Abstract: A method and apparatus for retaining a catheter tip in a fixed position within a blood flow and preventing it from contacting a blood vessel wall. The apparatus includes a tip retainer at the distal end of the catheter that anchors the tip of the catheter within the blood vessel. The catheter tip is retained within the blood vessel spaced from the wall to ensure that it does not contact the wall of the blood vessel. This reduces damage to the blood vessel caused by chronic movement and contact between the catheter tip and the wall of the blood vessel. In one embodiment, the tip retainer includes a prong that penetrates the wall of the blood vessel, thus preventing the catheter tip from moving longitudinally within the blood vessel. In alternative embodiments, the tip retainer contacts the wall but does not penetrate the wall.

Abstract: A drainage catheter is adapted to drain fluid from the body cavity through a body conduit and includes an elongate tube having a distal end and a retention member disposed at the distal end and adapted for movement between the low-profile state facilitating insertion of the catheter and a high-profile state facilitating the tension of the catheter in its operative position. A woven mesh forms at least a portion of one of the tube and the retention member, and can be made permeable or impermeable in various regions of the catheter. The woven mesh can be formed of filaments heat-settable so that the catheter automatically moves to the high-profile state. Insertion of the catheter can be facilitated using an obturator and a guidewire in an associated method, an obturator facilitating insertion of the catheter can be removed to permit the catheter to automatically return to a normal, high-profile state.

Abstract: A closed loop infusion system controls the rate that fluid is infused into the body of a user. The closed loop infusion system includes a sensor system, a controller, and a delivery system. The sensor system includes a sensor for monitoring a condition of the user. The sensor produces a sensor signal, which is representative of the condition of the user. The sensor signal is used to generate a controller input. The controller uses the controller input to generate commands to operate the delivery system. The delivery system infuses a liquid into the user at a rate dictated by the commands from the controller. Preferably, the sensor system monitors the glucose concentration in the body of the user, and the liquid infused by the delivery system into the body of the user includes insulin. The sensor system uses the sensor signal to generate a message that is sent to the delivery system. The message includes the information used to generate the controller input.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically controlling the quantitative delivery of, and then recording the occurrence of the administration of medicines to animals is disclosed and claimed. An intelligent syringe receives and automatically implements an instruction relating to a preferred quantity of medicine to be delivered to a specific animal, based on the measured weight of the animal. Upon actuation of the intelligent syringe, a first signal containing information relating to the actuation of the intelligent syringe, and the resulting injection of the animal is transmitted to a data repository. An EID is attached to the animal to provide a tamper-resistant electronic identification of the animal, and a receiver is utilized for receiving the first signal from the intelligent syringe and the electronic identification of the animal. Thereafter, a computer database maintains the information contained in the first signal for selective access and analysis.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an improved spinal needle. A needle hub is disposed about a proximate end of a hollow needle. The needle hub side port indicators provide visual and tactual verification by a user of the orientation of the side port on the needle. The needle hub also includes a window with a magnified view. The invention provides a stylet cap disposed about a proximate end of a stylet that freely slides inside the hollow needle and needle hub. The stylet cap forms a pressure fit with the needle hub, and can be engaged in the pressure fit from any axial orientation.

Abstract: An adapter is provided that allows a single introducer needle assembly having a male luer portion at its distal end to be used with a device having a female luer portion at its proximal end, such as a catheter, and a device without such a female luer portion, such as a catheter introducer.

Abstract: A guidewire handle having a first substantially cylindrical portion and a second substantially cylindrical portion. The guidewire handle has a first aperture to receive a guidewire. A second aperture is located in the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion. The second aperture is configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough.

Abstract: The invention provides a medical device having first and second elongate tubular members. Each member comprises a manometer at a distal end and a lumen communicating with a port at the distal end. An expandable occlusive member is optionally mounted on either or both tubular members proximal to the distal port. A proximal end of each tubular member is adapted for attachment to an oxygenator and/or a pump for aspirating blood from an artery or a symptomatic carotid artery through the first tubular member and perfusing the blood into the contralateral carotid artery through the second tubular member, thereby providing a means of augmenting the collateral vasculature and maintaining perfusion distal to the offending lesion. The flow rate of blood can be controlled by inflating or deflating the balloon occluder. The device may employ a neuroprotective agent, hypothermic perfusion, and an atherectomy device or an extracorporeal pumping mechanism to remove a vascular occlusion and reestablish cerebral perfusion.

