Abstract: A system and method for cutting soft tissue with a retractable surgical cutting device (10). The device (10) includes a handle (12) having a first channel (24) extending therethrough and a switch (18) located thereon. The switch (18) is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. An actuator (26) with a blade (16) extends through the first channel (24) and connects to the switch (18) within the handle (12). An outer sheath (14) is connected to the handle (12) and surrounds the actuator (26) and at least a portion of the blade (16). A drive mechanism (28) is connected to the switch (18) within the handle (12) such that when the switch (18) moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the actuator (26) moves from a retracted position to an extended position. In the retracted position, the blade (16) can be entirely within the outer sheath (14) and in the extended position, at least a portion of the blade (16) is positioned outside of the outer sheath (14).

Abstract: A system and method for cutting soft tissue with a retractable surgical cutting device (10). The device (10) includes a handle (12) having a first channel (24) extending therethrough and a switch (18) located thereon. The switch (18) is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. An actuator (26) with a blade (16) extends through the first channel (24) and connects to the switch (18) within the handle (12). An outer sheath (14) is connected to the handle (12) and surrounds the actuator (26) and at least a portion of the blade (16). A drive mechanism (28) is connected to the switch (18) within the handle (12) such that when the switch (18) moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the actuator (26) moves from a retracted position to an extended position. In the retracted position, the blade (16) can be entirely within the outer sheath (14) and in the extended position, at least a portion of the blade (16) is positioned outside of the outer sheath (14).

Abstract: A bioabsorbable soft tissue anchor system comprising a cannulated soft tissue anchor for being turned through soft tissue, and a driver for driving the anchor and method for attaching soft tissue at a selected site of implantation. The soft tissue anchor is an elongated unitary body having a threaded distal section, a non-threaded proximal section, a transverse proximal head and a non-circular axial throughbore. The threaded section has a cancellous-type thread which has a uniform minor diameter, a large pitch and a large major diameter, the distal end of the thread being tapered toward the distal end of the anchor. The proximal end of the threaded section abuts the non-threaded section which is tapered and extends proximally to the transverse head. The anchor is used with a driver having a driving shaft with a pointed tip and a cross-section adapted to engage the anchor's axial throughbore.

Abstract: Improved ligament anchor structures and methods for affixing graft ligaments to bone are provided. The ligament anchor assembly includes a sleeve having gripping means for being firmly secured within a bone tunnel and a bore extending therethrough. The graft ligament is secured to an insert sized to pass through the bore in the sleeve. The bore in the sleeve and the external surface of the insert have cooperating asymmetrical teeth formed thereon so that the insert can pass through the sleeve in only one direction. The sleeve is first placed in a bone tunnel and the opposite end of the ligament secured in the corresponding bone, followed by final adjustment of the ligament tension without disturbing the anchors of either end of the graft ligament.

Abstract: A security system is described for securing a small child to an adult. The system is useful when taking children to public places (e.g., shopping centers, amusement parks, etc.). Use of the system enables the parent to function in a normal manner without holding onto the child or carrying the child. Freedom of movement of the child, within a defined area, is also preserved. The security system comprises a strap having a loop on one end which can be placed around the wrist of the child. The loop is adapted to maintain a fixed diameter regardless of pulling force exerted by the child or parent. The other end of the strap is adapted to be attached to the parent.

Abstract: A security system is described for securing a small child to an adult. The system is useful when taking children to public places (e.g., shopping centers, amusement parks, etc.). Use of the system enables the parent to function in a normal manner without holding onto the child or carrying the child. Freedom of movement of the child, within a defined area, is also preserved. The security system comprises a strap having a loop on one end which can be placed around the wrist of the child. The loop is adapted to maintain a fixed diameter regardless of pulling force exerted by the child or parent. The other end of the strap is adapted to be attached to the parent.