region includes a first temperature at which shape sensing is performed. A temperature control device ( 102, 104, 106 ) is configured to control a second temperature at the proximal region of the shape sensing device to match the first temperature. The proximal region includes a launch region ( 118 ) for launching light into at least one optical fiber of the fiber optical shape sensing device.

TRIAXIAL FIBER OPTIC FORCE SENSING CATHETER

A fiber optic force sensing assembly for detecting forces imparted at a distal end of a catheter assembly. The structural member may include segments adjacent each other in a serial arrangement, with gaps located between adjacent segments that are bridged by flexures. Fiber optics are coupled to the structural member. In one embodiment, each fiber optic has a distal end disposed adjacent one of the gaps and oriented for emission of light onto and for collection of light reflected from a segment adjacent the gap. The optical fibers cooperate with the deformable structure to provide a change in the intensity of the reflected light, or alternatively to provide a variable gap interferometer for sensing deformation of the structural member. In another embodiment, the gaps are bridged by fiber Bragg gratings that reflect light back through the fiber optic at central wavelengths that vary with the strain imposed on the grating. 13-. (canceled)4. A method , comprising: a flexible elongated body having a proximal end and a distal extremity; and', a structural member having an outer surface and defining a longitudinal axis, said structural member including a plurality of segments that are adjacent each other in a serial arrangement along said longitudinal axis to define a plurality of gaps, each of said plurality of gaps being located between adjacent ones of said plurality of segments;', 'a plurality of flexures dispersed between said plurality of segments so that said adjacent ones of said plurality of segments are bridged by one of said plurality of flexures, each of said flexures defining a portion of said outer surface of said structural member; and', 'a plurality of fiber optics operatively coupled with said structural member; and, 'a fiber optic force sensing assembly disposed within said flexible elongated body proximate said distal extremity, said fiber optic force sensing assembly including], 'providing a catheter to a user, the catheter configured for exploration ...

CONTROLLED SYMPATHECTOMY AND MICRO-ABLATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A catheter system for controlled sympathectomy procedures is disclosed. A catheter system for controlled micro ablation procedures is disclosed. Methods for performing a controlled surgical procedure are disclosed. A system for performing controlled surgical procedures in a minimally invasive manner is disclosed. 1. A microsurgical tool comprising:at least one microfinger; andat least one sensing tip coupled to the at least one microfinger, the at least one sensing tip comprising an isolation layer selectively coated over one or more regions of the at least one sensing tip to expose an electrically conducting material providing one or more electrodes;wherein the at least one microfinger is configured to bias the at least one sensing tip against a region of a wall of a lumen to interface at least a portion of the exposed electrically conducting material of the at least one sensing tip providing at least one of the one or more electrodes with the wall of the lumen; andwherein the at least one sensing tip is configured to convey one or more electrophysiological signals, measured by said at least one electrode, associated with electrophysiological activity in the region of the wall of the lumen.2. The microsurgical tool of claim 1 , wherein the isolation layer is configured so as to substantially electrically isolate the at least one sensing tip from a cavity of the lumen.3. The microsurgical tool of claim 1 , wherein when the at least one microfinger biases the at least one sensing tip against the region of the wall claim 1 , the exposed electrically conducting material of the at least one sensing tip is isolated from adjacent fluid in the lumen by the isolation layer.4. The microsurgical tool of claim 1 , wherein the isolation layer comprises at least one of an oxide layer claim 1 , a dielectric coating claim 1 , a polymer layer and a lubricious layer.5. The microsurgical tool of claim 1 , wherein the microsurgical tool is configured to utilize a bioimpedance ...

Optical Pressure Measurement

Sensing apparatus, consisting of a housing, including a medium having an elastic, transparent outer surface configured to contact a tissue within a living body and to deform in response to a force exerted by the body tissue on the surface. The apparatus has a radiation source contained in the housing and configured to direct radiation toward the surface, as well as a radiation detector contained in the housing and configured to sense the radiation that is reflected from the surface and to output a signal indicative of an amplitude of the reflected radiation. The apparatus further has a processor, which is coupled to measure a change in the signal due to deformation of the surface and, responsively to the change, to output an indication of the force.

Design of Ablation Electrode with Tactile Sensor

A catheter assembly for assessing contact between the catheter assembly and tissue is disclosed. The assembly includes a catheter shaft and a pressure sensitive conductive composite member whose electrical resistance varies with pressure applied to the catheter assembly. The assembly also includes at least one measurement terminal to permit the measurement of changes in the electrical characteristics of the pressure sensitive conductive composite member. The assembly may optionally include a measurement device to measure resistance, impedance and/or other electrical characteristics. The assembly may utilize a reference electrode secured to the patient's tissue, which permits the measurement device to measure changes between the reference electrode and the at least one measurement terminal. Optionally, the assembly may include a conductive outer layer. Also disclosed are sensor assemblies, contact sensor, methods of contact sensing, and methods of manufacturing relating to the use of pressure sensitive conductive composites. 127-. (canceled)28. A catheter , comprising:a catheter shaft comprising a distal portion and a proximal portion, wherein the catheter shaft comprises at least one tactile sensor that extends longitudinally along at least a portion of the catheter shaft, andat least one electrode,wherein the at least one tactile sensor comprises an inner non-conductive shaft surrounded by a flexible conductive coil, wherein the flexible conductive coil is operably connected to an electrical conductor.29. The catheter of claim 28 , wherein the electrical conductor comprises a plurality of conductive wires.30. The catheter of claim 28 , wherein the at least one tactile sensor comprises a pressure sensitive conductive composite sensor claim 28 , a capacitance sensor claim 28 , or a piezoelectric sensor.31. The catheter of claim 28 , wherein the at least one electrode comprises a second tactile sensor.32. The catheter of claim 31 , wherein the second tactile sensor is ...

CATHETER WITH COMBINED POSITION AND PRESSURE SENSING STRUCTURES

A catheter is responsive to external and internal magnetic field generators for generating position data of the catheter position and pressure data to determine pressured exerted on a distal end of the catheter when engaged with tissue, with a reduced number of sensing coils and reduced number of sensing coil leads for minimizing lead breakage and failure. The catheter includes a distal section adapted for engagement with patient tissue, where the distal section has a proximal portion, a distal portion and a flexible joint with a resilient member adapted to allow axial displacement and angular deflection between the proximal and distal portions of the distal section. The catheter may have three or less sensing coils with three or less leads, each transmitting signals between a respective sensing coil and the signal processor. 1. A catheter for use with a catheterization system having a plurality of magnetic field generators , each generating a position-data magnetic field , comprising:a flexible tubing; and a proximal portion, a distal portion and a flexible joint between the proximal portion and the distal portion;', 'a distal section magnetic field generator positioned in one of the proximal and distal portions, the distal section magnetic field adapted to generate a pressure-data magnetic field;', 'a plurality of sensing coils positioned in the other of the proximal and distal portions;', 'wherein at least one sensing coil is configured to sense each position-data magnetic field and each pressure-data magnetic field and generate signals representative of data relating to position of the distal section and data relating to pressure exerted on the distal section when engaged with the patient tissue; and', 'wherein the at least one sensing coil has a respective lead connected thereto configured to transmit signals for signal processing., 'a distal section adapted for engagement with patient tissue, the distal section having2. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the ...

Recording Device

The invention relates to a recording device () comprising a scan head carrier () for moving the scan head () across a scan area () of a cavity, the scan area () extending around the scan head (). The scan head guide () passes through the cavity towards the scan head (). In particular, a control device () determines the shape of the cavity (). A second extraoral scanning head () scans extraoral areas. 1. A recording device arrangement comprisinga first scan head which is mounted on a scan head carrier, the first scan head being designed for scanning an intraoral scan area which extends at least partially around the first scan head, anda second scan head for scanning extraorally and spaced apart from the first scan head.2. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the intraoral scan area comprises an edentulous alveolar ridge, andwherein scanning extraorally comprises scanning soft tissue extraorally surrounding a mouth.3. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the intraoral scan area comprises an edentulous alveolar ridge, andwherein scanning extraorally comprises scanning an extraoral area and an intraoral area.4. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein soft tissue extraorally surrounding a mouth comprises lip tissue and/or cheek tissue5. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the scan head carrier has at least two scan head accommodations, andwherein one scan head accommodation is always equipped with the first scan head and the other scan head accommodation can optionally be equipped with the second scan head.6. The recording device arrangement according to claim 1 ,wherein the first scan head is essentially designed as an all-round scan head having an essentially spherical detection space, andwherein the second scan head is designed as a directional scan head detecting significantly less than one hemisphere comprising a cone of approximately 120 degrees expansion.7. The ...

Biomonitoring systems and methods of loading and releasing the same

Biomonitoring systems and methods of loading and releasing the same are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a biomonitoring system includes a wearable sensor patch and an applicator. The sensor patch has a filament and an electronics subsystem. The sensor patch is configured to detect a parameter of an analyte in fluid of a user when it is adhered to the user's skin and the filament extends into the user's tissue. The applicator includes first and second applicator portions and a spring positioned within an interior of the second application portion between the first and second applicator portions. When the applicator transitions from a loaded mode to a released mode, the spring transitions from a first state of compression to a second, lower state of compression and accelerates the first applicator portion and the wearable sensor patch toward the user's skin such that the filament extends into the user's tissue.

Circuitry and sensors for powered medical device

An end effector is disclosed. The end effector comprises a first jaw member comprising a magnetic sensor; a second jaw member pivotally coupled to the first jaw member such that the first jaw member is pivotally moveable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the second jaw member is configured to receive a staple cartridge therein; a staple cartridge removably coupled to the second jaw member, the staple cartridge further comprising an upper surface facing the first jaw member; and a magnet positioned to be in an opposing relationship to the magnetic sensor when the first jaw member is in the closed position. The magnetic sensor is operable to detect the magnetic field of the magnet, and wherein the detected magnetic field is indicative of the distance between the anvil and the staple cartridge.

