Abstract: A device for accessing and distending a joint comprises a distraction structure having a generally tapered distal portion adapted to penetrate a tissue region and create an access space within a joint. The distraction structure also includes a lumen extending from a proximal surface to a distal portion. The device further includes a distention structure deployable through the lumen and adapted to exert a force between a first joint surface and a second joint surface and create a working space. The distention structure may, in some embodiments, include an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending along at least a portion of the length of the elongate member, a first expandable region deployable from a first substantially collapsed position to a second substantially expanded position, the first expandable region adapted to exert a force between the first joint surface from the second joint surface.

Abstract: A device for accessing and distending a joint comprises a distraction structure having a generally tapered distal portion adapted to penetrate a tissue region and create an access space within a joint. The distraction structure also includes a lumen extending from a proximal surface to a distal portion. The device further includes a distention structure deployable through the lumen and adapted to exert a force between a first joint surface and a second joint surface and create a working space. The distention structure may, in some embodiments, include an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending along at least a portion of the length of the elongate member, a first expandable region deployable from a first substantially collapsed position to a second substantially expanded position, the first expandable region adapted to exert a force between the first joint surface from the second joint surface.

Abstract: A device for accessing and distending a joint comprises a distraction structure having a generally tapered distal portion adapted to penetrate a tissue region and create an access space within a joint. The distraction structure also includes a lumen extending from a proximal surface to a distal portion. The device further includes a distention structure deployable through the lumen and adapted to exert a force between a first joint surface and a second joint surface and create a working space. The distention structure may, in some embodiments, include an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending along at least a portion of the length of the elongate member, a first expandable region deployable from a first substantially collapsed position to a second substantially expanded position, the first expandable region adapted to exert a force between the first joint surface from the second joint surface.

Abstract: A device, system, and method for reinforcing a femoral neck bone comprises a support structure deployable from a first substantially collapsed position to a second substantially expanded position within a cancellous bone area of the femoral neck. The support structure compresses at least a portion of the cancellous bone upon expansion. A cavity created by the expansion is adapted to receive a filler material such as, but not limited to, bone cement. Upon final positioning and curing, the support structure and any filler material is adapted to interact with the healthy cortical bone and/or compressed cancellous bone and receive at least a portion of a load placed on the femoral neck bone.

Abstract: A hip protection device for the elderly which provides protection to the trochanteric region the wearer to prevent fracture thereto upon falling from a standing position. An undergarment is provided with at least one pocket enclosing a pad, or other alternative arrangements for securing the pads to the hip regions of the garment. Each protective pad defines an open-ended channel having an elongated major axis along which it is substantially linear and a minor axis which has a generally parabolic curvature. The undergarment and pad are configured such that the pads rap around and fit snugly against the trochanteric area of the wearer's hip. Each pad has a relatively rigid, thin shield on its convex side and a relatively thin layer of resilient impact absorbing material on its concave side.