Abstract: A hypodermic syringe with a selectively retractable includes an barrel having an proximal end and a distal end that defines a receiver with a shoulder. The barrel has a hollow bore therethrough and the receiver includes a plurality of inwardly projecting cams distal to the shoulder. There is an elongate plunger with a proximal end and a distal end sized to fit slidably within the bore of the barrel to define a chamber. There is a hub with a flange and a stem that has a passageway therethrough extending distally into the receiver. The stem has distal recesses disposed to engage the projecting cams so that the hub is retained with the distal end of the stem in the receiver. The syringe includes a needle mounted in the passageway in the hub with the distal point projecting distally and the fluid path communicates with the chamber. There is a clip about the elongate plunger initially allowing movement of the plunger for drawing and expelling fluid.

Abstract: A multiple-dose syringe including a barrel with a closed end and an open end, the closed end having an injection port adapted to receive a needle. A plunger is slidably disposed through the open end of the barrel. A container is connected to an end of the plunger to move with the plunger. The container has a deformable shell with an opening at a forward end thereof and a predetermined quantity of fluid sealed therein by a closure member disposed over the opening. The container is slidably disposed in the barrel and includes a seal proximal to the forward end to form a first cavity in the barrel with a volume that is adjustable by moving the container in the barrel with the plunger so that fluid can be selectively drawn into and expelled from the first cavity. After at least a substantial portion of the fluid is expelled from the first cavity, the shell is configured to be collapsed by further pressure applied by the plunger to expel the predetermined quantity of fluid contained therein.

Abstract: A heart muscle irrigation device comprises a short rivet like member with one closed and one open end, and a barrel including a plurality of holes, slots, an area mesh, or a grid. The irrigation device is inserted into the heart muscle so as to provide a channel from, for example, the left ventricle, to provide ad adequate oxygenated blood supply to a starved muscle. The irrigation device is inserted from either outside or inside the rib cage by an insertion device. The insertion device comprises a plunger and barrel assembly adapted to contain the irrigation device. The tip of the insertion device includes members adapted to penetrate the heart muscle. If the irrigation device is inserted through an insertion into the rib cage, an applicator comprising a tubular member with a planar tip including a soft elastomeric seal can be used whereby a portion of the heart muscle is held more or less rigidly for the short period during which the irrigation device is inserted.

Abstract: A needle protection device for a hypodermic syringe in which the syringe includes a container, a plunger which can be reciprocated in the container by a rod, and needle secured to the container, comprises a tubular member and a membrane. The tubular member has an open end that snugly fits over the container and a length that is greater than the length of the needle. The membrane seals the free end of the tubular member to protect the health care professional from injury. The membrane is positioned within the tubular member at a location spaced from the end surface of the tubular member.

Abstract: A device for the transport of fluids through a biological barrier includes a number of microneedles projecting from the front face of a substrate. A conduit is associated with each of the microneedles to provide a fluid flow path for transport of fluid through a hole in the biological barrier formed by the corresponding microneedle. Each of the microneedles is configured to provide a penetrating tip, and each conduit terminates at an opening which is proximal with respect to the microneedle tip. Also described are microneedle-based devices with integrated MEMS pumping configurations for withdrawal and/or delivery of fluids, and remote healthcare systems based on such devices.