Method and System for Determining Intracranial Pressure

A method and apparatus for determining intracranial pressure, includes a contact lens; a camera for making a plurality of images of at least one eye of a subject; one or more force transducers for controllably applying a force to the eye via the contact lens; a support system for supporting the camera, the contact lens and the one or more force transducers against the eye; and a computing device for controlling the force applied to the eye by the force transducers and stabilizing the force by negative feedback.

Implantable Real-Time Oximeter To Determine Potential Strokes And Post-Traumatic Brain-Injury Complications

A first embodiment of an oximetry probe is attached around a blood vessel near the site of a likely stroke. That will be useful to monitor large and medium size cerebral arteries. Another type of pulse oximeter can be passed within cerebral blood vessels to monitor the oxygenation status of the surrounding cerebral tissues. In that version, the emitter and detector are coplanar and contained in a small area, e.g., 50-12 μm. 1. An implantable pulse oximetry probe comprising:an emitter for emitting light;a detector for detecting the light; andan attachment for attaching the emitter and the detector around a blood vessel such that the emitter and the detector are on opposite sides of the blood vessel.2. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the emitter emits the light at at least two wavelengths.3. The probe of claim 2 , wherein the at least two wavelengths are in the red and infrared ranges.4. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the probe is configured such that the probe completely surrounds the blood vessel.5. The probe of claim 4 , further comprising cushions for separating the emitter from the detector.6. The probe of claim 4 , further comprising a covering around the emitter and the detector.7. The probe of claim 6 , further comprising a hook attached to the cover for suturing the probe to tissue.8. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the probe is configured such that the probe partially surrounds the blood vessel.9. The probe of claim 8 , further comprising a tube to which the emitter and the detector are attached claim 8 , the tube having an opening for allowing the tube to be clipped onto the blood vessel.10. The probe of claim 1 , wherein the emitter and the detector are concave.11. An implantable pulse oximetry probe comprising:an emitter for emitting light;a detector for detecting the light; andan attachment for attaching the emitter and the detector within a lumen of a blood vessel.12. The probe of claim 11 , wherein the emitter emits the light at at least two wavelengths. ...

System and method for measuring force and torque applied to a catheter electrode tip

A contact sensing assembly including a catheter including an electrode having a base portion mounted adjacent a head portion of the catheter body. A sensor is disposed adjacent the base portion for measuring compression or tensile forces applied to an electrode tip portion, and includes a predetermined sensitivity. The base and head portions include predetermined rigidity so that forces applied to the electrode tip portion are determinable as a function of the sensitivity and a sensor output. A contact sensing assembly also includes an electrode pipe operatively connected to the catheter body for movement and bending with the catheter body, and an electrode wire disposed in the electrode pipe and including isolation. A change in capacitance resulting from movement of the electrode wire toward the electrode pipe or contact of the electrode wire with the electrode pipe during bending of the catheter correlates to a force applied to the catheter. 139-. (canceled)40. A contact sensing assembly comprising:a catheter comprising a body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a head portion;an electrode comprising a tip portion and a base portion, wherein the base portion is adjacent to the head portion of the catheter body;a gap separating the base portion of the electrode and the head portion of the catheter body; and (i) a compressive force when a part of the base portion adjacent the particular individual sensor is forced toward a part of the head portion adjacent the particular individual sensor, and', '(ii) a tensile force when the part of the base portion adjacent the particular sensor is forced away from the part of the head portion adjacent the particular sensor;, 'three individual sensors, each individual sensor being attached in the gap between the base portion of the electrode and the head portion of the catheter so that each of the sensors is configured to experience the following forceswherein each of the three sensors is adapted to provide an output signal ...

Wearable sensor patches, applicator systems for applying wearable sensor patches, and associated systems, devices, and methods

Wearable sensor patches, applicator systems for applying wearable sensor patches, and associated systems, devices, and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an applicator system includes a first applicator portion, a second applicator portion, a spring, and a trigger mechanism. The first applicator portion releasably retains a wearable sensor patch configured to detect a parameter of an analyte in fluid of a user. When the applicator system is in a loaded mode, the spring and the first applicator portion are positioned within the second applicator portion such that the spring is positioned between the first applicator portion and the second applicator portion. The trigger mechanism is configured to initiate a transition of the applicator system from the loaded mode to a released mode such that the spring accelerates the first applicator portion distally away from the second applicator portion to apply the wearable sensor patch to the user.

MESH FITTING ALGORITHM

Cardiac catheterization is carried out by inserting a multi-electrode probe into a heart, constructing a position map of the electrodes, and simulating a 3-dimensional surface of the heart. The method is further carried out by placing the position map in registration with an acquired image of the heart, constructing, based on the position map, a mesh that models the 3-dimensional surface of the heart, and adjusting positions of vertices of the mesh relative to mapped points in the position map to improve a registration of the mesh with the acquired image. 1. A method , comprising the steps of:inserting a probe having mapping electrodes having into a heart;constructing a position map of the mapping electrodes, the position map having mapped points and simulating a 3-dimensional surface of the heart;placing the position map in registration with an acquired image of the heart;constructing, based on the position map, a mesh that models the 3-dimensional surface of the heart, the mesh having vertices; andadjusting positions of the vertices relative to the mapped points to improve a registration of the mesh with the acquired image.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the mesh is a triangular matrix.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein adjusting positions of the vertices comprising the steps of:identifying all vertices of the mesh that are within a predetermined distance from a selected mapped point;calculating respective weight factors based on distances between the identified vertices and the selected mapped point;calculating new positions for the identified vertices comprising a shift toward the selected mapped point according to the respective weight factors; anddefining a new mesh based on the new positions.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the respective weight factors are calculated according to an inverse square of the distances between the identified vertices and the selected mapped point.5. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the ...

CONTACT ASSESSMENT BETWEEN AN ABLATION CATHETER AND TISSUE

Systems and methods for facilitating assessment of a nature of contact between an electrode assembly of an ablation catheter and viable body tissue are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a method comprises obtaining a first detected voltage between a first electrode and a second electrode, wherein the first and second electrodes are positioned along an electrode assembly of the ablation catheter, and wherein the first electrode is distal to the second electrode, obtaining a second detected voltage between the second electrode and a third electrode, the third electrode positioned proximal to the second electrode. 1. A method for facilitating contact assessment between an electrode assembly of an ablation catheter and viable body tissue , the method comprising:obtaining a first detected voltage between a first electrode and a second electrode, wherein the first and second electrodes are positioned along an electrode assembly of the ablation catheter, and wherein the first electrode is distal to the second electrode;obtaining a second detected voltage between the second electrode and a third electrode, the third electrode positioned proximal to the second electrode;making a first comparison between the first detected voltage and a first threshold voltage, wherein the first threshold voltage is indicative of a level of contact between viable body tissue and a first portion of the ablation catheter, the first portion of the ablation catheter positioned at a location between the first and second electrodes; andmaking a second comparison between the second detected voltage and a second threshold voltage, wherein the second threshold voltage is indicative of a level of contact between viable body tissue and a second portion of the ablation catheter, the second portion of the ablation catheter positioned at a location between the second and third electrodes;the level of contact between viable body tissue and the first portion of the ablation catheter is determined by ...

Devices, systems and methods for using and monitoring implants

Implants are provided, comprising the implant and a plurality of sensors.

CATHETER WITH COMBINED POSITION AND PRESSURE SENSING STRUCTURES

A catheter is responsive to external and internal magnetic field generators for generating position data of the catheter position and pressure data to determine pressured exerted on a distal end of the catheter when engaged with tissue, with a reduced number of sensing coils and reduced number of sensing coil leads for minimizing lead breakage and failure. The catheter includes a distal section adapted for engagement with patient tissue, where the distal section has a proximal portion, a distal portion and a flexible joint with a resilient member adapted to allow axial displacement and angular deflection between the proximal and distal portions of the distal section. The catheter may have three or less sensing coils with three or less leads, each transmitting signals between a respective sensing coil and the signal processor. 1. A catheter for use with a catheterization system having a plurality of magnetic field generators , each generating a position-data magnetic field , comprising:a flexible tubing; and a proximal portion, a distal portion and a flexible joint between the proximal portion and the distal portion;', 'a distal section magnetic field generator positioned in one of the proximal and distal portions, the distal section magnetic field adapted to generate a pressure-data magnetic field;', 'a plurality of sensing coils positioned in the other of the proximal and distal portions;', 'wherein at least one sensing coil is configured to sense each position-data magnetic field and each pressure-data magnetic field and generate signals representative of data relating to position of the distal section and data relating to pressure exerted on the distal section when engaged with the patient tissue; and', 'wherein the at least one sensing coil has a respective lead connected thereto configured to transmit signals for signal processing., 'a distal section adapted for engagement with patient tissue, the distal section having2. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the ...

CATHETERS, SYSTEMS, AND RELATED METHODS FOR MAPPING, MINIMIZING, AND TREATING CARDIAC FIBRILLATION

Catheters, systems, and related methods for optimized for mapping, minimizing, and treating cardiac fibrillation in a patient, including an array of at least one stacked electrode pair, each electrode pair including a first electrode and a second electrode, wherein each electrode pair is configured to be orthogonal to a surface of a cardiac tissue substrate, wherein each first electrode is in contact with the surface to record a first signal, and wherein each second electrode is separated from the first electrode by a distance which enables the second electrode to record a second signal, wherein the catheter is configured to obtain one or more measurements from at least a first signal and a second signal in response to electrical activity in the cardiac tissue substrate indicative of a number of electrical circuit cores and distribution of the electrical circuit cores for a duration across the cardiac tissue substrate. 1positioning a catheter including an array of at least a first electrode and a second electrode affixed to the catheter and having a known inter-electrode spacing in the vicinity of a cardiac tissue substrate;measuring a first rate of change in electrogram amplitude (dV/dt) from the first electrode;measuring a second rate of change in electrogram amplitude (dV/dt) from the second electrode;calculating a difference between the first rate of change in electrogram amplitude and the second rate of change in electrogram amplitude to obtain a delta dV/dt value; andcorrelating the delta dV/dt value to whether the first electrode is in contact with the cardiac tissue substrate.. A method for identifying electrode tissue contact comprising: This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/844,753, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/753,387, filed on Jan. 16, 2013, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. ...

