Abstract: The present invention relates to postpartum uterine manipulators and methods of use thereof. According to certain embodiments of the invention, the devices generally comprise (a) a primary shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, and which encapsulates an interior shaft; (b) a handle located at the proximal end of the primary shaft, which comprises a ratchet, two fixed rings and a movable thumb piece coupled to the interior shaft; and (c) a tip located at the distal end of the primary shaft, which comprises multiple sections connected by joints that forms a triangular configuration when in an open position.

Abstract: A vaginal manipulator includes a head with a tissue index, a door, and a head extender that are attached to the head. The head has an anterior side opposite a posterior side. The tissue index has a first arm that is slidingly engaged with a first groove formed in a first lateral edge of the head, a second arm that is slidingly engaged with a second groove formed in a second lateral edge of the head, and a rib connected between the first and second arms and disposed laterally across the anterior side of the head. The door is coupled to and movable relative to the posterior side of the head. The head extender is removably attached to a distal end of the head.

Abstract: An automated system for harvesting or implanting follicular units, including a moveable arm; a harvesting and/or implantation tool mounted on the moveable arm; one or more cameras mounted on the moveable arm; a processor configured to receive and process images acquired by the one or more cameras; and a controller operatively associated with the processor and configured to position the moveable arm based, at least in part, on processed images acquired by the one or more cameras, wherein the moveable arm is positionable such that the tool may be positioned at a desired orientation relative to an adjacent body surface.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed which provide for harvesting hair follicular units, including severing any remaining connective tissue strands during the harvesting process, so that the harvested follicular units are retained in the harvesting tool without being damaged. The devices and methods of the present invention are especially useful with the partially or substantially automated systems and methods for hair harvesting and transplantation. The follicular unit harvesting tools may comprise a harvesting cannula and a grasping device moveable relative to each other.

Abstract: A surgical staple remover apparatus includes a handle located at a rear of the apparatus, an upward sloped jaw element comprising a pair of jaws, an arm having a hook element on a distal end, wherein the arm is positioned such that the hook element is disposed over the jaw element, a housing, a spring that couples the housing to the arm, a lever mechanically coupled to the arm, wherein moving the lever closer to the handle results in the hook element pressing against a crown of a surgical staple, deforming the surgical staple for removal and moving the surgical staple proximally, and a strip element located on top of the jaw element, such that when the hook element deforms and moves the surgical staple proximally, the surgical staple is moved under the strip element and held in place by same.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for implanting radially expandable prostheses in the body lumens rely on tacking or anchoring the prostheses with separately introduced fasteners. The prostheses may be self-expanding or balloon expandable, and may include a single lumen or more than one lumen. After initial placement, a fastener applier system is introduced within the expanded prostheses to deploy a plurality of fasteners to at least one prosthesis end. The fasteners are usually helical fasteners which are releasably restrained on the fastener driver, and are delivered by rotation of the fastener driver. The fasteners may be applied singly, typically in circumferentially spaced-apart patterns about the interior of at least one end of the prosthesis. A lumen extension or lumens may be coupled to the prosthesis to extend the reach of the prosthesis within the implantation site. Fasteners may also be applied to the lumen extensions.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes first and second members configured to receive tissue therebetween. The first member is adapted to receive suture, the second member is coupled to the first member, and a grasper coupled to the second member engages the suture received by the first member. A method of passing suture includes loading suture into a first member of a suture passing surgical instrument, stabilizing tissue between the first member and a second member of the surgical instrument, passing suture through tissue via the first member of the surgical instrument, holding the passed suture via a suture grasper of the surgical instrument, and removing the first member from the tissue.