Abstract: The invention concerns a disposable device (1) for transferring an active liquid into a body cavity (2), having sufficient intrinsic consistency for being inserted by being thrust into said cavity, said device comprising: a central element (3), at the source of at least part of the active liquid, a peripheral element (4) arranged around the central element, comprising a pad (5) arranged to collect and absorb the active liquid delivered into the body cavity, by expanding and thereby being urged to press sealingly against the mucous membrane of the body cavity (2). The central element (3) comprises a substrate relatively solid at room temperature outside the body cavity, and turning relatively liquid inside the body cavity, such that therein, said central element is liquefied at least partly to generate at least part of the active liquid.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a vapor permeable backsheet, a liquid permeable topsheet positioned in facing relation with the backsheet; and an absorbent body located between the backsheet and the topsheet. The absorbent body may include multiple zones of high air permeability or may include materials which provide improved air exchange after being wetted. The absorbent article may also include a ventilation layer between the absorbent body and the backsheet and a surge management layer between the absorbent body and the topsheet. The article exhibits improved air exchange within the article during use. As a result, the article exhibits substantially reduced levels of hydration of the wearer's skin when in use which renders the skin less susceptible to the viability of microorganisms.

Abstract: A sanitary undergarment which is usable with an absorbent pad having lateral extension wings thereon. The undergarment having a first and a second crotch portion between which the lateral extension wings can be inserted and held in a secure manner by adhesive. The undergarment can be boxer shorts or a panty.

Abstract: A fluid transfer and mixing device for use in the aseptic intermixing of a powder component with a fluid component. The device is of a simple, compact construction that includes a first adapter that can be easily connected to a container containing the powder component and a second adapter that can be removably interconnected with the first adapter and can also be readily connected to a container containing a fluid such as a diluent so as to permit aseptic intermixing of the diluent with the powder. In use a conventional needleless syringe can be easily connected to the first adapter so that the mixture of the powder and diluent can be aseptically aspirated from the first container for subsequent delivery to the patient.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for removing a thrombus deposit from the cardiovascular system of a patient without the need to surgically access the location of the thrombus deposit via a cut-down or other surgical procedure. A catheter is inserted percutaneously into the patient at a convenient location either directly or over a previously positioned guide wire. The distal end of the catheter is advanced under fluoroscopy to the site of the thrombus deposit. A balloon is inflated to stabilize the position of the distal end of the catheter within the center of the vessel lumen. A flexible metal tube conveys an extremely high pressure stream of sterile saline solution to at least one jet at the distal end of the catheter. At least one jet positions the thrombus deposit for emulsification by at least one other jet. By directing the jets toward the orifice of the large evacuation lumen of the catheter, a stagnation pressure is induced which propels the emulsion proximally for disposal.

Abstract: A catheter according to the present invention includes a multiple lumen catheter for delivery of a liquid embolic composition through a first lumen and delivery of a solidification agent through a second lumen. The catheter allows adjustment of the relative longitudinal position of the two lumens to control the solidification of the embolic composition within a blood vessel. The multiple lumen catheter system is used by inserting the catheter endovascularly into an aneurysm site and injecting a liquid embolic composition through the first lumen while injecting a solidification agent through the second lumen to wash the area of the aneurysm of blood which has become saturated with solvent, while replacing it with a fresh solidification agent.

Abstract: A catheter having an elongate body including a central lumen adapted to slidably receive a therapeutic catheter. The catheter includes a soft tip adapted to lodge in the ostium of the right coronary artery. The elongate body is formed near the distal end to impinge against the wall of the aorta opposite the ostium of the coronary artery.

Abstract: The present invention is a male catheter securing device for use on male patients having a catheter inserted within their penis. The device is comprised of a cylindrical sleeve portion comprised of strands of non-elastic resilient material. Each end of the cylindrical sleeve portion has attachment means, which anchor the device so as cause elongation and therefore, constriction of the strands when transverse force is applied to the device.

Abstract: A urinary incontinence device for alleviating female urinary incontinence is disclosed. The device includes a resilient member and a non-absorbent positioned adjacent to the resilient member. The non-absorbent is constructed from a fibrous material. The resilient member and the non-absorbent are rolled into a softwind having a first end, a second end, a first end diameter and a second end diameter. The resilient member is located adjacent to the second end of the softwind such that the second end diameter is larger than the first end diameter. The softwind is radially compressed into a pledget having an initial diameter, an insertion end, a trailing end and a uniform cross-sectional area therebetween. The insertion end is capable of expanding radially outward about 1.2 to about 10 times the initial diameter and the resilient member is capable of providing a supportive backdrop for a woman's urethra when inserted into a woman's vagina.

