Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of making a stable composition comprising growth factors, which may include platelet derived growth factors and transforming growth factors. The method comprises providing human umbilical cord blood plasma containing platelets, but substantially free of whole blood cells, and lysing the platelets to extrude growth factors into the plasma. The plasma may be obtained from multiple donors and pooled to form a homologous plasma mixture. In another embodiment, the growth factors are encapsulated in a liposome formed by a lipid bilayer, wherein the resulting composition remains stable and viable for at least 30 months. The present invention is also directed to the composition produced by the methods of the present invention and the process of applying the composition to a skin defect or wound.

Abstract: A method for formulating a cationic and non-ionic oil in water emulsion, preferably in a cream form, containing growth factors, preferably platelet derived growth factors, specific matrikine peptides, botanicals, emollients, nano-molecules, antioxidants, antiseptics, neuro-peptides, anti-dermatophytics, polysaccharides, sensorial peptides, osmotically driven moisturizers, and siloxane barriers. For application to the feet and other affected parts of the body for the relief of diabetic skin and tissue trauma.

Abstract: Scars, stretch marks, keloids, keratosis, and other skin lesions can be ameliorated through topical application of a composition containing a fortified botanical complex inhibiting tryptase and chymase. A flavonoid with antioxidant properties valuable in inflammatory stress; blocking the release of histamine, inhibiting leukocytic elastase and strengthening the protective properties surrounding the extracellular matrix. Primary wound healing occurs through the release of platelet derived growth factors stimulating the production of procollagen and increasing the density of water holding skin matrix cells which provide unencumbered moisture to the skin. The formula peptides are matrikines They act in synergy to restore and maintain the skin's appearance by activating the neosynthesis of extracellular matrix molecules.

Abstract: Various features of spinal implants and systems and methods for implanting the same with or between tissue layers in the human body.

Abstract: Various features of spinal implants and systems and methods for implanting the same with or between tissue layers in the human body.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: Various features of spinal implants and systems and methods for implanting the same with or between tissue layers in the human body.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: Tissue biopsy is performed through a central passage of a cannula covered with a protective sleeve. The protective sleeve is attached at one end to a location at or near a distal end of the cannula. After the biopsy procedure is completed, the cannula is withdrawn so that its exterior slides through the sleeve. In this way, the trailing edge of the sleeve is invaginated within the proximal portions of the itself to envelop the sleeve exterior and reduce the risk of inadvertent tumor cell seeding.

Abstract: Tissue biopsy is performed through a central passage of a cannula covered with a protective sleeve. The protective sleeve is attached at one end to a location at or near a distal end of the cannula. After the biopsy procedure is completed, the cannula is withdrawn so that its exterior slides through the sleeve. In this way, the trailing edge of the sleeve is invaginated within the proximal portions of the itself to envelop the sleeve exterior and reduce the risk of inadvertent tumor cell seeding.

Abstract: Protected access through a body lumen or a tissue tract is provided by a protective sleeve. The protected sleeve is initially in a furled configuration and is unfurled by an advancement member extended through the lumen or tract. A catheter or other access member may then be advanced over the advancement member and through the protective sleeve.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use in laparoscopy is provided, comprising a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, a first end effector piece pivotably mounted to the tubular member near the distal end of the tubular member, a second end effector piece disposed near the distal end of the tubular member and being slidable relative to the tubular member, wherein a surgical item, such as a suture needle, may be received between the first end effector piece and the second end effector piece and may be rolled substantially axially by axial translation of the second end effector piece with respect to the first end effector piece. In one embodiment, the end effector pieces may be provided with depressions in their face surfaces. In another embodiment, the surgical instrument may also include a handle assembly having a control lever and a rotation actuator. The tubular member may also be rotatably mounted on the handle.