Abstract: A liner is arranged for use in prosthetic and orthopedic devices. The liner defines first and second end portions, and inner and outer surfaces. The liner includes an inner layer having a frictional component and forms at least part of the periphery of the inner liner surface. The inner layer defines a plurality of apertures. A porous element is in communication with the inner liner surface and is connected to the inner layer such that the apertures permit a transfer of air from the inner surface to the porous element. A base layer adjoins the porous element and extends between the first and second end portions of the liner.

Abstract: A sleeve has a tubular body formed from an elasticized textile and has first and second ends. The first end defines a locking cuff having a tacky band extending about an exterior surface of the sleeve; a non-tacky band located adjacent to and extending distally from the tacky band; and a receiving band located adjacent to and extending distally from the non-tacky band. The textile body further defines a central portion adjacent to and extending distally from the receiving band to the second end. The central portion includes an anatomical band arranged to contour to the anatomy of a user having at least one different elastic property different from an elastic property of the central portion outside of the anatomical band.

Abstract: A flexible compressive orthopedic knee sleeve of stretchable fabric having an exterior surface webbing material at least partially covering the sleeve to provide targeted compressive force similar to athletic taping and to also provide kinetic retention.

Abstract: A prosthetic socket for a prosthetic limb is provided. The prosthetic socket comprises a socket body and a first and second structural members. The socket body comprises a distal end and a top edge opposite the distal end. The distal end comprises a prosthetic component attachment mechanism. The top edge comprises a medial fin, a lateral fin, a posterior edge and an anterior edge. The first and second structural members each include a first straight portion, a second straight portion, and a first arch portion. The first structural member is disposed on a medial exterior surface of the socket body and the second structural member is disposed on an lateral exterior surface of the socket body.

Abstract: Cable-actuated position sensors are described that employ multiple block and tackle arrangements to measure displacement of a draw wire or flexible cable. The disclosed sensors are relatively small and inexpensive. The disclosed sensors may also be used as part of a servo motor, or in conjunction with gear motors to provide positional information for operation of the gear motor.

Abstract: A system for attachment of a device to a bone is provided. The system includes an internal axial rod with a proximal and distal end that is configured to be inserted and secured into a bone cavity's distal end. The system can also include an internal-external transfer rod with a proximal and distal end mounted into the distal end of the axial rod and a central channel extending through the transfer rod from the proximal end to the distal end and a plurality of attachment rings for attaching at least one tissue or muscle group to the transfer rod. The system also includes a bio-compatible and bio-occlusive artificial membranes (BIOCAMS) lamina, wherein the lamina includes either a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) mesh, a biocompatible polymer, a carbon fiber polymer, an artificial tissue polymer, molded donor tissue, allogenic tissue, a collagen/hyaluronic acid-based tissue, or connective tissue biosynthetic substrate material suitable as webbing.

Abstract: A prosthetic socket system having an interchangeable distal end, includes a prosthetic socket defining a substantially rigid base, and a funnel formed from a polymeric material and removably attached to the base of a prosthetic socket. The funnel is arranged to be positioned in the base, and is configured and dimensioned to accommodate a distal end of a residual limb.

Abstract: A method for supporting a pin-type prosthetic liner includes placing the liner in an inverted state on a standoff extending from the base of a liner stand. The standoff extends to an upper end that supports the liner on the liner stand. The upper end is an open end that receives the pin of the inverted liner being supported on the liner stand.

Abstract: An assisted standing and walking device for a user with at least one side paralysis or weakness is provided with provisions for assisted transitioning of the user from a seated position to a standing position prior to walking in the assisted standing and walking device with user friendly attachment and release with controlled limitation of lateral gait movement that occurs in lateral walking gait motion.

