Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to an orthopedic device for use with an orthopedic cast, which can alleviate the itching sensation that can develop when a patient wears a cast, among other advantages, such as cooling the skin below the cast, reducing the moisture in the region between the skin and the cast, as well as in some cases reducing the risk of infection. As discussed in more detail below, the orthopedic device can include a sleeve that can be mounted onto a body part, e.g., a broken limb, between the skin and a surgical cast. The sleeve is sufficiently flexible so as to substantially conform to the contour of the body part. The sleeve includes a plurality of internal channels for receiving a gas from an external source, e.g., a canister of pressurized gas, and for delivering at least a portion of the received gas via a plurality of openings onto the skin below the cast. The sleeve can include a two opposed layers between which the internal channels are formed.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system includes bone fastener assemblies to be coupled to vertebrae. Each bone fastener assembly includes a bone fastener and a collar. The bone fastener has a head portion having at least a first cross-sectional shape in a first plane, and a second cross-sectional shape in a second plane. The collar has a circular opening in the bottom, with a relief extending from the circular opening. The second cross-sectional shape of the bone fastener is keyed to the opening to permit insertion of the bone fastener into the collar assembly from the bottom. After insertion, the bone fastener is rotated to prohibit removal of the bone fastener from the collar. The collar can then be rotated and/or angulated relative to the bone fastener. An elongated member can be positioned in the collar and a closure member is then used to secure the elongated member to the collar.

Abstract: A tissue approximation device and method, particularly in the mid-face region, are provided. The device is an implantable, biodegradable construct that has attachment points emanating from a supportive backing. The device also has an extension member or leash which extends from the backing which is configured to receive a tissue or bone attachment device at one of a plurality of selectable locations along the elongated member, for example via engagement holes extending in a line away from the backing. Once tissue is engaged with the attachment points, the extension member is pulled until the tissue is approximated in the desired position. Then the appropriate extension member hole(s) are selected to attach the extension member to supportive tissue or bone (for example temporal fascia) for permanent tissue approximation.

Abstract: A tissue approximation device and method, particularly in the mid-face region, are provided. The device is an implantable, biodegradable construct that has attachment points emanating from a supportive backing. The device also has an extension member or leash which extends from the backing which is configured to receive a tissue or bone attachment device at one of a plurality of selectable locations along the elongated member, for example via engagement holes extending in a line away from the backing. Once tissue is engaged with the attachment points, the extension member is pulled until the tissue is approximated in the desired position. Then the appropriate extension member hole(s) are selected to attach the extension member to supportive tissue or bone (for example temporal fascia) for permanent tissue approximation.