Abstract: A prosthesis for the replacement of the cartilaginous structures of a spine motion segment is described. The prosthesis comprises an intervertebral disc prosthesis in combination with a facet joint prosthesis.

Abstract: A filament retaining washer for mounting about the shank of a bone screw deployed in a bone whereby to retain the filament to the bone, the filament retaining washer comprising a structure having a screw hole extending therethrough for receiving therein the shank of the bone screw deployed in the bone, whereby to secure the structure to the bone, the screw hole defining a first axis, and the structure having a filament hole extending therethrough for receiving a filament therein so as to retain the filament to the structure, the filament hole defining a second axis extending substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

Abstract: A filament retaining washer for mounting about the shank of a bone screw deployed in a bone whereby to retain the filament to the bone, the filament retaining washer comprising a structure having a screw hole extending therethrough for receiving therein the shank of the bone screw deployed in the bone, whereby to secure the structure to the bone, the screw hole defining a first axis, and the structure having a filament hole extending therethrough for receiving a filament therein so as to retain the filament to the structure, the filament hole defining a second axis extending substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

Abstract: An individual custom orthodic device for application to a limb of a mammal includes an inner sleeve for disposition on the limb, reinforcing strands fixed to the sleeve, and an outer sleeve fixed to and disposed around the inner sleeve. The inner and outer sleeve define therebetween a space in which a curable resin is disposed. upon curing of the resin, the device is hardened and is conformed to the limb.

Abstract: A prosthetic replacement for a posterior element of a vertebra comprising portions that replace the natural lamina and the four natural facets. The prosthetic replacement may also include portions that replace one or more of the natural spinous process and the two natural transverse processes. If desired, the prosthesis replacement may also replace the natural pedicles. A method for replacing a posterior element of a vertebra is also provided.

Abstract: A prosthesis for the replacement of multiple diseased or traumatized spinal facets comprises a portion that replaces at least a bony portion of the facets to be replaced and where the prosthesis attaches to the vertebra in a manner that does not require attachment to, or abutment against, the lamina. Multiple configurations of the prosthesis provide for replacement of the two inferior facets, the two superior facets, a superior and inferior facet, or all four facets. A method of installing the prosthesis is provided that is comprised of the steps of resecting at least a portion of the facets that carry the diseased or traumatized spinal facets and attaching the prosthesis in a manner that does not require attachment or abutment against the lamina.

Abstract: A prosthesis for the replacement of a diseased or traumatized facet of a mammalian vertebra includes a surface that articulates with another prosthetic facet or a natural facet, a portion that replaces at least a bony portion of the diseased or traumatized spine facet which is to be replaced, and an element to attach the prosthesis to the vertebra in a manner that does not require attachment to or abutment against the posterior arch. A method of installing the prosthesis includes the steps of resecting at least a portion of a facet and attaching the prosthesis in a manner that does not require attachment or abutment against the posterior arch.

Abstract: An antistatic laminated fabric having conductive tie yarns and a non-woven scrim which is laminated between two conductive sheets of PVC film. In one embodiment, all yarns in the warp direction are of the same denier, and the yarns in the weft direction are likewise all of the same denier. In another embodiment, heavier yarns are laid in regular intervals in both fabric directions.

Abstract: A sound attenuator comprising concentric inner and outer tubular members having sound absorbing material positioned therebetween. The inner tubular member comprises a lattice of reinforcing strand material coated with solidified resin wherein the strand material is formed in opposed generally helical patterns to provide the lattice. The attenuator is suitable for use in reducing noise produced by axial flow fans used in industrial environs such as mines and factories.

Abstract: A coupling for mine ventilation conduits comprising a first tubular conduit having a flared end portion for receiving an end portion of a second tubular conduit, at least one of the conduits having an elongate flexible strap attached thereto having a length sufficient to reach the other tubular conduit. A resilient compressible strip is placed between said first and second tubular conduits around the periphery of the end position of the second tubular conduit. The coupling also includes a device for tightening the flexible strap length and for holding the strap in a tightened position, the device being secured to one of said conduits and providing for tightening of said strap to draw said tubular conduits together to compress the resilient strip between the flared end portion of the first conduit and the end portion of the second conduit to thereby provide a substantially air tight seal between said conduits.