CARDIAC CATHETER EMPLOYING CONFORMAL ELECTRONICS FOR MAPPING

An apparatus for medical diagnosis and/or treatment is provided. The apparatus includes a flexible substrate, an intermediate bus disposed on the flexible substrate, and a plurality of sensing elements disposed on the flexible substrate and coupled to the intermediate bus. The plurality of sensing elements and intermediate bus are disposed on the flexible substrate such that the sensing elements are disposed at areas of minimal strain of the flexible substrate. 143-. (canceled)44. A method of performing a medical diagnosis and/or treatment on a tissue , the method comprising:disposing in proximity to the tissue an apparatus comprising:a flexible substrate forming an inflatable body;at least one intermediate bus, wherein a portion of the at least one intermediate bus is disposed at a distal region of the inflatable body; and a plurality of sensing elements disposed on the flexible substrate proximate to the distal region of the inflatable body,wherein at least one sensing element of the plurality of sensing elements is coupled to the at least one intermediate bus; andrecording a measurement of at least one sensing element of the plurality of sensing elements, wherein the measurement provides an indication of a state of a portion of the tissue.45. The method of claim 44 , wherein the measurement provides an indication of a disease state of the portion of the tissue.46. The method of claim 44 , wherein the measurement provides an indication of a contact state of the portion of the tissue with the at least one sensing element of the plurality of sensing elements.47. The method of claim 44 , wherein the plurality of sensing elements are disposed in an array at areas of minimal curvature of the inflatable body proximate to the distal region of the inflatable body.4888-. (canceled)89. A method for readout of one or more multiplexed signals claim 44 , the method comprising:disposing an apparatus proximate to a surface, the apparatus comprising:a plurality of active ...

CARDIAC CATHETER EMPLOYING CONFORMAL ELECTRONICS FOR MAPPING

An apparatus for medical diagnosis and/or treatment is provided. The apparatus includes a flexible substrate, an intermediate bus disposed on the flexible substrate, and a plurality of sensing elements disposed on the flexible substrate and coupled to the intermediate bus. The plurality of sensing elements and intermediate bus are disposed on the flexible substrate such that the sensing elements are disposed at areas of minimal strain of the flexible substrate. 150-. (canceled)51. An apparatus for generating one or more multiplexed signals , the apparatus comprising:a flexible substrate; anda plurality of active electrical circuits coupled to the flexible substrate, each active electrical circuit in the plurality of active electrical circuits coupled to at least one adjacent active electrical circuit in the plurality of active electrical circuits via at least one conductive flexible interconnection, the plurality of active electrical circuits configured to transmit one or more multiplexed signals to at least one signal processor.52. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein one or more of the active electrical circuits in the plurality of active electrical circuits includes at least one electrode.53. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein one or more of the active electrical circuits in the plurality of active electrical circuits includes at least one multiplexing transistor.54. The apparatus of claim 51 , one or more of the active electrical circuits in the plurality of active electrical circuits includes at least one amplifier.55. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein one or more of the active electrical circuits in the plurality of active electrical circuits includes at least one current mirror.56. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein the current mirror is switchable between an off state and an on state.57. The apparatus of claim 51 , wherein one or more of the active electrical circuits in the plurality of active electrical circuits includes at least one current limiting ...

Electrode contact feedback system

A sensing assembly for sensing contact with an object is disclosed. The contact sensing assembly may comprise an elongate tubular body. An electrode may be connected to the elongate tubular body. A vibration element is operatively connected with the electrode and configured to deliver a vibration-inducing signal to induce vibration of the electrode. A sensor is configured to monitor the electrode for a perturbation in the induced vibration. The perturbation results from contact between the electrode and the object.

Local display of tissue parameter stabilization

A staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapler and surgical stapling systems are disclosed. The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body having a tissue-contacting surface. One or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) are positioned at the edges of the tissue-contacting surface. A plurality of staple drivers is located within the cartridge body each supporting a staple.

APPARATUS AND METHOD OF ASSESSING TRANSVASCULAR DENERVATION

A catheter apparatus for assessing denervation comprises: an elongated catheter body; a deployable structure coupled to the catheter body, the deployable structure being deployable outwardly from and contractible inwardly toward the longitudinal axis of the catheter body; one or more ablation elements disposed on the deployable structure to move outwardly and inwardly with the deployable structure; one or more stimulation elements spaced from each other and disposed on the deployable structure to move with the deployable structure, the stimulation elements being powered to supply nerve stimulating signals to the vessel; and one or more recording elements spaced from each other and from the stimulation elements, the recording elements being disposed on the deployable structure to move with the deployable structure, the recording elements configured to record response of the vessel to the nerve stimulating signals.

System and method for assessing coupling between an electrode and tissue

A system and method for assessing a degree of coupling between an electrode and tissue in a body is provided. Values for first and second components of a complex impedance (e.g., resistance and reactance or impedance magnitude and phase angle) between the electrode and the tissue are obtained. These values are used together with a standardization value indicative of a deviation from a reference standard by a parameter associated with at least one of the body, the electrode and another component of the system to calculate a coupling index that is indicative of a degree of coupling between the electrode and the tissue. The coupling index may be displayed to a clinician in a variety of ways to indicate the degree of coupling to the clinician. The system and method find particular application in ablation of tissue by permitting a clinician to create lesions in the tissue more effectively and safely.

System and method for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy

A system and method for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy to a tissue in a body is provided. A three-dimensional anatomical map of the tissue is generated and displayed with the map defining a corresponding volume. An index is generated corresponding to a location within the volume with the index indicative of a state of ablation therapy at the location. The index may be derived from one or more factors such as the duration an ablation electrode is present at the location, the amount of energy provided, the degree of electrical coupling between an ablation electrode and the tissue at the location and temperature. A visual characteristic (e.g., color intensity) of a portion of the anatomical map corresponding to the location is then altered responsive to the index.

Point-of-care diagnostic device and a method for secure user identity confirmation while maintaing anonimity

A device and method for performing a diagnostic test, including determining presence or absence of antibodies to a virus. The device displays the results on a display, and includes a retractable needle and an enclosure that houses the retractable needle, a vessel for collecting or storing a bodily liquid sample collected from the subject, an enclosure containing a diluent fluid that is mixed with the collected sample, and at least one area for mixing and performing analysis. A pressure sensor checks for pressure being applied by the test subject's finger during the test, and stops the test or disables display if it does not sense pressure of the test subject's finger during testing. A processor performs identification testing by scanning a digital fingerprint of the test subject by a digital scanner prior to evaluation, stores the data and evaluates the test results to determine whether the results exceed or reach a threshold value. The testing and evaluation are performed only after a successful identification of the test subject. The device keeps the test information and identification information about the test subject anonymous, and does not communicate the identity of the test subject and the test results to an external device.

METHODS, SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR MEASURING HEART RATE

A system and method of tracking activity includes a motion sensor, a light source and a light detector. The light detector is configured to capture an amount of the light that is reflected back to the light detector, at least a first portion of the light reflected back to the light detector is reflected from a blood vessel disposed under a skin adjacent to the housing. A processor is in communication with the motion sensor and the light detector and can process the reflected light to identify heart beats and produce an indication of a heart rate. The indication of the heart rate can be displayed on the display screen as an option, in addition to the metrics that quantify the motion data. 1. (canceled)2. An activity tracking device , comprising:at least one biometric sensor configured to measure a physiological characteristic of a user;a light source configured to emit light;a light detector configured to detect light emitted from the light source and reflected from a blood vessel of the user;at least one processor; and determine an amount of light received by the light detector based on a signal output from the light detector, at least a portion of the determined amount of light being reflected from the blood vessel,', 'determine a first reflectance signal of the light reflected from the blood vessel between each of a plurality of heart beats based on the amount of light received,', 'determine a second reflectance signal corresponding to at least one of the heart beats based on the amount of light received, the second reflectance signal being less than the first reflectance signal,', 'identify the heart beats based on the first and second reflectance signals, and', 'generate an indication of a heart rate based on the identified heart beats., 'a memory storing computer-executable instructions for controlling the at least one processor to3. The activity tracking device of claim 2 , wherein the memory further stores computer-executable instructions for controlling the ...

Neural locating method

A method of locating a nerve within an intracorporeal treatment area of a subject includes providing a first electrical stimulus at a first location within the intracorporeal treatment area, providing a second electrical stimulus at a second location within the intracorporeal treatment area, and providing one or more additional electrical stimuli at the second location. The first electrical stimulus does not induce a threshold response of a muscle innervated by the nerve, whereas the second electrical stimulus does induce a response of the muscle. The one or more additional stimuli each have a current magnitude less than the first stimulus and are used to determine a minimum current magnitude that is required to induce the threshold response of the muscle at the second location. This minimum current magnitude is then used to determine a distance from the second location to the nerve.

System and method for detecting stroke in patients during pressure support therapy

A method of detecting stroke in a patient receiving a pressure support therapy includes: receiving data from one or more sensors structured to gather data related to patient respiration while receiving pressure support therapy from an airflow generator via a patient circuit; analyzing the data from the one or more sensors while pressure support therapy is provided to the patient; determining that the analyzed data from the one or more sensors is indicative of a patient experiencing respiratory changes indicative of a stroke; and responsive to said determining, triggering at least one alarm.

