Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for creating an internal reconstruction tissue graft. Templates may be used to create a multitude of patterns in a variety of tissue reconstruction grafts. An apparatus may be used to create an internal tissue graft for reconstruction through either compression and/or removal of segments. An apparatus may be used, through either compression and or removal of segments of a preformed template made of synthetics and or metal that mirrors a template that can be used as an internal tissue graft for reconstruction. In a method, such as using software analysis and an apparatus, the physical properties of the tissue graft and its pre- and post-operative properties and appearance may be measured.

Abstract: A method of forming a matrix of aligned nanofibres of elevated pore size and porosity comprises spraying a polymer solution towards a rotating drum so as to form nanofibres which are collected on the drum. The matrix can be used to form artificial tissue by removing the matrix from the drum, depositing cells onto the matrix and allowing the cells to form artificial tissue. Such artificial tissue finds use in the treatment of disease or damaged tissue, and in particular in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of fixating a mesh implant to a tissue of a subject comprising attaching said mesh implant to said tissue, covering said mesh implant by an antiadhesive barrier, wherein said antiadhesive barrier is attached to said mesh implant by a biocompatible adhesive.

Abstract: Provided is a tissue regeneration construct having a good engraftment property and capable of promoting a stable and favorable regeneration to a target site, the tissue regeneration construct being a member to be applied to a target site for transplantation and regeneration to regenerate tissue, including a transplant body, and an engraftment layer arranged overlapping at least a part of an outer surface of the transplant body, wherein: the transplant body includes a support, cells for regenerating the tissue that are arranged at least either one of a space between the supports and a space formed by a pore inside the support, and a base material for retaining the cells; the base material of the engraftment layer is gelatinous; and the engraftment layer is a layer in which the support does not exist.

Abstract: A device for at least partially occluding an aneurysm is disclosed. The device includes a first elongate member having a distal end. A bridge is positioned proximate the distal end and transformable between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration. A second elongate member is movable relative to the first elongate member, the first and second elongate members being configured such that one can be moved relative to the other in order to transform the bridge between the delivery and deployed configurations.

Abstract: Implantable materials for use with end effectors like surgical stapling devices, and methods associated with the operation of such end effectors, are provided herein. In one exemplary embodiment, a tissue reinforcement material is releasably retained on a portion of a surgical stapler end effector for delivery to tissue upon deployment of staples. The tissue reinforcement material comprises a plurality of fibers having an arrangement configured to compress and seal around a fastener component inserted therethrough. Other implants, devices, and methods for surgical stapling are also provided.

Abstract: Implantable materials for use with end effectors like surgical stapling devices, and methods associated with the operation of such end effectors, are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a staple cartridge assembly includes a cartridge body and a hybrid adjunct material associated therewith. The hybrid adjunct material can include one or more biologic materials, such as a biologic tissue membrane, and one or more synthetic materials, such as a synthetic absorbable polymer. The synthetic absorbable polymer can be associated with the membrane such that the polymer provides structural integrity to the membrane so that the membrane can be securely coupled to the cartridge body. Both the membrane and the polymer can be configured to be securely attached to the tissue by staples of the cartridge body. Other implants, devices, and methods for surgical stapling are also provided.

Abstract: This invention provides aragonite- and calcite-based solid substrates for the repair, regeneration, enhancement of formation or a combination thereof of cartilage and/or bone, which solid substrates comprise or are made to ultimately comprise three phases, wherein each phase differs in terms of its chemical content, or structure, kits comprising the same, and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a dehydration device and methods for drying biological materials to produce dried biological materials having enhanced structural properties. More specifically, the invention relates to a dehydration device and related methods for drying biological tissue to produce enhanced tissue grafts.

Abstract: A method of making an organ or tissue comprises: (a) providing a first dispenser containing a structural support polymer and a second dispenser containing a live cell-containing composition; (b) depositing a layer on said support from said first and second dispenser, said layer comprising a structural support polymer and said cell-containing composition; and then (c) iteratively repeating said depositing step a plurality of times to form a plurality of layers one on another, with separate and discrete regions in each of said layers comprising one or the other of said support polymer or said cell-containing composition, to thereby produce provide a composite three dimensional structure containing both structural support regions and cell-containing regions. Apparatus for carrying out the method and composite products produced by the method are also described.

