Surgery inventions 03/06

20060069298 - Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy: A delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy comprising a substantially axially stiff and longitudinally flexible elongated member made of material, which is bio-absorbable in living tissue and a plurality of radioactive seeds dispersed in a predetermined array within the member. The delivery system and method further customize the...

20060069299 - Integrated pump and cannula systems and related methods: The present invention relates to systems and methods for transporting fluid between different locations within a body cavity and, in one particular application, systems and methods for transporting fluids to maintain at least partial blood flow through a protected blood flow path within the right and/or left side of the...

20060069301 - Implant inserted without bone anchors: The present invention discloses an implant for placement in the retropubic space of a patient. Novel methods and assemblies for use in conjunction with the implant are also described....

20060069300 - Inhibition action incontinence device and method: A method and apparatus for minimizing fecal incontinence in a subject, is disclosed. An inhibition action incontinence device includes a truncated cone with an angled concavity at a top portion. The truncated cone is positioned at the external opening of the anal canal. The truncated cone may be positioned to...

20060069302 - Method and apparatus for laryngeal examination: Method and apparatus for laryngeal examination of a subject (1) during exercise on apparatus such as a treadmill (2), for example to detect laryngeal dysfunction such as vocal cord dysfunction or exercise-induced laryngomalacia. The apparatus comprises a support unit (11) attached to the head (10) of the subject, and a...

20060069303 - Endoscopic apparatus with integrated hemostasis device: An endoscope or other medical device includes an elongated shaft having a flexible proximal section, an articulatable distal region, and distal tip. The endoscope or other device includes an associated hemostasis device for treating internal bleeding during a contemporaneous medial procedure. Embodiments of the present invention may incorporate mechanical, chemical,...

20060069304 - Endoscopic treatment instrument, endoscopic treatment system and supporting adaptor: In an endoscopic treatment instrument having a plurality of sheaths, a supporting member for directly and indirectly supporting the plurality of sheaths, and a connecting member for directly/indirectly bringing the sheaths and an endoscope in a connected state are provided. The supporting member constrains a relative position of the plurality...

20060069305 - Device with enhanced indication of use and prevention of re-use: In one aspect, the present invention is a medical device that reduces the likelihood of an operator improperly reusing it. The medical device includes (a) a device body; (b) a substrate comprising a contrast material that covers at least a portion of the device body; and (c) an outer layer...

20060069306 - Automated control of irrigation and aspiration in a single-use endoscope: The present invention is an integrated and automated irrigation and aspiration system for use in an endoscopic imaging system. The system provides for the automated cleaning of poorly prepared patients during a colonoscopy procedure as well as automated cleaning of an imaging system of an endoscope. The invention analyzes images...

20060069307 - Selectively rotatable shaft coupler: In one aspect, the present invention is a system for rotatably coupling a shaft to a housing. The system includes a selectively rotatable shaft coupler that connects a shaft to a housing that allows a limited amount of shaft rotation, but which sets a restriction on the maximum amount of...

20060069308 - Endoscope for medical and non-medical purposes: The invention relates to an endoscope for medical and non-medical purposes having a housing and a shaping element positioned in the housing containing a hygroscopic substance. To design a medical instrument of the aforementioned type in such a manner than the hygroscopic substance can be integrated into the housing simply...

20060069309 - Optical adaptor for endoscope and endoscope apparatus: An optical adaptor for endoscope according to the present invention includes, in an outer casing, a light emitter, serving as a light source for illumination, and two terminals connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the light emitters to be externally projected from the inside of the outer casing....

20060069310 - Programmable brake control system for use in a medical device: A system and method for providing programmable brake control in a fly-by-wire medical instrument system are provided. In one embodiment, the invention provides a brake control system that includes a brake control algorithm that provides temporal and spatial control of the motion of a medical instrument....

20060069311 - Manually controlled endoscope: A control handle for use with a steerable endoscopic device. The endoscopic device having a pair of control wires to effect steering. The control handle includes a steering mechanism that includes an actuator, such as a control knob, drivingly connected to a drive member, such as a sprocket or drive...

20060069312 - System for retaining optical clarity in a medical imaging system: In one aspect, the present invention is a medical imaging device that retains optical clarity when used in a patient. The medical imaging device includes a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end and an imaging assembly disposed at the distal end of the shaft. The imaging assembly...

20060069313 - Medical devices with light emitting regions: A medical device, such as an endoscope 20, constructed in accordance with aspects of the present invention is provided. The endoscope 20 includes an elongated shaft-like body 22 having a proximal end 26 and a distal end 28. The shaft-like body comprises a proximal section 40, an optional articulation section...

20060069314 - Solid state illumination for endoscopy: Various embodiments for providing solid state illumination for endoscopy or borescopy are provided. Generally, various medical or industrial devices can include one or more solid state or other compact electro-optic illuminating devices located thereon. The solid state or compact electro-optic illuminating device can include, but is not limited to, a...

20060069315 - Surgical access system and related methods: A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative...

20060069316 - Retracting devices: The present invention relates to a retracting device for retracting at least a portion of a user's mouth. The retracting device includes formations, which may be inter-engaging and/or non-inter-engaging with other dental tools or apparatus. The formations are adapted for repeatably positioning a subject's mouth with respect to a light...

20060069318 - Method for assessment of the structure-function characteristics of structures in a human or animal body: A method for determining one or more structure-function characteristics of a structure in a human or animal body from an image of the structure includes generating a structural model of a structure based on an image of the structure. A first biomechanical quantity is computed based on the structural model....

20060069317 - System and method to detect a transition in an image stream: A system and method may detect a transition in an image stream captured within a body lumen. One or more parameters may be computed at points corresponding to a time scale of the image stream. Transition in the values of the parameters may be identified and may indicate a location...

20060069319 - Monitoring device, method and system: A monitoring device (20) and method (200) for monitoring the health of a user is disclosed herein. The monitoring device (20) is preferably an article (25), an optical sensor (30), a circuitry assembly (35) a display member (40) and a control component (43). The monitoring device (20) preferably displays the...

20060069320 - Body worn sensor and device harness: A body worn harness supporting biosensors and devices in a form fitting structure for medical long-term ambulatory operation. The supported devices provide processing, storage, and communicating of the biosensor data captured. Integrated body motion generators generate power. In addition rapid acting zero insertion force mechanical and electrical connectors are provided...

20060069321 - Method and system for enhancing pace pulses: A method for enhancing pace pulses is presented. The method includes providing a set of digital electrocardiogram data comprising a plurality of pulses, wherein each pulse is of a generally constant width. Furthermore, the method includes differentiating the plurality of pulses to generate a plurality of pairs of differentiated pulses,...

20060069322 - Cardiac activation sequence monitoring and tracking: Cardiac monitoring and/or stimulation methods and systems provide monitoring, diagnosis, and defibrillation and/or pacing therapies. A signal processor receives a plurality of composite signals associated with a plurality of sources, performs a source separation, and produces one or more cardiac signal vectors associated with all or a portion of one...

20060069323 - Systems and methods for bi-lateral guidewire cannulation of branched body lumens: A system and method is provided that is adapted to allow for rapid cannulation of a guidewire into a branch lumen extending from a main lumen in a body of a patient, and in particular into two renal arteries extending from an abdominal aorta wall. A dual lumen catheter shaft...

20060069324 - Method and apparatus for performing a computer-assisted orthopaedic procedure: A method of performing a computer-assisted orthopaedic procedure includes securing a sensor support instrument to the patient's bone. A number of sensors are secured to the support instrument. A computer-assisted orthopaedic surgical instrument is also disclosed....

20060058568 - Cable attachment for a radioactive brachytherapy source capsule: In cancer brachytherapy treatment, a small californium-252 neutron source capsule is attached to a guide cable using a modified crimping technique. The guide cable has a solid cylindrical end, and the attachment employs circumferential grooves micromachined in the solid cable end. The attachment was designed and tested, and hardware fabricated...

20060058570 - Radioactive member and method of making: A radioactive member for use in brachytherapy comprising a molded elongate, bioabsorbable carrier material with spaced radioactive sources disposed therein, and methods for the manufacture thereof. The radioactive members may be used in the treatment of, for example, prostate cancer....

20060058569 - Unitary formulation delivery device: An apparatus for delivering a formulation into a body in integer amounts includes a cannula with an insertion end for insertion into the body. The cannula includes a channel such as a tube to store the formulation. A rod is inserted into an end of the cannula opposite the insertion...

20060058571 - Apparatus for generating electromagnetic waveforms: An apparatus for generating electromagnetic waveforms to stimulate a subject includes a computing device generating digital waveform data. A digital-to-analog converter receives the digital waveform data from the computing device and generates a corresponding analog waveform signal. A channel selector having output channels is operable to apply the analog waveform...

20060058572 - Electronic device for strengthening the immune system: One electronic device proper for strengthening the immune system, produces magnetic fields with characteristics which are determined by a multi channel biomagnetometer. The electronic device is including an alternating current output generated by a microcontroller of symmetric square wave signals with a specific frequency which is regulated by one integrated...

20060058573 - Method and apparatus for vibrational damping of implantable hearing aid components: A method and apparatus for minimizing or eliminating the transmission of vibration away from, as well as induction of vibration into, a middle ear driving or sensing structure of an at least partially implantable hearing aid system. A vibration damping intermediary layer may be positioned between an originating structure and...

20060058574 - Method and apparatus for adjusting flexible areal polymer implants: A minimally invasive approach to adjusting the amount of support on an anatomical structure. The methods and apparatus described include the use of a tape for supporting an anatomical structure. Adjustment may be achieved by use of bulking agents applied either directly to the site or into a containment device...

20060058575 - System and method for surgical implant placement: A system and method for placing surgical implants and having particular application for pelvic floor repair. The system includes an assembly having a guide element with a tissue penetrating tip, a cannula, and a retrieval device having a capture element at its distal end. A channel in the cannula is...

20060058577 - Seal for controlled evacuation ostomy appliance: A stoma seal is described for a controlled evacuation ostomy appliance. The stoma seal may have a liquid-responsive property, such as hydrophobic, hydrophilic or absorptive. The stoma seal may have a non-smooth surface, e.g., at a microstructure scale. The non-smooth surface may consist of tortuous channels, protruding seals, or a...

20060058576 - Stoma plug: An ostomy plug is described comprising first and second chambers having adjacent ends coupled to, and in fluid communication with, each other. The first chamber may be for insertion into a stoma. The second chamber may contain fluid for inflating the first chamber when the second chamber is squeezed or...