Abstract: A post-operative support apparatus for a patient's transfemoral residual limb, includes: a planar, stretchable, tensionable and flexible wrap panel sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's transfemoral residual limb, where the wrap panel includes first fastener(s) for maintaining the wrap panel in place around the patient's residual limb; a planar, stretchable, tensionable and flexible hip-band sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's hip or waist, where the hip-band includes second fastener(s) for maintaining the hip-band in place around the patient's hip or waist; and third fastener(s) releasably fastening the wrap panel to the hip-band.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an anchoring system for attaching a prosthesis to a human body, comprising: an anchoring element, an abutment, an abutment screw for attaching the abutment to the anchoring element, the anchoring element comprises a connection area for the abutment, the connection area comprising a press-fit portion such that the abutment is attached to the anchoring element in the connection area by a press-fit connection, wherein the connection area comprises an anti-rotation geometry and the abutment comprising a corresponding mating anti-rotation geometry proximal to the press-fit portion, and where in the connection area comprises a conical portion proximal to the anti-rotational geometry forming a mating geometry for a corresponding conical portion in the through-hole of the abutment.

Abstract: Assisted walking devices for use by a person with at least one side paralysis or weakness and for paraplegics are provided with features for user friendly attachment and release of the devices. The assisted walking devices include features for controlled limitation of lateral gait movement that occurs in natural lateral walking gait motion.

Abstract: Cable-actuated position sensors are described that employ multiple block and tackle arrangements to measure displacement of a draw wire or flexible cable. The disclosed sensors are relatively small and inexpensive. The disclosed sensors may also be used as part of a servo motor, or in conjunction with gear motors to provide positional information for operation of the gear motor.

Abstract: A system and method for improving limb function through the use of percutaneous mechanical and neural interfaces. The system generally uses a hollow long bone axial rod that is inserted into the long bone medullary cavity. A transfer rod with a central channel is mounted to the long bone axial rod. An exterior body attachment is connected to the transfer rod and attachment rings attach muscle groups, fascia layers and dermal layers to the transfer rod. Additionally, the system is configured to collect and transmit nerve signaling data to an external processor and additionally configured to transmit data from the external processor to the plurality of nerves.

Abstract: A prosthetic system and terminal device for gripping and maneuvering handlebars. The prosthetic hand engages a handlebar throughout the necessary range of motion required for balance, steering and pulling, while allowing release in an atypical motion, allowing the wearer to disengage from the handlebar, particularly in the event of a fall.

Abstract: Systems and methods for creating custom-fit prosthetic devices, orthotic devices, and related medical devices via three-dimensional printing (3D printing) or additive manufacturing techniques are described. Through the described systems and methods, a residual limb or other body part of a patient is scanned and analyzed to determine measurements and characteristics of the residual limb. The measurements and characteristics of the residual limb are used to design a customized device for the residual limb. The customized device uses multiple different materials. For example, the customized device may use a first material for a frame and a second material for a liner, wherein the first material is more rigid than the second material. The customized device is fabricated using a three-dimensional printer that is capable of printing and bonding multiple different materials at the same time.

Abstract: A prosthetic lower leg uses one or more generally C-shaped spring elements between the patient's socket and a footplate assembly. The respective connections between (a) those one or more elements and (b) that socket and that footplate can be configured to provide a lightweight and economic prosthesis that effectively mimics the feel and performance of a normal human foot. The prosthetic spring element is generally C-shaped, and can have a substantially constant thickness along its length, lending itself to being fabricated by automated processes such as filament winding. One or more of the generally C-shaped spring elements can be incorporated into other prostheses and/or other devices.

Abstract: A failsafe for a transdermal apparatus for a prosthetic appendage can include a first plate, a second plate, and a breakaway connector. The first plate can have a central axis, a proximal portion, and a distal end. The distal end can be opposite the proximal portion, and the distal end can be securable with a prosthetic external to skin and can be configured to simulate an appendage of a patient. The second plate can be aligned with the central axis and can include a proximal end and a distal portion. The proximal end can be securable to a transdermal implant, and can extend proximally from the second plate. The distal portion can be opposite the proximal end, and the distal portion can be configured to interface with the proximal portion of the first plate. The breakaway connector can be couplable within the second plate and the first plate.

Abstract: A suspension liner is provided for use as an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket. The liner has an elongate, generally conical liner body formed from at least one material segment that is at least radially elastically extensible from a relaxed non-extended condition and including proximal and distal end areas, and a seal component connected to the liner body and having an exterior surface defining at least one exterior seal protruding from the exterior surface and extending radially outwardly from the seal component relative to a longitudinal axis of the liner body. The at least one interior seal is located along an interior surface of the seal component and defines at least one blade extending obliquely toward the liner body. A portion of the seal component carrying the interior seal extends freely and is movable relative to the liner body.