Abstract: A holding apparatus is provided for a trocar sleeve suitable for fixing the trocar sleeve in different positions relative to the patient. The holding apparatus comprises a base member fixedly positionable with respect to the patient and a retainer for the trocar sleeve. The retainer is connected to be tiltable with respect to the base member by a flexible connecting member. According to the invention, the connecting member has a first flexible operational state and a second rigid operational state and the connecting member can be switched between the first flexible and the second rigid operational state.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for processing biological tissue and other materials which involves providing or distributing a substance containing abrasive particles to an area in front of at least a portion of a surface of the material and irradiating both the substance and the portion of the surface with light from a selected source, the light being selected and delivered in a manner such that selective ablation is caused on the substance sufficient to force the abrasive particles under a selected pulse against the portion of the surface. Ablation may be of the particles themselves or the particles may be contained within a shell, with ablation being of the shell. The substance is preferably delivered as a series of distribution pulses with the light being delivered either continuously or as light pulses having a predetermined relationship to the distribution pulses.

Abstract: A laser surgery system having a computer control system coupled to a laser subsystem and a patient seat. The control system is coupled to the laser through a laser alignment system. The control system can be coupled to the patient seat through a patient alignment system. The control system sends a nominal position signal to move the patient seat, laser subsystem, or both so that the patient's first eye is moved into substantial alignment with the laser beam axis. The control system can send a second nominal signal to move the patient's second eye into substantial alignment with the laser beam axis. The control system can optionally comprise both an operator display and an assistant display. The assistant display provides real-time information to an assistant positioned at an assistant station adjacent the patient seat. The control system can be programmed to display edit fields with different colors to provide an obvious indication of the refractive information of the eye.

Abstract: A dental or surgical handpiece which operates on the basis of laser includes a light guide for the laser which, in order to ensure the relative rotation between supply hose and handpiece, is arranged concentrically in the coupling between the supply hose and the handpiece. The light guide of the supply hose extends in one piece into the handpiece and, starting from the coupling with the supply hose, the light guide is displaced increasingly eccentrically toward the inner side of the bend of the angle piece, and the end of the light guide is rotatably mounted in a receiving unit of the handpiece.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hand held cardiac ablation instrument and methods for irradiating a target ablation site. The instrument can include at least one light transmitting optical fiber and a light diffusing element to create a circumferential or curvilinear lesion. A handle is provided for manual application. The handle can be substantially coaxial or otherwise aligned with the center of the circumferential housing. Light travelling through the light transmitting optical fiber or fibers is scattered in a circular pattern by the light diffusing element. The light diffusing element can include a scattering medium, a reflective end cap, and a reflective surface diametrically opposed to the target ablation site, that interact to provide a substantially uniform distribution of laser radiation throughout the circular target region.

Abstract: A surgical method for increasing the size of a tissue weld in clamped tissue is disclosed. The method includes providing an end effector for an ultrasonic surgical instrument. The end effector includes an ultrasonic blade having a proximal and a distal end and a clamping mechanism having a clamping surface positioned opposite the ultrasonic blade. The clamping mechanism is adapted to clamp tissue against a side of the ultrasonic blade. A first and a second support surface are positioned laterally on two sides of the ultrasonic blade. Both support surfaces are ultrasonically isolated from the blade and positioned opposite at least a portion of the clamping surface. The method includes actuating the clamping mechanism to clamp tissue between the clamping surface and the ultrasonic blade and between the clamping surface and the first and second tissue support surfaces to define a substantially continuous pressure region.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the detachment of an embolic material using a single power supply are disclosed, wherein the determination is made by applying a DC power to an assembly with an embolic material, a sacrificial link and a guiding wire which are serially connected and repeatedly measuring a voltage and current between the assembly and the ground for a plurality of cycles and a plurality of times in each cycle; computing an average of the measured voltages and an average of measured currents; and determining the detachment of the embolic material from the guiding wire based on a change in impedance between the guiding wire and the ground, wherein the change is detected using the present average of the measured voltages, the present average of the measured currents and a previous average voltage which is previously measured for a plurality of times.