Abstract: A ligation apparatus that ligatures living tissue using a clip and provides an optimal ligation apparatus for ligaturing living tissue in a body cavity. The ligation apparatus includes a clip with a clip claw member that is advanced and retreated relative to a pressing member to open and close, a sheath configured to accommodate the clip such that the clip claw member is not exposed to the outside, an advance and retreat restricting mechanism which restricts advance and retreat of the pressing member relative to the sheath at a distal end portion of the sheath and allows advance and retreat of the clip claw member relative to the pressing member according to advance and retreat of the operation wire relative to the sheath to allow the clip ligaturing living tissue, and a releasing mechanism which releases at least a portion of the clip when the clip ligatures the living tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting two elongate body tissues is described. A flexible outer surface has a first outer end longitudinally spaced from a second outer end. A flexible inner surface has a first inner end longitudinally spaced from a second inner end. A first end aperture is defined by a flexible connection between the first outer end and the first inner end. The first end aperture is configured to accept a first elongate body tissue. A second end aperture is defined by a flexible connection between the second outer end and the second inner end. The second end aperture is configured to accept a second elongate body tissue. The outer and inner surfaces are configured for relative eversion operative to longitudinally shift an instantaneous midpoint of the apparatus with respect to a reference location on the inner surface. A method of using the apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: A method for implementing vascular anastomosis in the attachment of a graft vessel to a target vessel such as a coronary artery, and subsequently creating a passageway between the vessels in order to establish fluid flow communication therebetween. Further is to the provision of novel devices which are utilized in implementing the steps of attaching a graft vessel to a target vessel such as a coronary artery through vascular anastomosis, and thereafter creating a fluid flow passageway therebetween.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for enlarging an anastomosis fistula. In general, a surgical clip is applied to tissue surrounding a strictured anastomosis. The clip will exert a pressure on the engaged tissue that causes ischemic necrosis, and as a result the necrotic tissue and the clip will slough off, leaving an anastomosis with a larger diameter fistula.

Abstract: A cutting balloon catheter and method of making and using the same. The cutting balloon catheter may include a catheter shaft having a balloon coupled thereto. One or more cutting members or blades may be coupled to the balloon. The cutting members may configured to be more flexible.

Abstract: A tubular conduit is used to access blood vessels or other structures in the human body. The conduit has a distal tip angled to match the angle of entry into the body and an end contour adapted for the surface of the target vessel or organ. The contour may be curved to match the curve on the outer surface of the vessel or organ. The conduit's angled and contoured distal end may be adapted to engage, and align the conduit with, the surface of the vessel or organ. The conduit bears a longitudinal groove along its lower, inner surface. When the conduit is appropriately aligned, the groove may be used to guide a needle tip to the desired location, for example, the mid-line of the vessel or organ.

Abstract: A medical device delivery system comprises an inner tube, a medical device disposed about a portion of the distal region of the inner tube, a medical device sheath disposed about the medical device, a medical device sheath retraction device extending proximally from the medical device sheath and an outer sheath disposed about a portion of the medical device sheath retraction device. The distal end of the outer sheath terminates at least one medical device length proximal of the medical device. The medical device sheath is movable relative to the outer sheath and relative to the inner tube.

Abstract: A blood clot filter is collapsible toward a longitudinal axis into a collapsed configuration for insertion into a blood vessel, and is radially expandable outwardly from the longitudinal axis to an expanded configuration for contact with the inner wall of the blood vessel at two longitudinal spaced locations. A first plurality of spaced, elongate arms, in the expanded configuration, curve outwardly away from the longitudinal axis toward the leading end of the filter to form a first filter basket and to center a hub at the trailing end of the filter within the vessel. A second plurality of spaced elongate legs angle outwardly away from the longitudinal axis toward the leading edge of the filter in the expanded configuration to form a second filter basket opening toward the leading end. The ends of these legs include hooks to bend and straighten in response to withdrawal force.

Abstract: Vascular treatment and methods include a plurality of self-expanding bulbs and a hypotube including interspersed patterns of longitudinally spaced rows of kerfs. Joints between woven structures and hypotubes include solder. Woven structures include patterns of radiopaque filaments measurable under x-ray. Structures are heat treated to include at least shapes at different temperatures. A catheter includes a hypotube including interspersed patterns of longitudinally spaced rows of kerfs. Heat treating systems include a detachable flange. Laser cutting systems include a fluid flow system.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tool having a wrist mechanism that provides pitch and yaw rotation in such a way that the tool has no singularity in roll, pitch, and yaw. In one embodiment, a minimally invasive surgical instrument includes an elongate shaft having a working end, a proximal end, and a shaft axis between the working end and the proximal end; and an end effector. A wrist member has a flexible tube including an axis extending through an interior surrounded by a wall. The wall of the flexible tube includes a plurality of lumens oriented generally parallel to the axis of the flexible tube. The wrist member has a proximal portion connected to the working end of the elongate shaft and a distal portion connected to the end effector.

