Abstract: A measuring device for bone screw types of different shaft diameters is described. This measuring device has multiple receiving grooves for bone screws in a surface or an area near the surface. In the area of each receiving groove a length measuring scale, which is associated with one or more of the different bone screw types, is arranged. Also, for each of the receiving grooves a limit stop to work with a received bone screw is provided. The receiving grooves and/or the associated limit stops have a selectivity with respect to the shaft diameter of the bone screw types which can be received in the individual receiving grooves.

Abstract: A multiple component, interactive growth chart assembled from a plurality of growth chart components. The individual components are preferably building block type, and have means for coupling one component on top of another. The components have a disclosed height, so that a user can calculate the height of a person who is positioned proximate a chart comprised of a plurality of assembled components. Preferably, the components have a heart shape. In one embodiment, coupling means are provided to permit lateral and/or other coupling directions, in addition to straight north-south coupling, so as to provide greater play flexibility.

Abstract: A device and method is provided whereby application is made to at least part of the sole of a suitably positioned foot for inverting or everting the foot. The device (1) (FIGS. 1 and 2) comprises a member or plate (20) having a planar surface (21) for pressure application to the sole by a handle (28) and in one arrangement is hingedly mounted (22, 24, 26) about horizontal axes from a leg rest (10) which lies in use on a seat or couch for the patient. This enables the surface (21) to be brought against the sole and also tilted for required contact with the latter. The plate (20) is also shown mounted for angular movement about a vertical axis X for additional tilting of the surface (21). An electronic unit (30) on the plate (20) has an LCD display (32) for showing angles of tilt. With the surface (21) in appropriate contact the sole can be manually palpated or manipulated e.g. for contact of the surface (21) with metatarsal joints or points, and/or the subtalar joint palpated for the neutral condition etc.

Abstract: A component system of footwear corrective alignment insoles provides adjustment of the alignment of a human foot based upon evaluation and measurement of structural anomalies in the foot. A subtalar joint goniometer measures the angular alignment of the foot with a patient's leg properly inclined with respect thereto. A database contains data with selected relationships between the degree of a patient's foot pronation and supination and a variety of corrective pads for use with an insole for correcting pronation and supination. The foot pronation and supination is corrected by first measuring a patient's foot pronation and supination, comparing the measured pronation or supination with a database that correlates degrees of pronation and supination with a variety of corrective pads for use with a corrective alignment insole, selecting corrective pads from the database that correspond to the measured pronation or supination, and mounting the selected corrective pads to a base insole.

Abstract: A device for recording both chronological events and physical growth events of an individual or group of individuals' lives. The device includes linear measuring device having at least first and second opposed sides. The first side has a linear measurement scale inscribed thereon and at least one recording surface associated therewith. The second side has a chronological scale, preferably in months and years, inscribed thereon and also has at least one recording surface associated with the chronological scale. Thus, physical growth can be measured on the first side and recorded on the recording surface associated therewith as the individual or several individuals grow physically. Significant events can be recorded on the other side.

Abstract: The present invention provides tools and methods designed to aid in the placement of facet joint prosthesis at virtually all spinal levels. One aspect of the present invention is a measurement tool for installing a cephalad facet joint prosthesis including a fixation measurement element and a support arm element. This measurement tool assists in the selection and/or configuration of a cephalad facet joint prosthesis for implantation in a patient. Another aspect is a measurement tool for installing a caudal facet joint prosthesis including a stem element and a trial caudal bearing surface element. This measurement tool assists in the selection and/or configuration of a caudal facet joint prosthesis for implantation in a patient. Yet another aspect is a measurement tool holder including a measurement surface connected to a holder element. This tool holder assists in determining the measurements obtained with the caudal facet joint prosthesis measurement tool.

Abstract: A urethral profile apparatus, assembly and appurtenant methodology is provided. The apparatus includes an elongate member having proximal and distal ends, the proximal end including a probe. The probe is selectively positionable within a urethral passageway by axial translation of the elongate member via the distal end, with the probe dimensioned so as to indicate constrictures of the urethral passageway.

Abstract: A method and device for viewing, archiving and transmitting a garment model over a computer network. The method comprises photographing a physical mannequin from several different directions, the mannequin being a copy of a virtual human model which is representative of the target consumer. The virtual mannequin viewing layers and the garment model are generated from digital images of the naked or clothed mannequin which is suspended from the photography stand. A laser beam is used to determine the exact position of the mannequin. Subsequently, crop marks and recorded reference lines can be used to merge the viewing layers and the model precisely. The data are archived in a base and transmitted over an intranet, an extranet or the Internet for the purpose of remote viewing. The method and device are particularly suitable for the design, manufacture and inspection of clothing samples in the clothing industry.