Abstract: A plurality of electrodes are positioned at the distal end of a catheter such that the electrodes may be positioned proximal biological tissue. A select number of the electrodes have a temperature sensing device associated with them for providing a temperature signal indicative of the temperature at the interface between the electrode and the tissue. A generator operates under the control of a processor to apply power to each of the electrodes. The power has an associated phase angle and, within a time duration, a plurality of alternating on periods and off periods, one set of adjacent on and off periods defining a duty cycle. The processor is programmed to determine the temperature at the electrode/tissue interface based on the temperature signals, compare the temperature to a target temperature and to adjust the power to the electrode accordingly.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator to which the active and return electrodes (18, 20) of an electrosurgical instrument (12) are connected. In use the electrodes are immersed in electrically-conductive fluid to complete a conduction path between them. The electrodes (18, 20) are located on a shaft (16) of the instrument which extends from a handle (14). The shaft is covered in a translucent flexible sheath (50) comprising a tube (60) having a large proximal opening (62) to enable insertion of the instrument within the sheath, and a narrower distal opening (64) through which the distal end of the instrument shaft projects, thereby to expose the active electrode (18) to the electrically-conductive fluid.

Abstract: An instrument for surgical purposes, especially for coagulation, is proposed. This instrument has at least one arm, the tips of the arms having electrical contact regions which can be electrically connected to a control unit for touching a tissue for the purpose of coagulation. The contact regions are formed from doped diamond to produce the electrical conductivity.

Abstract: The invention provides improved devices, methods, and systems for shrinking of collagenated tissues, particularly for treating urinary incontinence in a noninvasive manner by directing energy to a patient's own support tissues. This energy heats fascia and other collagenated support tissues, causing them to contract. The energy can be applied intermittently, often between a pair of large plate electrodes having cooled flat electrode surfaces, the electrodes optionally being supported by a clamp structure. Such cooled plate electrodes are capable of directing electrical energy through an intermediate tissue and into fascia while the cooled electrode surface prevents injury to the intermediate tissue, particularly where the electrode surfaces are cooled before, during, and after an intermittent heating cycle. Ideally, the plate electrode comprises an electrode array including discrete electrode surface segments so that the current flux can be varied to selectively target the fascia.

Abstract: A suction assisted ablation device having a support surface, suction elements disposed adjacent the support surface, at least one electrode and at least one suction conduit is provided. The device may further include fluid openings, which allow fluid to irrigate target tissue and aid in ablation. A method for ablating tissue using suction is also provided.

Abstract: An inert gas enhanced electrosurgical apparatus is disclosed including a housing having at least one ridge formed therein. An electrode assembly has at least a portion thereof disposed within the housing. A support member has at least a portion thereof disposed within the housing and about at least a portion of the electrode assembly. The ridges of the housing are engageable with the support member such that a seal is formed therebetween. The housing can include a first opening adjacent a distal portion of the housing and a second opening adjacent a proximal portion of the housing. Ribs may be formed on an inner surface of the housing. An electrical spring contact may be disposed within the housing and configured to cooperate with the ribs to facilitate electrical communication with the electrode assembly. Wedge projections may be disposed on an outer surface of the housing.

Abstract: In order to improve the cutting properties of surgical bipolar scissors with two scissor blades pivotable relative to each other, the first of which consists of an electrically conductive material and the second of an electrically insulating material on the side thereof facing the first scissor blade, but of an electrically conductive material on the side facing away from the first scissor blade, it is proposed that the second scissor blade comprise a ceramic shaped body in the form of a complete scissor blade which extends beyond a bearing point of the two scissor blades, that a metallic support blade which similarly extends beyond the bearing point rest against the outer side of the shaped body over the surface thereof, and that the shaped body and the support blade be permanently connected to each other at their contact surface.