Abstract: An endoscopic instrument includes a tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, a clevis at the distal end of the tubular member, and an end effector assembly mounted on the clevis. A control member extends through the tubular member and includes a cam-pin coupled to the distal end thereof. The end effectors are controlled with a cam-pin and cam-slot arrangement, with the end effectors including the cam-slot and such cam-slot having a proximal end slot bilaterally widened to permit the cam-pin additional movement therein. When the cam-pin is retracted to move the end effectors into a closed positions and then further retracted into the bilaterally widened area, the end effectors can rotate together in the same direction to facilitate movement through a rigid bend in an endoscope.

Abstract: A method for closing an opening in a wall of a body lumen using a clip can include advancing a distal end of an elongate member within the body lumen, the elongate member having a distal portion that assists in presenting the wall for receiving a clip having a plurality of tissue engaging portions having tips that point generally toward a central axis of the clip. The clip can be advanced relative to the elongate member and the wall of the body lumen until the plurality of tissue engaging portions penetrate the wall of the body lumen. Once the clip penetrates the wall, the elongate member can be withdrawn from the body lumen, leaving the clip to substantially close the opening in the wall of the body lumen.

Abstract: A medical device, system and method for modifying a left atrial appendage (“LAA”). The medical device system includes a tether anchored within the LAA and one or more tissue growth members or occluders configured to be slid over the tether and lodged within the LAA. With this arrangement, a physician may close-off the LAA with a selective number of tissue growth members to meet the varying LAA sizes as determined from imaging information while conducting the procedure.

Abstract: Apparatus for sealing a puncture communicating with a blood vessel includes a bioabsorbable sealing member secured to one end of a filament or other retaining member. The sealing member is delivered through the puncture into the vessel, and refracted against the wall of the vessel to provide temporary hemostasis. The sealing member is rapidly absorbed after exposure within the vessel, e.g., to an aqueous or heated physiological environment (e.g., exposure to blood or body temperature), immediately or shortly after completing a medical procedure via the puncture, e.g., within the time period that the patient is ambulatory. Optionally, extravascular sealing material is delivered into the puncture proximal to the sealing member. The retaining member and/or extravascular material may be bioabsorbable, being absorbed at a slower rate than the sealing member. Alternatively, the filament is removed from the puncture after hemostasis is established.

Abstract: A medical tool comprising an electromechanical driver and a surgical instrument attachment for use in invasive surgery, including a handle coupled to a flexible sheath which is in turn coupled to a surgical attachment. The handle of the driver includes the electromechanical driver and at least one processor element which controls the actions of the electromechanical driver, and therefore the application elements of the surgical attachment, based on information relayed between the processor element and remotely activatable sensor assemblies in the surgical instrument attachment.

Abstract: A suture system has a suture with a first plurality of barbs located adjacent to a first end and a second plurality of barbs located adjacent to a second end, and a body located between the first plurality of barbs and the second plurality of barbs. The body provides an anchor that can hold tissue relative to the first end and the second end of the suture. The body can slide and be positioned on said suture.

Abstract: A knotless suture system formed from two lengths of suture joined at a suture junction point, with at least four suture limbs extending from the suture junction. The knotless suture system provides the ability to construct a suture bridge for soft tissue repair and fixation across a medial and lateral row bone fixation anchor configuration while passing the suture system in a simplified method of suture management.

Abstract: A suture attachment clip and method for assisting in the attachment or re-attachment of soft tissue to bone. The clip generally comprises a head having a shape suitable for allowing the passage of a suture during attachment of soft tissue to bone. One or more clips can be secured to a bone plate through a variety of means, including a snap configuration, a screw configuration, and a bendable prong configuration. The clip can also be continuous with an adjacent clip, thus forming a multi-clip assembly that can either be secured to a bone plate or secured directly to a bone without a bone plate.

Abstract: A distraction screw includes a proximal portion secured to a first vertebra, a distal portion secured to a second vertebra and an intermediate portion. The intermediate portion is coupled to the proximal and distal portions and is positioned in an intervertebral space. The intermediate portion is configured and adapted to enable distraction of the first vertebra relative to the second vertebra.

Abstract: A spinal device in which a plate is placed on both sides of the lamina spinous process. The plates include horizontal and diagonal slots through which anchoring screws may be placed and secured. The screws may pass through the base of the spinous process and lamina structure. The plates may have cut-out portions on the ventral side to accommodate the lamina when reduction is performed. The diagonal slots preferably have an apex proximate to the dorsal side and open at the ventral side. The two plates can be mirror images of each other, and, when secured together by the screws, forms a stable construct that can sandwich the spinous process.

