Abstract: The present invention relates to a vascular stent comprising wide vertical branches and narrow horizontal branches having wave-form projections, which has a vertically denser distribution. The vascular stent of the present invention comprises stainless steel-based vertical branches and horizontal branches having wave-form projections. The widths of the vertical branch and horizontal branch range 0.09 to 0.12 mm and 0.05 to 0.09 mm, respectively, while each thickness of those are identical to each other and range 0.08 to 0.12 mm. The vascular stent of the invention provides so superior flexibility as to afford excellent adaptability to the anatomy of the vessel. Moreover, the dense distribution of the branches improves strength of stability of the vascular stent, which allows the stent to sufficiently expand against high recoiling force.

Abstract: A method for making, storing and using a surgical graft from human amniotic membrane; the resulting graft; and the storage solution. The amniotic membrane is obtained from human placenta, from which the chorion has been separated. Sheets of the amniotic membrane are cut to size and mounted on filter paper. The cells of the amniotic membrane are killed, preferably while being frozen and thawed in the storage solution. The storage solution comprises a culture medium and a hyperosmotic agent, wherein the hydration of the amniotic membrane is maintained. The membrane can be impregnated with therapeutic agents, prior to storage, for use in post surgical healing or other therapies.

Abstract: A method for reducing a volume of a tongue includes providing an ablation apparatus with an energy delivery device configured to be coupled to an energy source. The energy delivery device is positioned in an interior of the tongue. A sufficient amount of energy is delivered from the energy delivery device in the interior of the tongue to ablate a section of the tongue without damaging the main branches of the hypoglossal nerve. The energy delivery device is thereafter removed from the interior of the tongue.

Abstract: The present invention provides an endoprosthesis for a joint between two bones which cannot be distracted, or which can be distracted only with difficulty. A suitable joint for the endoprosthesis is the sternoclavicular joint. The endoprosthesis has two components, one of which may be attached to the collar bone, and the other which may be attached to the breastbone. One component has a joint head which is insertable into the enclosure part of the second component. The joint head on one component is introduced from the side of the enclosure part on the second component by means of a lateral installation opening in the enclosure part. This arrangement allows little or no distraction of the bones to which the endoprosthesis components are attached when the components are connected.

Abstract: A golf putting head is formed to include a recess cavity on its front face which preferably includes a raised perimeter bead. The insert is cast in place within the cavity with the perimeter bead allowing the insert to extend slightly beyond the club face. Once cured within the cavity, the insert perimeter bead and club face is finished to remove the perimeter bead and provide a smooth planar surface for the insert and the club face.