Abstract: The invention provides a medical device that includes a housing, a tubular member extending from the distal end of the housing, a first arm extending from the distal end of the tubular member, the first arm including a first electrode, a second arm extending from the distal end of the tubular member, the second arm including a second electrode and being disposed coaxially with the first arm, at least one solution infusion opening on each electrode, and a solution delivery channel for delivery of a conductive solution to the solution infusion openings. According to the invention, at least one of the first arm or the second arm is translationally moveable, and at least one of the first arm or the second arm is adapted to be coupled to a source of radiofrequency energy. The invention also provides a corresponding method for treating blood vessels or other tissues of the body.

Abstract: Axial spinal implants for fusing and/or stabilizing spinal vertebrae and methods and apparatus for implanting on or more such spinal implants axially within one or more axial bore within vertebral bodies in alignment with a visualized, trans-sacral axial instrumentation/fusion (TASIF) line in a minimally invasive, low trauma manner. Attachment mechanisms are provided that affix or force the preformed axial spinal implants to or against the vertebral bone along the full length of a TASIF axial bore or bores or pilot holes or at the cephalad end and/or caudal end of the TASIF axial bore or bores or pilot holes. The engagement of the vertebral body is either an active engagement upon implantation of the spinal implant into the TASIF bore or a passive engagement of the external surface configuration with the vertebral bone caused by bone growth about the external surface configuration.

Abstract: A porous metal intervertebral spacer having at least one angled through hole extending from the side of the implant to a surface which interfaces with a vertebral body end plate such that an interference screw may be driven through the implant and into the bone, thereby securing the implant from undesired motion. In particular, the through holes are tapered to receive a screw and coupling element therethrough such that once fully seated, the screw is locked to the implant by virtue of a coupling element-through hole mutually tapered nesting. The head of the screw is round, as is the interior of the coupling element, thereby allowing the screw to be inserted at various angles relative to the hole without interfering with the proper seating of the coupling element in the through hole.

Abstract: With the invention a intramedullary nail preferably for the humerus is shown which comprises a securing head for a hammering-in and aiming device, with the intramedullary nail having at least one transverse bore (2) adjoining at the securing head (1), and which comprises an entry tip in the vicinity of which anchoring elements can be extended radially. The anchoring elements are combined in a claw (5) of curved wires (6), with the wires being elastically deformed inside the intramedullary nail in a not outwardly moved state and springing out radially with an axial forwarding of the claw and assuming their original curved shape.

Abstract: A system for endosteal tibial ligament fixation with adjustable tensioning is disclosed. A grasping hook located on a shaft is used to draw a ligament graft into a contoured drill hole formed in a bone. A series of slanted ridges on the shaft can pass in only one direction through a securing push nut residing in the contoured drill hole, resulting in an interference fit that secures the attachment system, while allowing the tension of the ligament graft to be adjusted.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for forming one or more trans-sacral axial instrumentation/fusion (TASIF) axial bore through vertebral bodies in general alignment with a visualized, anterior or posterior axial instrumentation/fusion line (AAIFL or PAIFL) in a minimally invasive, low trauma, manner and providing a therapy to the spine employing the axial bore. Anterior or posterior starting positions aligned with the AAIFL or PAIFL are accessed through respective anterior and posterior tracts. Curved or relatively straight anterior and curved posterior TASIF axial bores are formed from the anterior and posterior starting positions. The therapies performed through the TASIF axial bores include discoscopy, full and partial discectomy, vertebroplasty, balloon-assisted vertebroplasty, drug delivery, electrical stimulation and various forms of spinal disc cavity augmentation, spinal disc replacement, fusion of spinal motion segments and implantation of radioactive seeds.

Abstract: Femoral resection tools of the present invention include a posterior condyle alignment guide, an IM rod with an adjustable valgus bushing assembly, left and right external rotation plates, an anterior sizing boom having a stylus and a pair of medial/lateral drill guide assemblies (in one embodiment of the invention the drill guide assemblies are the combination of medial/lateral extension arms and attached (detachable) proximal positioning fixtures; in another embodiment, the proximal positioning fixtures are not part of the drill guide assembly per se), a plurality of self-tapping screws, proximal positioning fixtures (apart from any positioning fixtures that may be integrated into a drill guide assembly), and different size cutting guide blocks, each adapted to fit over the proximal positioning fixtures. Methods for utilizing the aforementioned tools so that five resections can be performed are also described.