Abstract: The invention is based on a device (10) with a sensor, which is guided with one hand (20, 22) over a surface (14) and in which the data detected are displayed by a display unit (38). The invention proposes that grasping surfaces (40, 42) for the hand (20, 22) be positioned on two approximately diametrically opposed sides of a grip (12), at least one of which sides has a sensor (26, 28, 30, 32) that detects the number of fingers (20, 22) resting against this grasping surface (40, 42).

Abstract: A single measurement tool is configured to measure at least one characteristic of a tubular tissue structure during a surgical procedure. The measurement tool may include an indentation defined therein that is placed against a tubular structure such as the aorta to determine whether that tubular structure has a radius larger than or smaller than the radius of curvature of the indentation. The measurement tool may include a number of first recesses for measuring the diameter of a tubular structure. The measurement tool may include at least one second recess for measuring the wall thickness of a tubular structure.

Abstract: A heart valve sizing system featuring a lumen advanceable in vasculature, an inside caliper device at the distal end of the lumen, and a readout for reading the dimension gauged by the inside caliper device. In the preferred embodiment, the inside caliper device includes a four bar linkage with first and second opposing pivot points and third and fourth opposing pivot points and a push rod connected to the second pivot point for alternatively urging the third and fourth pivot points together when extended and urging the third and fourth pivot points apart when retracted to gauge the inside dimension of the vasculature.

Abstract: The present invention provides several devices and methods for determining dimensions of female reproductive organs. In one embodiment, a device for determining a dimension of a female reproductive organ includes a hollow member having a lumen, a measurement member insertable into the lumen of the hollow member and having a measurement scale disposed along a proximal portion, and a flange having a body offset substantially perpendicular to the hollow member. A device having a measurement member with a distal end extending substantially perpendicular to a main body, and an outer member with an open face and a space for advancement therethrough of the measurement member, wherein the outer member slidably engages the measurement member, is also provided.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided to reconstruct an enlarged left ventricle of a human heart, using a shaper, having a size and shape substantially equal to the size and shape of an appropriate left ventricle, wherein the shaper is adapted to be temporarily placed into the enlarged left ventricle during a surgical procedure. Another aspect of one embodiment comprises a ventricular patch adapted for placement into the left ventricle of a heart made from a sheet of biocompatible material, and having a plurality of markings coupled to the sheet, wherein the markings are configured in distinct patterns for post operatively evaluating movement of the patch. In another aspect of one embodiment, a device is presented, comprising of a handle and a sizing template adapted to be coupled to the handle. Such components are also presented as a kit for use during ventricular restoration surgery.

Abstract: The method for isolating an area of hair-bearing skin and measuring a combined cross section of hair in the area comprising the steps of: preparing a pre-measured site on the scalp; isolating a standardized bundle of uncut hair at the site; compressing the bundle of hair with a measurable load while simultaneously measuring the height of the bundle of hair with a piston and cylinder device. One embodiment of the device comprises a body having a slot for receiving a bundle of hair, an anvil positioned adjacent said slot, and a mechanism for causing relative movement between the body having the slot and the anvil thereby to compress a bundle of uncut hair received in the slot against the anvil.

Abstract: Device for determining the size of a blind void comprises an elongated rigid rod, an actuator slidably movable relative to the rod, the actuator having a distal end for insertion into the void, a distal flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod, a second flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod and proximally removed from the distal flexible element. Movement of the actuator is operative to cause equal movements of the distal end portions of the distal and proximal elements, to cause the distal element to bulge outwardly from the rod to engage interior walls of the void and to cause the proximal element to bulge outwardly in a configuration duplicative of the distal element bulge, the proximal element being outside of the void and subject to observation.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a system and method for measuring the height of a guest at a theme park, including employing an ultrasonic emitter and sensor to determine height. The park may have a plurality of different predetermined minimum height ranges or categories for certain rides and attractions, which must be met by a guest before the guest is allowed to participate. The results of the height measurement are provided on indicia and given to the guest to use at rides throughout the park. The device may be a wristband affixed to the guest, and displaying a color or symbol based on the height of the guest. The guest would be allowed to participate in an attraction provided the color code matches the minimum requirements of the attraction. This present invention may eliminate the need to check the height of the guest at each ride.

