Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 8,406,860
Introduction
United States Patent 8,406,860, titled "Method for evaluating blush in myocardial tissue," is a patent that addresses a specific method in medical diagnostics. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Details
- Publication Number: US8406860B2
- Authority: United States
- Prior Art Date: The patent is based on an application filed on July 16, 2010[4].
Invention Summary
The patent describes a method for evaluating blush in myocardial tissue, which is crucial for assessing the perfusion and health of the myocardium. The method involves analyzing fluorescence signals obtained from a static region-of-interest (ROI) in a collection of images. This technique helps in determining vessel perfusion and myocardial blush, which are key indicators of myocardial health[4].
Scope of the Invention
Technical Field
The invention falls under the category of medical diagnostics, specifically in the field of cardiovascular health. It is classified under various sections of the International Patent Classification (IPC), including A61B5/00, A61B5/48, and A61B6/50, which pertain to measuring for diagnostic purposes, locating particular structures in the body, and apparatus for radiation diagnosis adapted for specific body parts like the heart[4].
Key Components
- Fluorescence Signals: The method relies on analyzing fluorescence signals to evaluate myocardial blush.
- Region-of-Interest (ROI): The analysis is conducted within a static ROI in a collection of images.
- Image Processing: The patent involves signal processing techniques to extract relevant data from the images.
- Clinical Applications: The method is specifically adapted for diagnosing the heart and blood vessels, such as through angiography[4].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some key claims:
- Claim 1: A method for evaluating blush in myocardial tissue, comprising analyzing fluorescence signals obtained from a static ROI in a collection of images to determine vessel perfusion and myocardial blush[4].
- Claim 10: An apparatus for evaluating blush in myocardial tissue, including a fluorescence imaging system and a processor configured to analyze fluorescence signals from a static ROI[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the method and apparatus by detailing specific steps, components, and functionalities. For example:
- Claim 2: The method of claim 1, wherein the fluorescence signals are obtained using a contrast agent.
- Claim 11: The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to perform baseline or drift compensation on the fluorescence signals[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Technologies
The patent landscape surrounding US8406860B2 includes other patents and technologies related to medical imaging and diagnostics. Here are a few key points:
- Prior Art: The patent cites several prior art references related to fluorescence microscopy, image processing, and diagnostic methods for cardiovascular health.
- Competing Technologies: Other patents in the same field may involve different imaging modalities, such as MRI or CT scans, or alternative methods for evaluating myocardial perfusion.
- Future Developments: The field of medical diagnostics is rapidly evolving, with advancements in AI, machine learning, and new imaging technologies that could potentially impact the relevance and scope of this patent[4].
Practical Applications and Impact
Clinical Use
The method described in the patent has significant clinical implications for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases. It provides a precise and non-invasive way to assess myocardial perfusion, which is crucial for identifying conditions such as myocardial infarction or ischemia.
Economic and Market Impact
The economic impact of this patent could be substantial, given the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. The method could reduce healthcare costs by providing more accurate and timely diagnoses, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Patent Validity and Enforcement
The validity and enforceability of the patent depend on various legal and regulatory factors. This includes compliance with patent laws, the absence of prior art that invalidates the claims, and the ability to defend the patent against potential infringement.
Small Claims Patent Court
In the context of patent disputes, the concept of a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could potentially affect how disputes related to this patent are resolved. Such a court could provide a more streamlined and cost-effective way to handle patent infringement cases[5].
Conclusion
United States Patent 8,406,860 represents a significant innovation in the field of medical diagnostics, particularly for evaluating myocardial tissue health. The scope and claims of the patent are well-defined, and the method has substantial practical applications and economic impact.
Key Takeaways
- Method for Evaluating Myocardial Blush: The patent describes a method using fluorescence signals to assess myocardial perfusion.
- Clinical Significance: The method is crucial for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of medical imaging and diagnostic technologies.
- Legal and Regulatory Considerations: The patent's validity and enforcement are subject to legal and regulatory factors.
- Economic Impact: The method could reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of United States Patent 8,406,860?
The main purpose of the patent is to describe a method for evaluating blush in myocardial tissue using fluorescence signals, which helps in assessing vessel perfusion and myocardial health.
How does the method described in the patent work?
The method involves analyzing fluorescence signals obtained from a static region-of-interest (ROI) in a collection of images to determine vessel perfusion and myocardial blush.
What are the clinical applications of this patent?
The method is specifically adapted for diagnosing the heart and blood vessels, such as through angiography, and is crucial for identifying conditions like myocardial infarction or ischemia.
How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape?
The patent is part of a broader landscape of medical imaging and diagnostic technologies, including other patents related to fluorescence microscopy, image processing, and diagnostic methods for cardiovascular health.
What are the potential economic impacts of this patent?
The method could reduce healthcare costs by providing more accurate and timely diagnoses, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- USA.gov - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): https://www.usa.gov/agencies/u-s-patent-and-trademark-office
- SLWIP - Patent Analytics: https://www.slwip.com/services/patent-analytics/
- Google Patents - US8406860B2: https://patents.google.com/patent/US8406860B2/en
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