20060058578 - Apparatus and method for treating female urinary incontinence: The present invention provides a surgical implant and method for supporting the urethra, the implant comprising: comprising at least one fixing zone that can be fixed in the fibrofatty tissue of the retropubic space. In use the implant supports the urethra such that increased intra-abdominal pressure is transmitted to the...

20060058579 - Holding and resting device for medical instruments having essentially cylindrical instrumental bodies: The invention relates to a holding and resting device for medical instruments having essentially cylindrical instrument bodies, in particular endoscopic instruments, with a base body that can be secured for instance to an operating table and an instrument input to be inserted into the base body and in which the...

20060058580 - Resectoscope electrode that is longitudinally displaced by a carriage: A resectoscope having an electrode longitudinally displaceable in a stem. The electrode is electrically contacted at its proximal end 31, in a carriage that is fitted with a down-pointing finger grip, by a contacting system. The resectoscope further includes an hf-power cable 15 affixed to and suspended from the carriage....

20060058581 - Video endoscope with a rotatable video camera: A video endoscope includes a tube fitted at its distal end with an affixed objective lens, a video camera mounted behind the objective lens in the tube the camera together with an elongated rotation element constituting a swivel unit that is supported both at the distal and proximal end zones...

20060058582 - Disposable shapelocking system: Disposable shapelocking systems are disclosed herein. A shapelock assembly generally comprises an elongate body defining at least one lumen therethrough for advancement of an endoscope or other endoscopic instruments therethrough. A handle assembly can be actuated to compress nested links against one another to transition the elongate body from a...

20060058583 - Lubricant for endoscope and endoscope: A lubricant for an endoscope, which is designed to be applied to surfaces of built-in members for enhancing lubricity among a plurality of built-in members accommodated in a flexible insertion tube constituting an insertion portion of endoscope, the lubricant including a porous carbonaceous material....

20060058584 - Endoscope: An endoscope includes an adaptor detachably mounted on a distal end of an insertion section; a mounting base provided in said adaptor; illumination section attached to the front of said mounting base; front electrode terminals provided at the front end of the mounting base and connected to the illumination section;...

20060058585 - Medical instrument set and method for creating a surgical operating space in operations on the jaw: A medical instrument system for creating a surgical operating space in the human or animal body by minimally invasive way in operations on the jaw comprises a shaft, which can be introduced through an incision in the cheek, and a plate-shaped flat element which can be introduced through the mouth,...

20060058586 - Method and apparatus for transitioning a diet: A system stores nutritional information for a variety of foods. A user, interactively connected to the system, via the Internet or the like, accesses the system. The system stores user characteristic data including current weight, diet characteristic information. The dieter inputs their daily food intake to the system. The system...

20060058588 - Methods and apparatus for tissue activation and monitoring: Techniques for controlling one or more modular circuits (“satellites”) that are intended for placement in a subject's body. The one or more satellites are controlled by sending signals over a bus that includes first and second conduction paths. Also coupled to the bus in system embodiments is a device such...

20060058587 - Wireless control system for a patient-support apparatus: A wireless control system for use with a patient-support apparatus includes a first receiver located on the patient-support apparatus and a wireless hand-held controller configured to wirelessly communicate with the first receiver to control functions of the patient-support apparatus and/or functions of hospital room equipment. The wireless control system may...

20060058589 - Animal model to evaluate visceral pain perception: Animal model to measure visceral pain of a balloon catheter and an implantable sensor module having transcutaneous telemetring ability. The implantable sensor module is set up to receive both visceromotor and pseudoaffective responses of the test animal. In particular, the balloon catheter is an implantable balloon catheter, preferably implanted in...

20060058591 - First-response portable recorder and automated report generator: Described is a portable recorder for use by first-response emergency service personnel while providing care to a human subject. The recorder includes memory for storing data and sensor circuitry for sensing physiological signals through electrodes attached to a human subject and for converting the physiological signals into electrical signals. The...

20060058590 - Method and system for assaying agitation: A method of physiologically quantifying patient agitation presented is based on reliable, objective physiological signals. The present invention is capable of quantifying autonomic nervous system interactions to provide an objective measurement of agitation. Adaptive autoregressive (AR) signal processing techniques are used to analyze heart rate (HRV) and blood pressure (BPV)...

20060058593 - Monitoring platform for detection of hypovolemia, hemorrhage and blood loss: Systems and techniques are provided for monitoring hydration. In one implementation, a method includes measuring an electrical impedance of a region of a subject to generate an impedance measurement result. The result may be correlated with a blood loss condition....

20060058592 - Process, system and software arrangement for measuring a mechanical strain and elastic properties of a sample: A system, process and software arrangement are provided to determining data associated with at least one structural change of tissue. In particular, a first optical coherence tomography (“OCT”) signal which contains first information regarding the tissue at a first stress level, and a second OCT signal which contains second information...

20060058594 - Measuring probe and living body optical measuring device: In a measuring probe, the distal ends of an irradiation optical fiber and a detection optical fiber on the subject side are held by a holder portion which is to be mounted on a subject. The optical fibers are led out from the side surface of the holder portion. Further,...

20060058595 - Blood optode: A method for measuring in non-invasive manner the concentration of blood constituents by which backscattered light is measured under the action of ultrasonic radiation focused towards the inside of a central blood vessel. A light source and detection unit are arranged to detect the backscattered light on the skin surface...

20060058596 - Device and method for noninvasive measuring glucose level in the blood: A noninvasive blood glucose level measurement system for determining the glucose level of blood, including a processor configured for determining a blood glucose level from a measurement of arterial pressure. Also included is a method of determining a blood glucose level from a measurement of arterial pressure....

20060058597 - Intraluminal electrode assembly: A minimally invasive intraluminal electrode assembly that includes a cannulated tube and a plurality of wires disposed within the cannulated tube. Each of the plurality of wires has one of a plurality of electrical contacts on a distal end thereof. The distal portion of the plurality of wires assumes a...

20060058598 - Catheter having anchoring and stabilizing devices: A catheter is provided having a catheter body whose distal end has an anchoring device and a stabilizing device that are adapted to respectively sit in and sit outside of an opening of a tubular region, such as an ostium of a pulmonary vein. A sheath covering the catheter body...

20060058599 - Assembly for storing and dispensing an electrode device: An assembly for storing and dispensing an electrode device, of the kind that includes a sensor connected by a wire to a connector, includes a container for receiving the electrode device. The container defines a cavity having a dispensing aperture closed by a flexible cover. The cover is peelably attached...

20060058621 - Digital topological analysis of trabecular bone mr images and prediction of osteoporosis fractures: The invention provides method, system and device for determining trabecular bone structure and strength by digital topological analysis, and offers, for the first time, a demonstration of superior associations between vertebral deformity and a number of architectural indices measured in the distal radius, thus permitting reliable and noninvasive detection and...

20060058600 - Electrode system: This invention relates to an electrode arrangement (1), in particular for electroimpedance tomography, having multiple electrodes (4) for electric contacting of measurement object and a belt-shaped electrode carrier (3.1-3.4) for encompassing the measurement object, with the electrodes (4) being attached to the belt-shaped electrode carrier (3.1-3.4). It is proposed that...

20060058609 - Extracting ultrasound summary information useful for inexperienced users of ultrasound: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for generating an image responsive to moving cardiac structure and blood, and extracting clinically relevant information based on anatomical landmarks located within the heart. One embodiment of the present invention comprises at least one processor responsive to signals received from the...

20060058608 - Frequency resolved imaging system: A non-invasive imaging and analysis system suitable for non-invasive imaging and analysis of defects or malignant aspects of targets such as cancer in skin or human tissue and suitable for measuring concentrations of specific components, such as blood glucose concentration includes an optical processing system which generates a probe and...

20060058610 - Increasing the efficiency of quantitation in stress echo: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for extracting ultrasound summary information useful for increasing efficiency of quantitation of a stress echo examination performed using an ultrasound machine. One embodiment of the present invention comprises a front-end arranged to transmit ultrasound waves into moving cardiac structure and blood...

20060058616 - Interactive computer-assisted surgery system and method: A system and method for providing computer assistance for performing a medical procedure provides a graphical user interface to guide and/or assist a user, for example a surgeon, performing the medical procedure, whether surgical or non-surgical. The computer-assisted system comprises a software application that may be used for a medical...

20060058602 - Interstitial fluid analyzer: A device useful for measuring an analyte in the interstitial fluid of an animal comprising an array chamber having an array of one or more microprojections and a detection compartment comprising a sensor in selective fluid communication with the array chamber. Also included are two extraction electrodes for inducing electrotransport...

20060058612 - Medical alert communication systems and methods: Medical alert communication systems and related methods are provided for facilitating the sending of real-time alert notifications to users of various user communication devices, such as wireless devices, over one or more networks. Upon receiving an alert notification, a user of such a communication device may securely log on to...

20060058625 - Medical image diagnostic apparatus and method of perusing medical images: An ultrasound diagnostic system 200 is provided with operation input device 6 configured to set up examination information of examinee P, operation acknowledgement device 110 configured to acknowledge operation signals received from operation input device 6, operation log discriminator configured to issue time when an operation log ID is acceptable,...

20060058624 - Medical image display apparatus: There is provided a medical image display apparatus comprising a storage unit which stores data of a plurality of different types of medical images including the same region of a subject to be examined which are generated by the same type of image generating device, and a display control unit...

20060058618 - Medical kinematic analysis apparatus and a medical kinematic analysis method: A medical kinematic analysis apparatuses includes a tracking point coordinate acquiring unit to generate coordinate time series data representing a coordinate of a tracking point on a heart from the time series image data, a motion information acquiring unit to generate time series motion information of the tracking point from...

20060058603 - Medical media file management system and method: A medical communications and management system (MCMS) that is operative to compile, store, retrieve and transmit digitized medical information from a variety of medical imaging modalities, as well as digital information such as scanned in images, digital photographs, audio files, and digitized information corresponding to monitored physiological conditions, such as...

20060058622 - Method and apparatus for imaging of vessel segments: An apparatus, method and software arrangement for imaging a surface of a structure that is in contact with an opaque fluid is provided. The apparatus includes an article of manufacture (e.g., a housing), a fluid delivery arrangement and an imaging arrangement. The housing includes an aperture formed in the article...

20060058617 - Method and system for displaying medical images: In a medical image display system, a gas supply unit is configured to supply first gas into a first cavity and second gas into a second cavity. A switching display unit is connected to a display and is configured to determine whether the first gas or the second gas is...