Abstract: A method for selecting a properly sized breast implant by first providing a breast ruler, at least one pair of flexible, fillable implant devices, and a liquid measuring device adapted to fill the implant devices. Next, the breast ruler is placed over a breast of a user and a breast width is measured. Then the liquid measuring device is used to fill the implant devices with an approximate amount of liquid corresponding to the earlier measured breast width. Then the filled implants are placed over the breasts with an item of clothing. Finally, the amount of liquid in the implant devices may be adjusted for the desired breast size and appearance.

Abstract: The present invention provides a patterning system and method thereof for a specific Black human selected body physique type and gender when combining and correlatively assembling a body part location(s), height measurement, a weight and an a Black ethnicity solution(s) for the specific Black selected body type, to form a patterning system that is recorded on a patterning surface and to create standard sizing guide and system for the Black human body physique.

Abstract: A custom, therapeutic pillow is constructed based on measurements of a person's torso and head widths. A sliding caliper is used for taking the measurements. The resulting pillow is custom fitted to the patient and provides support for the head and neck when the patient is in a supine position or on their side.

Abstract: A tailoring guide is used for taking body measurements for garment fitting. The guide comprises an upright portion of a height at least as great as that of an individual of average height and a spread assembly which is adjustable in height relative to the upright portion. The upright portion includes height measurements to determine different heights to which the spread assembly is adjusted. The spread assembly itself comprises a pair of arms one to each side of the upright portion. The arms of the assembly are adjustable inwardly and outwardly to different spread positions relative to the upright portion and the spread assembly is provided with a measuring guide to determine positioning of the arms in the different spread positions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining difference in leg height of a standing patient by making a first measurement while the patient stands on a first foot, making a second measurement while the patient stands on a second foot, and determining the vertical distance between the first measurement and the second measurement. One embodiment incorporates a scale with a sliding wide measurement plate to measure the top of the head. Another embodiment provides a wide height measurement plate to retrofit existing height scales, and a fabrication kit for making that plate. In another embodiment the patient wears an apron with reference markings which may be observed through a movable reference grid. The observation may be manual or optically with a camera or scanner.

Abstract: A method of finding the position of a mechanical axis running in the longitudinal direction through a limb that is rotatably supported by its first end in a center of rotation that is not fixed and is not accessible for the mechanical determination of coordinates, by means of an optical coordinate-measurement device with an indicator to detect measurement-point coordinates in one rotational position of the limb, such that, for each rotational position, a multi-point indicator rigidly attached near the second end of the limb signals several measurement-point coordinates, and, from the sets of measurement-point coordinates detected in a plurality of rotational positions, at least one group is selected that can be assigned to the same site of the center of rotation, and the measurement-point-coordinate sets assigned to this site of the center of rotation are used to calculate the mechanical axis.

Abstract: A beam scale for measurement of body weight and height according to the present invention includes a frame and a weighing mechanism. The frame includes a base assembly, a pillar assembly, and a horn assembly. The weighing mechanism is housed within the frame and includes a beam, weights, and a lever assembly. The horn assembly may include a transparent holding bracket having a level indicator. The scale may include a height measurement assembly having a height rod, a sheath supported by the horn assembly and the pillar assembly, a measuring arm, and a transparent height-measuring window having a line indicator. The frame may include a quick assembly mechanism to secure the pillar assembly to the base assembly during final assembly, quiet wheels for transport, and/or handle bars to support the user. Much of the frame may be made of pigmented thermoplastic or thermoset materials to reduce manufacturing costs and scale weight.

Abstract: An overlay device enabling evaluation of a mammography film image and a method thereof wherein a transparent overlay, graphically marked with a two-dimensional scaled grid coordinate system, is placed over and aligned with either a mediolateral oblique or craniocaudal mammography film image, thereby enabling specific and reproducible evaluation of a mammography film image by assisting in positioning evaluation by providing the identification of all structures in two planes, enabling training guidance by providing AEC centerline for symmetry evaluation, and enabling image evaluation by providing AEC sensor positions markings specific for each manufacturer's system; thus, allowing complete evaluation of positioning and imaging technique.

Abstract: A device for determining a length of a middle ear prosthesis has a base part for mounting prosthesis models of different lengths, and an applicator with which the prosthesis models after being released from the base part, are introducible during an operation into the middle ear.

