Abstract: Internal bone fixation devices and methods for using the devices for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. A device for use in repairing a fractured bone includes a delivery catheter having an elongated shaft with a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the delivery catheter has an inner void for passage of at least one reinforcing material and an inner lumen for passage of a light source; a conformable member releasably engaging the distal end of the delivery catheter, wherein the conformable member moves from a deflated state to an inflated state when the at least one reinforcing material is delivered to the conformable member; and an adapter releasably engaging the proximal end of the delivery catheter for receiving the light source and the at least one reinforcing material.

Abstract: An anterior cervical plating system having modular plate segments that are assembleable to vary the overall length of the plate, moveable to allow and/or cause intersegmental compression of vertebral bodies, and coupled together by a detachable fastener. The plating system includes locking elements for locking only one bone screw to the plate, instrumentation, and method for installation thereof. The plating system is capable of both passive and active dynamization and the ability to produce the former from the latter.

Abstract: A fracture fixation implant formed from a single piece of material bent in loop form to provide juxtaposed first and second legs joined by a bend. The first leg is dimensional and configured to be implanted within a bone to extend across a fracture in the bone, the second leg extending backwardly from the bend and having a length to extend on an outer surface of the bone across the fracture. The implant exits from the bone at the bend, such that application of a pulling force on the second leg produces compression across the fracture. The second leg is flat and is provided with a plurality of holes in which bone screws can be installed to secure the second leg directly to the bone and maintain the compression across the fracture. The implant avoids the use of washers.

Abstract: Instrumentation for implanting an artificial intervertebral disc includes static trials and a dynamic trial for determining the appropriate size of disc to be implanted, static trial holders for manipulating the static trials, inserter/impactors for inserting and removing the static trials and for inserting the artificial intervertebral discs, repositioners/extractors for repositioning and extracting the static trials or the artificial intervertebral discs, and a leveler for setting the proper position of the artificial intervertebral disc. Methods for using the same are also disclosed. Features for artificial intervertebral discs and intervertebral spacer devices useful for manipulation by the instrumentation are also disclosed.

Abstract: A spinal stabilization system may be formed in a patient. In some embodiments, a minimally invasive procedure may be used to form a spinal stabilization system in a patient. Bone fastener assemblies may be coupled to vertebrae. Each bone fastener assembly may include a bone fastener and a collar. Extenders may be coupled to the collar to allow for formation of the spinal stabilization system through a small skin incision. The extenders may allow for alignment of the collars to facilitate insertion of an elongated member in the collars. An elongated member may be positioned in the collars and a closure member may be used to secure the elongated member to the collars. An adjuster may be used in conjunction with the extenders to change a separation distance between the bone fastener assemblies.

Abstract: Instrumentation for implanting an artificial intervertebral disc includes a dynamic trial for distracting an intervertebral space and/or determining the appropriate size of disc to be implanted, which dynamic trial includes a shaft, at least two distal extensions coupled to the shaft, a bifurcated trial having a first trial half of the bifurcated trial coupled to a first of the extensions and having a second trial half of the bifurcated trial coupled to a second of the extensions, and a pin located between the extensions, wherein movement of the pin in a distal direction increases a separation between the extensions, and wherein varying the separation between the extensions varies a separation between the trial halves.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for reinforcing weakened or fractured bone are disclosed. An apparatus for delivering a bone reinforcing mixture to a bone includes a tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the tube has at least one inner lumen capable of allowing a bone reinforcing mixture to pass through, and a bone fitting portion having an opening for accepting the tube, an insertion portion for insertion into the bone, and at least one relief valve.

Abstract: Methods and devices for augmenting bone, such as in performing vertebroplasty are disclosed. A bone cement injection needle is provided, having a laterally deflectable distal end. Systems are also disclosed, including the steerable injection needle, introducer and stylet. The system may additionally include a cement delivery gun, one-time use disposable cement cartridges and a cement mixing chamber. Methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: An implant insertion device includes a handle, an insertion rod attached to the handle, and an implant gripper attached to the insertion rod. The implant gripper includes a gripping surface that has a movable pin and a fixed pin. The implant insertion device also includes a pin actuator so that the movable pin can be moved into place in an implant. A method of attaching an implant to an implant insertion device is disclosed, as well as a method of detaching an implant from an implant insertion device. Finally, a method of inserting an implant with an implant insertion device is provided.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for rapid placement of tubes within a body cavity that includes placing a compliant cannula over a probe tip of a cutting device until the probe tip extends beyond the cannula, incising the tissue covering body cavity to create an opening therein, inserting the probe tip of the cutting device until the cannula placed thereon extends into the incision, removing the probe tip while leaving the cannula inserted within the incision, introducing a distal end or tip of a tube into the cannula a predetermined distance, and removing the cannula over the tube while retaining the tube in position within the body cavity. The device includes a sealing portion which attaches to the body without sutures and having an opening therethrough, and a tube which passes through the opening of the seal and mates thereto without sutures.