Abstract: A method of mending a groinal defect such as an indirect inguinal hernia, a direct inguinal hernia, and/or a femoral hernia. A space between the external oblique aponeurosis and the internal oblique aponeurosis is dissected superiorly and laterally to create a site for receiving a lateral portion of a prosthetic repair patch. Dissection medially and inferiorly between the two aponeuroses leads to a transversalis fascia, which is explored downwardly and, at the pubic bone, dissected to reach the preperitoneal space of Retzius. A medial portion of a prosthetic repair patch may be positioned in the space of Retzius with a lateral portion of the prosthetic repair patch positioned in the dissected space between the two aponeuroses. So positioned, the prosthetic repair patch protects the myopectineal orifice that is susceptible to each of the indirect inguinal hernia, direct inguinal hernia, and femoral hernia.

Abstract: A left atrial appendage occlusion device is provided that acts in conjunction with a wireless transponder unit. The occlusion device provides a seal of the left atrial appendage opening, while the transponder is inserted into the left atrial appendage to sense one or more physiological conditions and relay the sensed information over wireless communication. Further, all or part of the left atrial appendage may be filled using a biocompatible inert filling material injected into the left atrial appendage as part of deployment of the transponder unit.

Abstract: A method of mending a groinal defect such as an indirect inguinal hernia, a direct inguinal hernia, and/or a femoral hernia. A space between the external oblique aponeurosis and the internal oblique aponeurosis is dissected superiorly and laterally to create a site for receiving a lateral portion of a prosthetic repair patch. Dissection medially and inferiorly between the two aponeuroses leads to a transversalis fascia, which is explored downwardly and, at the pubic bone, dissected to reach the preperitoneal space of Retzius. A medial portion of a prosthetic repair patch may be positioned in the space of Retzius with a lateral portion of the prosthetic repair patch positioned in the dissected space between the two aponeuroses. So positioned, the prosthetic repair patch protects the myopectineal orifice that is susceptible to each of the indirect inguinal hernia, direct inguinal hernia, and femoral hernia.

Abstract: The invention provides a biocompatible silicone implant that can be securely affixed to living tissue through interaction with integral membrane proteins (integrins). A silicone article containing a laser-activated surface is utilized to make the implant. One example is an implantable prosthesis to treat blindness caused by outer retinal degenerative diseases. The device bypasses damaged photoreceptors and electrically stimulates the undamaged neurons of the retina. Electrical stimulation is achieved using a silicone microelectrode array (MEA). A safe, protein adhesive is used in attaching the MEA to the retinal surface and assist in alleviating focal pressure effects. Methods of making and attaching such implants are also provided.

Abstract: A fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite is provided. The composite includes a hydrogel and a fibrous component containing a plurality of fibers. Length of each of the plurality of fibers is less than about 1,000 ?m. A method of preparing a fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite is also provided. The method includes coating a hydrogel precursor solution on a substrate to form a hydrogel precursor film, depositing the plurality of fibers onto the hydrogel precursor film, and allowing the hydrogel precursor film to form a hydrogel film, (ii) thereby forming the fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite. A scaffold containing the fiber-reinforced composite, and a tissue repair method (iii) using the fiber-reinforced composite are also provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to implantable medical devices which include at least one mesh and at least one film attached to the mesh along different portions of the mesh creating at least one aperture between the mesh and the film.

Abstract: A bioremodelable encasement structure comprising a pouch formed from at least one sheet of bioremodelable material, the pouch including an internal region that is configured to receive a device therein, the bioremodelable material comprising mesothelial tissue.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, composite implants for soft tissue repair are provided which comprise (a) a substantially two-dimensional piece of biologic matrix material and (b) one or more non-absorbable synthetic polymeric filaments.

Abstract: The technology described herein is directed to compositions comprising at least a first porous biomaterial layer and a second impermeable biomaterial layer and methods relating thereto. In some embodiments, the compositions and methods described herein relate to wound healing, e.g. repair of wounds and/or tissue defects.

Abstract: An artificial dura biomedical device and a brain surgery method utilizing the same are disclosed. The steps includes: fixing an artificial dura to a partial skull; and fixing the partial skull with the artificial dura to a cut hole of a whole skull. The artificial dura biomedical device includes an artificial dura and a connecting element. The connecting element fixes the partial skull with the artificial dura.

Abstract: Graft materials and devices for surgical breast procedures, as well as methods of making graft devices are described.