Abstract: An osseointegrated abutment support socket for a residual limb in which an osseointegrated abutment has been implanted is described. The osseointegrated abutment support socket may include a distal socket base assembly, multiple longitudinal struts and a percutaneous site protector. The distal socket base assembly may include a base plate, a collar extending proximally from the base plate and forming a receptacle for receiving a distal end of the osseointegrated abutment, and a strut support ring disposed around the collar. The struts are connected at their distal ends to the strut support ring and extend proximally upward. The percutaneous site protector contacts a distal surface of the residual limb near a percutaneous site where the distal end of the osseointegrated abutment exits the residual limb.

Abstract: An adjustable seal system, seal component for use in the system, and method are provided for forming a sealing interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket. The seal component is selectively placed over the outer surface of a suspension liner including a plurality of seal bands, which the seal component may removably and securely engage.

Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable end pad. The end pad includes a bone attachment portion having a recess configured to receive an amputated bone of a residual limb. The end pad further includes an end portion having a contour corresponding to at least a portion of a socket of an artificial limb such that the end pad can be at least partially received in the socket of the residual limb. Further disclosed is a method wherein the end pad is implanted into a residual limb by way of a surgical procedure.

Abstract: A brim attachment for a prosthetic socket includes a cuff section defining an upper portion of the brim attachment and is arranged to extend about and upwardly from a socket opening. The cuff section is configured to move between tensioned and relaxed positions, wherein the tensioned position the cuff section is arranged to fold away from the socket opening, wherein the relaxed position the cuff section is arranged to extend above the socket opening and generally concentric with an outer surface of the socket. An interface section defines a lower portion of the brim attachment and is arranged to extend along a surface of the socket. The brim attachment may include a seal element protruding toward a central axis of the socket.

Abstract: An implant assembly for a long bone is adapted to support an exo-prosthesis. The assembly includes a stem, a subdermal component and a percutaneous post. The stem has a proximal end that is adapted to be received in a surgically prepared medullary canal of the long bone, and a distal end having a surface that is adapted to promote bone ingrowth. The subdermal component includes a proximal portion that is adapted for attachment to the distal end of the stem, and a fixation surface that is adapted to promote soft tissue fixation. The percutaneous post has a proximal end that is adapted to be attached to the subdermal component.

Abstract: A bearing assembly is for a rotary drill, the drill including a base with a shaft and a bit. The bearing assembly includes a bearing having a central axis and including an inner member disposeable on the shaft and an outer member disposed about the inner member. The outer member is angularly displaceable about the axis with respect to the inner member and having an outer circumferential surface and a recess extending generally radially inwardly from the outer surface. At least one and preferably a plurality of retainer members are each disposed at least partially within the bearing outer member recess and is configured to engage with the bit so as to rotatably couple the bit with the shaft. Preferably, each retainer member includes a generally spherical ball rollable through a passage and into the bearing recess during installation into the recess.

Abstract: A wearable robot may include a gear part having an exoskeleton structure to be worn on legs of a user, a sensor part including a first electromyogram (EMG) sensor attached at a first location of at least one leg of the user, and a second EMG sensor attached at a second location, and a controller to detect a walking assist starting point to assist the user with walking, based on a first EMG signal detected by the first EMG sensor and a second EMG signal detected by the second EMG sensor.