Abstract: A joint angle indication system provides information related to an angular relationship between a first body part and a second body part that are pivotally coupled at a joint. The system includes a first arm member attached to the first body part, and a second arm member attached to the second body part. One end of the second arm member is pivotally coupled to one end of the first arm member. The system includes one or more joint angle variation sensors that provide one or more electrical characteristics that vary based on variation in the joint angle between the first and second arm members. The joint angle is variable over an angular range that includes a first angle and a second angle.

Abstract: An apparatus for indicating correct or faulty back posture comprises a housing and an indicator body. The housing is supported on the user's body. When the user's back posture or head position is incorrect, the indicator body moves and signals the user of the incorrect posture or position, e.g., through an audible alarm.

Abstract: To make available a method for checking a marking element for displacement in relation to a holding structure, in particular a bone, on which this marking element is fixed, said marking element being used for determining position in navigational surgery, and said marking element functioning with the greatest possible precision, it is proposed to choose a point of orientation which is in a unique relationship to the holding structure and to monitor the position of the point of orientation in a reference system of the marking element.

Abstract: A medical measuring apparatus for measuring a lumen of an intracorporeal passage as it appears in an image wherein the apparatus preferably includes a measuring adjunct and an object to image retainer. The measuring adjunct preferably includes at least one geometric figure outline having a border formed by a portion of the measuring adjunct such that an aperture having a geometric shape is defined for measuring the lumen of the intracorporeal passage. The at least one geometric figure outline preferably includes a corresponding measurement specification (for example, in the metric system). In at least one embodiment, the at least one geometric figure outline is preferably utilized to measure an occlusion associated with the intracorporeal passage (for example, a renal tumor). The object to image retainer is for housing the measuring adjunct and compensates for a magnification ratio relating to the intracorporeal passage and the intracorporeal passage as it appears in the image.

Abstract: A sensing device is attached to a living subject that includes a first sensors for distinguishing lying, sitting, and standing positions. In another embodiment, sensor data is stored in a storage device as a function of time. Multiple points or multiple intervals of the time dependent data are used to direct a feedback mechanism to provide information or instruction in response to the time dependent output indicating too little activity, too much time with a joint not being moved beyond a specified range of motion, too many motions beyond a specified range of motion, or repetitive activity that can cause repetitive stress injury.

Abstract: Device for determining the size of a blind void comprises an elongated rigid rod, an actuator slidably movable relative to the rod, the actuator having a distal end for insertion into the void, a distal flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod, a second flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod and proximally removed from the distal flexible element. Movement of the actuator is operative to cause equal movements of the distal end portions of the distal and proximal elements, to cause the distal element to bulge outwardly from the rod to engage interior walls of the void and to cause the proximal element to bulge outwardly in a configuration duplicative of the distal element bulge, the proximal element being outside of the void and subject to observation.

Abstract: A heart valve sizing system featuring a lumen advanceable in vasculature, an inside caliper device at the distal end of the lumen, and a readout for reading the dimension gauged by the inside caliper device. In the preferred embodiment, the inside caliper device includes a four bar linkage with first and second opposing pivot points and third and fourth opposing pivot points and a push rod connected to the second pivot point for alternatively urging the third and fourth pivot points together when extended and urging the third and fourth pivot points apart when retracted to gauge the inside dimension of the vasculature.

Abstract: A laser angle guide assembly has a stand and a laser guide. The laser guide is rotatably attached to the stand and has a laser pointer, a transparent column, a guiding rod, an index stick and a protractor. The laser pointer has a head for emitting a laser. The transparent column is attached to the laser pointer to transfer the laser to an index line with an inclination. The guiding bar is attached to the laser pointer. The index stick is attached to the guiding bar and has an index section with an inclination parallel to the inclination of the index line. The protractor with graduations is rotatably attached to the index stick and corresponds to the index section. Accordingly, the laser pointer will generate an index line to provide a guide to the doctor to insert the needle into the patient body at a desired angle.

Abstract: The present invention provides several devices and methods for determining dimensions of female reproductive organs. In one embodiment, a device for determining a dimension of a female reproductive organ includes a hollow member having a lumen, a measurement member insertable into the lumen of the hollow member and having a measurement scale disposed along a proximal portion, and a flange having a body offset substantially perpendicular to the hollow member. A device having a measurement member with a distal end extending substantially perpendicular to a main body, and an outer member with an open face and a space for advancement therethrough of the measurement member, wherein the outer member slidably engages the measurement member, is also provided.