Abstract: A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The body portion can include a plurality of segments defining a multi-cellular structure. The closure device can be configured to apply lateral force to tissue of the internal tissue opening to bring tissue together. The closure device can have a substantially flat aspect, and can include a member adapted to induce tissue growth. The anchors can extend from the body portion and return back to the body portion to define a closed periphery. The anchors can include undulations and can include multiple segments. A method of forming a closure device can include positioning a material on a working surface and cutting a closure device from the material.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to a multilayer surgical membrane. The surgical membrane can include a substantially fluid impermeable outer layer, an inner layer that includes a plurality of fenestrae, and a middle region disposed between the inner and outer layers. The middle region can include at least one channel that extends through the middle region. The middle region can have a first surface in contact with the inner layer. The at least one channel can imbibe fluid under a compressive or tensile load and the fenestrae can deform to exude fluid under the load.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods develop static and/or kinetic and/or pressure forces to fixate or brace tissue in targeted pharyngeal structures and individual anatomic components within the pharyngeal conduit.

Abstract: Provided herein is a biodegradable elastomeric patch that can be implanted on a heart or other portions of the cardiovascular system to repair tissue deficiencies or tissue damage. The biodegradable elastomeric patch may be engineered to have mechanical properties similar to that of soft tissue and to provide mechanical support to the damaged tissue. The biodegradable elastomeric patch also may comprise therapeutic agents to aid in the healing process. Methods also are provided for using a biodegradable elastomeric patch for treating patients suffering from tissue damage or tissue deficiencies in the cardiac or cardiovascular system.

Abstract: According to some aspects, tissue scaffolds are provided that comprise one or more types of nanofibers. In some embodiments, one or more design features are incorporated into a tissue scaffold (e.g.

Abstract: A reinforcement device for reinforcing tissues having one or more structural deficiencies includes a longitudinally-extending reinforcing layer for treating the structural deficiency, a plurality of spiked naps distributed across the reinforcing layer and projecting therefrom for adhering to the tissue, and a dissolvable matrix layer covering at least a portion of the reinforcing layer and a portion of the plurality of spiked naps. The matrix layer increases the time before the spiked naps substantially adhere to the tissue, thereby allowing the practitioner additional time to position the reinforcement device.

Abstract: Bioactive implant for myocardial regeneration and ventricular chamber support including an elastomeric microporous membrane. The elastomeric microporous membrane being at least one non-degradable polymer and at least one partially degradable polymer. The non-degradable polymer is selected from polyethylacrylate and polyethylacrylate copolymerized with a hydroxyethylacrylate comonomer. The partially degradable polymer is selected from caprolactone 2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl ester and caprolactone 2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl ester copolymerized with ethylacrylate. The elastomeric microporous membrane further includes a nanofiber hydrogel, and cells. The bioactive implant, having one or two helical loops, contributes to the restauration of the heart conical shape.

Abstract: A construct for use in an abdominal surgery is described. The construct contains an allograft having at least one layer of human amnion and chorion tissues, and has a size and shape appropriate for covering an incision or a surgical site resulting from the surgery. Methods of preparing the construct and using it in an abdominal surgery are also described. The products and methods improve the performance of the abdominal surgery, e.g., by reducing adhesions, scar formation while also reducing inflammation and risk of post-operative infection.

Abstract: Decellularized tissue-derived extracellular matrices (ECM) and methods of generating and using same are provided. The method of generating a decellularized matrix includes the steps of: (a) subjecting the tissue to washes and a hypertonic buffer; (b) subjecting the tissue to an enzymatic proteolytic digestion with an enzyme such as trypsin; and (c) removing all cellular components from the tissue using a detergent solution which includes Triton-X-100 and ammonium hydroxide. Specifically, there is provided a decellularized myocardium-derived matrix which is completely devoid of all cellular components and hence non-immunogenic in a subject, exhibits suitable structural and mechanical properties for cardiac tissue engineering or replacement therapy of damaged cardiac tissue, and is capable of remodeling upon seeding of cells.

Abstract: An implantable prosthesis for repairing an anatomical defect, such as a tissue or muscle wall hernia, including an umbilical hernia, and for preventing the occurrence of a hernia at a small opening or weakness in a tissue or muscle wall, such as at a puncture tract opening remaining after completion of a laparoscopic procedure. The prosthesis includes a patch for covering or extending across the opening or weakness. At least one tether, such as a strap, extends from the patch and may be manipulated to position and/or to secure the patch relative to the opening or weakness in the tissue or muscle wall. The tether may be configured to extend through the defect and outside a patient's body for positioning and/or manipulating the patch from a location outside the body. A support member may be arranged in or on the patch to help deploy the patch at the surgical site and/or help inhibit collapse or buckling of the patch.