Abstract: A transdermal intraosseous device for coupling a bone stump to an external prosthetic device includes a bone fixator, an external connector and a plurality of modular interface components. The bone fixator includes a proximal portion configured for anchoring into the bone stump of the patient and a distal portion including a base collar configured for subcutaneous implantation. The external connector has a distal portion for coupling to the external prosthetic device and a proximal portion for coupling to the distal portion of the bone fixator. Each interface component can be removably coupled to the base collar and has different size and shape to provide a surgeon-selected transition between the prosthetic device and the patient's skin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a coupling device (100) for connecting a residual limb liner (10) to a residual limb socket (20) of a limb prosthesis, characterized by: a magnet assembly (120) comprising a permanent magnet (122) sandwiched by a pair of iron bars (124) for creating a magnetic field; a housing (110) comprising a protrusion (112) for intensifying magnetic field and a cavity (114) for receiving the magnet assembly (120), wherein said housing (110) is embedded at a distal end of the residual limb socket (20); a controlling means (130) coupled to the housing (110) and the magnet assembly (120) for controlling the magnetic field by rotating the magnet assembly (120); and a mounting plate (140) coupled to the residual limb liner (10); wherein the mounting plate (140) is attracted to the protrusion (112) of the housing (110) when the permanent magnet (122) is vertically aligned, thereby attaching the residual limb liner (10) to the residual limb socket (20); and wherein the mounting plate (140) is re

Abstract: Disclosed is an implantable end pad. The end pad includes a bone attachment portion having a recess configured to receive an amputated bone of a residual limb. The end pad further includes an end portion having a contour corresponding to at least a portion of a socket of an artificial limb such that the end pad can be at least partially received in the socket of the residual limb. Further disclosed is a method wherein the end pad is implanted into a residual limb by way of a surgical procedure.

Abstract: A liner interface and method of making comprising non-compressible deformable electrically conductive neural receptors having electrically conductive elements extending therefrom, formed by attaching each receptor and the conductive elements to an inner surface of a fabric layer, placing the fabric layer into a first part of a molding machine having a predetermined shape, moving a second part of the molding machine having a shape complemental to the first predetermined shape toward said fabric layer to either abut or axially deform the deformable receptors and define a space therebetween, injecting a molten gel elastomer into the space to surround and adhere to the receptors, conductive elements and fabric layer, allowing the molten gel to cure to form a gel inner surface, and removing the second part from the molding machine and allowing the receptors to either axially expand beyond or remain even with the inner surface of the cured liner interface.

Abstract: Local swing leg control was developed that takes advantage of segment interactions to achieve robust leg placement under large disturbances while generating trajectories and joint torque patterns similar to those observed in human walking and running. The results suggest the identified control as a powerful alternative to existing swing leg controls in humanoid and rehabilitation robotics. Alternatively, a detailed neuromuscular model of the human swing leg was developed to embody the control with local muscle reflexes. The resulting reflex control robustly places the swing leg into a wide range of landing points observed in human walking and running, and it generates similar patterns of joint torques and muscle activations. The results suggest an alternative to existing swing leg controls in humanoid and rehabilitation robotics which does not require central processing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting system for detachably connecting a prosthesis shaft to a liner that has been pulled over a residual limb, said system comprising a connecting pin and a receiving device with a receiving portion into which said connecting pin can be introduced, and being characterized in that the connecting pin comprises at least two rigid pin segments arranged one behind the other, in a longitudinal direction of said connecting pin, such that they can be displaced relative to one another.

Abstract: An adjustable prosthesis system for a residual limb includes: an adjustable outer shell having a bottom, an adjustable inner volume, and an adjustable inner shape; at least one closure component attached to the outer shell and adapted to adjust the width of the inner volume and/or inner shape; an inner liner adapted to receive the residual limb and to be inserted in the inner volume; and an adjustable connector having a proximal end adjustably connected to a distal end of the outer shell and adapted to provide concurrently for a plurality of directional adjustments and/or angular adjustments of a position of the distal end of the outer shell relative to the proximal end of the connector, a distal end of the connector adapted to connect to a prosthetic device, wherein adjustments of the width(s) and the connector provide for a custom-like fit of the prosthesis on the residual limb.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to embodiments of a device for implantation into a residual amputated limb. More specifically, the subject invention provides one or more embodiments of an implantable force-distribution support that can be installed onto the terminal end of a bone or bone stump in a residual limb. The force-distribution support can restore the natural hydrodynamic system of the skeleton and can re-engage the axial skeleton as a factor in absorbing forces of ambulation. Embodiments can include a support bracket that can be attached to the terminal bone end to which a resilient-support can be attached to protect residual tissue from compression forces.