Abstract: System for guiding a catheter through a lumen system of a body of a patient, to a predetermined location within the lumen system, the system including a medical positioning system, a moving mechanism coupled with the catheter, and a controller coupled with the medical positioning system and with the moving mechanism, the medical positioning system including at least one position detector, the position detector being firmly attached to a distal portion of the catheter, the medical positioning system determining the position of the position detector, the controller controlling the operation of the moving mechanism to move the catheter to the predetermined location, according to the position and according to a topological representation of at least a portion of the lumen system.

Abstract: The invention in certain aspects relates to a one-piece coil-shaped surgical fastener for fastening tissue segments, especially suitable for fastening segments of the lower esophogeal sphincter and fundus in an endoscopic procedure for the treatment of GERD. The invention also relates to related methods and devices for insertion of such a fastener, especially along a juncture of the surfaces of such tissue segments.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are provided for tissue approximation and repair at treatment sites, particularly in those procedures requiring minimally-invasive or endovascular access to remote tissue locations. Fixation devices are provided to fix tissue in approximation with the use of distal elements. In some embodiments, the fixation devices have at least two distal elements and an actuatable feature wherein actuation of the feature varies a dimension of the at least two distal elements. In other embodiments, the fixation devices have at least two pairs of distal elements wherein the pairs of distal elements are moveable to engage tissue between opposed pairs of distal elements. Systems are also provided having fixation devices and accessories.

Abstract: An actuable truss with ordered or disordered planar or strut elements or pore walls may be seeded with tissue cells, wherein application of a magnetic field may result in mechanical strain on the cells and increased fluid flow in and out of the truss structure. Modified polymers, such as ?-Fe2O3/PLGA, may be used to form actuable scaffolds suitable for tissue engineering. It is also disclosed a device with a trap-door that may be remotely actuated by applying a magnetic field. Such a device may be employed to deliver and control the release of other micro-devices or materials such as drugs to a specific location inside the body of a human or an animal.

Abstract: A fatigue-resistant inflatable gastric banding device suitable for laparoscopic placement around the stomach of a patient for the treatment of obesity and a method for such treatment are disclosed. The device includes a gastric band having a chambered inflatable member, substantially coextensive with an inner stomach facing surface of the band, that does not crease, wrinkle or fold when adjusted, so as to present a substantially smooth contour along the inner circumference, and to avoid fatigue or failure of the member itself. A gastric band having multiple inflatable compartments or chambers, which may be inflated together or individually is also disclosed.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a surgically implantable adjustable ring comprises a ring body, which includes a closure system having first and second end parts. The ring body is designed to be closed around a tubular organ by the closure system, constricting the tubular organ by forming a loop. The first end part is shaped like a sleeve having a first and second end portions, and is designed to receive the second end part of the ring. The sleeve is substantially perpendicular to the main direction of the first end part of the ring, and the second end part of the ring includes a locking protrusion adapted to hold the sleeve in position, securing the ring in a closed position by engaging the locking protrusion in an opening disposed on the sleeve.

Abstract: Thin film devices implantable within a human subject for occlusion of an aneurysm or body vessel are provided. The devices are movable from an elongated, collapsed configuration for delivery to a deployed configuration within the body. Open slots in selected portions of the device telescope as the device moves to its deployed configuration, which causes the associated portions to longitudinally foreshorten and radially expand, while also decreasing in porosity for preventing blood flow. Closed slits in other portions of the device open as the device moves to its deployed configuration, which causes the associated portions to longitudinally foreshorten and radially expand, while remaining open for fluid flow or endothelialization. The occlusion devices may be either self-supporting or supported by a strut structure. Additionally, the occlusion devices may comprise a plurality of mesh layers having unaligned pore systems which further reduce porosity in desired portions of the deployed configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for positioning a guiding tube (1) for a nephroscope, said tube consisting of a long aspiration needle (2) which is provided with a closing mandrin (3) and on which an inflatable enlargement device (4) slides, said device especially comprising a cuff (25) which is positioned by sliding along the aspiration needle (2) that is previously inserted into the kidney of the patient. The operation is facilitated by a trocar consisting of cutting blades (19) which enlarge the opening without tearing any flesh. The cuff is then inflated so that the inflatable enlargement device (4) can be used as a guiding means for a guiding tube for a nephroscope during the positioning thereof in the kidney of the patient.