Abstract: A surgical spacer comprising first and second hollow support members, a flexible container, and a compressible material disposed in the container is disclosed. The first and second support members each have an exterior and an interior cavity. The exteriors of the first and second support members are affixed together and the interior cavities of the first and second support members are connected via a connecting opening. The container is disposed in the interior cavities and extends through the connecting opening. In addition, the container is substantially impermeable to the compressible material. The first and second support members are more rigid than the flexible container. A combination of the first and second support members controls the shape of the flexible container, with the compressible material disposed therein, in response to a compressive load applied to an exterior of the spacer.

Abstract: An interspinous process spacer insertion device that positions an interspinous process spacer between the spinous process of adjacent vertebrae in a minimally invasive percutaneous surgical procedure. The device includes a trocar rod that extends through a cannulated sleeve. The spacer is attached to the end of the cannulated sleeve, where a trocar tip of the trocar rod extends through the spacer. The trocar rod is moved through the cannulated sleeve and an incision in the patient, and is positioned between the spinous process of the vertebra to align the device. The cannulated sleeve is then moved down the trocar rod so that the spacer slides between the spinous process, and the trocar rod is then withdrawn from the patient. The spacer is then rotated so that it locks behind the spinous process, and the cannulated sleeve is detached from the spacer and removed from the patient.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus for an interspinous fixation and/or distraction of vertebrae and a methodology for minimally invasive implantation of the apparatus in the spine of a patient. The apparatus corresponds to a pair of teardrop shaped lateral wing elements spaced apart by a central core element that may be selectively sized during the implantation process. The wings and central core are held together by a single threaded bolt and locking nut configuration resulting in a simple structure that may be easily implanted with minimal patient discomfort.

Abstract: A dynamic fixation device is provided that allows the vertebrae to which it is attached to move in flexion within the normal physiological limits of motion, while also providing structural support that limits the amount of translation motion beyond normal physiological limits. The present invention includes a flexible portion and two ends that are adapted for connection to pedicle screws. In at least one embodiment of the present invention, the normal axis of rotation of the vertebrae is substantially duplicated by the dynamic fixation device. The flexible portion of the dynamic fixation device can include a geometric shape and/or a hinge portion.

Abstract: In some embodiments, provided is an apparatus including a first elongated member, the first elongated member including a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the first elongated member is coupled to a first bone portion during use. The apparatus further includes a second elongated member including a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the second elongated member is coupled to a second bone portion during use. The proximal end of the second elongated member comprises a surface that is shaped complementary to a surface of the proximal end of the first elongated member. The apparatus still further includes a locking mechanism coupling the proximal end of the first elongated member to the proximal end of the second elongated member.

Abstract: A spinal screw assembly includes a bone-anchoring member, a washer, and a seat. The bone-anchoring member includes a main shaft, a washer head, and a spherical head. The spherical head extends upward from the top end of the main shaft and the washer head extends laterally from a location of the main shaft between the main shaft's top end and bottom end. The washer is polyaxially rotatable and positionable around the washer head and is configured to be placed at a first angle relative to the main shaft. The seat is polyaxially rotatable and positionable around the spherical head independent from the washer and is configured to be placed at a second angle relative to the main shaft, wherein the second angle is independent from the first angle.

Abstract: A locking device includes a first locking member including a first end, a second end, a central axis, an outer surface with an external thread, a coaxial bore, and an internal thread provided along at least a portion of the bore, and a second locking member including a first end, a second end, and an outer surface with an external thread. When the second locking member is positioned in the first locking member, the second locking member is movable along the central axis by rotating the second locking member. Movement of the second locking member is limited towards the first end of the first locking member by a first stop and towards the second end of the first locking member by a second stop, where at least one of the first stop or second stop is arranged in the bore of the first locking member.

Abstract: A method of inserting and positioning an intervertebral spacer is provided. The spacer includes a longitudinal axis, an on-axis interface coincident with or parallel to the longitudinal axis, and an off-axis interface angled to the longitudinal axis. The spacer's front end may be curved. The method may include inserting the spacer into the disc space utilizing a tool to engage an on-axis interface and then to engage one or more of the off-axis interfaces, which may be used for further modification of the spacer. The tool is moved substantially along a single insertion direction, which may be substantially parallel to a posterior-anterior axis of the disc space. The method may result in the longitudinal axis of the spacer being perpendicular to the insertion direction, or substantially parallel to a medial-lateral axis of the disc space. The spacer may also be positioned in an anterior aspect of the disc space.