Abstract: A transdermal implant assembly including a transdermal bone fixator configured for anchoring into a bone. The fixator includes a longitudinally extending shaft configured to be received into a recess of the bone, and a spindle defining a cavity. A compliant biasing member is disposed within the cavity and an end cap is removably coupled to the spindle to seal the cavity. The compliant biasing member is accessible for adjustments from the external environment.

Abstract: It concerns a prosthetic device for lower limb of a uses having a leg component, a foot component having a foot shell defining a first cavity within said foot shell and a coves component covering said leg component, said leg, foot and cover components being water compatible. The cover component is formed by an hollow flexible self-carrying sleeve defining a cavity within the sleeve around the leg component, the foot shell comprising a hole on its inner side, overlapping the sleeve on at least one centimetre and presenting an aperture below the sleeve to provide air communication between the cavity and the exterior. The cover component comprises in its upper part, a longitudinal slot, so that the water drains naturally from the first and second cavities.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an implantable force distribution boot with hydraulic features that mimic the natural hydraulics of a joint. Further embodiments include an exterior prosthetic leg device having intermittent and/or variable electromagnetic features that can engage with magnetic blades on the implantable force distribution boot. In use, the exterior prosthetic leg can be maintained on a residual limb by magnetic force between the implanted blades and the exterior electromagnets. Also disclosed are surgical techniques for preparing a residual limb to better receive and adapt to a prosthetic device. The techniques include an improved surgical method for harvesting a vascularized glabrous skin free flap.

Abstract: Prosthetic devices containing an artificial foot are disclosed. Methods of making and using prosthetic devices containing an artificial foot are also disclosed. The artificial foot may be in the form of a thermoformed foot member having at least one foot member curved section between a foot member first end and a foot member second end opposite the foot member first end such that (a) a first portion of a foot member inner surface overlaps and faces a second portion of the foot member inner surface, (b) a foot member second end surface is positioned (i) between and connecting a foot member outer surface and the foot member inner surface to one another and (ii) over and facing the foot member second end surface along the at least one foot member curved section.

Abstract: A vacuum suspension system includes a rigid socket defining a socket wall having exterior and interior surfaces. The socket defines an aperture extending between the exterior and interior surfaces, and has a closed distal end and an open proximal end with an interior cavity defined by the interior surface. A fluid regulator is provided at the aperture and operatively engages the fluid regulator. A pump system includes a pump and a covering for securing over the exterior surface of the socket and carrying the pump. The pump is configured for placement proximate to the fluid regulator and arranged for drawing air from the socket through the aperture. A chamber having a variable volume is formed by a space defined between the exterior surface and an inner surface of the covering proximate to the pump.

Abstract: Anchoring system for a prosthetic or orthotic device includes a fastener comprising a base and a clasp-engaging member, wherein the fastener further comprises an adhesive to secure the base directly to skin of a wearer; and a clasp comprising a first end configured to engage and rotate about the clasp-engaging member and a second end configured to engage the activation cable of a prosthetic or orthotic device. Also included is a prosthetic or orthotic system that includes the anchoring system in combination with a prosthetic or orthotic device, as well as a method of securing a prosthetic or orthotic device on a wearer using the anchoring system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure for connecting an artificial limb and a socket, in which a magnetic locking device is mounted on one end of the artificial limb. The magnetic locking device includes an electro-permanent magnet comprising a permanent magnet and an electromagnet, and one end of the socket is provided with an attachment member capable of being attached to or detached from the magnetic locking device using magnetic force.

Abstract: A transdermal intraosseous device for coupling a bone stump to an external prosthetic device includes a bone fixator, an external connector and a plurality of modular interface components. The bone fixator includes a proximal portion configured for anchoring into the bone stump of the patient and a distal portion including a base collar configured for subcutaneous implantation. The external connector has a distal portion for coupling to the external prosthetic device and a proximal portion for coupling to the distal portion of the bone fixator. Each interface component can be removably coupled to the base collar and has different size and shape to provide a surgeon-selected transition between the prosthetic device and the patient's skin.