Abstract: A lancet device for puncturing the skin of mammals, in particular of a human, includes a punch element, a manipulator, and a bushing element for the internal, axially displaceable reception of the punch element. The punch element on its free end has a lancet, provided with a sharp tip, for intentionally entering the skin. The lancet, by means of a force acting in the axial direction on the free end of the bushing via the punch element can be made to enter the skin from the end of the bushing outward with a preadjustable momentum, and a blocking arrangement using an axially slidable sleeve inside the bushing is provided, which, once the lancet has entered the skin, prevents the possibility of a reentry by locking itself within the bushing.

Abstract: A dilating system for dilating bodily tissue includes a elongate tubular first dilator and a elongate tubular second dilator. The second dilator has an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of the first dilator, the first dilator being configured to be received within the second dilator. In one embodiment, a first mating member is formed on the exterior surface of the first dilator while a second mating member is formed on the interior surface of the second dilator. The first mating member engages with the second mating member when the second dilator is passed over the first dilator so as to cause the second dilator to travel along a fixed path relative to the first dilator.

Abstract: A catheter assembly and method includes a multi-lumen portion having a guide wire lumen and an inflation/deployment lumen. The guide wire lumen includes a distal guide wire lumen portion having a rapid exchange guide wire port, and a proximal guide wire lumen portion rotatable to selectively expose the rapid exchange guide wire port. The inflation/deployment lumen includes a rotatable seal which facilitates rotation of the proximal guide wire lumen portion.

Abstract: A medical device for placing an embolic device at a predetermined site within a vessel of the body including a delivery catheter and a flexible pusher member slidably disposed within the lumen of the catheter. An embolic device is retained within the delivery catheter by a mechanical interlocking mechanism which includes an engagement member attached to the distal end of the pusher member and extends through a retaining ring at the proximal end of the embolic device. A detachment member extends through an aperture at the distal end of the engagement member thereby locking the embolic device onto the pusher member. A kicker member, which takes the form of a helical spring, extends from the distal end of the pusher member and is biased so as to lift the retaining ring off of the engagement member to ensure the release of the embolic device when the detachment member is withdrawn from the aperture of the engagement member.

Abstract: A modular applicator for use in reflexotherapy, for stimulating specific reflex points on the surface of a human body. The applicator has an elastic base member and modules. Each module is made from metal and provided with an elastic base member which allows a cheaper manufacture, ensures a firm brace between needles and fastening member, eliminates breaking and provides greater comfort to users.

Abstract: A vertebral support for positioning between the laminae of the vertebrae. The support may comprise an anterior portion inserted between the laminae of the vertebrae, suitable for giving an anatomical intervertebral spacing, and a posterior portion providing mobility in the region fitted with the implant. A retaining member may limit displacement of the support by shoulders projecting from the anterior portion of the support, and by two transverse projections.

Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.

Abstract: Spinal stabilization devices, systems and methods are provided that include a stabilization member including a first structural member that mounts to a pedicle screw, a second structural member adjacent the first structural member and that can move away therefrom, a resilient element mounted between the structural members and that elongates to accommodate relative movement therebetween, and a travel-limiting structure mounted between the structural members and that defines and imposes upon the stabilization member a maximum distance by which the first and second structural members may be separated. The travel-limiting structure can include an axially inextensible, laterally flexible elongate element, e.g., wire-rope cable, disposed between the structural members.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking mechanism and method of locking the relative positions of a fixation device like a bone screw and of a stabilization device like a rod. The locking mechanism includes a seat, a washer and a cap. The seat includes a bottom portion configured to receive the fixation device such that a socket of the bottom portion engages part of the fixation device and prevents the fixation device from passing entirely therethrough. The seat further includes a side portion configured to receive the stabilization device, a washer and a cap. When the washer and cap are fully engaged with the seat, the fixation device may be locked independent of the stabilization device. The locking mechanism may also include a locking element for locking the stabilization device.

Abstract: A medical device and methods of use thereof are provided for supporting a structure (e.g., bone). A screw assembly is provided that is comprised of a base, one or more arms, and an interconnection means for coupling the base to the one or more arms. The interconnection means allows the arm to be positionable in a first position that is parallel to a long axis of the base and positionable in a second position that is perpendicular to the long axis of the base. The base is configured for attachment to a structure and the one or more arms configured for attachment to one or more support structures. A support structure is provided that includes an aperture having locking means, which can be configured as an open-ended saddle for attachment to a medical device (e.g., a screw assembly) after installation in a patient.