20060058615 - Method and system for facilitating surgery: In a method for facilitating surgery, a signal or signals are transmitted from one or more transmitters coupled to a surgical probe, and the signal or signals are received at a plurality of receivers. An estimate of a position of a portion of the surgical probe is determined based on...

20060058607 - Microscopic dynamic mechanical analyzer: An electromagnetic apparatus, comprises a conductive loop comprising two parallel conductive legs joined at a free end by a sample contacting member and a magnetic circuit that imposes a magnetic field in opposite directions across the respective legs. A method of mechanically characterizing a sample, comprises imposing a magnetic field...

20060058606 - Microwave-based examination using hypothesis testing: Microwave examination of individuals is carried out by transmitting microwave signals from multiple antenna locations into an individual and receiving the backscattered microwave signals at multiple antenna locations to provide received signals from the antennas. The received signals are processed to remove the skin interface reflection component of the signal...

20060058611 - Multimodal miniature microscope: Apparatus for receiving and positioning optical components. The apparatus includes a substrate, one or more mounting slots, and one or more springs. The one or more mounting slots are formed in the substrate, and each mounting slot includes a mounting slot wall. At least one of the mounting slots is...

20060058623 - Physiological definition user interface: A medical imaging system includes image acquisition circuitry, a display, and a processor coupled to the image acquisition circuitry and the display. In addition, a memory is coupled to the processor and stores a user interface program that causes the processor to display a physiological marker on the display, receive...

20060058613 - Respiration measurement apparatus: To provide a respiration measurement apparatus for measuring respiration of a human subject by using an image pickup device to ensure the privacy of the human subject. Respiration is measured by separating image pickup elements in an image pickup device connected to a respiration measurement apparatus into nonfunctional light receiving...

20060058620 - Setting a relative position of a radiation device and a patient: A method and arrangement for setting a relative position of a radiation device and a patient. The invention relates to the use of radiation therapy for the targeted, selective destruction of tumors....

20060058604 - System and method for hybrid tracking in surgical navigation: A system and method for hybrid tracking in surgical navigation is disclosed. A plurality of tracking technologies is used in a medical procedure where a reconciler determines an active tracking technology. The reconciler determines the active tracking technology during the medical procedure. A switch may then activate one or more...

20060058619 - System and method for sensory defect simulation: A visual defect simulation system receives a functional field map produced by an MRI system that relates locations in a patient's brain to locations in the patient's field of view. Planned medical operations are indicated at locations in the patient's brain and any resulting vision loss is simulated with a...

20060058601 - System and method for translating medical imaging system patient tables: A system and method for translating a patient table is described. The described patient table includes a linearly translatable portion, a drive screw assembly, a power transmission assembly, and a drive train. The translatable portion is configured to be positioned in a plurality of selectable positions between a fully inserted...

20060058614 - Tomographic image observation apparatus, endoscopic apparatus, and probe used therefor: A probe capable of obtaining both optical image information and ultrasonic image information without being affected by radiation noise with a relatively simple structure. The probe includes an insertion part to be inserted into a body of an object and having at least one region for transmitting light and ultrasonic...

20060058626 - Universal healthcare communication systems and methods: Medical communication systems and related methods are provided for facilitating the sending of medical treatment related communications to users of various user communication devices, such as wireless devices, over one or more networks. Users of such a communication device may securely log on to a host computer system and access...

20060058605 - User interactive method for indicating a region of interest: Method user interactive indication of a region of interest within an image is provided. A user interface is used to select a point on an initial linear border segment of a region of interest. The user drops the point at a new position and a processor forms a new, non-linear...

20060058627 - Biological interface systems with wireless connection and related methods: Various embodiments of a biological interface system and their related methods are disclosed. A biological interface system may include a sensor including a plurality of electrodes configured to detect multicellular signals emanating from one or more living cells of a patient and a processing unit configured to receive the multicellular...

20060058628 - Determination of subencoding mri coil sensitivities in a lower order magnetic field: A novel magnetic resonance imaging method is presented for forming an image of an object from a plurality of signals acquired by an array of receiver antennae, whereas prior to imaging a sensitivity map of each of the receiver antennae is provided, at least two adjacent antennae record signals originating...

20060058633 - Interventional mr imaging with detection and display of device position: A magnetic resonance imaging system for interventional MR imaging involves operations to insert a device such as a catheter into an object. According to the system, a tip position of the catheter is detected, data indicative of moved loci of the catheter are produced from data indicative of the detected...

20060058629 - Magnetic resonance method: A novel magnetic resonance imaging method is presented for forming an image of an object from a plurality of signals acquired by an array of multiple receiver antennae. Prior to imaging a sensitivity map of each of the receiver antennae is provided, at least two adjacent antennae record signals originating...

20060058635 - Method and apparatus for mr image acquisition wherein operating parameter sets are displayed with an image element indicative of an acquisition result: In a method and MR apparatus for acquisition of images of an examination region of a human or animal body by means of measurement parameter sets controlling the image acquisition, selection of an examination region to be acquired is made by a user according to anatomical viewpoints by means of...

20060058632 - Method of medical modeling: A method of medical modeling comprising the steps of identifying a plurality of medical facilities each having an MRI diagnostic system, providing a 3D printer at each of the identified medical facilities, conducting an MRI study at one of the identified medical facilities, transmitting MRI data comprising the MRI study...

20060058634 - Mr image production method and mri apparatus: A method to generate separate water and fat images includes applying a pulse sequence, which brings about no phase difference between a water signal and a fat signal, so as to acquire calibration data items that provide the distribution of sensitivities of coils, applying a pulse sequence, which uses the...

20060058630 - Sub-sampled moving table mri: A magnetic resonance method is described for forming a dynamic image from a plurality of signals of an object moving relative to at least one RF′ receiving antenna. Imaging is acquired by at least two adjacent fields of view (FOV), which are reconstructed to an image over a region of...

20060058631 - System and method for automatically obtaining a digital image of a heart: A system and a method for obtaining a digital image of a heart of a person are provided. The system scans an internal anatomy of a chest region of the person to obtain scanning data. The system further generates a digital image of four chambers of the heart based on...

20060058637 - Method and apparatus for performing radiation treatment: A method is provided for determining and monitoring parameters of a radiation treatment. The method comprises producing a first image of a region of a patient body to be radiated using a medical imaging process, determining a parameter setting of a radiation system using the first image, and providing the...

20060058638 - Method and device for the diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms: Method for the diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms through representation of the affected area of the aorta by means of an imaging method and measurement of the image in order to produce a made-to-measure stent graft which is introduced into the aorta in the folded state and then expanded,...

20060058636 - Method for tracking the movement of a particle through a geometric model for use in radiotherapy: A method for tracking the movement of a particle through a geometric model so as to facilitate the development of a dosimetry plan includes providing a particle with a short mean free path length; providing a geometric model which has a boundary which separates regions of the geometric model having...

20060058639 - Subject moving apparatus and imaging apparatus: A cradle position sensing mechanism that includes a scale unit having a scale, which is used to detect the position of the cradle, formed thereon and being extended to cover a sliding range within which the cradle can be slid; and a sensor unit that moves in the directions, in...

20060058640 - System for positioning an observation and/or intervention device on a patient: A system for positioning with respect to a patient's body an observation and/or intervention device comprising at least a mechanical part and a system for actuating the mechanical part, the actuation system comprising a piston capable of sliding a rod and connected to means for supplying a fluid under pressure;...

20060058641 - Method for generating an mr atlas and for mr imaging using same: A nuclear-medical image is generated from a nuclear-medical data set that can be acquired with a dual modality tomography apparatus, which has both a scanner for acquisition of magnetic resonance images and a scanner for acquisition of nuclear-medical data sets within a common acquisition volume. A nuclear-medical data set and...

20060058642 - Method for acquiring electromagnetic signals and contrast product therefor: The invention concerns a system capable of generating a magnetic indication Bo comprising gradients (Gx, Gy, Gz) in certain directions, transmitting ratio frequency wave pulse sequences (RF) perpendicular to Bo in a range of adjustable frequencies, and detecting electromagnetic signals received from a body part (4). The method consists in:...

20060058643 - Medical viewing system and method for detecting boundary structures: A medical viewing system for displaying a sequence of medical images that represents moving and/or positioning a guide-wire, in a blood vessel, which guide-wire has a guide-wire tip that is contrasted with respect to the guide wire, this system comprising acquisition means that acquires an original sequence of noisy images...

20060058644 - System, device, and method for ad hoc tracking of an object: A method, system and device for tracking an anatomical structure includes a section having a small cross section relative to the length, a first end of the section having a tip capable of being removably attached to the anatomical structure; and a second end of the section that has two...

20060058645 - Method and apparatus for imaging tracking: Image tracking systems, and corresponding methods, are described. In some embodiments, conventional imaging components are placed on a platform having wheels, thereby providing a mechanism for imaging a moving subject. In other embodiments, conventional imaging components are situated on non-parallel rails, and moved along those rails, thereby providing a mechanism...

20060058647 - Method and system for delivering a medical device to a selected position within a lumen: Method for delivering a medical device coupled with a catheter, to a selected position within a lumen of the body of a patient, the method comprising the procedures of: registering a three-dimensional coordinate system with a two-dimensional coordinate system, the three-dimensional coordinate system being associated with a medical positioning system...

20060058646 - Method for surgical navigation utilizing scale-invariant registration between a navigation system and a localization system: A system for navigating a medical device through the lumens and cavities in an operating region in a subject, comprising an imaging system for displaying an image of the operating region, including a representation of the distal end of the medical device in the operating region. The system also includes...

20060058648 - Integrated radiation therapy systems and methods for treating a target in a patient: An integrated radiation therapy process comprises acquiring first objective target data related to a parameter of a target within a patient by periodically locating a marker positioned within the patient using a localization modality. This method continues with obtaining second objective target data related to the parameter of the target...

20060058649 - Biological tissue elasticity measurement method and ultrasonographic device: An ultrasonographic apparatus includes: an ultrasonic probe 1 for transmitting/receiving an ultrasonic wave to/from a patient, means 2 for generating an ultrasonic transmission signal and transmitting it to the ultrasonic probe, means 3 for receiving a reflection echo signal received by the ultrasonic probe; means 4 for re-constructing a form...

20060058658 - Communications between co-located operating systems for medical diagnostic ultrasound and other systems: Two different operating systems, such as one using Windows real-time extensions and another using Windows NT or other non-real-time operating system, may be implemented on a same system or hardware, such as being co-located on a same processor, without changing client software. Two or more software processes are run on...