Abstract: An assembly for rigid bone fixation includes a plate and a screw. The screw can be rotated freely within the plate in a non-locking configuration to secure the plate against the bone. A locking mechanism is engaged to prevent the screw from moving relative the plate. In one embodiment, the plate includes a threaded portion and a non-threaded portion. The screw head rotates within the non-threaded portion to tighten the screw and pull the plate against the bone. The locking mechanism can include a moveable nut that rotates within the threaded portion of the plate to lock the screw and plate in a locking mode. The locking mechanism can include a second screw to actuate and expansion portion of screw inserted into the bone. The assembly can be used for rigid fixation of bones that experience cyclic loads, such as the sternum and mandible. Methods of rigid bone fixation are also described.

Abstract: A fusion plate for use in fusing two bones together can include directional fastener bores that restrict the angle at which the fasteners can be positioned when inserted through the fastener bores. The fusion plate can be used in conjunction with a spacer, which may include a cavity into which the fusion plate can rest. The fusion plate can be coupled to the spacer using a coupling mechanism.

Abstract: A dual-mode closed-loop measurement system (100) for capturing a transit time, phase, or frequency of energy waves propagating through a medium (122) is disclosed. A first module comprises an inductor drive circuit (102), an inductor (104), a transducer (106), and a filter (110). A second module housed in a screw (335) comprises an inductor (114) and a transducer (116). The screw (335) is bio-compatible and allows an accurate delivery of the circuit into the muscular-skeletal system. The inductor can be attached and interconnected on a flexible substrate (331) that fits into a cavity in the screw (335). The first and second modules are operatively coupled together. The first module provides energy to power the second module. The second module emits an energy wave into the medium that propagates to the first module. The transit time of energy waves is measured and correlated to the parameter by known relationship.

Abstract: A bone anchor includes a shaft having a first end and a second end, a bore extending from the first end to the second end, and a plug member which is insertable into the bore and guidable through the bore for closing the bore at the second end. The bone anchor is suitable for minimally invasive surgery in such a way a guide wire can be guided through the bone anchor and after the bone anchor has been anchored in the bone the plug member is inserted to close the open end of the bone anchor. A bone cement or a pharmaceutical substance can be introduced into the bone anchor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to dynamic bone fixation elements and a surgical method to stabilize bone or bone fragments. The dynamic bone fixation elements preferably include a bone engaging component and a load carrier engaging component. The bone engaging component preferably includes a plurality of threads for engaging a patient's bone and a lumen. The load carrier engaging component preferably includes a head portion for engaging a load carrier (e.g., bone plate) and a shaft portion. The shaft portion preferably at least partially extends into the lumen. Preferably at least a portion of an outer surface of the shaft portion is spaced away from at least a portion of an inner surface of the lumen via a gap so that the head portion can move with respect to the bone engaging component. The distal end of the shaft portion is preferably coupled to the lumen.

Abstract: A collapsible bone screw for healing bone fragments across a bone fracture includes an externally threaded inner screw member and an externally threaded outer screw member. The inner screw member is initially screwed into an inner bone portion. An unthreaded portion of the outer screw member is movably joined to the inner screw member. The outer screw member is screwed until it gains purchase in an outer bone portion. As impaction occurs over time, the collapsible bone screw apparatus may shorten in length as the two screw members slide, telescope or otherwise axially move toward each other to shorten the overall length, thereby preventing any portion of the screw apparatus from protruding out of the bone. A bone screw kit of multiple inner and outer screw members are provided as well as a method of surgically fastening bone fragments.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for reducing effects of restless legs syndrome (RLS) in a subject. The method includes identifying, on the subject, a body region affected by RLS, placing an emitter unit in direct contact with skin of the body region, wherein the emitter unit includes at least one emitter that emits near-infrared light, and activating the emitter to emit an effective amount of near-infrared light for inducing release of nitric oxide from hemoglobin or generation in the endothelium. Also disclosed is an emitter unit that is placed in direct contact with a subject's skin associated with RLS to reduce the effects of RLS. The emitter unit emits an effective amount of near-infrared light directed to the subject's skin to induce release of nitric oxide from hemoglobin or generation in the endothelium, and a module configured to toggle the emitter unit between a transmitting and a nontransmitting mode.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed herein for treatment of a disease, disorder, or condition in a vertebrate subject. A device is provided that includes one or more passive cooling elements configured to be applied to one or more tissues of a vertebrate subject to modulate at least one activity of brown adipose tissue of the vertebrate subject, wherein at least a portion of the one or more passive cooling elements is configured to be implantable, and wherein the one or more passive cooling elements includes a first portion configured to be in association with the one or more tissues to be cooled, and a second portion configured to be placed in association with one or more tissues adjacent to an external epidermal tissue of the vertebrate subject.

