Abstract: A first and second pedicle screw may be screwed into a first and second corresponding spine vertebra. A first end of a first spinal rod and a first end of a second spinal rod may be connected to a corresponding first and second opening in a distraction hinge. A rod-to-hinge connector may be positioned between the ends of the spinal rods and the openings in the distraction hinge if desired. A second end of the first spinal rod and a second end of the second spinal rod may be placed in a head of the corresponding first and second pedicle screws and attached using tip set screws. A tip set screw may be screwed into the distraction hinge to compress an internal spring that causes a distraction force that separates the first spine vertebra from the second spine vertebra and enables a center of rotation away from a vertebral cortex.

Abstract: A corrective alignment foot brace is disclosed with a sensor system that allows for objective assessment and dynamic adjustment of foot brace parameters. In preferred embodiments, the corrective alignment foot brace includes a first shoe and a second shoe connected by a bar or any rigid system between them. The first shoe is configured to be adjustably oriented relative to the second shoe and relative to the bar. In some embodiments, the second shoe is similarly configured to be adjustably oriented relative to the first shoe and the bar. The corrective alignment foot brace further includes a sensor module coupled to the first shoe, the second shoe, and/or the bar. The sensor module is configured to detect at least one force or moment acting on the sensor module along or about at least one axis.

Abstract: Safety cast compositions for the prevention of thermal injury are provided basically comprising a curable casting material, a flexible substrate coated or impregnated with the casting material and a thermochromic material. Methods for using the safety cast to prevent cast burns in patients in need of immobilizing a body member are also provided.