Abstract: A template for use in matching parts (6, 8) of a modular joint prosthesis component to an image of a bone in which the prosthesis component is to be implanted, the prosthesis component including first and second parts (6, 8) which are fitted together to assemble the prosthesis component for implantation. The template comprises a first template part which bears an image of the first part of the prosthesis component, and a second template part which bears images of a plurality of the second parts (23) of the prosthesis component, each of the second parts (23) being a sleeve having a through bore in which, in the assembled prosthesis component, the first part (6) of the prosthesis component can be received. The second template part is connected to the first template part but can be moved relative to it so that the images of the second parts (23) of the prosthesis component can be aligned sequentially in relation to the image of the first template part (6) to form a composite image of the prosthesis component.

Abstract: A wall-hanging keepsake (10) made of a material having a first side (12) including a growth chart and a second side (30) that can be configured as either an interactive calendar, a count-down chart, or both. The first side (12) includes a measuring tape (14) that runs the substantial length of the keepsake (10), a marking surface (16) adjacent the measuring tape (14) for marking the height of a child on the growth chart, and foot numerals to indicate the foot markers on the measuring tape (14). The second side, when used as an interactive calendar, designates a month and a date. As a regular calendar, the keepsake (10) includes a plurality of pockets numbered 1-31 and a month holder (32) configured to hold a header card indicative of one of the months of the year. Additionally, the “Today Is” pocket card (56) is provided to mark the current date of the month. As a count-down chart, a holder is provided to hold a heading card (54) that is used to designate an event.

Abstract: A device and method is provided whereby application is made to at least part of the sole of a suitably positioned foot. The device (1) (FIGS. 1 and 2) comprises a member or plate (20) having a planar surface (21) for pressure application to the sole by a handle (28) and in one arrangement is hingedly mounted (22, 24, 26) about horizontal axes from a leg rest (10) which lies in use on a seat or couch for the patient. This enables the surface (21) to be brought against the sole and also tilted for required contact with the latter. The plate (20) is also shown mounted for angular movement about a vertical axis X for additional tilting of the surface (21). An electronic unit (30) on the plate (20) has an LCD display (32) for showing angles of tilt. With the surface (21) in appropriate contact the sole can be manually palpated or manipulated e.g. for contact of the surface (21) with metatarsal joints or points, and/or the subtalar joint palpated for the neutral condition etc.

Abstract: A device for measuring the length of a stoma is disclosed. A method to utilize the stoma measuring device is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for measuring the coverage density of multiple components on a surface, in particular skin hair coverage, by dividing the surface to be measured in a number of zones, comparing the visual appearance of these zones to measuring means comprising reference surfaces assigned with numerical values, so as to allow assigning a numerical value to the measured zones in function of the visual parameter of said series of reference surfaces. The invention also relates to equipment therefor, comprising grid means for dividing the surface to be measured in zones and means for measuring coverage density, involving several sets of density scales comprising n reference surfaces with a visual density which serially decreases by the fractional factors n−1/n, n−2/n, . . . , 1/n.

Abstract: A wearable garment pattern template configured to be worn by a person includes a plurality of detachably coupled sections each having a plurality of flexible segments which are coupled at pivot points. The adjustable segments include at least two strips which are longitudinally slidable relative to each other such that the segments are adjustable in length and can also be fixed in length. The segments define a framework of either triangles with sides of a particular length (as adjusted on the wearer), or quadrilaterals having sides of a set length (as adjusted on the wearer) and at least one fixed angle between two of the sides. In either instance, after adjustment, each triangle or quadrilateral can be only in one configuration, and is not subject to distortion due to rotation about pivot points. The garment pattern template can be used as a template to cut fabric for a garment.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining difference in leg height of a standing patient by making a first measurement while the patient stands on a first foot, making a second measurement while the patient stands on a second foot, and determining the vertical distance between the first measurement and the second measurement. One embodiment incorporates a scale with a sliding wide measurement plate to measure the top of the head. Another embodiment provides a wide height measurement plate to retrofit existing height scales, and a fabrication kit for making that plate. In another embodiment the patient wears an apron with reference markings which may be observed through a movable reference grid. The observation may be manual or optically with a camera or scanner.

