Abstract: A proning device includes a conformable structure that adapts to the shape of a subject, surrounded by a shell that imparts a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape to an exterior of the device to facilitate rotation of the subject within the device when the device is wrapped around the subject. A low-friction interface may also be provided to further facilitate rotation of the subject. The device advantageously reduces staffing needs for proning a subject while facilitating extended proning and periodic re-orientation of the subject. Also disclosed herein are methods for making and using such a proning device.

Abstract: Needle drivers and methods of the present disclosure are generally directed at intracorporeal suture tying using a winding technique. For example, a needle driver may include an elongate shaft having a magnet section between a proximal section and a distal section. A clamp coupled to the distal section may grasp a first end portion of a suture. A needle coupled to a second end portion of the suture may be magnetically secured to the magnet section, and the magnet section may then be rotated to form a loop in the suture. Forming a knot in the suture may include moving the loop over the first end portion of the suture grasped in the clamp. As compared to other intracorporeal suture tying techniques, intracorporeal knot tying carried out using the needle drivers and methods of the present disclosure may reduce the time and complexity associated with laparoscopic procedures.

Abstract: The fastener assemblies, systems, and methods of the present disclosure are generally directed to a first T-fastener and a second T-fastener securable to one another through the use of a suture extending therebetween and deliverable to an anatomical location using a minimally invasive technique. For example, a cannula of a needle assembly may be percutaneously deliverable to a treatment site and, through actuation of a hub of the needle assembly, the first T-fastener and the second T-fastener may be deliverable relative to biological tissue to be fastened at the treatment site. The suture may intracorporeally fasten the first T-fastener and the second T-fastener relative to one another for robust securement biological tissue therebetween. As compared to securement using external fixation, the fastener assemblies, systems, and methods of the present disclosure may facilitate intracorporeally fastening tissue while reducing or eliminating certain requirements associated with postoperative care.

Abstract: Laminar translucent artwork is displayed by back-lighting it substantially uniformly for viewing by transmitted light, bordering it with an opaque border, and decoratively framing it along the outside edge, and preferably also along the inside edge, of the border. Preferred display apparatus includes a shallow light-box containing a light source and flanged to provide the border, a light-diffusion sheet overlying the light-box and underlying the artwork, a transparent cover sheet for the artwork, overlain by the border(s).