Abstract: The invention is of a family of bioabsorbable intermedullary rods, implantation systems and associated methodologies for implantation. Applicant's invention permits its users to use intermedullary rods when indicated for fracture fixation, yet avoid complications of presently available steel rods, including the post-utility presence of implants after a bone has healed.

Abstract: Applicant's invention includes an apparatus and associated method for treating or managing spinal deformities, including scoliosis, abnormal kyphosis, vertebral fractures and tumors, through attachment of spinal rods to ribs adjacent to the spine, rather than to the spine itself. The attachment member are designed whereby the ribs are completely encircled once the rods and attachment member are fully implanted, thereby virtually eliminating the chance of inadvertent dislodging of the rods.

Abstract: Applicant's invention includes an apparatus and associated method for treating or managing spinal deformities, including scoliosis, abnormal kyphosis, vertebral fractures and tumors, through attachment of spinal rods to ribs adjacent to the spine, rather than to the spine itself. The attachment members are designed whereby the ribs are completely encircled once the rods and attachment members are fully implanted, thereby virtually eliminating the chance of inadvertent dislodging of the rods.

Abstract: Applicant's invention is of apparatuses and associated methods in the use of high pressure, sterile water jets in effecting surgical incisions, including those of hard tissues such as bone. The combination of high pressure and sterility is achieved by enclosing a collapsible bag of sterile water within an implosion chamber itself filled with fluid. The collapsible bag is sealingly ported through an orifice in the implosion chamber. As pressure is applied to the fluid within the implosion chamber, by way of a hydraulic ram, the sterile water exits the collapsible bag under extremely high pressure through its port and is directed through a hand-held cutting nozzle to an incision site. Unintended, collateral tissue trauma is minimized in one embodiment though use of a water shroud projected about the high pressure water jet during cutting operations.

Abstract: Applicant's invention includes a prosthetic rib (10) which is adjustable in length through relatively minor surgical procedures subsequent to initial implantation along with methods for using same in the treatment of chest wall deformities and scoliosis and in immobilizing fractured ribs. The prosthetic rib (10) is designed for secure attachment to existing natural ribs (12) in a manner which minimizes constricture thereof, provides substantial torsional stability, and permits the prosthesis to accommodate traumatic impact thereto while resisting fracture of the associated natural ribs (12).

Abstract: Applicant's invention includes a prosthetic rib which is adjustable in length through relatively minor surgical procedures subsequent to initial implantation along with methods for using same in the treatment of chest wall deformities and scoliosis and in immobilizing fractured ribs. The prosthesis is designed for secure attachment to existing natural ribs in a manner which minimizes constricture thereof, provides substantial torsional stability, and permits the prothesis to accommodate traumatic impact thereto while resisting fracture of the associated natural ribs.

Abstract: Applicant's invention is a prosthetic rib for attachment between a patient's scapula and clavicle. The prosthetic rib serves to provide a generally anterior/posteriorly oriented platform to which other prostheses otherwise attachable a natural rib near the same position would be attached. The prosthetic rib includes a clavicle carriage for attachment to the clavicle, a scapula carriage for attachment to the scapula and a rib sleeve which intervenes the clavicle and scapula carriages and is the platform to which other prostheses may be attached.