Abstract: A method of making a creep resistant, highly lubricious, tough hydrogel includes the steps of preparing a first solution including polyacrylamide-co-acrylic acid and another polymer, such as polyvinyl alcohol), and introducing a second solution a gellant into the first solution to form the hydrogel. The first solution can be heated to a first temperature above room temperature, and the combination of the first solution and the second solution can be cooled to a second temperature at or below room temperature. The hydrogel can be used for cartilage repair or in an interpositional device that requires mechanical integrity, high water content, and excellent lubricity in order to fully function under the high stress environment in the joint space and withstand high loads of human joints.

Abstract: A prosthesis includes an enclosure. A flexible support structure is situated at least partially within the enclosure and is removable therefrom. The flexible support structure occupies a total circumferential area and has a stiffness that is sufficient to allow the prosthesis to assume a deployed (e.g., generally planar) configuration. A tab is adjoined with the flexible support structure and extends external to the enclosure. Pulling the tab directionally away from the prosthesis causes a reconfiguration of the flexible support structure sufficient to enable the flexible support structure to pass through an opening in the prosthesis having a total circumferential area that is less than the total circumferential area occupied by the flexible support structure when the prosthesis is in the deployed (e.g., generally planar) configuration, enabling removal of the flexible support structure from the enclosure.

Abstract: Provided are methods of delivering at least one pharmaceutical agent to the central nervous system (CNS) of a subject, methods of treating a neurological disorder or pain in a subject that include administering at least one pharmaceutical agent onto a SEM graft in the skull base of the subject. Also provided are methods of treating a neurological disorder or pain in a subject that include forming a SEM graft in the skull base of the subject and administering at least one pharmaceutical agent onto the SEM graft in the skull base of the subject. Also provided are methods of forming a SEM graft in the skull base of a subject, compositions for administration onto a SEM graft in the skull base or into an endonasal reservoir or endonasal reservoir device in a subject, and devices for administering such compositions onto a SEM graft in the skull base of a subject.

Abstract: Described are method and device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart, and related methods of using such closure devices for closing the passageway. The method includes locating a distal end of a closure device adjacent to the passageway. The closure device may include a closure line with proximal and distal ends, an expandable tissue anchor located along the distal end of the closure line, and an expandable occluder member located along the proximal end of the closure line. The expandable tissue anchor is deployed into tissue adjacent to the passageway. The expandable occluder member is deployed adjacent to the passageway such that the expandable occluder member substantially covers the second opening to the passageway.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are instruments and methods for delivery of substrates, including cell-seeded substrates, to target tissues requiring treatment for various diseases that induce cell death, damage or loss of function. The substrates are configured to provide cells, including stem cells, with a structural support that allows interconnection with and transmission of biological signals between the cells and the target tissue.

Abstract: A cell sheet transplantation device having a plane for transplanting a sheet of cultured cells, the device comprising, in the plane in the same direction, (1) a planar surface portion for capturing a cell sheet while maintaining a sheet-shaped form, and (2) suction holes for immobilizing a transplantation site by suction, the suction holes being positioned around the planar surface portion. By using the cell sheet transplantation device, a cultured cell sheet can be detached effectively, and the detached cultured cell sheet can be transplanted in an effective and simple manner.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an implant comprising at least two layers made of fibers and bioactive material arranged between said at least two layers, the bioactive material being selected from the group consisting of bioactive glass, hydroxyapatite, tricalciumphosphate and mixtures thereof. In the implant, at least one of the layers is at least mainly formed of a mesh, which is made of glass fibers having a diameter of 3-100 ?m, and wherein the mesh size is selected such that the bioactive material is retained within the implant. In addition, the layers are embedded in a matrix made of a resin selected from the group consisting of polyesters, epoxies, acrylates and mixtures thereof, and the layers are attached to each other along the contour of the implant.

Abstract: Described is a scaffold that is strong enough to resist forces that exist inside a body, while possessing biocompatible surfaces. The scaffold is formed of a layer of mesh (e.g., Stainless Steel or Nitinol) that is tightly enclosed by a multi-layer biological matrix. The biological matrix can include three layers, such a first layer (smooth muscle cells) formed directly on the metal mesh, a second layer (fibroblast/myofibroblast cells) formed on the first layer, and a third layer (endothelial cells) formed on the second layer. The scaffold can be formed to operate as a variety of tissues, such as a heart valve or a vascular graft. For example, the mesh and corresponding biological matrix can be formed as leaflets, such that the scaffold is operable as a tissue heart valve.