DETECTING LEAD DISLODGEMENT DURING ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

A medical device system and method for detecting dislodgement of a lead determines one or more characteristics of a cardiac signal received via the lead that are associated with dislodgement of the lead during atrial fibrillation, and detects dislodgement of the ventricular lead based on the determined characteristics. The medical device and system provides a lead dislodgment alert in response to detecting dislodgement. In some examples, an implantable medical device withholds delivery of a defibrillation therapy based on detecting dislodgement of the lead. 1. A method of detecting dislodgement of a lead coupled to an implantable medical device , the method comprising:sensing, by sensing circuitry of the implantable medical device, a cardiac signal via the lead;determining, by processing circuitry, at least one characteristic of the cardiac signal associated with dislodgement of the lead during atrial fibrillation;detecting, by the processing circuitry, dislodgement of the lead based on the determined at least one characteristic; andproviding, by the processing circuitry, a lead dislodgement alert in response to detecting the dislodgement of the lead.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:detecting, by the processing circuitry, a fibrillation episode based on the sensed cardiac signal; andwithholding, by the processing circuitry, delivery of a defibrillation therapy by the implantable medical device to treat the detected fibrillation based on detecting the dislodgement of the lead.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein determining the at least one characteristic of the cardiac signal associated with dislodgement of the lead during atrial fibrillation comprises determining the at least one characteristic in response to the fibrillation episode being detected.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising determining claim 3 , by the processing circuitry claim 3 , whether a lead dislodgement withholding feature is enabled claim 3 , wherein at least one of: ...

CARDIAC CATHETER WITH DEFORMABLE BODY

Aspects of the instant disclosure relate to various types of medical catheters with a deformable body that deflect in response to a force exerted on the catheter tip. A magnetic field sensor and permanent magnet respectively coupled on either side of the deformable body are used to determine a change in a magnetic field associated with the deflection of the catheter tip. Controller circuitry may receive a signal from the magnetic field sensor indicative of the deflection of the deformable body and associate the signal with the force exerted. 1. A force sensing system for a medical catheter , the force sensing system comprising:a deformable body including distal and proximal portions, the deformable body configured and arranged to deflect in response to a force exerted on the distal portion;a permanent magnet coupled to either the proximal or distal portions of the deformable body; anda magnetic field sensor coupled to the deformable body opposite the permanent magnet, the magnetic field sensor configured and arranged to measure a change in magnetic field associated with a change in relative position of the magnetic field sensor and permanent magnet as the deformable body deflects.2. The force sensing system of claim 1 , further including controller circuitry communicatively coupled to the magnetic field sensor and configured and arranged to receive a signal from the magnetic field sensor indicative of the magnetic field sensed and associate the sensed magnetic field with the force exerted on the distal portion of the deformable body.3. The force sensing system of claim 1 , wherein the deformable body is further configured and arranged to disassociate a directionality of the force exerted on the distal portion of the deformable body with a magnitude of the deformation of the deformable body.4. The force sensing system of claim 1 , wherein the deformable body includes one or more compliant leaf springs; and the magnetic field sensor is further configured and arranged ...

Radiofrequency (rf) transmission system to find tissue proximity

A method includes receiving, from a probe that comprises electrodes and is positioned inside a cavity in an organ of a patient, (i) proximity signals indicative of proximity of the electrodes to a wall of the cavity, and (ii) position signals indicative of positions of the electrodes within the cavity. Based on the proximity signals and the position signals, at least a portion of a volume of the cavity is represented by a sphere model including multiple spheres. An estimated contour of the wall of the cavity is calculated based on the sphere-model. The estimated contour of the wall is presented to a user.

A PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLE TRAINING AND PROFILING APPARATUS FOR INSERTING INTO A BODY CAVITY OF A HUMAN AND A METHOD FOR VISUALIZING PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLE CONTRACTIONS

A pelvic floor muscle training and profiling apparatus for inserting into a body cavity of a human, said apparatus comprising; a body having a distal end, an opposite proximal end and an outer surface, the body extending between said ends, a sensor array encompassed in the body, the sensor array comprising a sensor unit, the sensor unit being adapted for detecting an exterior force applied to the outer surface of the body, a micro-control unit adapted to receive sensor data from the sensor array, wherein the sensor unit is adapted for detecting a specific position of the exterior force applied to the outer surface of the body. 1. A pelvic floor muscle training and profiling apparatus for inserting into a body cavity of a human , said apparatus comprising:a body having a distal end, an opposite proximal end and an outer surface, the body extending between said ends,a sensor array encompassed in the body, the sensor array comprising a sensor unit, the sensor unit being adapted for detecting an exterior force applied to the outer surface of the body,a micro-control unit adapted to receive sensor data from the sensor array, characterized in that the apparatus further comprises a top sensor arranged in the distal end of the body, and the sensor unit is adapted for detecting a specific position of the exterior force applied to the outer surface of the body.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit measures the relative magnitude of the exterior force applied to the body.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit comprises two points of measurements placed at a maximum distance to each other of less than 0.3 cm.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein at least one sensor unit is a force sensor.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit measures a relative distributed force applied to said sensor unit from a muscle contraction.6. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit comprises at ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PERFORMING MEDICAL PROCEDURES

A medical method is provided, including a medical device having a distal assembly including at least one electrode and at least one treatment element, the medical device generating information regarding at least one of a physiological measurement and an operational parameter of the medical device; a plurality of surface electrodes affixable to a skin of the patient, wherein the surface electrodes are in electrical communication with the distal assembly to obtain position information of the medical device; and a processor pairing the position information and the at least one of a physiological measurement and an operational parameter of the medical device. 1. A medical method comprising:inserting a medical device into a body of a patient;obtaining position information of the medical device;treating a tissue site with the medical device;obtaining at least one of a physiological measurement of the tissue site and an operational parameter of the medical device;pairing the position information of the medical device with the at least one of a physiological measurement of the tissue site and an operational parameter of the medical device; andmodifying the treatment of the tissue site based at least in part on the paired information.2. The medical method of claim 1 , further comprising applying at least three pairs of surface electrodes to an area of skin of the patient.3. The medical method of claim 2 , wherein obtaining position information includes applying an electric potential between each of the three pairs of the surface electrodes and obtaining three-dimensional position information of the medical device.4. The medical method of claim 1 , further comprising graphically displaying the paired information.5. The medical method of claim 1 , wherein the medical device has a distal assembly with at least one electrode and at least one ablation element.6. The medical method of claim 5 , wherein the physiological measurement includes measuring an impedance proximate the ...

DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING AND MONITORING TUBES IN BODY PASSAGEWAYS

Tubes (e.g., catheters, endotracheal or chest tubes and bypass grafts) are provided, comprising a catheter and a plurality of sensors. 1. A method of monitoring for abnormal leakage of a liquid out of a medical tube that is implanted within a patient , the method comprising:a. monitoring a first surface environment of the medical tube that is implanted within the patient, where the monitoring of the first surface environment is performed at a first time by a liquid flow sensor located on an adluminal surface of the medical tube, to thereby provide a first measurement of liquid flow;b. monitoring the first surface environment of the medical tube that is implanted within the patient at a second time by the one or more liquid flow sensors located on the adluminal surface of the medical tube, to thereby provide a second measurement of liquid flow, where the second time is later than the first time; andc. comparing the first and second liquid flow measurements; where an increase in liquid flow at the second time compared to the liquid flow at the first time indicates abnormal leakage of liquid out of the medical tube.2. The method of wherein the medical tube is a catheter.3. The method of wherein the medical tube is a Foley catheter.4. The method of wherein the medical tube is a central venous catheter.5. The method of wherein the medical tube is a drainage tube.6. A method of monitoring for abnormal leakage of a liquid out of a medical tube that is implanted within a patient claim 1 , the method comprising:a. monitoring a first surface environment of the medical tube that is implanted within the patient, where the monitoring of the first surface environment is performed at a first time by a liquid flow sensor located on a luminal surface of the medical tube, to thereby provide a first measurement of liquid flow;b. monitoring the first surface environment of the medical tube that is implanted within the patient at a second time by the one or more liquid flow sensors ...

Device for treatment of aneurysm

A device for treating a vascular aneurysm of a human or mammal patient, comprising an implantable member adapted to hold fluid, the implantable member being adapted to be placed against an outside of a blood vessel having the aneurysm, exercise a pressure on the aneurysm to prevent or reduce an expansion of the aneurysm, follow an outer contour of the aneurysm, and provide a pressure that is equal or less than the diastolic blood pressure of the human or mammal patient.

Catheter with combined position and pressure sensing structures

A catheter is responsive to external and internal magnetic field generators for generating position data of the catheter position and pressure data to determine pressured exerted on a distal end of the catheter when engaged with tissue, with a reduced number of sensing coils and reduced number of sensing coil leads for minimizing lead breakage and failure. The catheter includes a distal section adapted for engagement with patient tissue, where the distal section has a proximal portion, a distal portion and a flexible joint with a resilient member adapted to allow axial displacement and angular deflection between the proximal and distal portions of the distal section. The catheter may have three or less sensing coils with three or less leads, each transmitting signals between a respective sensing coil and the signal processor.