20060058660 - Integrated anesthesia monitoring and ultrasound display: An apparatus and method for synchronizing the hemodynamic measurements from a patient monitoring system and the ultrasound images from an ultrasound monitoring system. The synchronized images and measurements can be combined and displayed on a single display that includes both the ultrasound images and the hemodynamic patient measurements. The combined...

20060058651 - Method and apparatus for extending an ultrasound image field of view: A method and apparatus for extending a field of view of a medical imaging system is provided. The method includes scanning a surface of an object using an ultrasound transducer, obtaining a plurality of 3-D volumetric data sets, at least one of the plurality of data sets having a portion...

20060058656 - Method and apparatus for performing cw doppler ultrasound utilizing a 2d matrix array: An ultrasound system is provided comprising an ultrasound probe having a 2D matrix of transducer elements transmitting a continuous wave (CW) Doppler transmit signal into an object of interest. The CW transmit signal includes a dither signal component and the probe receives ultrasound echo signals from the object in response...

20060058650 - System and method for determinationof fetal movement: According to one aspect, the invention concerns a method for measuring motion of a fetus or of a region of a fetus within an uterus in a time sequence of images, each image including said fetus or region thereof and at least a portion of the uterus, the uterus comprising...

20060058663 - System and method for marking an anatomical structure in three-dimensional coordinate system: The present invention is a device localization system that uses one or more ultrasound reference catheters to establish a fixed three-dimensional coordinate system within a patient's heart using principles of triangulation. The coordinate system is represented graphically in three-dimensions on a video monitor and aids the clinician in guiding other...

20060058654 - System and method for providing a user interface for an ultrasound system: A user interface for an ultrasound system is provided. The ultrasound system includes an ultrasound probe. The user interface includes at least one user actuable input member for controlling operation of an ultrasound system. The at least one user actuable input member is user configurable to control at least one...

20060058659 - System and method for providing assistance in ultrasound equipment: The present invention relates to a system and a method for dynamically providing help information associated with the functions of ultrasound equipment. A system for providing help information in a medical ultrasound equipment comprises: a storage unit for storing help information associated with a plurality of functions of the medical...

20060058657 - Systems and methods for automatic time-gain compensation in an ultrasound imaging system: The systems and methods described herein provide for automatic time-gain compensation of an ultrasound image with an image processing algorithm. A method of automatic time-gain compensation is provided where ultrasound image data is obtained comprising a plurality of echogenic data sets, a plurality of time-gain compensation functions are determined for...

20060058653 - Systems and methods for measuring pulse wave velocity with an intravascular device: The systems and methods described herein allow measurement of the velocity of a pulse wave propagating within a body lumen using an intravascular elongate medical device. The elongate medical device can include a data collection device configured to collect pulse wave data at a location within the lumen. The data...

20060058661 - Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic diagnostic method: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising an ultrasonic transmitting unit, an image signal generating unit and a signal addition unit. The ultrasonic transmitting unit transmits an ultrasonic wave having a wave surface except a plane wave surface and a focused focal wave surface to a subject so that shapes of wave...

20060058662 - Ultrasonic imaging apparatus and method for ultrasonic imaging: A ultrasonic imaging apparatus comprises an ultrasonic probe including a plurality of ultrasonic transducers which perform ultrasonic transmission and reception to an object, a transceiver unit configured to obtain an ultrasonic signal from the object by driving the plurality of ultrasonic transducers, an ultrasonic data generation unit configured to generate...

20060058655 - Ultrasonic transducer having a thin wire interface: The present invention is directed to an ultrasound system and method which, in one embodiment, partitions the main body processing such that a portion of the processing is contained within the transducer thereby reducing the need for a multiplicity of high performance cables running between the transducer and the main...

20060058652 - Ultrasound system power management: Disclosed are systems and methods which power-down (reduce power to or deactivate) circuits in an ultrasound system during periods in which an acoustic signal is not being acquired, although image processing and other system functions are continued normally. Such circuits may be powered-down between each of a series of acoustic...

20060058665 - Noninvasive method of ultrasound wound evaluation: A noninvasive method of ultrasound wound evaluation whereby a health care professional fills a wound with a sterile coupling gel, covers the wound with a non-adhesive couplant sheet, scans the wound with a ultrasound transducer that has been covered with a sterile sheath, thereby producing measurement data about the wound...

20060058664 - System and method for variable depth ultrasound treatment: A non-invasive variable depth ultrasound treatment method and system comprises a variable depth transducer system configured for providing ultrasound treatment to a patient. An exemplary variable depth transducer system can comprise a transducer configured to provide treatment to more than one region of interest, such as between a deep treatment...

20060058666 - Ultrasonic image display method and ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus: An ultrasonic image display method for displaying a composite image made from a B mode image and a tissue velocity image of an object taken by means of ultrasound. The method includes decreasing the weight of the B mode image while increasing the weight of the tissue velocity image, in...

20060058667 - Integrated circuit for an ultrasound system: The preferred embodiment of the invention includes a single integrated circuit for a handheld probe of an ultrasound system. The integrated circuit includes a two-dimensional array of at least 512 transducer cells, each transducer cell is adapted to receive a beam signal, generate an ultrasonic beam, detect an ultrasonic echo...

20060058672 - Expanded performance phased array transducer for a limited number of channels: A single transducer, such as a phased array transducer, is provided for various imaging situations with limited loss of resolution and/or penetration. The transducer includes different groups of elements, such as a center group with a fine pitch and outer groups with a larger pitch. The difference in pitch allows...

20060058671 - Focused ultrasound system with adaptive anatomical aperture shaping: A method of treating tissue within a body includes directing an ultrasound transducer having a plurality of transducer elements towards target body tissue, and delivering ultrasound energy towards the target tissue from the transducer elements such that an energy intensity at the target tissue is at or above a prescribed...

20060058670 - Method and apparatus for ultrasound spatial compound imaging with adjustable aperture controls: A method and apparatus for ultrasound spatial compounding imaging with adjustable aperture controls is disclosed. The method and apparatus can improve the image quality of all frames by applying different aperture controls on each frame of the spatially compounded image. One or both of transmit and receive aperture controls may...

20060058669 - Ultrasonographic device: According to the present invention, provided is an ultrasonic diagnostic equipment which meanders the reception focus position so that the reception focus position is made further away from the transmitted beam at the transmission focus depth d1 and is made closer to the transmitted beam in areas shallower and deeper...

20060058668 - Ultrasound imaging system with a high lateral resolution: The invention relates to an ultrasound imaging system for forming an echographic image of a medium, which system includes a set [REC] of transducer elements [EL] which are operative in a transmission mode and in a reception mode for ultra-sound waves, construction means [REB] for constructing echographic signals on the...

20060058673 - Method and apparatus for detecting cardiac events: A method and apparatus for detecting cardiac events. Ultrasonic data comprising a heart cycle is acquired by a probe. Tissue velocities associated with the ultrasonic data are detected. One of a maximum and a minimum value is detected based on the tissue velocities. A time within the heart cycle associated...

20060058674 - Optimizing ultrasound acquisition based on ultrasound-located landmarks: An ultrasound device is disclosed that includes a method and apparatus for generating an image responsive to moving cardiac structure and blood, and for adjusting at least one acquisition parameter based on, at least in part, locating at least one anatomical landmark within a heart. At least one processor, responsive...

20060058675 - Three dimensional atrium-ventricle plane detection: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for generating at least a 3D image responsive to moving cardiac structure and blood, and extracting clinically relevant information based on anatomical landmarks located within the heart. One embodiment of the present invention comprises at least a front end and at...

20060058678 - Focused ultrasound system for surrounding a body tissue mass: A focused ultrasound system includes an ultrasound transducer device forming an opening, and having a plurality of transducer elements positioned at least partially around the opening. A focused ultrasound system includes a structure having a first end for allowing an object to be inserted and a second end for allowing...

20060058679 - Ultrasonic endoscope and ultrasonic endoscopic apparatus: In an ultrasonic endoscope capable of being inserted into a body of a patient and imaging ultrasonic tomographic images, a frame rate in electronic radial scanning operation is improved. The ultrasonic endoscope includes: an ultrasonic transducer unit including plural ultrasonic transducers, each having a first electrode and a second electrode,...

20060058676 - Ultrasonic probe in body cavity: To miniaturize a probe, increase the channel number, and improve the flexibility of a flexible section, an ultrasound probe includes a transducer unit having a plurality of channels arranged for transmitting and receiving an ultrasound wave, and flexible circuit board is connected to the respective channels of the transducer unit...

20060058677 - Ultrasonograph: An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasound probe, a transmission unit for transmitting an ultrasound signal to an object to be examined via the ultrasound probe, a reception unit for processing a signal received by the ultrasound probe, and an image generating unit for generating an image on the basis...

20060058680 - Needle guide for laparoscopic ultrasonography: A guide device is provided for a laparoscopic ultrasound probe. The guide device includes a sheath that is adapted to fit over at least a portion of the ultrasound probe, and a guide coupled to the sheath for guiding a medical tool inserted therethrough to position the medical tool in...

20060058681 - Ultrasound transducer assembly: An ultrasound catheter is disclosed for providing substantially real-time images of small cavities. The ultrasound catheter is characterized by separate and distinct materials for backing the transducers and for carrying the electronics components. The separate materials comprise an electronics carrier meeting the requirements for holding the integrated circuitry of the...

20060058684 - Fluorescence image display apparatus: A fluorescence image display apparatus is provided; wherein, when a pseudo color image representing the tissue state of a target subject is obtained, based on a fluorescence image emitted from the target subject upon the irradiation thereof by an excitation light, the tissue state can be recognized regardless of the...

20060058682 - Method and apparatus for improving both lateral and axial resolution in ophthalmoscopy: The invention provides a method of optical imaging comprising providing a sample to be imaged, measuring and correcting aberrations associated with the sample using adaptive optics, and imaging the sample by optical coherence tomography. The method can be used to image the fundus of a human eye to provide diagnostic...

20060058683 - Optical examination of biological tissue using non-contact irradiation and detection: An optical system for examination of biological tissue includes a light source, a light detector, optics and electronics. The light source generates a light beam, transmitted to the biological tissue, spaced apart from the source. The light detector is located away (i.e., in a non-contact position) from the examined biological...

20060058685 - System and method for imaging based on ultrasonic tagging of light: A technique is provided for imaging based on localization of fluorescence in a medium. The technique includes illuminating the medium with an excitation light to excite fluorescence, scanning the medium at a plurality of locations via an ultrasonic beam, modulating a portion of the emitted light from the fluorescence via...