Abstract: A device and method for distracting a temporomandibular joint and/or repositioning a dislocated disc in a patient. The device comprises upper and lower elongated members that are releasably coupled together by an arrangement that allows pivoting and sliding relative movement. Each member includes a handle at one end and an opposite distal tip configured for engaging teeth of the upper and lower jaws. The lower member includes a clamp for adjustably securing the patient's mandible to the lower member. The device may also include an auxiliary, height adjustable fulcrum located forwardly of the coupling between the members. The auxiliary fulcrum permits the operator to obtain a more advantageous lever, which is useful for freeing a locked jaw in a patient suffering from intra-articular adhesions. The distal tips and/or receptacles mounted on the distal tips may be detachable from a base portion of the device to enhance adaptability of the device to different size patients and anatomies.

Abstract: A surgical inserter is provided which includes (a) a head portion formed with a ring acceptor for accepting a ring of the surgical screw; and (b) a neck portion connected to, or integrally formed with, the head portion. The neck portion is formed with two longitudinal grooves for engaging a folded band of connective tissue therein.

Abstract: A surgical cast cutter for removing orthopedic bandages of a hard casting material type comprises a first shank (2a), cutting portion (2b), and second shank (2c); a first housing (1) having a built-in rotating device which rotates the cutting tool; a tool holding device which rotatably holds the cutting tool (2); a second housing (15) which receives the cutting tool (2) and having an integrated horseshoe-shaped protrusion which is inserted between the hard cover and affected area as a guide such that the hard cover may be easily cut; and a hood (50) which is coupled to the second housing (15) and movable in the up and down direction. The hood also serves as a collecting device for collecting dusts and debris formed from the removal of the cast. A method is also disclosed for applying the cast on an affected area such that it may be easily removed by the cast cutter.

Abstract: A device for deforming and ejecting a deformable intraocular lens for insertion into a small incision in an eye, the device comprising a) a housing, b) a lens transporting duct in a front part of the housing defining a duct axis, the duct having a front end with a cross-section adapted to the lens in deformed state with small maximum dimensions transversal to the duct axis, a rear lens-receiving end with a cross-section adapted for the lens in un-deformed state, or less deformed state, than at the front end, with larger maximum dimensions lateral to the duct axis than at the front end and an intermediate convergent duct part between the front and rear ends with a varying cross-section shape, having decreasing maximum dimensions lateral to the duct axis when moving from rear to front in the duct and c) a plunger operative to displace the lens in the duct at least in the forward direction.

Abstract: The device is to keep a collapsible/restorable elastic artificial blood vessel 1 in a collapsed condition, to transport the artificial blood vessel 1 to a target position and subsequently to restore the artificial blood vessel 1 into a predetermined shape by releasing it from the collapsed condition. The device comprises wrapping members 51, 52 which are generally flat when spread and wires 53, 54 which hold each of the wrapping members 51, 52 in a condition of being rolled, wherein each of a body portion 2 and a branch portion 3 of the artificial blood vessel 1 is contained inside the wrapping members 51, 52 held by the wires 53, 54 in a collapsed condition and the wires 53, 54 are separated from the wrapping members 51, 52 at the target position to spread the wrapping members 51, 52 so as to release the artificial blood vessel 1.

Abstract: A device for removing calculi by using an intracorporeal lithotripter comprises a single metallic probe or sonotrode which for the fragmentation of calculi is connected with an electrically controlled ultrasonic transducer for generating longitudinal oscillations which alternatively may be switched to the generation of shock or pressure waves by either a pulse wave stimulated oscillation of the metallic probe or sonotrode or by a reversibly driven impact member or projectile which is accommodated by the hollow of a backward tubular extension of the sonotrode.

Abstract: A deplitory device for the removal of unwanted hair. The deplitory device includes a heatable tweezer having an upper portion containing wax that is dispensable onto a user's hair, allowing the user to utilize the tweezer to remove the cured wax thereby removing the hair from its follicle.