FORCE MEASURING SPECULUM

The present disclosure relates to a speculum device for measuring pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contractile forces. The speculum device includes a first bill and a second, opposing bill. Each bill has a proximal end attached to a handle. The handle includes a housing in which a sensor cassette may be selectively inserted. When inserted, the sensor cassette can measure contractile forces applied to the upper and lower bills and mechanically transferred to the sensor cassette. The sensor cassette does not come into contact with the patient while measurements are taken. Afterwards, the sensor cassette may be removed from the housing while the remainder of the device is sterilized. 1. A speculum device configured to measure pelvic floor muscle contractile forces , the device comprising:a bill assembly including a first bill having a proximal end and a distal end, and a second bill having a proximal end and a distal end;a handle to which the proximal end of the first bill and the proximal end of the second bill attach; anda sensor cassette attachable to the handle and including a sensor,wherein the bill assembly is configured to mechanically transfer force to the sensor when the bill assembly is subjected to a contractile force, andwherein the sensor cassette is selectively detachable from the handle.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the handle includes an internal housing claim 1 , wherein the sensor cassette is configured to fit within the housing claim 1 , and wherein the housing includes an aperture to enable selective movement of the sensor cassette in and out of the housing.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the housing is a bore that extends longitudinally within the handle.4. The device of claim 2 , wherein the aperture is disposed on an upper side of the handle.5. The device of claim 2 , wherein the aperture is disposed on a proximal end of the handle.6. The device of claim 2 , wherein the handle includes a hinge enabling the handle to be pivoted and opened to ...

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING BODY CHEMISTRY

A system and method for monitoring body chemistry of a user, the system comprising: a housing supporting: a microsensor comprising a first and second working electrode, a reference electrode, and a counter electrode, and configured to access interstitial fluid of the user, and an electronics subsystem comprising a signal conditioning module that receives a signal stream, from the microsensor, wherein the electronics subsystem is configured to detect an impedance signal derived from two of the first working electrode, the second working electrode, the reference electrode, and the counter electrode; and a processing subsystem comprising: a first module configured to generate an analysis indicative of an analyte parameter of the user and derived from the signal stream and the impedance signal, and a second module configured to transmit information derived from the analysis to the user, thereby facilitating monitoring of body chemistry of the user. 1. A health-monitor patch system , comprising: 'a first microsensor having a plurality of first microneedles configured to access interstitial fluid of a user, detect at least one first analyte in the interstitial fluid, and generate one or more first signals based on detection of the at least one first analyte;', 'a first disposable patch including 'a second microsensor having a plurality of second microneedles configured to access the interstitial fluid of the user, detect at least one second analyte in the interstitial fluid, and generate one or more second signals based on detection of the at least one second analyte; and', 'a second disposable patch including perform signal conditioning and generate a first analysis of the one or more first signals to identify first health-related conditions or events based on the one or more first signals, when the reusable housing unit is coupled to the first disposable patch, and', 'perform signal conditioning and generate a second analysis of the one or more second signals to ...

SIGNAL AND CORRECTION PROCESSING FOR ANATOMICAL STRUCTURE MAPPING DATA

A method is provided. The method is implemented by a mapping engine. The method includes receiving biometric data of at least a portion of an anatomical structure from at least a catheter and analyzing the biometric data based on an automatic tagging operation, a time weighted local activation time assignment operation, or a discrimination operation. The method also includes determining scar tissue of the portion of the anatomical structure based on the analyzing of the biometric data. 1. A method comprising:receiving, by a mapping engine executed by one or more processors, biometric data of at least a portion of an anatomical structure from at least a catheter;analyzing, by the mapping engine, the biometric data based on at least one of an automatic tagging operation, a time weighted local activation time assignment operation, and a discrimination operation; anddetermining scar tissue of the portion of the anatomical structure based on the analyzing of the biometric data.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the automatic tagging operation comprises:determining, by the mapping engine, electrical measurements of the biometric data that have an indication associated therewith to generate a sub-data set of measurements; andassigning, by the mapping engine, a scar probability to each measurement of the sub-data set.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the method further comprises determining a time window and which of the electrical measurements within the time widow have the indication to generate the sub-data set.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the indication comprises a tissue proximity indicator feature of the mapping engine that identifies contact by the catheter with the portion of the anatomical structure.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scar probability is assigned based on voltage of the corresponding electrical measurement.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scar probability scar probability is assigned using fuzzy logic.7. The method of claim 1 , ...

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING INCONTINENCE

According to one aspect of the inventive concept there is provided a system for monitoring incontinence comprising: a urine sensitive circuit arranged to present a changed electrical characteristic when exposed to urine; a measurement circuit arranged to perform a measurement on a urine bladder of a wearer to determine at least one parameter which varies with a fill level of the urine bladder; a sensor arranged to determine an orientation and/or a movement of the sensor; and a processing circuit arranged to: determine whether the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine; estimate an amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit; and in response to determining that the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine, record data representing said at least one parameter determined by the measurement circuit, an estimated movement and/or posture of the wearer based on an orientation and/or a movement determined by the sensor, and an estimate of the amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit. 1. A system for monitoring incontinence comprising:a urine sensitive circuit arranged to present a changed electrical characteristic when exposed to urine;a measurement circuit arranged to perform a measurement on a urine bladder of a wearer to determine at least one parameter which varies with a fill level of the urine bladder;a sensor arranged to determine an orientation and/or a movement of the sensor; and determine whether the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine,', 'estimate an amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit, and', 'in response to determining that the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine, record data representing said at least one parameter determined by the measurement circuit, an estimated movement and/or posture of the wearer based on an orientation and/or a movement determined by the sensor, and an estimate of the amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit., 'a ...

ROBOTIC CATHETER SYSTEM

A robotic catheter system includes a controller with a master input device. An instrument driver is in communication with the controller and has a guide instrument interface including a plurality of guide instrument drive elements responsive to control signals generated, at least in part, by the master input device. An elongate guide instrument has a base, distal end, and a working lumen, wherein the guide instrument base is operatively coupled to the guide instrument interface. The guide instrument includes a plurality of guide instrument control elements operatively coupled to respective guide drive elements and secured to the distal end of the guide instrument. The guide instrument control elements are axially moveable relative to the guide instrument such that movement of the guide instrument distal end may be controlled by the master input device. 1. A medical instrument system , comprising:an elongate sheath having a lumen;a working instrument positioned inside the sheath lumen, having a distal end configured to advance out of a distal end opening of the sheath lumen;at least one sensor coupled to at least one of the elongate sheath or the working instrument, the at least one sensor configured to determine a contact of at least one of the elongate sheath or the working instrument with an object;a processor in communication with the at least one sensor; anda display in communication with the processor and configured to provide a graphical representation of the contact.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises a position sensor.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to determine a direction of the contact based at least in part upon a direction of an error between a predicted instrument position and a measured instrument position.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the contact includes a position.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the working instrument is a guidewire.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ...

METHOD FOR PREDICTING THE PROBABILITY OF STEAM POP IN RF ABLATION THERAPY

A method and apparatus that utilizes a force-time integral for real time estimation of steam pop in catheter-based ablation systems. The apparatus measures the force exerted by a contact ablation probe on a target tissue and an energization parameter delivered to the ablation probe. The exerted force and energization parameter can be utilized to provide an estimation of the probability of steam pop. In one embodiment, the force and energization metrics can be used as feedback to establish a desired contact force and energization level combination to prevent steam popping. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for delivering ablation power from a power source to a target tissue during a medical procedure using a processor connected to a storage medium that stores programming instructions to be carried out by the processor , the programming instructions comprising the following:receiving an output signal from a force sensor operatively coupled with an ablation head of a catheter in contact with the target tissue during the medical procedure, wherein the output signal is indicative of a contact force exerted on the ablation head by the target tissue;estimating a probability of steam pop based on the output signal and a level of ablation power; anddelivering the level of ablation power from the power source to the target tissue via the ablation head, wherein the delivered level of ablation power is based on the contact force such that a corresponding estimated probability of steam pop remains no greater than an acceptable value and such that the delivered level of ablation power is sufficiently high to form a lesion on the target tissue.22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the power source is configured to generate radio-frequency power to energize the ablation head.23. The method of claim 21 , wherein the power source is configured to generate electrical current to energize the ablation head.24. The method of claim 21 , wherein the power source is configured to keep the ...

TISSUE CONDUCTION VELOCITY

A method includes acquiring a bipolar signal from a first electrode and a second electrode contacting a first location and a second location, respectively, in a heart of a living subject. The method further includes acquiring a unipolar signal from the first electrode while in contact with the first location, and deriving from the bipolar signal and the unipolar signal a point in time at which the first location is generating the unipolar signal. The method also includes computing a metric for a conduction velocity of the unipolar signal at the first location based on a shape of the unipolar signal at the point in time. 1. A method for measuring the conduction velocity in cardiac tissue , the method comprising a processor and associated circuitry for:acquiring a bipolar signal from a first electrode and a second electrode contacting a first location and a second location, respectively, in a heart of a living subject;acquiring a unipolar signal from the first electrode while in contact with the first location in cardiac tissue;deriving from the bipolar signal and the unipolar signal a point in time at which the first location is generating the unipolar signal;computing a metric for a conduction velocity of the unipolar signal at the first location based on a shape of the unipolar signal at the point in time; andincorporating the metric for a conduction velocity into a three-dimensional map of a heart of a living subject and displaying the image to a user on a display.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the first and second electrodes are located in a distal end of a catheter in the heart claim 1 , and wherein acquiring the bipolar signal comprises verifying claim 1 , when acquiring the signal claim 1 , that the distal end is engaging tissue in the heart with a contact force no less than a preset minimum contact force.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein acquiring the bipolar signal comprises verifying claim 1 , when acquiring the signal claim 1 , ...