20060058686 - Method of determining nutritional deficiencies from heart sounds: A method of determining nutritional deficiencies from heart sounds by recording heart sound waves, displaying them on paper or a computer screen, and evaluating them to point out certain nutritional deficiencies. A first signal representative of a heart sound is received, then converted into a second signal, which is then...

20060058688 - Cuff for blood pressure monitor: A cuff for a blood pressure monitor is wound around a measurement site of the living body, and includes an air bag having an inflated/deflated space formed therein by melting and bonding rims of an outer wall portion and an inner wall portion together. The air bag contains a band-shaped...

20060058689 - Cuff for blood pressure monitor: A cuff for a blood pressure monitor includes an air bag having an inflated/deflated space permitting a fluid to come in and out, and a sponge that is arranged inside the inflated/deflated space to extend substantially continuously from one end to the other end of the air bag in its...

20060058687 - Sphygmomanometer: The housing employed in a sphygmomanometer includes a first housing and a second housing. A cuff band has a bending portion that is bent inwardly. The bending portion marks the division between the first housing provided at one end and the second housing provided at the other end on the...

20060058690 - Method and instrument for automated measurement of skin perfusion pressure: An automatic skin perfusion measuring device automatically analyzes perfusion measurements to identify motion artifact and SPP values. Motion artifact is ignored. Perfusion measurements are designated as SPP values if various criteria are met. SPP value criteria pertain to factors including cuff pressure, perfusion, perfusion change percentages relative to previous and...

20060058691 - Noninvasive hypovolemia monitor: A hypovolemia monitor comprises a plethysmograph input responsive to light intensity after absorption by fleshy tissue. A measurement of respiration-induced variation in the input is made. The measurement is normalized and converted into a hypovolemia parameter. An audible or visual indication of hypovolemia is provided, based upon the hypovolemia parameter....

20060058693 - Mapping electrophysiological data in a heart chamber: A method of acquiring and mapping electrophysiological data in a heart chamber includes inserting a catheter into the heart chamber. Electrophysiological data in the heart chamber is acquired with the catheter. The position of the catheter is determined by using an electromagnetic field source external to the heart chamber, and...

20060058692 - Mapping physiological data in a heart chamber: A method of acquiring and mapping physiological data in a heart chamber includes inserting a catheter having an electrode into the heart chamber. Physiological data in the heart chamber is acquired with the electrode, and the position of the electrode is determined. A geometrical representation of at least a portion...

20060058695 - Apparatus of an improvement on the structure of chest cardiogram sensor: An apparatus of an improvement on the structure of chest cardiogram sensor fastened directly on the user's chest combines from shell{grave over ( )}electric board{grave over ( )}two fixed belts{grave over ( )}two or multiple pieces of independent electric conductivity rubber plate, by which electric board fitted in the shell...

20060058694 - Electrodynamic sensors and applications thereof: An electrodynamic sensor comprises a high input impedance electrometer adapted to measure small electrical potentials originating from an object under test and having a pair of input probes, characterised in that at least one of said pair of input probes has no direct electrical contact with said object, wherein the...

20060058696 - Air sampling apparatus with related sensing and analysis mechanism: An air sampling apparatus is disclosed, including a bag for containing air and a sensing mechanism coupled to said bag. The self contained sampling and sensing mechanism can be used for visual or other detection of targeted analytes within a breath....

20060058697 - Portable health check apparatus and expiration analysis service method using the same: A portable health check apparatus incorporating a highly sensitive and compact expiration analysis sensor and an expiration analysis service offered to a specified user at a specified time. Hydrogen is detected using tungsten oxide produced through metalorganic chemical vapor deposition process. The apparatus has a unit for performing personal authentication...

20060058698 - Peak expiratiory flow meter capable of measuring continuous expiratory flow signal: Disclosed herein is a peak expiratory flow meter capable of measuring continuous expiratory flow. The peak expiratory flow meter includes a lower casing unit (110), an air expansion unit (130) and an upper casing unit (150). The lower casing unit (110) includes a first body (112) having an open top...

20060058699 - Comprehensive neuromuscular profiler: A Comprehensive Neuromuscular Profiler (CNMP) allows the observation of human and equine muscle functionality and characteristics. The CNMP consists of an integrated system which combines EMG technology, electromagnetic range-of-motion (ROM) technology, and functional capacity sensors. Output signals from the devices are digitized and stored in computer memory. The data may...

20060058700 - Patient sedation monitor: A system for determining a patient's level of sedation. The system includes a glabellar stimulator constructed to generate an electrical stimulus. An electrode is electrically connected to the glabellar stimulator, the electrode being constructed to deliver the electrical stimulus from the glabellar stimulator to a patient. The system further includes...

20060058701 - Systems and methods for providing sensory input: Various systems and methods for introducing multi-sensory stimuli to a participant and/or evaluating a participant's reaction to a delivered stimuli. As just one example, an embodiment of the present invention includes a trochoidal movement table, a light emitting visual display, an audio device and a controller. The controller includes a...

20060058702 - Apparatus for monitoring intra-abdominal pressure: An improved apparatus for monitoring the intra-abdominal pressure of a hospitalized patient includes a urinary catheter connected to a urine valve having selectable communication positions between a discharge end of the urinary catheter and either a drain or a fluid source. Preferably, the urine valve has a housing adapted to...

20060058703 - Optical biopsy instrument: The biopsy instrument (100) according to the invention permits, for the first time, a targeted removal of tissue samples (34) from narrow duct systems of the body, in particular from milk ducts of the breast, with optimal endoscopic visual monitoring....

20060058704 - System and method for measuring and reporting changes in walking speed: A system and method for identifying a change in walking speed of a person is provided. The system comprises a plurality of sensors disposed in various rooms of a structure. The sensors are operable to provide a signal representative of motion and/or the location of the person within the structure....

20060052654 - Carrier-free 103pd brachytherapy seeds: A brachytherapy seed comprising (a) carrier-free 103Pd isotope, (b) a substrate for the carrier-free 103Pd radioisotope, and (c) a casing for encapsulating the carrier-free 103Pd-laden substrate, is disclosed....

20060052655 - Method and apparatus for modulating the effect of electro magnetic fields on the human body: A waveform output apparatus comprises a circuit including a capacitor, resistors, and amplifiers, an LED and a coil connected to a power supply. The circuit is housed in a portable housing. When energized, the apparatus outputs waveforms that modulate EMF and ELF signals that may be absorbed by the human...

20060052656 - Implantable devices using magnetic guidance: A system for movement in a body and performing a function on the body. The system comprises a polymer body portion, an electronic unit carried by the polymer body portion, a circuit in the polymer body portion operatively connected to the electronic unit, pieces in the polymer body portion, and...

20060052657 - Systems and methods for therapeutically treating neuro-psychiatric disorders and other illnesses: Systems and methods for treating neuro-psychiatric disorders, such as depression or schizophrenia, and/or other illnesses are disclosed. A patient is diagnosed with a particular neuro-psychiatric disorder or other illness. An electric nerve stimulation (ENS) technique, such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), is administered to the patient in conjunction with a...

20060052658 - Clothing having an electromagnetic effect: Clothing used in the treatment of the pain through the effects of electric and magnetic fields. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the clothing includes a band having a conductive wire and two magnets at the ends of the band....

20060052659 - Cardiac device and method: One embodiment of a cardiac system may include a body that defines a first chamber and a second chamber therein, and structure for transferring pressure from said second chamber to the first chamber....

20060052660 - Apparatus and methods for cardiac restraint: Apparatus and methods for using the apparatus are disclosed for cardiac restraint. More specifically, the apparatus and methods are directed to accessing the pericardium, accessing the heart within the pericardium, and restraining the heart by at least partially enclosing the heart with the apparatus. An embodiment of a cardiac restraint...

20060052661 - Minimally invasive control surgical system with feedback: In therapeutic endoscopy micro-knives, electrical diathermy or laser beam replace the conventional hand-held scalpel. The laser “knife” has substantial capabilities over the rest: it can cut incisions, coagulate hemorrhages and ablate (vaporize) neoplastic tissues, while interaction is contact-less and sterile. The laser energy is delivered transendoscopically through rigid or flexible...

20060052662 - Hygiene protection for endoscopes: An endoscope provided with hygiene protection includes a cover, which is closed at its distal end and which is transparent for optical information, at least on the front side thereof, and which can be rolled thereon in the direction of the axis of the endoscope. The endoscope further includes one...

20060052663 - Endoscope system: An external apparatus of an endoscope has a connector receptacle portion to be connected to a general connector of an endoscope main body that is a second endoscope and a first electrical connector receptacle portion provided at a different portion from the connector receptacle portion and electrically connected to an...

20060052664 - Connector device for a controllable instrument: A connector assembly for controllable articles is described herein The connector assembly engages force transmission elements used to transmit force from one or more force generators with the force transmission elements used to manipulate a controllable article. Additionally, the connector assembly provides organization thereby simplifying the process of connecting a...

20060052665 - Control system for supplying fluid medium to endoscope: A control system for supplying fluid medium to an endoscopic apparatus which comprises an operation handle and an insertion tube provided with an insufflation channel, an irrigation channel and a suction channel extending therealong. The control system is provided with a system control unit with at least one source of...

20060052666 - Electromagnetically controlled tissue cavity distending system: A system to minimize fluid turbulence inside a tissue cavity during endoscopic procedures. A body tissue cavity of a subject is distended by continuous flow irrigation using a solenoid operated pump on the inflow side and a positive displacement pump, such as a peristaltic pump, on the outflow side, such...

20060052667 - System and method for in vivo detection of h. pylori: A method and system for in vivo detection of H. pylori. The method according to one embodiment includes sensing pH in at least one location proximate to a patient's stomach mucus and transmitting by radio frequency pH data to an external receiving unit. The pH data may be part of...

20060052668 - Optical system for endoscopes: wherein θ denotes an angle of emission from a center of the illumination optical system, and f(θ) denotes a value obtained by standardizing, at an illuminance at a time when the angle θ of emission is 0°, an illuminance distribution (spherical light distribution characteristics) at a time when a spherical...

20060052669 - Internal tissue retractor: A positionable internal retraction device is provided comprising a malleable ring member and a web-like structure. The retraction device operates to temporarily reposition tissues and organs from an operative site to provide a clear access and visual path for the surgeon. The ring member may be elongated, twisted, folded, bent...