Abstract: A bone alignment implant includes a first bone fastener with a first bone engager that is adapted for fixation into the metaphyseal bone and a second bone fastener with a second bone engager that is adapted for fixation into the metaphyseal bone. A link connecting the two fasteners spans across the physis. These implants act as a flexible tethers between the epiphyseal and the metaphyseal sections of bone during bone growth. These implants are designed to adjust and deform during the bone realignment process. When placed on the convex side of the deformity, the implant allows the bone on the concave side of the deformity to grow. During the growth process the bone is then realigned. A similar procedure is used to correct torsional deformities.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of treating tissue adjacent to a bodily conduit using thermotherapy, while preventing obstructions of the bodily conduit due to edema employs the circulation of warmed fluid to maintain the temperature of the bodily conduit walls and compresses the tissue to be treated to increase the effectiveness of the irradiated heat. An energy-emitting source containing catheter is inserted in a bodily conduit and is positioned in a region of the tissue to be treated so that the energy-emitting source radiates energy to the tissue to be treated. Fluid warmed to over 30° C. is circulated into and through the catheter to warm walls of the bodily conduit adjacent the catheter. The circulated fluid inflates a balloon to a pressure to compress the tissue to be treated. The combination of warmed fluid over 30° C.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for stenting are provided comprising a stent attached to a porous biocompatible material that is permeable to endothelial cell ingrowth, but impermeable to release of emboli of predetermined size. Preferred stent designs are provided, as well as preferred manufacturing techniques. Apparatus and methods are also provided for use at a vessel branching. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention may comprise a coating configured for localized delivery of therapeutic agents. Embodiments of the present invention are expected to provide enhanced embolic protection, improved force distribution, and improved recrossability, while reducing a risk of restenosis and thrombus formation.

Abstract: An implant valve for implantation in a blood vessel is comprised of a flexible tube and a hollow, substantially cylindrical support with a casing, expandable in diameter from an initial position to an implantation position. The support extends substantially coaxially over a part of the length of the tube along the inner wall of the tube. The casing of the support cooperates with the inner wall of the tube such that, in the implantation position, a first part of the tube can be formed into a rigid shell, which can be clamped substantially coaxially along the inner wall of a blood vessel. A second, axially contiguous part of the tube can then form a flexible, tubular valve body, which can extend substantially clear in the blood vessel. In an advantageous embodiment, the flexible tube comprises a vein turned inside out and the ends of the tube are connected to form a ring embracing the support.

Abstract: An elongated support dimensioned and configured for implantation in a blood vessel. The support has two axially spaced apart portions, which may be in the form of an expandable crown or a similar structure. At least one linking member connects the two portions to one another. A valve membrane is supported between the axially spaced apart portions. The valve membrane is adapted and configured for movement between a first position in which blood flow through the support is permitted and a second position in which blood flow through the support is inhibited.

Abstract: A method for making an intravascular stent by applying to the body of a stent a solution which includes a solvent, a polymer dissolved in the solvent and a therapeutic substance dispersed in the solvent and then evaporating the solvent. The inclusion of a polymer in intimate contact with a drug on the stent allows the drug to be retained on the stent during expansion of the stent and also controls the administration of drug following implantation. The adhesion of the coating and the rate at which the drug is delivered can be controlled by the selection of an appropriate bioabsorbable or biostable polymer and the ratio of drug to polymer in the solution. By this method, drugs such as dexamethasone can be applied to a stent, retained on a stent during expansion of the stent and elute at a controlled rate.

Abstract: A driver is disclosed for powering a pneumatically operated implantable device, such as an artificial heart with a left and a right ventricle. The driver includes a pair of compressors that each has a first and a second compression chamber. In a first mode of operation, both the first and the second compressor power the left and right ventricle of the artificial heart. In the event of a malfunction in the second compressor, the left and right ventricles of the artificial heart may be powered by the first compressor. Similarly, if a malfunction occurs in the first compressor, the artificial heart may be fully powered by the second compressor.

Abstract: An intraocular lens for insertion into a capsular bag in order to focus incoming light toward a retina and process for manufacturing thereof along with concomitant reduced glare and improved vision provides for a center lens portion of a lens for focusing incoming light toward the retina and the surrounding lens portion for mounting the lens within the capsular bag. A surface roughness disposed on the surrounding lens portion is provided for reducing the glare due to non-focused light directed toward the retina from the intraocular lens with the roughness having a roughness level of between about Ra 45 and about Ra 350.