REAL-TIME COLORING OF ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL MAP

Catheterization of the heart is carried out with a probe having a plurality of electrodes and sensors by displaying an electroanatomical map of the heart on a monitor. During a time interval that does not exceed a duration of a cardiac cycle of the heart the following steps are performed: reading data from at least one of the electrodes and sensors, and invoking a processor to perform an algorithm on the data. The data is one of a plurality of inputs of the algorithm, and the result of the algorithm includes a transformation of the data. The method is further carried out by rendering the result of the algorithm on the monitor to modify the electroanatomical map. 1. A method of catheterization , comprising the steps of:Inserting a probe into a heart of a living subject, the probe having a plurality of electrodes and sensors;displaying an electroanatomical map of the heart on a monitor; andduring a time interval that does not exceed a duration of a cardiac cycle of the heart, performing the further steps of:reading data from at least one of the electrodes and sensors;invoking a processor to perform an algorithm on the data, the algorithm having a plurality of inputs and a result, wherein the data comprises one of the plurality of inputs and the result comprises a transformation of the data; andrendering the result on the monitor to modify the electroanatomical map.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the algorithm comprises the steps of:selecting first electrodes from the electrodes wherein the first electrodes are in contact with tissue of the heart; selecting second electrodes from the first electrodes, wherein the second electrodes exhibit a predetermined amount of the relative motion;', 'selecting third electrodes from the second electrodes, wherein respective locations of the third electrodes in successive beats have a correlation score below a predetermined threshold; and', 'generating the result from data obtained from the third electrodes., ' ...

System for monitoring incontinence

According to one aspect of the inventive concept there is provided a system for monitoring incontinence comprising: a urine sensitive circuit arranged to present a changed electrical characteristic when exposed to urine; a measurement circuit arranged to perform a measurement on a urine bladder of a wearer to determine at least one parameter which varies with a fill level of the urine bladder; a sensor arranged to determine an orientation and/or a movement of the sensor; and a processing circuit arranged to: determine whether the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine; estimate an amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit; andin response to determining that the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine, record data representing said at least one parameter determined by the measurement circuit, an estimated movement and/or posture of the wearer based on an orientation and/or a movement determined by the sensor, and an estimate of the amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit. 1. A system for monitoring incontinence comprising:a urine sensitive circuit arranged to present a changed electrical characteristic when exposed to urine;a measurement circuit arranged to perform a measurement on a urine bladder of a wearer to determine at least one parameter which varies with a fill level of the urine bladder;a sensor arranged to determine an orientation and/or a movement of the sensor; and determine whether the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine,', 'estimate an amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit, and', 'in response to determining that the urine sensitive circuit has been exposed to urine, record data representing said at least one parameter determined by the measurement circuit, an estimated movement and/or posture of the wearer based on an orientation and/or a movement determined by the sensor, and an estimate of the amount of urine released on to the urine sensitive circuit., 'a ...

CATHETER WITH SERIALLY CONNECTED SENSING STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF CALIBRATION AND DETECTION

A catheter is responsive to external and internal magnetic field generators for generating signals representing position and pressure data, with a reduced number of sensing coil leads for minimizing lead breakage and failure. The catheter includes a flexible joint with pressure sensing and position coils, at least pair of a pressure sensing coil and a position coil are serially connected. Methods of calibrating a catheter for position and pressure sensing, and detecting magnetic field interference with one catheter by another catheter or other metal or ferrous object advantageously use signals between two sets of sensors as a “back up” or “error check”. 1. A catheter for use with a catheterization system having a plurality of external magnetic field generators , each generating a position-data magnetic field , the catheter comprising:a flexible tubing; and an internal magnetic field generator positioned in one of the proximal or distal portions, the internal magnetic field generator generating a pressure-data magnetic field;', 'a first plurality of pressure sensing elements and a second plurality of position sensing elements positioned in the other of the proximal and distal portions, the first plurality of pressure sensing elements configured to sense the pressure-data magnetic field and generate signals representative of data relating to pressure exerted on the distal section when engaged with tissue, the second plurality of position sensing elements configured to sense each of the position-data magnetic fields and generate signals representative of data relating to a position of the distal section;', 'a first lead serially connecting at least one pair of one of the first plurality of pressure sensing elements and one of the second plurality of position sensing elements; and', 'a flexible joint between the proximal portion and the distal portion, the flexible joint comprising a resilient coupling member between the internal magnetic field generator in the proximal ...

Organ Mounted Electronics

Provided are devices and methods capable of interfacing with biological tissues, such as organs like the heart, in real-time and using techniques which provide the ability to monitor and control complex physical, chemical, biochemical and thermal properties of the tissues as a function of time. The described devices and methods utilize micro scale sensors and actuators to spatially monitor and control a variety of physical, chemical and biological tissue parameters, such as temperature, pH, spatial position, force, pressure, electrophysiology and to spatially provide a variety of stimuli, such as heat, light, voltage and current.

BIOMONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF LOADING AND RELEASING THE SAME

A system and method for monitoring body chemistry of a user, the system comprising: a housing supporting: a microsensor comprising a first and second working electrode, a reference electrode, and a counter electrode, and configured to access interstitial fluid of the user, and an electronics subsystem comprising a signal conditioning module that receives a signal stream, from the microsensor, wherein the electronics subsystem is configured to detect an impedance signal derived from two of the first working electrode, the second working electrode, the reference electrode, and the counter electrode; and a processing subsystem comprising: a first module configured to generate an analysis indicative of an analyte parameter of the user and derived from the signal stream and the impedance signal, and a second module configured to transmit information derived from the analysis to the user, thereby facilitating monitoring of body chemistry of the user. 1. A biomonitoring system , comprising: ["wherein the adhesive substrate includes an adhesive configured to facilitate adhering the wearable sensor patch system to a user's skin such that the wearable patch system remains adhered to the user for at least a plurality of days after the wearable sensor patch is initially adhered to the user's skin, and", "wherein the wearable sensor patch system is configured to detect a parameter of an analyte in fluid of the user when the wearable sensor patch system is adhered to the user's skin and at least a portion of the filament is inserted into the user's tissue; and"], 'a wearable sensor patch system having an adhesive substrate at a user-facing surface of the wearable sensor patch system, a filament, and an electronics subsystem,'} a first applicator portion configured to releasably retain the wearable sensor patch system at least when the applicator is in the first mode,', 'a second applicator portion configured to circumscribe the first applicator portion at least when the ...

DELAYING PRE-TERM BIRTH

A device for retarding birth including an upper ring for surrounding a cervix, an anchoring component for anchoring the device, and an elastic component for attaching the upper ring to the anchoring component, wherein the elastic component pushes the upper ring and the anchoring component apart. A device for retarding birth including a sleeve for surrounding a cervix along a greater portion of a length of the cervix, a support strip on the sleeve directed along an axis of the sleeve, and a ring at least partially around the sleeve, in which when a top of the sleeve is pushed to expand radially, the support strip pivots on the ring, such that an end of the support strip near the top of the sleeve moves radially outward, and an end of the support strip near the bottom of the sleeve moves radially inward. Related apparatus and methods are also described. 1. A method of retarding birth comprising: inserting the device into a vagina;', 'placing a ring around the cervix;', 'placing an anchoring component around the cervix;, 'placing a device for retarding birth on a cervix, the placing the device comprisingsuch that when the upper portion of the cervix exerts force on the ring, the ring exerts an inward closing force on the anchoring component.2. The method according to and further including automatically releasing the device from the cervix.3. The method according to wherein the placing the ring around the upper portion of the cervix comprises:expanding the ring to be wider than the upper portion of the cervix;pushing the ring up along the cervix toward the upper portion of the cervix; andreleasing the ring to grip the upper portion of the cervix.4. The method according to wherein the placing the anchoring component around the lower portion of the cervix comprises:expanding the anchoring component to be wider than the cervix; andreleasing the anchoring component to grip the cervix.5. The method of and further comprising:activating a quick release mechanism to release an ...

PRESSURE-SENSING DEVICES

A pressure-sensing device includes a device frame, a flexible membrane, a pressure sensor, and device electronics. The device frame includes a base surface that rests on a supporting structure and a frame attachment region located opposite to the base surface such that the frame attachment region is raised from the supporting structure when the base surface is resting on the supporting structure. The device frame also includes a seating surface. The flexible membrane is attached to the frame attachment region such that the device frame and the flexible membrane enclose a pressure chamber. The seating surface extends outward around the flexible membrane and the flexible membrane protrudes above the seating surface. The pressure sensor is configured to generate a pressure signal. The device electronics are configured to determine the pressure in the pressure chamber based on the pressure signal. 1. A pressure-sensing device comprising: a base surface configured to rest on an external supporting structure that is separate from the pressure-sensing device; and', 'a frame attachment region located opposite to the base surface such that the frame attachment region is raised from the external supporting structure when the base surface is resting on the external supporting structure;, 'a device frame comprisinga flexible membrane including a membrane attachment region attached to the frame attachment region, wherein the flexible membrane protrudes above the device frame and is configured to conform to a user's perineum region when the user is seated on the flexible membrane, and wherein the device frame and the flexible membrane at least partially enclose a pressure chamber including an air mass between the device frame and the flexible membrane;a pressure sensor at least partially included within the pressure chamber and in contact with the air mass, the pressure sensor configured to generate a pressure signal indicating air pressure of the air mass in the pressure chamber ...

Device and Method for Palpation of Tissues for Characterization and Mechanical Differentiation of Subcutaneous Structures

A palpation device for palpation of tissues for characterization (e.g., qualification and/or quantification) of subcutaneous structures is provided. The palpation device includes a frame formed from a substantially rigid material and comprising an opening; a tonometric lens extending through the opening of the frame; and a radiation source. The lens is configured to at least partially impinge a tissue of interest to identify an object embedded therein. The lens includes a body having a reflective coating on an outer surface thereof. The radiation source is positioned to illuminate the reflective coating such that a topography of the coating can be observed. The body includes a body material that is as stiff or stiffer than the tissue of interest and less stiff than the embedded object to be characterized. A system including the palpation device and an image device for obtaining an image through the lens is also provided.