Abstract: Methods for defatting omentum and processes for preparing an acellular omentum, i.e., devitalized or decellularized omentum, comprising extracellular matrix for implantation into a mammalian system. Constructs for medical applications comprising decellularized omentum are also described. More specifically, mesh reinforced omentum biomatrix for soft tissue repair is described.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to implantable medical devices which include at least one mesh and at least one film attached to the mesh along different portions of the mesh creating at least one aperture between the mesh and the film.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel composition comprising carbon nanotubes and/or graphene and a supporting material that can be used as an implant, patch or construct for the treatment, repair or replacement of biological tissue, including musculoskeletal tissue, fascia tissue, dura tissue, epidermal tissue, blood vessels and arteries, and organs. The present invention is also a method of manufacturing the novel composition, and a method of using the novel composition to treat, repair or replace biological tissue.

Abstract: A porous implant matrix consists mainly of a mixture of polymers which are differently rapidly degradable, wherein nominal resorption times of two of the components of the mixture, each accounting for at least 10% of the mixture, differ by a factor of at least 5. The porous implant matrix is manufactured from a mixture of the at least two differently rapidly degradable polymers, wherein particles of both polymers are mixed with particles of a water-soluble solid and a solvent for one of the polymers, and after evaporating the solvent is optionally compacted, and the solid is removed by watering.

Abstract: A graft prostheses (11), materials and method for implanting, transplanting, replacing, or repairing a part of a patient. The graft prosthesis includes a purified, collagen-based matrix structure removed from a submucosa tissue source. The submucosa tissue source is purified by disinfection and removal steps to deactivate and remove contaminants, thereby making the purified structure biocompatible and suitable for grafting on and/or in a patient.

Abstract: A method and device for treating hernia by implanting at least one collapsible hernia repair patch, such as a planar mesh body at least partially enveloped by one or more elastic collars. A posterior end of an applicator carrying the repair patch may be inserted through a hernia and into the wall of the abdominal cavity, and the patch may be released into the cavity, e.g., so as to helically deploy the patch such that the patch lies in parallel to the abdominal wall. A balloon, which is removably attached to the patch, may be inflated to help move the patch to a deployed configuration, and thereafter the balloon removed from the hernia site.

Abstract: Systems and methods provide intraluminal delivery of a bandage structure within a body lumen or hollow body organ, e.g., for treating an injured gastrointestinal tract or an esophageal hemorrhage in a non-invasive way using endoscopic visualization. The systems and methods can be sized and configured to apply a chitosan bandage structure within a body lumen or hollow body organ, to take advantage of the mucoadhesive, antimicrobial, hemostatic, and potential accelerated wound healing properties of the chitosan material.

Abstract: The claimed invention provides a fusion polypeptide comprising a fibrous protein domain and a mineralization domain. The fusion is used to form an organic-inorganic composite. These organic-inorganic composites can be constructed from the nano- to the macro-scale depending on the size of the fibrous protein fusion domain used. In one embodiment, the composites can also be loaded with other compounds (e.g., dyes, drugs, enzymes) depending on the goal for the materials, to further enhance function. This can be achieved during assembly of the material or during the mineralization step in materials formation.

Abstract: A tissue modification apparatus includes a first and a second guide, a first and a second set of mounts, and a first and a second actuator. The first guide defines a first axis, and the second guide defines a second axis intersecting the first axis. The mounts of the first set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the first axis, and the mounts of the second set of mounts are movable relative to one another along the second axis. The first actuator and the second actuator are each settable to a stress load, with the first actuator and the second actuator movable, respectively, along the first axis and the second axis to transmit each respective stress load to a piece of tissue mechanically coupled to the first and second set of mounts.

Abstract: The invention relates to a polymeric mesh implant for use in reconstruction of tissue defects, which mesh implant comprises a first set of fibers arranged in a first knit pattern comprising apertures, wherein each aperture, or a subset thereof, comprises an elastic fiber arranged in a first direction of the mesh implant such that when the mesh implant is stretched in this first direction, the elastic fibers are elongated and also exert a restoring force on the first knit pattern.

Abstract: The invention is directed toward a cartilage repair assembly comprising a shaped allograft two piece construct with a demineralized cancellous cap and a mineralized cylindrical base member defining a blind bore with a through-going transverse bore intersecting the blind bore. The demineralized cancellous cap has a cylindrical top portion and a smaller diameter cylindrical stem extending away from the top portion which fits into the blind bore of the mineralized base member. The cap stem defines a transverse through-going bore which is aligned with the through-going bore of the base member to receive a cylindrical cortical pin holding the cap within the base member. The shaped structure is dimensioned to fit in a drilled bore in a cartilage defect area so that the assembly engages the side wall of the drilled bore in an interference fit.