Abstract: Disclosed are limb prostheses for use when normal use of the lower leg is temporarily or permanently lost due to lower leg injury or disease, including below-knee amputation. Disclosed prostheses provide full body weight support and allow a wearer to maintain the use of the hands and arms during ambulation. In addition, a wearer can maintain use of their own knee to flex and extend during ambulation, thereby better controlling the prosthesis during motion and providing a more normal gait as compared to previously known devices. In the event of permanent loss of the lower leg due to below-knee amputation, the disclosed prosthesis provides an alternative to socket-type prosthetic devices.

Abstract: A transcutaneous prosthesis which includes a first component shaped for implantation into a bone, a second component intended for location between the bone and the skin, the second component having a surface treatment for stimulation of fibroblastic cell proliferation and attachment of epithelial cells, and a third component intended for location exterior to the skin surface having a low surface energy which deters bacterial adhesion.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides methods and apparatus facilitating an adjustable-stiffness prosthesis or orthosis (including approximations to arbitrarily definable non-linear spring functions). Spring rates may be varied under no-load conditions during a walking gate cycle to minimize power consumption. In another aspect, the invention provides methods and apparatus for outputting positive power from a prosthesis or orthosis, facilitating high-performance artificial limbs. In one embodiment of the invention, the positive power is transferred from a functioning muscle to the prosthesis or orthosis, which mimics or assists a non-functioning or impaired muscle. In another embodiment of the invention, the positive power comes from an on-board power source in the prosthesis or orthosis.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices and methods for connecting a transcutaneous external prosthetic device to a bone, such as a bone of an amputee. The device is a two-piece transcutaneous implant device to provide reversible connection for ease of implantation, reliability, and relatively easy access for removal, while maximizing tissue ingrowth to reduce risk of infection and attendant adverse outcomes. The devices provided herein comprise a prosthetic interface and a bone anchor. A through-hole that traverses a longitudinal length of the prosthetic interface and at least a longitudinal portion of the bone anchor receives a fastener to reversibly connect the prosthetic interface to the bone anchor implanted in bone. A connector may connect to a failsafe element which, in turn, connects to an external prosthetic device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing the incident of infection proximate to an exit site where a prosthesis fastener, e.g., a bone screw, percutaneously penetrates a patient's skin/soft tissue. Infection reduction is achieved in accordance with the invention by growing a tissue integrating seal around the fastener proximate to the exit site.

Abstract: Permanent magnets or electromagnets or a combination of such magnets are provided to retain a prosthetic device on an extremity or limb, such as an amputated arm. The prosthesis utilizes the opposing forces, which are developed by virtue of like magnetic poles being in proximity to each other, to urge the prosthesis to remain attached to the extremity. The prosthesis is prevented from rotation by virtue of a centering force that is provided by an attachment magnet in the prosthesis being placed between two implanted magnets. A removable mounting ring is placed over the prosthesis to maintain it on the extremity.

Abstract: Torsional loads can impart painful and potentially injurious shear stresses upon residual limb soft tissues in lower limb amputees. To protect the soft tissues, a controllable transverse rotation adapter (TRA) has been developed that permits rotation of the prosthetic socket relative to the prosthetic foot, relieving some of the rotational loads experienced by the residual limb, and controlling either the stiffness resisting the transverse rotational torque, or the torque. This TRA uses series elastic actuator (SEA) technology and includes a prime mover, a speed reduction device, and a torsion spring mounted in series. By measuring a displacement of the spring (e.g., using a strain gauge), motor current, and the motor shaft position, the load torque and position can be used to calculate actual stiffness or applied torque. The motor position is then adjusted relative to the load, to control the effective stiffness or torque.

Abstract: An antimicrobial containment cap is provided for use in a bone anchored prosthesis mounting system of the type having an externally protruding fixator pin carried by implanted bone anchored mounting post, wherein the fixator pin accommodates removable attachment to an exoskeletal prosthesis such as a prosthetic limb or the like for an amputee. The containment cap, when mounted onto the fixator pin, is interposed between the prosthesis and soft tissue covering the end or stump of an amputated residual limb or the like. The containment cap carries and supports a selected antimicrobial or antibacterial agent in substantial contact with the soft stump tissue in a position closely overlying and substantially circumscribing the tissue interface with the externally protruding fixator pin to safeguard against infection. The containment cap is adapted for quick and easy periodic removal for cleaning and/or replenishment of the antimicrobial agent.