20060052670 - Endoscopic retractor: The present disclosure relates to endoscopic retractors including a shaft having at least a first section having a first mechanical interface and a second section having a second mechanical interface for engaging the first mechanical interface, the first section and the second section being selectively movable from a first, generally...

20060052671 - Surgical retractor: A surgical retractor includes a pair of parallel arms that are mounted to a toothed crossbar. One of the arms is fixed to one end of the crossbar, while the other arm is movable along the crossbar by means of a pinion. One or both of the arms includes on...

20060052672 - Surgical retraction apparatus method of use: A retractor may be used during spinal surgery. The retractor may include a frame and one or more retractor blades. Each retractor blade may include a coupling arm, a retainer, and a retraction component. The coupling arms may be coupled to the frame such that the coupling arms are able...

20060052673 - Surgical retractor having lifting capability: A surgical retractor includes a pair of small grips that are disposed at the ends of arms that can be moved toward or away from each other. The grips engage and separate the sides of an incision that has been made in a patient. A lifting mechanism that can be...

20060052675 - Method and system for the detection, amelioration and treatment of psychological trauma and other mental disorders, and for performance and creative enhancement: A non-invasive method for permitting the processing of a triggering event, psychological or psychosomatic symptom by a recipient, involving application of tracking of at least one eye along at least two axes, determining a targeted location reflected by bodily reflex, typically an eye movement (either a jump, blink or twitch)...

20060052674 - Software method of determining and treating psychiatric disorders: A software method of determining and treating psychiatric disorders by prompting a user is disclosed. The method includes the steps of defining the decline; assessing potential contributing factors leading to the decline; connecting the potential contributing factors to the decline; diagnosing the decline; addressing the decline and identifying potential contributing...

20060052676 - Tele-presence system that allows for remote monitoring/observation and review of a patient and their medical records: A system that includes a mobile platform and a remote station. The remote station may be a personal computer coupled to the remote platform through a broadband network. A user can control movement of the mobile platform through the remote station. A medical monitoring device such as a stethoscope or...

20060052677 - Dual-use thermometer: A dual-use thermometer including a main body and a probe secured thereto for receiving heat radiation emitted from a first area and a second area. A non-detachable cap which is secured to the main body and the probe are movable relative to each other, thereby allowing the non-detachable cap to...

20060052678 - Monitoring platform for wound and ulcer monitoring and detection: Systems and techniques for monitoring hydration. In one implementation, a method includes measuring an electrical impedance of a region of a subject to generate an impedance measurement result, and wirelessly transmitting the data to a remote apparatus. The probe with which impedance is measured may in the form of a...

20060052679 - Method and device for continuous monitoring of the concentration of an analyte: The present invention generally relates to a method for continuous monitoring of the concentration of an analyte by determining its change over time in the living body of a human or animal. A measurement variable value correlating with the desired concentration of the analyte are measured as the measurement signal...

20060052680 - Pulse and active pulse spectraphotometry: A pulse and active pulse spectraphotometry system comprises a light source adapted to illuminate a tissue site with optical radiation having a plurality of wavelengths selected from at least one of a primary band of about 1620 nm to about 1730 nm and a secondary band of about 1000 nm...

20060052681 - Body fluid collection and analysis: The invention relates to attachable body fluid collection devices, each comprising at least one storage structure for, when in use, storing a body fluid sample secreted by a body fluid secreting surface. The or at least one of the storage structure comprises silicon. Particular emphasis is placed on sweat patches...

20060052682 - Biological testing system: A connector for establishing electrical connection between a testing device and a test strip with a biological fluid thereon includes a contact pad on the test strip, and one or more contact wires in the testing device. When the strip is inserted into the testing device, the end of the...

20060052683 - Biomedical electrodes and biomedical electrodes for electrostimulation: A biomedical electrode for transmitting and/or receiving electrical signals to/from a patient is disclosed. The electrode includes a metallized fabric, wherein metallization of the fabric is connected at least on a top side and a bottom side of the fabric so as to uniformly transmit or receive the electrical signals....

20060052686 - Feature-based composing for 3d mr angiography images: Multiple volumes that are to be aligned to form a single volume are processed. The system and method use an equalization step, a edge detection step and a correlation step to determine the overlapping positions between the first volume and the second volume of a volume pair having a maximum...

20060052684 - Medical cockpit system: Measurement information of a patient 11 in a clinic, video of a medical procedure site, voice in the clinic, and video information of a body including an affected part of the patient are integrated and sent to a medical cockpit through a network 40. In the medical cockpit, the video...

20060052685 - Pet - mri hybrid apparatus and method of implementing the same: There is provided a PET-MRI hybrid apparatus and method for integrating a PET image and an MRI image so that anatomical, hemodynamical and molecular information on human tissues are simultaneously presented in a single image. The PET-MRI hybrid system comprises a first scanner for obtaining anatomical and hemodynamical information, and...

20060052687 - Method for three-dimensional modeling of the skull and internal structures thereof: A method is disclosed in this publication for modeling different internal structures of a head, such as different parts of the brain, the method comprising the step of determining the location of the internal structures, such as the different cerebral parts, of at least one first head (B) in a...

20060052688 - Robust coronary mr angiography mr without respiratory navigation: A method for acquiring image data from a subject during a scan with a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system comprising the steps of acquiring a reference data set of a region of interest, acquiring a plurality of free-breathing data sets, and, selectively processing the plurality of free-breathing data sets in...

20060052689 - Digital stereotaxic manipulator with interfaces for use with computerized brain atlases: A system is disclosed that allows stereotaxic procedures being performed on lab animals to interact, on a “live” or “real-time” basis, with information that has been compiled in stereotaxic brain atlases. For example, during an invasive procedure, a researcher can see, on a cross-sectional brain map displayed on a full-sized...

20060052690 - Contrast agent imaging-driven health care system and method: Procedures for providing health care to a range of anatomies that require contrast agents for adequate imaging. Image data is acquired in accordance with a range of modalities, and at different times and on different patients, depending upon the particular implementation. The image data is processed in accordance with one...

20060052691 - Adjustable navigated tracking element mount: An adjustable navigated tracking element mount and method are provided....

20060052693 - Method and apparatus for positioning a biopsy needle: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for positioning a biopsy needle relative to lesion tissue. A desired imaging modality can be used to image the human or animal tissue to locate lesion tissue. Such an image can be referred to as a diagnostic image. In a specific...

20060052692 - Method and arrangement for determining the position of an object in an mr device: The invention relates to a method of determining the position of an object, such as for example a medical intervention instrument, located in the examination area of an MR device. For this purpose, a high-frequency magnetic field is generated in the examination area, which high-frequency magnetic field runs essentially parallel...

20060052694 - Modular software system for guided radiation therapy: A facility for performing patient localization for radiation therapy is described. The facility activates two or more discrete software modules, and performs interactions between the activated software modules. Based upon the performed interactions, the facility performs patient localization for a radiation therapy session....

20060052699 - Acoustic imaging by nonlinear low frequency manipulation of high frequency scattering and propagation properties: Acoustic imaging provides images with reduced reverberation noise and images of nonlinear scattering and propagation parameters of the object. The received signal from transmitted dual frequency band acoustic pulse complexes is processed with overlapping high and low frequency pulses. The high frequency pulse is used for image reconstruction and the...

20060052697 - Efficient ultrasound system for two-dimensional c-scan imaging and related method thereof: An ultrasound system and related method for forming 2D C-scan images and/or collecting 3D image data from 2D transducer arrays. The system including in part a 2D transducer array of elements, transmit voltage generation means for each element, a memory buffer with or part of channels for each element, and...

20060052698 - Flow spectrograms synthesized from ultrasonic flow color doppler information: An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system and method are described by which a user can delineate a region of interest (122, 128) in a colorflow Doppler image. The ultrasound system processes the Doppler pixel information of the region of interest (122, 128) to produce a spectrogram illustrating motion at the region...

20060052696 - Ultrasonic diagnosis system and strain distribution display method: An ultrasonic diagnosis system and strain distribution display method utilizing an ultrasonic probe for performing transmission/reception of ultrasonic signals to/from a subject, a storage arrangement for storing the properties of signals detected with the ultrasonic probe, a correlation computer for calculating a correlation coefficient between the properties with and without...

20060052695 - Ultrasound cardiac stimulator: An ultrasound cardiac stimulation system comprising: a spatially selective ultrasound source comprising at least one ultrasound transducer located outside the circulatory system; and a controller; where the controller generates an electrical response in the heart by directing the ultrasound source to transmit a high enough power level of ultrasound to...

20060052700 - Pressure measurement system: Pressure measurement system, comprising a pressure detection device comprising a pressure sensor guidewire 5 provided with a pressure sensor connected to an electrical carrier for transmitting pressure data from the sensor to a processing means 1. The guidewire is adapted to be inserted into a vessel of a subject, and...

20060052701 - Treatment of unwanted tissue by the selective destruction of vasculature providing nutrients to the tissue: A noninvasive technique that can be used to deny blood flow to a particular region of tissue, without the inherent risks associated with invasive procedures such as surgery and minimally-invasive procedures such as embolization. Blood flow in selected portions of the vasculature can be occluded by selectively treating specific portions...

20060052702 - Ultrasound diagnostics device: An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention includes means for generating a tomographic image from a reflected echo signal received by the probe corresponding to an ultrasound wave transmitted by a probe put on an object to be examined, means for measuring a displacement of the object's tissue...

20060052703 - Ultrasound probe diagnosing apparatus, ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, and ultrasound probe diagnosing method: An ultrasound probe diagnosing apparatus which diagnoses an ultrasound probe having an array of a plurality of ultrasound transducing elements on the basis of how the ultrasound probe receives reflected ultrasound waves from a test object placed to face the ultrasound probe, includes a part which detects a posture of...

20060052704 - Ultrasonic doppler diagnostic apparatus and measuring method of diagnostic parameter: A Doppler signal detecting unit 42 and spectrum calculating unit 44 measure a Doppler spectrum from a reception signal obtained by ultrasonic wave transmission/reception with respect to a diagnosis region of an object to be examined. A local maximum/minimum detecting unit 62 detects a plurality of local maximum/minimum pairs with...

20060052705 - Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and ultrasound signal analyzing method: In quantitative analysis using blood flow velocity measurement and the like, whether to select the forward direction or reverse direction is determined in accordance with the positional relationship between a baseline for controlling the display scale of a Doppler waveform and a reference line which can be arbitrarily set by...

20060052706 - Phased array ultrasound for cardiac ablation: A system is provided for performing ablation of target tissue. The system includes an ultrasound phased array having a plurality of ultrasonic transducers and drive circuitry that is configured to generate signals that cause the ultrasonic transducers to focus ultrasound radiation at the target tissue. The system also includes a...