Abstract: A tailoring guide is used for taking body measurements for garment fitting. The guide comprises an upright portion of a height at least as great as that of an individual of average height and a spread assembly which is adjustable in height relative to the upright portion. The upright portion includes height measurements to determine different heights to which the spread assembly is adjusted. The spread assembly itself comprises a pair of arms one to each side of the upright portion. The arms of the assembly are adjustable inwardly and outwardly to different spread positions relative to the upright portion and the spread assembly is provided with a measuring guide to determine positioning of the arms in the different spread positions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ergonomics instrument kit, and more particularly to a kit that includes the technical instruments necessary for the identification and evaluation of various ergonomics risks factors in the workplace. The ergonomics instrument kit comprising a plurality of Rulers for evaluating Occupational Posture by measuring the physical relationship between body parts or a plurality of Force Measurement Instruments for evaluating Occupational Force by measuring the amount of force exerted by a human performing an activity. The kit may also include combinations of Rulers and Force Measurement Instruments. Rulers may include instruments such as goniometers and bubble inclinometers. Force Measurement Instrument may include instrument such as pinch gauges, push-pull gauges, and dynamometers.

Abstract: A marking drill bit used in combination with a motorized handset is disclosed for use by manicurists in applying french manicures. The marking drill bit scribes marks into an overlay which are used by the manicurist to set the length of the nail tip and to apply accurate widths of acrylic or gel overlay of contrasting colors. A guide is also disclosed which may assist the manicurist in placing the marking drill bit on the overlay.

Abstract: A single measurement tool is configured to measure at least one characteristic of a tubular tissue structure during a surgical procedure. The measurement tool may include an indentation defined therein that is placed against a tubular structure such as the aorta to determine whether that tubular structure has a radius larger than or smaller than the radius of curvature of the indentation. The measurement tool may include a number of first recesses for measuring the diameter of a tubular structure. The measurement tool may include at least one second recess for measuring the wall thickness of a tubular structure.

Abstract: An apparatus for indicating correct or faulty back posture comprises a housing and an indicator body. The housing is supported on the user's body. When the user's back posture or head position is incorrect, the indicator body moves and signals the user of the incorrect posture or position, e.g., through an audible alarm.

Abstract: The invention is a depth gauge having standard components and improved in that a flexible shaft is mated to the tip. A probe is attached to the shaft. The flexible shaft allows for full angular adjustment for various directional approaches to the hole. The tip of the probe can be formed into a shape that conforms with a mating part through which the hole is measured. The probe is manufactured from a superelastic nickel titanium <<NITINOL>> alloy which has greater flexibility and elasticity than typical spring steels so that it doesn't permanently deform when the flexible shaft is bent. The nickel titanium probe also extends from the tip of the shaft in a direction perpendicular to the tip so it extends straight into the hole being measured even when the guide is off axis. The nickel titanium probe can be attached in several different ways to the depth gauge. For example, a setscrew could be used or a crimp.

Abstract: Device for determining the size of a blind void comprises an elongated rigid rod, an actuator slidably movable relative to the rod, the actuator having a distal end for insertion into the void, a distal flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod, a second flexible element fixed at one end thereof to the rod and proximally removed from the distal flexible element. Movement of the actuator is operative to cause equal movements of the distal end portions of the distal and proximal elements, to cause the distal element to bulge outwardly from the rod to engage interior walls of the void and to cause the proximal element to bulge outwardly in a configuration duplicative of the distal element bulge, the proximal element being outside of the void and subject to observation.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided to reconstruct an enlarged left ventricle of a human heart, using a shaper, having a size and shape substantially equal to the size and shape of an appropriate left ventricle, wherein the shaper is adapted to be temporarily placed into the enlarged left ventricle during a surgical procedure. Another aspect of one embodiment comprises a ventricular patch adapted for placement into the left ventricle of a heart made from a sheet of biocompatible material, and having a plurality of markings coupled to the sheet, wherein the markings are configured in distinct patterns for post operatively evaluating movement of the patch. In another aspect of one embodiment, a device is presented, comprising of a handle and a sizing template adapted to be coupled to the handle. Such components are also presented as a kit for use during ventricular restoration surgery.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided to reconstruct an enlarged left ventricle of a human heart, using a shaper, having a size and shape substantially equal to the size and shape of an appropriate left ventricle, wherein the shaper is adapted to be temporarily placed into the enlarged left ventricle during a surgical procedure. Another aspect of one embodiment comprises a ventricular patch adapted for placement into the left ventricle of a heart made from a sheet of biocompatible material, and having a plurality of markings coupled to the sheet, wherein the markings are configured in distinct patterns for post operatively evaluating movement of the patch. In another aspect of one embodiment, a device is presented, comprising of a handle and a sizing template adapted to be coupled to the handle. Such components are also presented as a kit for use during ventricular restoration surgery.