Method of Detecting and Measuring the Condition of Intraluminal Esophageal Mucosa

A method of detecting and measuring the condition of intraluminal esophageal mucosa. An esophagus is intubated with a catheter including an inflatable and deflatable balloon and one or more impedance sensing electrodes on an exterior surface of the catheter. The balloon is inflated to press the impedance sensing electrode(s) into a mucosa of the interior esophageal wall. An electric current is directed through the mucosa via the impedance sensing electrode(s) while the impedance sensing electrode(s) is/are pressed by the balloon against the mucosa and measure impedance of the mucosa. 1. A method of detecting and measuring the condition of intraluminal esophageal mucosa , the method comprising:(a) intubating an esophagus with a catheter comprising an inflatable and deflatable balloon and at least one impedance sensing electrode on an exterior surface of the catheter;(b) inflating the balloon to press the at least one impedance sensing electrode into a mucosa of the interior esophageal wall; and(c) directing an electric current through the mucosa via the at least one impedance sensing electrode while the at least one impedance sensing electrode is pressed by the balloon against the mucosa and measuring impedance of the mucosa.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the step of comparing impedance data obtained during measuring impedance of the mucosa and identifying tissue having tissue characteristics of an esophageal disease based on the impedance data.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein tissue having tissue characteristics of the esophageal disease have lower impedance values than healthy tissue.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein a variation of mucosal impedance between the distal and proximal esophagus is 50% to 80% for patients with the esophageal disease.5. The method of claim 2 , wherein a variation of mucosal impedance between the distal and proximal esophagus is less than 20% for visually normal patients with normal acid exposure and is more than 40% for ...

Intra-Vaginal Ring with Pressure Sensor

The present invention relates to a device for determining intra-abdominal pressure in a subject, comprising an intravaginal ring that is provided with a pressure sensor, means for registering the intra-abdominal pressure value measured by the pressure sensor and means for generating an alert signal when the intra-abdominal pressure exceeds a reference value. The present invention also relates to a method for determining intra-abdominal pressure in a subject, comprising the steps of: a) measuring the intra-abdominal pressure in the vagina by means of a device of the invention, b) comparing the intra-abdominal pressure value measured with a reference value; and c) in case the intra-abdominal pressure value exceeds the reference value transmitting an alert signal to the device that triggers a vibration element in the device or an external device, such as a smartphone or smart watch, to provide a warning to change the subjects behaviour in order to lower the intra-abdominal pressure value.

Dynamic mapping point filtering using a pre-acquired image

A method, including acquiring a body cavity image and receiving first and second sets of mapping points from a probe inserted into the cavity. A first registration, having a first cumulative error value, is performed between the first set's mapping points and the image, each of the first set's mapping points having a respective first point error value, and a 3D anatomical map is generated including the first set's mapping points whose respective first point error values are less than a specified threshold. A second registration is performed between the received mapping points and the image, each of the received mapping points having a respective second point error value, the second registration having a second cumulative error value lower than the first cumulative error value, and an updated 3D anatomical map is generated including the received mapping points whose respective second point error values are less than the specified threshold.

ROBOTIC CATHETER SYSTEM

A robotic catheter system includes a controller with a master input device. An instrument driver is in communication with the controller and has a guide instrument interface including a plurality of guide instrument drive elements responsive to control signals generated, at least in part, by the master input device. An elongate guide instrument has a base, distal end, and a working lumen, wherein the guide instrument base is operatively coupled to the guide instrument interface. The guide instrument includes a plurality of guide instrument control elements operatively coupled to respective guide drive elements and secured to the distal end of the guide instrument. The guide instrument control elements are axially moveable relative to the guide instrument such that movement of the guide instrument distal end may be controlled by the master input device. 1. A medical instrument system , comprising:an elongate sheath having a lumen;a working instrument positioned inside the sheath lumen, having a distal end configured to advance out of a distal end opening of the sheath lumen;at least one sensor coupled to at least one of the elongate sheath or the working instrument, the at least one sensor configured to determine a contact of at least one of the elongate sheath or the working instrument with an object;a processor in communication with the at least one sensor; anda display in communication with the processor and configured to provide a graphical representation of the contact.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises a position sensor.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to determine a direction of the contact based at least in part upon a direction of an error between a predicted instrument position and a measured instrument position.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the contact includes a position.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the working instrument is a guidewire.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the ...

BIO-INFORMATION MEASURING APPARATUS AND BIO-INFORMATION MEASURING METHOD

Provided is a bio-information measuring apparatus. According to an aspect, the bio-information measuring apparatus includes: an optical module comprising a light source configured to emit light onto or toward an object, and a detector configured to detect light reflected or scattered from the object; a pressure sensor configured to measure pressure between the optical module and the object; and a processor configured to restore a spectrum based on the detected reflected or scattered light, and to correct the restored spectrum based on the measured pressure. 1. A bio-information measuring apparatus , comprising:an optical module comprising a light source configured to emit light toward an object, and a detector configured to detect light reflected or scattered from the object;a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure between the optical module and the object; anda processor configured to restore a spectrum based on the detected light reflected or scattered from the object, and to correct the restored spectrum based on the measured pressure.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein:the light source comprises an array of a plurality of light sources, the plurality of light sources comprising at least one from among a light emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, and a fluorescent body; andthe processor is further configured to sequentially drive the plurality of light sources by time-dividing the plurality of light sources based on at least one of a driving order and pulse durations of the plurality of light sources.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the optical module further comprises a direction change part claim 1 , the direction change part comprising a surface which is configured to change a direction of light emitted by the light source claim 1 , so that the light is directed toward the object.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , further comprising an external frame claim 3 , wherein the light source and the detector of the optical module are disposed inside the ...

Medical Device And Method For Facilitating Selection Of An Annuloplasty Implant

A medical device and method for facilitating selection of a shape and/or size of an annuloplasty implant for a patient comprises a catheter with a proximal end and a distal end, and an extension member at least partly arranged inside the catheter with an operator end and a measurement end. The measurement end is extendable relative from the distal end of the catheter for apposition with at least one commissure of a cardiac valve. The measurement end of the extension member comprises means for guiding the annuloplasty implant at at least one commissure.

Gastrointestinal Sensor Implantation System

A device includes an orally-administrable capsule and a tissue capture device coupled to the orally-administrable capsule. The tissue capture device is configured to connect to gastrointestinal tissue within a body. The tissue capture device is configured to detach from the orally-administrable capsule after the tissue capture device connects to the gastrointestinal tissue. A device includes an orally-administrable capsule, a tissue capture device coupled to the orally-administrable capsule, a chamber within the orally-administrable capsule, and an actuator. The tissue capture device includes multiple fasteners configured to connect the tissue capture device to gastrointestinal tissue within a body. The chamber is configured to draw gastrointestinal tissue towards the fasteners when a fluid pressure of the chamber is decreased. The actuator is configured to cause a decrease of the fluid pressure of the chamber. 1. A device comprising:an orally-administrable capsule; anda tissue capture device coupled to the orally-administrable capsule, the tissue capture device configured to connect to gastrointestinal tissue within a body,wherein the tissue capture device is configured to detach from the orally-administrable capsule after the tissue capture device connects to the gastrointestinal tissue.2. The device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the tissue capture device includes a plurality of fasteners configured to connect the tissue capture device to the gastrointestinal tissue.3. The device as recited in claim 2 , wherein each fastener of the plurality of fasteners is pointed inwardly from a first surface of the tissue capture device.4. The device as recited in claim 3 , wherein each fastener of the plurality of fasteners is disposed at an angle ranging between thirty degrees and eighty degrees with respect to an axis that is perpendicular to the first surface.5. The device as recited in claim 2 , wherein:the tissue capture device defines a receiving portion;the plurality ...

IMPEDANCE-BASED FAR-FIELD SUBTRACTION OF WAVEFORM USING NON-TISSUE CONTACTING ELECTRODES

A medical system for removing far-field signals from a unipolar electrical signal is disclosed. In embodiments, the medical system comprises a catheter and a processing device communicatively coupled to the catheter. The catheter comprises a plurality of electrodes configured to sense a plurality of unipolar signals transmitted through tissue. The processing device is configured to: receive the sensed unipolar electrical signals, determine an electrode having a high level of contact with the tissue, and determine an electrode having a lower level of contact with the tissue than the electrode having the high level of contact with the tissue. Further, the processing device is configured to determine a sensed near-field electrical signal based on the unipolar electrical signal received from the electrode having the high level of contact and the unipolar electrical signal received from the electrode having the lower level of contact. 1. A medical system for removing far-field signals from a unipolar electrical signal , the medical system comprising:a catheter comprising a plurality of electrodes, each electrode being configured to sense unipolar electrical signals transmitted through tissue; and receive the sensed unipolar electrical signals;', 'determine an electrode of the plurality of electrodes having a high level of contact with the tissue;', 'determine an electrode of the plurality of electrodes having a lower level of contact with the tissue than the electrode having the high level of contact with the tissue;', 'determine a sensed near-field electrical signal based on the unipolar electrical signal received from the electrode having the high level of contact and the unipolar electrical signal received from the electrode having the lower level of contact; and', 'output the determined near-field electrical signal to a display device., 'a processing device communicatively coupled to the catheter, the processing device configured to2. The medical system of claim 1 , ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING EFFECTIVE DELIVERY OF ABLATION THERAPY

A system and method for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy to a tissue in a body is provided. A three-dimensional anatomical map of the tissue is generated and displayed with the map defining a corresponding volume. An index is generated corresponding to a location within the volume with the index indicative of a state of ablation therapy at the location. The index may be derived from one or more factors such as the duration an ablation electrode is present at the location, the amount of energy provided, the degree of electrical coupling between an ablation electrode and the tissue at the location and temperature. A visual characteristic (e.g., color intensity) of a portion of the anatomical map corresponding to the location is then altered responsive to the index. 1. (canceled)2. A system for assessing effective delivery of ablation therapy to a tissue in a body , comprising: receive a threshold value for a factor indicative of delivery of ablation energy;', 'acquire a value for the factor at a first location on the map;', 'compare the acquired value to the threshold value;', 'determine an index based on the acquired value;', 'generate a first visual characteristic at the first location, using the index, if the acquired value exceeds the threshold value; and', 'generate a second visual characteristic at the first location, using the index, if the acquired value does not exceed the threshold value., 'an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to generate a map of the tissue; wherein the ECU is further configured to3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the factor indicative of delivery of ablation energy is selected from the group consisting of:an amount of energy delivered at the first location;a duration of time during which an ablation electrode is present at the first location;a duration of time during which an ablation electrode is away from the first location;an impedance measurement proximate a distal end of the ablation electrode;a maximum amount ...