20060052707 - Intravascular ultrasonic catheter arrangements: Apparatus for intravascular ultrasonic imaging comprises a catheter having an ultrasonic transducer array fabricated at least in part from an electrostrictive material, wherein the electrostrictive material is non-polymeric....

20060052709 - Analysis of volume elements for tissue characterization: Methods and apparatus are provided for determining a characteristic of a sample of a material by the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the sample. The apparatus includes a source of electromagnetic radiation, an optical assembly and a detector. The optical assembly sequentially illuminates a plurality of volume elements in the...

20060052710 - Endoscope apparatus and fluorescence detection method using endoscope apparatus: An endoscope apparatus includes an illumination unit configured to emit illumination light including light in a visible spectral band and excitation light that generates fluorescence in a plurality of different infrared bands toward an examination region in a body to be examined, an imaging unit configured to capture the illumination...

20060052708 - Panoramic field of view imaging device: An in vivo imaging device with a curved reflective element and for example a concave portion of an outer shell of such device. Such curved reflective element may for example reflect onto an image sensor light rays from an object where such light rays before reflection are substantially parallel to...

20060052711 - Blood pressure diagnostic aid: A medical diagnostic method using systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and pulse frequency of a patient is provided to compute a normalized diastolic distensibility value and a normalized peripheral resistance value, and to automatically compute the product of the normalized diastolic distensibility value and the normalized peripheral resistance value to...

20060052712 - Vascular testing system: A vascular sensing system includes blood flow restricting means, a sensor, and means for producing an output representing a return of blood flow after the blood vessel has been temporarily collapsed by the blood flow restricting means. The blood flow restricting means is capable of placement on a human toe...

20060052713 - Vascular testing system: A vascular testing system includes a pressure applicator, a pressure source for generating fluid pressure at the pressure applicator; a variable orifice valve, and a valve control. The variable orifice valve is in fluid communication with the pressure applicator, and has an orifice size capable of dynamically changing. The valve...

20060052714 - Vascular testing system: A method of vascular testing includes inflating a cuff at a vascular location, controllably deflating the cuff, producing a pressure waveform while deflating the cuff, and producing an output representing a pressure at which blood flow returns, while deflating the cuff, based upon analysis of the pressure waveform. Further, a...

20060052716 - Delivering ablation therapy in a heart chamber: A method of representing the geometry of at least a portion of a human heart chamber includes positioning a catheter in a heart chamber. The position of the catheter in the heart chamber is determined. The catheter is re-positioned and the position is re-determined a plurality of times to determine...

20060052715 - Method and apparatus for measuring cardiac output via an extracorporeal cardiopulmonary support circuit: A method and apparatus for determining cardiac output in conjunction with flow through an extracorporeal circuit, wherein flow through an arterial line of the extracorporeal circuit is temporarily reversed and an indicator is passed through the cardiopulmonary circuit. A dilution curve is measured in the arterial line of the extracorporeal...

20060052717 - Method and system for evaluating cardiac ischemia: The present invention relates to methods and systems for evaluating abnormalities in electrocardiograms (ECGs), including abnormalities associates with cardiac ischemia. More particularly, the present invention relates to an automated system and method for interpreting any abnormalities present in an electrocardiogram (ECG), including those abnormalities associated with cardiac ischemia. In one...

20060052718 - Patient monitor with fluid port protection: A patient monitoring instrument protects the ports of a patient gas analyzer when not in use. A spring-loaded door covers the inlet and outlet ports of the gas analyzer when not connected to a gas collection tube. The door can be opened against the force of its spring with a...

20060052719 - Method of measuring of skin anisotropy: The present invention relates to a method of determining skin anisotropy of a subject by measuring rates of propagation of mechanical energy between a mechanical energy generator and a mechanical energy detector along a plurality of directions of an expanse of skin wherein each of the directions are from about...

20060052720 - Evaluation of pain in humans: A method for evaluating pain experienced by a human is disclosed. The method includes applying a first noxious stimulus to a normative site on the human, wherein the first noxious stimulus is applied below a pain threshold of the human and logging a first information associated with the first noxious...

20060052721 - Biopsy holder for a biopsy cannula: The invention relates to a biopsate holding device for a biopsy cannula to perform transcutaneous biopsies, in particular of hard tissue and bone marrow tissue, by means of a wire that can be inserted into the proximal end of a biopsy cannula and can be pushed in between the inner...

20060052722 - Ultra-fine micropsy needle: A specimen retrieving needle is in the form of an elongated body having a closed lead end. At least one cutting blade may be formed on the body. The blade may have a sharpened edge so as to remove a specimen from an internal organ. The needle is ultrathin with...

20060052723 - Device for sampling bodily fluids: A bodily fluid sampling device comprising a lancet which can be advanced against a skin-piercing site to produce a droplet of bodily fluid. A transport medium is positioned sufficiently close to the lancing medium to retain a droplet of bodily fluid therebetween by capillary action. One of the two mediums...

20060052724 - Device for sampling bodily fluids: A bodily fluid sampling device comprising a lancet which can be advanced against a skin-piercing site to produce a droplet of bodily fluid. A transport medium is positioned sufficiently close to the lancing medium to retain a droplet of bodily fluid therebetween by capillary action. One of the two mediums...

20060052725 - Small joint orthopedic implants and their manufacture: A technique to manufacture small joint orthopedic implants includes the steps of taking standard radiographs of a pathologic joint and the corresponding non-pathologic joint. In order to provide an accurate frame of reference, a specialized marker is placed in the radiographic field. By inspection of the radiographs and by comparison...

20060052727 - Activity monitoring device and weight management method utilizing same: An activity monitoring device (20) includes a movement sensor (44) for producing a movement signal (118) in response to an activity level of an individual. A stationary interval timer (38) determines a stationary interval (126) during which the movement signal (118) fails to exceed a movement intensity threshold (48). When...

20060052728 - Dynamic oscillating gait-training system: Partial body-weight support systems and methods for human gait training are disclosed. The system may include a motor and a cord coupled to the motor, the cord and the motor providing at least partial body-weight support to a user during human gait training. The system may also include a controller...

20060052726 - Key device to measure pronation and supination of the forearm: There is disclosed herein a method for quantifying a user's motor skills. The method comprises the steps of voluntarily moving a motion sensing member for at least a part of one cycle, the cycle comprising movement in a first direction and a return direction, measuring at least one of regularity...

20060047178 - Treatment of spinal metastases: A radiotherapy system, and preferably a brachytherapy system, for delivering radiation to tissue surrounding an interstitial space is provided. While the system can be used for a variety of purposes, the system is preferably used to treat spinal metastases. In general, the system includes a catheter member having a proximal...

20060047179 - Stress reducer: The present invention combines into a single housing a multiplicity of features that may be used separately or together to facilitate stress reduction in the user. A central computer receives inputs and sends signals to facilitate activation of a visual display as well as an audio output. Several power supply...

20060047180 - Artificial sphincter: A biologically implantable artificial sphincter system and methods of using the same is disclosed. The artificial sphincter system disclosed herein comprises a support and an electroactive polymer element, both of which are adapted and configured to open and/or close a body cavity. The artificial sphincter systems are useful in the...

20060047182 - Combination male sexual organ suction and artificial vagina stimulator device: A device for erotically stimulating the male sexual organ and for obtaining an erection by males with Erectile Dysfunction Disorder includes a soft plastic cylindrical container having an open end which forms a cavity for receiving the male sexual organ. The device further includes unattached free-moving membrane-like material within which...

20060047181 - Rotary massaging stick: A rotary massaging stick having rotary massaging ball assemblies rotatable in reversed directions by a motor through a transmission gear train for stimulating the G point in the vagina of a woman to cause the woman to reach the climate of sexual excitement....

20060047183 - Inflatable guide device: A guide device for an endoscope comprises a tubular member that is configured to be inflated and collapsed; a plurality of straight portions; and a plurality of looped portions. The plurality of straight portions and the plurality of loop portions are arranged in an alternating manner and together comprise the...

20060047184 - Endoscope having auto-insufflation and exsufflation: An endoscopic imaging system for examining a patient's body cavity includes an endoscope having a distal end, a proximal end and a number of lumens therein. One or more distal gas ports are disposed at or adjacent the distal end of the endoscope and one or more proximal gas ports...

20060047185 - Tissue resecting system: A surgical system includes a first instrument defining a first channel and a second instrument receivable by the first channel. The second instrument defines a second channel. A valve coupled to the first instrument controls fluid flow through the first channel, such that impedance of fluid flow through the first...

20060047186 - Device for checking endoscope channels: In order to check endoscope channels, a predetermined quantity of liquid is led, at a predetermined pressure, through the channel that is to be checked, and the period of time for this is measured and evaluated. The predetermined quantity of liquid is determined via the volume of a liquid container...

20060047189 - Body composition meter having function of determining boby compositions of children: There is provided a body composition meter having a function of determining the body compositions of children by which a subject can conveniently acquire highly reliable data about determination of a proper grade for the body composition of the child. In the body composition meter, child body composition determining means...

20060047188 - Method and system for triage of emergency patients: A method and system for automated patent intake and triage in the context of an emergency care center is provided. The system consists of a kiosk computer terminal, which is placed in a receiving area within the emergency treatment center and preferably includes a touch screen interface, a variety of...

20060047187 - Systems and methods for remote monitoring of fear and distress responses: The present invention relates to systems and methods for tracking and monitoring the location, health, emotional state, position, environment, sound, appearance, and other characteristics of subjects remotely over an electronic communications network by receiving signals transmitting such information from a device or devices located on or in the subject to...

20060047190 - Oral health measurement clamping probe, system, and method: Devices, systems, and methods determine the health of oral objects by providing objective measurements using a detachable probe body. The detachable probe body may isolate reusable system components (including an electromagnetic signal detection, signal transmission, energy generation, and or energy transmitting components) from the oral cavity, optionally by encasing at...

20060047191 - Core body temperature monitoring in heart failure patients: An implanted heart monitor includes sensors that measure various aspects of the heart failure patient's heart. A remote heart monitoring system connects the implanted heart monitor to a care provider, such as a physician. The data provided by the implanted heart monitor permits the care provider to obtain valuable data...

20060047192 - Insulin bolus recommendation system: A system for recommending insulin bolus quantities to an insulin user includes a display unit and memory unit coupled to a control circuit with a user blood glucose target stored in the memory unit. The control circuit is programmed to receive the user's current blood glucose value, to determine and...