Abstract: A multi-component intraocular lens implanted in an optical system of a human eye, including one or more foldable removable components, each component being foldable. One component acts as a base lens, including a flange with a slot. Another component acts an optical assembly that may include a top lens joined to or integrated with a mid lens. The top lens, the mid lens or the optical assembly may include at least one projection that engages the slot of the base lens. A medical adhesive may be applied to an outer circumferential surface of the top lens to join the top lens to the mid lens or may be applied to a top surface of the top lens opposing a bottom surface of the mid lens.

Abstract: This invention relates to improved vertebroplasty procedures for reducing embolisms, leakage and cement loosening.

Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.

Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.

Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.

Abstract: A method of implanting an intervertebral implant or component thereof, in which each component is selected to have an inner surface and an outer surface which engages an adjacent vertebra and presents only three distinct points of contact with a cortical rim of the vertebra. The outer surface is selected to have a footprint which is sized to be within that of the cortical rim. In disclosed embodiments, the footprint can be convexo-concave shaped or kidney shaped. The intervertebral implant can be provided with upper and lower (or first and second) components which engage adjacent first and second vertebrae and which move relative to one another. The implant has both the first and second outer surfaces sized to present a respective footprint sufficient for two lateral-anterior and one posterior points of contact with an adjacent cortical rim of the respective first and second vertebra.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for posterior placement in an intervertebral space defined between an upper vertebrae and a lower vertebrae may include an upper articular portion configured to be at least partially disposed in the intervertebral space and a lower articular portion configured to be at least partially disposed in the intervertebral space below the upper articular portion, the upper and lower articular portions being configured to provide articulating motion to the upper and lower vertebrae. The upper and lower articular portions each may include a posterior section configured to be disposed in a location posterior of the intervertebral space. The posterior section of one of the upper and lower articular portions may include a post, and the posterior section of the other of the upper and lower articular portions may include a receiving portion configured to interact with the post during articulation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an expandable prosthetic implant device for engagement between vertebrae generally comprising an inner member, outer member, and gear member positioned coaxial with respect to each other such that the inner and outer members are moveable relative to each other along an axis. The gear member is axially fixed to the outer member and freely rotatable with respect to the outer member and the gear member threadedly engages a threaded portion of the inner member to translate inner member along the axis. The implant is configured to engage the vertebrae in a predetermined alignment and the gear member includes gear teeth exposed to the exterior and configured to be accessible by a tool member at a plurality of angular positions around the perimeter of the implant device.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present application includes a spinal disk prosthesis with one end portion to form a load transmitting relationship with one vertebra of a patient's spine and another end portion to form a load transmitting relationship with another vertebra of the patient's spine. A tube connects the end portions together and a damping material is positioned inside the tube. The end portions each include a magnet to generate a corresponding magnetic field. These magnetic fields are oriented to provide a repulsive force between the end portions to provide a magnetic bearing.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a prosthetic spinal disc for replacing a damaged disc between two vertebrae of a spine and methods for inserting said discs. The present invention also relates to prosthetic spinal disc designs that are implanted using a transforaminal approach, methods thereof, and apparatus thereof.

Abstract: An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting two tissue surfaces. A plurality of wafers are consecutively inserted between the two tissue surfaces to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the tissue surfaces so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column.

Abstract: A method for repairing defects and reconstructing urological structures in vivo has been developed using a fibrous, open, synthetic, biodegradable polymeric matrix which is configured to provide the desired corrective structure. The matrix is shaped to correct the defect, then implanted surgically to form a scaffolding for the patient's own cells to grow onto and into. The implantation of the matrix initiates an inflammatory reaction, resulting in urothelial cells, endothelial cells and mesenchymal cells migrating into the matrix. The polymer forming the matrix is selected to be biocompatible and degradable in a controlled manner over a period of one to six months, in the preferred embodiment. A preferred material is a poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) in a fibrous form, such as a woven or non-woven mesh. Examples demonstrate the repair of defects in bladder and urethra in rabbits and defects in ureter in dogs.

Abstract: Control systems and methods are disclosed for processing a time series of signals associated with the movement of a device associated with a limb. The time series of motion signals is filtered, such as thorough an autoregressive filter, and compared to stored data sets representing a limb-motion event and/or phase. In certain examples, a plurality of accelerometers generate the time series of motion signals based at least on acceleration measurements in three orthogonal directions and/or planes. The acceleration measurements may relate to the movement of an artificial limb, such as a prosthetic or orthotic device. Upon determining an event and/or phase of limb motion, the control system may trigger an actuator to appropriately adjust one or more prosthetic or orthotic joints.