Optical Force Sensing Assembly for an Elongated Medical Device

The present invention concerns an elongated medical device () suitable for intravascular insertion. Said device comprising a flexible elongated body () having a distal portion () with a distal end () and a proximal portion () and an optic force sensing assembly () disposed within said flexible elongated body () proximate said distal end. The optical force sensing assembly () comprises a light source (), which defines a linear optical light source axis (A), and an optical sensor (), which faces the light source () and which defines a linear optical sensor axis (B) and whereat the optical sensor () is arranged in a distance (d, d) to the light source along the optical sensor axis (B), a mounting assembly () for the optical sensor () and the light source () which allows for relative movement of the light source () against the optical sensor () at least in the directions X, Y, Z of the Cartesian coordinate system, wherein direction Z is parallel to the direction of the optical sensor axis (B) at least in an initial state of the optical force sensing assembly () and whereby X and Y directions are perpendicular to each other as well as perpendicular to Z direction. 11. An elongated medical device () suitable for intravascular insertion , said device comprising{'b': 2', '3', '4', '5, 'a flexible elongated body () having a distal portion () with a distal end () and a proximal portion () and'}{'b': 20', '2, 'an optic force sensing assembly () disposed within said flexible elongated body () proximate said distal end,'}{'b': '20', 'characterized in that, said optical force sensing assembly () comprises{'b': 30', '40', '30', '40, 'sub': 0', '1, 'a light source (), which defines a linear optical light source axis (A), and an optical sensor (), which faces the light source () and which defines a linear optical sensor axis (B) and whereby the optical sensor () is arranged in a distance (d, d) to the light source along the optical sensor axis (B),'}{'b': 50', '40', '30', '30', '40, ...

System and methods of using a catheter with an anchoring mechanism

A catheter includes a catheter body and a distal tip section that includes an elongated member that extends along a longitudinal axis. An anchor mechanism can be disposed along an outer surface of the elongated member and/or within the elongated member in a first configuration. In a second configuration, the anchor mechanism can be configured to extend radially outward with respect to the longitudinal axis to surround at least a portion of the distal tip section.

BODY WORN MEASUREMENT DEVICE

Method and device for measuring a signal representative of a physiological parameter of a user. A body worn device includes a securing band and at least one sensor for measuring the signal. The sensor is arranged on the securing band of the device such that when worn, the at least one sensor abuts against the body of the user. A value of the signal is measured using the sensor. An amplitude envelope control band is defined having an envelope upper amplitude value and an envelope lower amplitude value. The amplitude of the measured value is controlled to be within the amplitude envelope control band by controlling a force pressing the at least one sensor in a direction substantially perpendicular to the body of the user. 1. A method for measuring a signal representative of a physiological parameter of a static or moving user comprising the steps of:providing a device worn on a body of the user, wherein the device includes a securing band, at least one sensor for measuring the signal representative of the physiological parameter; wherein the at least one sensor is arranged on the securing band of the device such that when worn, the at least one sensor abuts against the body of the user; andperforming a measurement session includingmeasuring a value of the signal using the at least one sensor,defining an amplitude envelope control band having an envelope upper amplitude value and an envelope lower amplitude value, andcontrolling the amplitude of the measured value to be within the amplitude envelope control band by controlling a force pressing the at least one sensor in a direction substantially perpendicular to the body of the user.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the controlling includes decreasing the force when the amplitude of the received signal exceeds the envelope upper amplitude value and increasing the force when the amplitude of the received light signal is below the envelope lower amplitude value.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sensor includes a ...

Prostate glove, fingertip optical encoder, connector system, and related methods

Systems and methods are provided herein that generally involve measuring a prostate or other object. In some embodiments, a finger clip having a roller ring or wheel rotatably mounted thereto is disposed within an inflatable membrane. The roller ring can include a measurement pattern positioned opposite to optical fibers configured to receive light reflected from the measurement pattern. A user can put on the finger clip, position the membrane in proximity to a rectal wall overlying a prostate, and inflate the membrane. As the user slides their finger across the inside of the membrane, which is pressed against the rectal wall, the roller ring can rotate with respect to the fibers such that the fibers move relative to the measurement pattern. A controller can sense light reflected through the fibers from the reference pattern and calculate or estimate various attributes of the prostate based on the reflected light.

MICRO INDUCTION POSITION SENSOR

A catheter includes a proximal segment and a distal segment. The catheter is configured to permit relative movement between the distal segment and the proximal segment in response to an application of force on the distal segment. The catheter further includes an inductive sensing element configured to measure displacement between the proximal segment and the distal segment. 1. A catheter comprising:a proximal segment;a distal segment, the catheter being configured to permit relative movement between the distal segment and the proximal segment in response to an application of force on the distal segment; andan inductive sensing element configured to measure displacement between the proximal segment and the distal segment.2. The catheter of claim 1 , further comprising a spring between the proximal segment and the distal segment claim 1 , wherein the inductive sensing element is configured to measure force on the distal segment based on a known resistance to the application of force on the distal segment and the measured displacement between the proximal segment and the distal segment.3. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the inductive sensing element is one of a plurality of inductive sensing elements claim 1 , each of the plurality of inductive sensing elements being configured to measure displacement between the proximal segment and the distal segment.4. The catheter of claim 3 , wherein the plurality of inductive sensing elements includes three inductive sensing elements arranged about a longitudinal axis of the catheter.5. The catheter of claim 3 , wherein each of the plurality of inductive sensing elements is located within a central aperture of the spring.6. The catheter of claim 3 ,wherein the spring is one of a plurality of springs, andwherein each of the plurality of inductive sensing elements is located within a central aperture of one of the plurality of springs.7. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the inductive sensing element is oriented to measure ...

USING FORCE SENSOR TO GIVE ANGLE OF ULTRASOUND BEAM

Catheterization is carried out by inserting a probe into a cavity in a body of a subject. The probe has a contact force, a transmitter, a receiver, and an ultrasound transducer in its distal segment, After navigating the probe into contact with a target in a wall of the cavity, using the contact force sensor a desired contact force is established and maintained between the probe and the target. Responsively to readings by the receiver of signals from the transmitter, the distal end of the probe is oriented orthogonally to the target. 1. A method , comprising the steps of:inserting a probe into a cavity in a body of a subject, the probe having a distal segment, a contact force sensor in the distal segment, a transmitter, a receiver, and an ultrasound transducer in the distal segment, the distal segment having a tip;navigating the probe into contact with a target in a wall of the cavity;responsively to readings of the contact force sensor establishing a desired contact force between the probe and the target; andresponsively to readings by the receiver of signals from the transmitter orienting the ultrasound transducer orthogonally to the target.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the contact force sensor is disposed between the transmitter and the receiver.3. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising the steps of:after orienting the ultrasound transducer activating the ultrasound transducer to emit ultrasound signals; andprocessing echo signals returning from the emitted ultrasound signals to determine a structure of the target.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein determining a structure of the target comprises determining a thickness of the wall of the cavity.5. The method according to claim 3 , wherein an ablation electrode is disposed on the tip of the distal segment claim 3 , further comprising the steps of:responsively to the determined structure of the target calculating ablation parameters; andactivating the ablation electrode ...

Implantable device for external urinary control

The present invention relates to an implantable apparatus for obtaining urinary control and emptying of the urinary bladder. The apparatus operates with a powered member (100) operating from the outside of the urinary bladder assisted by a support structure to discharge urine from the urinary bladder. A control device (200) controls the operation of the powered member. The control device further comprises a source of energy for operating the powered member and other energy consuming parts of the apparatus and a control assembly.

REAL-TIME KIDNEY MONITORING MEDICAL DEVICE

This medical device measures blood flow rate through the renal artery after a kidney transplant in real time. The device utilizes a force sensing resistor (FSR) to detect the amount of blood and the given blood pressure at any instantaneous point in time. The FSR wraps around the renal artery after transplantation and should remain connected for five to seven days for optimal kidney blood flow and kidney functioning detection. This will be achieved by measuring the flow rate, estimating blood pressure, and beats per minute this device should alert doctors if irregular kidney function should occur for fast and immediate surgical or bedside intervention. Our goal is to detect post-transplant kidney rejection in real-time. The device is biocompatible and sterile, easily removed from the renal artery, and smaller than 5 mm in diameter. 1. A real-time kidney monitoring apparatus , comprising:a force sensing resistor configured to wrap around a renal artery of a kidney; anda clamp to hold the force sensing resistor to the renal artery.2. The real-time kidney monitoring apparatus of claim 1 , wherein:the force sensing resistor is a pressure transducer, the resistance of the pressure transducer decreases in response to applied pressure.3. The real-time kidney monitoring apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a monitoring circuit connected to the force sensing resistor; anda computer connected to the monitoring circuit, the computer includes signal processing software that calculates a blood flow metric for the renal artery.4. The real-time kidney monitoring apparatus of claim 3 , wherein:the monitoring circuit includes a wheatstone bridge;the force sensing resistor is part of the wheatstone bridge;the monitoring circuit includes an operational amplifier;two legs of the wheatstone bridge are connected to two inputs of the operational amplifier which amplifies the difference between the two inputs, an output voltage of the operational amplifier is sent to the computer and ...