20060047193 - Method and device for determining blood volume during an extracorporeal blood treatment: The invention relates to a method for determining blood volume during extracorporeal blood circulation, which is based on measuring the propagation rate or propagation time of the pulse waves propagating in the extracorporeal circulation system. The invention preferably involves the measurement of the propagation rate or propagation time of the...

20060047194 - Electrode apparatus and system: An electrode apparatus and system for obtaining a bio-potential signal. The electrode includes a substrate having a first and second surface. The substrates supports a plurality of discrete conductive structures that are disposed on the first surface of the substrate. The plurality of discrete conductive structures extend outwardly beyond the...

20060047195 - Combinational computer aided diagnosis: A computer-implemented method for combinational computer aided diagnosis (C-CAD) includes providing volume data of tissue, providing a database of disease and pathologies, and providing action items for processing the volume data. The method further comprises selecting at least two diseases of interest for the volume data, selecting at least one...

20060047198 - Magnetic resonance diagnostic apparatus: A magnetic resonance diagnostic apparatus includes an input unit which inputs information associated with the physique of a subject to be examined and information associated with an imaging region, a calculating unit which calculates a partial body SAR associated with a partial body including the imaging region on the basis...

20060047196 - Method and apparatus for magnetic resonance analysis: A method of designing a magnetic structure for providing a monotonic static magnetic field for magnetic resonance analysis. The method comprises: selecting a first geometry defining a volume-of-interest and selecting a magnetic field query, which is defined on a plurality of coordinates within the first geometry, the magnetic field query...

20060047197 - Validation scheme for composing magnetic resonance images (mri): Method and apparatus for determining the quality of alignment of a pair of volumes of data of medical images is disclosed. The method for validating the alignment includes selecting one or more points in the first volume and one or more points in the second volume, determining the average distance...

20060047199 - Foot switch and output system having foot switch: The foot switch includes a pedal, an output command signal generating section generating, when the pedal is operated, an output command signal commanding an apparatus main body having a function of producing active output to produce active output, a communication section performing communication with the apparatus main body, a transmit...

20060047200 - Foot switch and output system having foot switch: The foot switch includes a pedal, an output command signal generating section for transmitting, when the pedal is operated, an output command signal to an apparatus which has a function of producing active output, a storage battery for supplying electrical power to the output command signal generating section, a condition-detecting...

20060047202 - Method and system of breathing therapy for reducing sympathetic predominance with consequent positive modification of hypertension: The invention specifies a method and system for leading a person suffering from “sympathetic predominance”, a specific symptom of which is “hypertension”, to breathe according to a certain pattern for the express purpose of positively altering the condition of sympathetic predominance (over activation), having the effect of bringing the autonomic...

20060047201 - Processing of continuous pressure-related signals derivable from a human or animal body or body cavity: methods, devices and systems: A method for processing pressure signals derived from locations inside or outside a human or animal body cavity. Different aspects relate to a method for optimal differentiating between cardiac beat- and artifact-induced pressure waves, a method for obtaining new and improved information from the pressure signals, and methods for predicting...

20060047203 - Sphygmomanometer: A sphygmomanometer is disclosed. The sphygmomanometer mainly has plural power buttons and plural memory buttons mounted thereon, and said power buttons and said memory buttons are in a one-on-one manner to communicate with one another. Through pressing one of said power buttons, a measurement value of blood pressure can be...

20060047204 - Sphygmomanometer: A sphygmomanometer is disclosed. The sphygmomanometer mainly includes multiple power buttons and multiple memory buttons mounted thereon, and the power buttons and the memory buttons are disposed in a corresponding manner for communicating with one another. Through pressing one of the power buttons, a measurement value of blood pressure can...

20060047205 - Delivery method and system for monitoring cardiovascular pressures: A delivery method and system for noninvasively monitoring cardiac physiologic parameters used to evaluate patients with cardiovascular conditions. The system includes an implantable sensing device configured for chronic implantation in a cavity of the cardiovascular system, such as the heart, pulmonary artery (PA), etc. The method involves introducing the sensing...

20060047206 - Cuff for blood pressure monitor: A cuff for a blood pressure monitor includes a cuff main unit wound around a measurement site of a living body, and a handle provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cuff main unit and gripped with a hand for fitting the cuff. The cuff main unit includes a...

20060047208 - Apparatus and method for measuring quantity of exercise through film-type pressure sensor: An apparatus and method for measuring exercise quantity through a film-type pressure sensor are provided. The apparatus for measuring exercise quantity through a film-type pressure sensor comprises a film-type pressure sensor to sense pulse pressure of a user's body, a main body to calculate and display a heart rate (HR)...

20060047207 - Pulse measuring instrument: A pulse wave measuring apparatus including a semiconductor substrate having a pressure-sensing device on a main surface and a protection member with an accommodation space therein for accommodating the semiconductor substrate detects a pulse wave of an artery located in a living body by pressing the semiconductor substrate against the...

20060047209 - Prosthetic heart function evaluation method and apparatus: A method of monitoring or serial measurement of the operation of a prosthetic assist device (12), the method comprising the steps of: (a) utilising a non-invasive device (21) to monitor or serially measure directly the blood flow through the by-passed heart ventricle (5); (b) separately monitoring or serially measuring the...

20060047212 - Method for deriving standard 12-lead electrocardiogram, and monitoring apparatus using the same: Four first electrodes are attached on the vicinity of a lower right end of a right clavicle, the vicinity of a lower left end of a left clavicle, the vicinity of a position on a right anterior axillary line at the level of a right lowermost rib, a the vicinity...

20060047211 - Portable electrocardiograph: In a portable electrocardiograph, combinations of analysis results corresponding to analysis items of an electrocardiographic waveform based on electrocardiography and display contents are stored in advance in association with each other. Thereby, the portable electrocardiograph analyzes obtained electrocardiographic waveform data to classify the electrocardiographic waveform data by the analysis items...

20060047210 - Portable electrocardiograph and processing method: A portable electrocardiograph includes an electrode unit brought into contact with a living body of a subject, a processing circuit measuring an electrical signal detected by the electrode unit with being in contact with the living body as an electrocardiographic waveform, and a display unit displaying a measurement result of...

20060047213 - Acoustic cardiac assessment: A non-invasive method and apparatus for monitoring of the function of the heart and lungs in vulnerable patients. An analysis of the activity of the heart is made in correspondence to the respiratory system. Using the method of the invention, precise tracking of the changes of the mutual heart-lung interactions...

20060047215 - Combined sensor assembly: A combined sensor assembly used in conjunction with a patient includes at least one electrical sensor that is capable of detecting electrical signals that are indicative of a physiological parameter. The at least one electrical sensor is coupled to the patient by means of an electrically conductive gel material. The...

20060047214 - Wireless medical probe: A wireless medical transducer that is attached to a patient's body contains one or more sensing assemblies for continuous, wireless and non-invasive monitoring of vital signs. These include EKG, core temperature, arterial blood pressure, arterial blood oxygenation, and others. A transducer may be configured either as a two-unit device where...

20060047216 - Signal processing apparatus for physiological signals: A signal processing apparatus is disclosed comprising an input stage for the preparation of a physiological signal, in particular an electrocardiogram, which is adapted to provide a signal of an alternating polarity, which is formed from the physiological signal and which is to be evaluated, and is connected to an...

20060047217 - Method and apparatus for infant sleep apnea monitoring and data analysis: Methods and apparatuses for monitoring breathing pattern by monitoring and analyzing data that are the results of pressure changes in an air bed due to amount of air inhaled and exhaled and the chest expansion and contraction of an infant. The changes in pressure over time can be recorder, modeled...

20060047218 - User-retainable temperature and impedance monitoring methods and devices: A user-retainable monitoring system is disclosed. At least a pair of sensors is provided in association with a support member. The support member is preferably of a type that may be worn by or at least temporarily implanted in a patient. Possible sensor types include temperature sensors and impedance sensors....

20060047219 - Cervical biopsy system: A cervical biopsy system for improving the quality and efficiency of cervical biopsies. The cervical biopsy system includes an elongated housing with a handle attached to one end, a punch attached to an opposite end of the housing, a retrieval blade movably positioned within the punch for severing a biopsy...

20060047221 - New method to reduce complete blood count variation of peripheral blood sample: The invention sets forth a method for reducing coagulation in a blood sample collected most conveniently from an acral body site such as the fingertip or heel, commonly referred to as capillary blood collection. The method includes the steps of applying an anticoagulant composition to the acral site, lancing the...

20060047220 - Unit for piercing, and piercing device: A lancing unit (U1) includes a lancing member (2), an auxiliary part (3) which is separate from the lancing member (2), and a supporter (1) detachably supporting these. Preferably, the lancing unit (U1) further includes a cap (29) which covers a needle (21) of the lancing member (2) and which...

20060047223 - Apparatus and method for joining stainless steel guide wire portion to nitinol portion, without a hypotube: An intravascular guide wire having two core materials joined together without the use of a connector tube or sleeve, the core materials being stainless steel and psuedoelastic metal alloy, nitinol. The core materials are joined to each other through an intermediate transition piece made essentially of nickel, which is welded...

20060047222 - Catheter guidewire system using concentric wires: A catheterization guidewire system provides a first wire for percutaneous insertion in a blood vessel. The first wire may include a lumen running from one end to the other, and a handle adjacent the proximal end for manipulation of the first wire about and along a central axis. A second...

20060047224 - Polymer coated guide wire: A guide wire having different polymers applied to different components thereof so as to differentially modify the performance characteristics of such components in order to achieve a desired performance behavior for such guide wire. A guide wire having a tapered distal coil coated with a highly conforming polymer while sections...

20060047226 - Nasal sizing device: A device for measuring a nasal cavity. The device may include a support body having a substantially flat top and a substantially flat bottom, a plurality of support arms radially disposed from said central support body and a plurality of protrusions having a substantially oval contact surface....

20060047225 - Perineum muscular power increase device and a method thereof: The invention relates to a perineum muscular power increase device and a method wherein a user can do perineum shrink training continuously with interest and goal because the shrink and the relaxation degree of the perineum muscles may be displayed visually. According to the invention, there is provided with a...

20060047227 - System and method for colon wall extraction in the presence of tagged fecal matter or collapsed colon regions: A system and method for extracting a colon wall are provided. The method comprises: placing seeds in an image of a patient abdomen; determining features of the seeds and voxels neighboring the seeds; and performing a region growing of the colon wall using a classifier trained to distinguish between the...