Abstract: An expandable stent and delivery system are provided for treating body vessel defects, such as partially occluded blood vessels and aneurysms. The delivery system includes a core member having a threaded core member portion configured to interlock with a threaded strut member portion of the expandable stent. The expandable stent is mounted thusly onto the core member for movement within a delivery catheter and deployment to a body vessel defect. The deployment catheter is used to compress the interlocked threaded strut member portion into engagement with the threaded core member portion.

Abstract: Embodiments of an expandable sheath can be used in conjunction with a catheter assembly to introduce a prosthetic device, such as a tissue heart valve, into a patient. Such embodiments can minimize trauma to the vessel by allowing for temporary expansion of a portion of the introducer sheath to accommodate the delivery apparatus, followed by a return to the original diameter once the prosthetic device passes through. Some embodiments can comprise a sheath with inner and outer tubular layers, and an intermediate tubular layer comprising a shape memory alloy. Other embodiments comprise one or more layers having one or more longitudinal notches or cuts to facilitate expansion of the sheath. Embodiments of the present expandable sheath can avoid the need for multiple insertions for the dilation of the vessel, thus offering advantages over prior art introducer sheaths.

Abstract: A stent graft device for implanting in a body lumen, comprising a stent with non-staggered or staggered apexes, said stent comprising a plurality of stent sections, bendable connecting members forming said non-staggered or staggered apexes and connecting each of said stent sections to other stent sections to form a zigzag pattern, wherein said stent is staggerdly sutured to a graft by a plurality of suture knots, and wherein said suture knots and staggered apexes are staggered when said stent sections are crimped, and methods of use thereof.

Abstract: An occlusion device for implantation within a body vessel is provided with a screen member and an associated support member. The occlusion device is radially expandable from a compressed condition, suitable for inserting the device in an introducer, to a deployed or expanded condition within a vessel. The screen member includes a plurality of substantially diamond-shaped openings in the compressed and expanded conditions. The porosity of the screen member is less than the porosity of the support member in the expanded condition.

Abstract: A method is provided including coupling a tissue-engaging element to a first portion of cardiac tissue of a heart of a patient and advancing toward the tissue-engaging element an adjustment mechanism along at least one guide member that is removably coupled to the tissue-engaging element. The adjustment mechanism engages a first portion of a first flexible longitudinal member. A second portion of the first flexible longitudinal member is coupled to a second portion of cardiac tissue. Following the coupling of the second portion of the first flexible longitudinal member to the second portion of cardiac tissue, the adjustment mechanism is slid further along the guide member and coupled to the tissue-engaging element. Using the adjustment mechanism, a length of the first flexible longitudinal member is adjusted between the first and second portions of cardiac tissue. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A method and related apparatus to treat a cataract where the cataractous lens is pierced and the resulting opening is mechanically maintained using a lens system device such as a pinhole device, expandable tubular lens, a stent or similar small diameter device, some of which are capable of supporting a secondary intraocular lens. The resulting passageway or lumen created in the cataractous lens allows visible light to better reach the retina, thus improving vision. This lens system device that can be placed into an in situ cataract provides for a much simpler surgical technique and reduces related pre and post operative procedures and potential complications. Intraocular lenses may also be used in concert with this invention. The apparatus and technique can be applied to humans as well as animals.

Abstract: Various systems, apparatuses, and processes may be used for intraocular lens surgery. In particular implementations, a system for intraocular lens surgery may include an intraocular lens insertion cartridge and an intraocular lens interface adapted to engage an intraocular lens for advancement through the intraocular lens insertion cartridge. The system may also include a bracket that is detachably attached to the intraocular lens insertion cartridge and that facilitates securing the intraocular lens interface relative to the intraocular lens insertion cartridge.