Abstract: A face mask is disclosed that comprises a body including a material exhibiting a refractive index between 1.2 and 1.7, at least one strap for securing the face mask to a head of a wearer, and an element located and configured to enable adjustment of a pressure between the face mask and a wearer's face. A method of producing a face mask is also disclosed, as is a face mask including a sealant disposed on an inner surface of the face mask. A face mask comprising a polymeric material is also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device designed for use by spectators at athletic events wherein a spectator may signal his agreement or disagreement with an official's call by releasing a flag into the air, which flag is tethered to the user's wrist or clothing and therefore retrievable.

Abstract: A spinal fixation access system includes a pedicle screw with extended tabs that form a single solid pedicle screw assembly. The surgical procedure associated with this invention involves making small, discrete incisions for the placement of select pedicle screws. The extended tabs of the pedicle screws retract soft tissue, muscle and the like to thereby provide visibility and access to the head of the pedicle screw. Through the extended tabs, instrumentation such as a spine rod, set screw and other required hardware may be delivered to the pedicle screws. A collar may be coupled around the extended tabs to provide stability to the construct and a platform for additional components of this invention. Once a spine rod is secured to the pedicle screws, a frangible joint joining the tabs to the pedicle screw assembly is broken off using appropriate instrumentation and the extended tabs may be removed.

Abstract: A spinal fixation access system includes a pedicle screw with extended tabs that form a single solid pedicle screw assembly. The surgical procedure associated with this invention involves making small, discrete incisions for the placement of select pedicle screws. The extended tabs of the pedicle screws retract soft tissue, muscle and the like to thereby provide visibility and access to the head of the pedicle screw. Through the extended tabs, instrumentation such as a spine rod, set screw and other required hardware may be delivered to the pedicle screws. A collar may be coupled around the extended tabs to provide stability to the construct and a platform for additional components of this invention. Once a spine rod is secured to the pedicle screws, a frangible joint joining the tabs to the pedicle screw assembly is broken off using appropriate instrumentation and the extended tabs may be removed.

Abstract: An orthopaedic instrument for comparing post-surgical joint geometry to pre-surgical joint geometry. The instrument has a head chuck which can be secured to the ball of a ball joint, and an arm having reference indicia thereon. Markings indicative of the pre-surgical joint geometry are made on the bone with reference to the center of the ball. After replacement with a prosthetic ball, the post-operative geometry is verified by securing the head chuck to the prosthetic ball, and comparing the location of the bone markings against the reference indicia on the arm. As needed, adjustments are made in the prosthetic components.