Abstract: An orthopedic fastener (10) has a head (50) and a shank (20). The shank (20) extends from the head (50) to a distal tip (11). The shank (20) has a leading end (1) adjacent the distal tip (11) and a trailing end (3) adjacent the head (50). An intermediate transition (2) is positioned between the leading (1) and trailing ends (3). The leading end (1) has first threads (40) with one or more self-tapping cutting grooves (41) extending adjacent the distal tip (11) and through a plurality of the first threads (40). The trailing end (3) has a second thread (60) extending toward the head (50) from the intermediate transition (2). The intermediate transition (2) has one or more second cutting grooves (61) extending from at least a first thread (40) in the intermediate transition (2) through at least one of said second threads (60) to initiate tapping of the second threads (60) into cortical bone.

Abstract: An orthopedic fastener has a head and a shank. The shank has a leading end portion adjacent a distal tip and a trailing end portion adjacent a head. An intermediate portion is positioned between the leading and trailing end portions. At the intermediate portion, the shank increases in diameter. The leading end portion has a first thread which includes one or more self-tapping cutting grooves extending adjacent the distal tip and through a plurality of the first threads. The intermediate portion has second threads extending toward the head from the leading end portion. The second threads of the intermediate portion are larger in outer diameter than the first threads in the leading end portion. The intermediate portion has one or more cutting grooves traversing at each of a leading transition at the leading end portion and at a trailing transition.

Abstract: A coupling assembly is provided for coupling a rod to a bone anchoring element, the coupling assembly (4, 4?, 4?) comprising a receiving part (5, 5?) having a first end (5a), a second end (5b) and a central axis (C) extending through the first end (5a) and second end (5b), a recess (52) for receiving a rod (100), and an accommodation space (54) for accommodating a head (3, 3?) of an anchoring element (1), the accommodation space having an opening (55) at the second end (5b) sized so as to permit the insertion of the head (3, 3?) and a bore (51) extending from the accommodation space to the first end (5a), a retainer element (6, 6?, 6?) configured to be positioned at least partially in the accommodation space (54) and sized so as to at least partially encompass an inserted head (3, 3?); a spring element (7, 7?), separate from the retainer element (6, 6?, 6?), configured to be arranged at least partially in the accommodation space (54), wherein the spring element (7, 7?) is configured to be compressed in the

Abstract: A coupling assembly is provided comprising a receiving part (5, 5?) having a first end (5a), a second end (5b) and a central axis (C) extending through the first end (5a) and second end (5b), a recess (52) for receiving a rod (100), the recess having a bottom, and an accommodation space (54, 54?) for accommodating a head (3) of an anchoring element (1), the accommodation space having an opening (55, 55?) at the second end (5b) sized so as to permit the insertion of the head (3) and a bore extending from the accommodation space to the first end (5a), a retainer element (6, 6?) configured to be positioned at least partially in the accommodation space (54, 54?) and sized so as to at least partially encompass an inserted head (3); wherein the retainer element (6, 6?) comprises at least one spring portion (66a, 66b; 66?) that is compressible in an axial direction and that extends in an axial direction at least up to a position toward the first end (5a) of the receiving part that is higher than the bottom of the

Abstract: A bone anchor compatible for use with a neural integrity monitoring systems includes a bone-engaging portion extending between a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion includes a resorbable non-electrically conductive polymer defining an insulated region. The second end portion includes a conductive region having reduced electrical resistance relative to the insulated region. The insulated region is contiguous with the conductive region. Methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical instrument (1, 12) for introducing an implant, comprising a shaft (2), wherein the shaft is suitable for accommodating the implant, in particular a screw (9, 15) having a cannula (4), at the proximal end of the shaft, wherein the shaft (2) has a cannulation, and a handle (3), which is connected to the shaft (2) at a distal end of the shaft (2). The shaft (2) is provided with a slit (6).

Abstract: Described herein are devices, systems and method for assuring that connection regions (e.g., threaded regions) of stabilization devices are clear of bone filling materials such as bone cements. A stabilization device may be referred to as a bone stabilization device or an anchor, and may be a self-expanding device configured for insertion into bone. One exemplary clearing device is configured as a plunger-type device for clearing the connector region by scraping and/or rubbing the surface of the connector region. A clearing device may include a handle, a rod and a connector end that is configured to mate with the connector of a stabilization device. The connector end may include one or more scraping surfaces (e.g., edges) and may include a vacuum port for removing material such as scraped bone cement.

Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises an assembly for performing a gradual lateral spinal alignment of a spine. The assembly includes an inflatable bone anchor that includes an inflatable balloon, a hollow tube attached to the balloon and attached to an external support, such as a brace. The inflatable balloon extends into or through a vertebra of the misaligned spine and deployed. The inflatable balloon is pulled using the vertebra and attached to the brace to pull the spine into alignment. The device allows the spine to be gradually placed into alignment helping to avoid trauma on the spine and surrounding tissue.

Abstract: An impactor having a housing including an upper portion and a lower portion at least a part of which extends perpendicularly from the upper portion, a ram having a first end positioned in the upper portion and positioned in axial alignment with the lower portion, an opposite end of the ram extending from the lower portion of the housing, at least one drive assembly including a first drive shaft operably coupled to a cam shaft, a cam operably coupled to the cam shaft, a cam operably coupled to the cam shaft, the drive shaft operably connectable to motor, wherein the cam is operable to rotate and positioned to contact the proximal end of the ram upon rotation of the cam, a circuit board comprising circuitry operable to receive instructions from a plurality of switches electrically coupled to the circuit board to operate the impactor, wherein the impactor is operable to deliver low amplitude pulsed strikes to a workpiece at variable frequencies.

Abstract: The electrosurgical systems and methods of the present disclosure perform cable compensation using an electrosurgical generator that includes a plurality of sensors configured to sense voltage and current waveforms, a plurality of medium-band filters, a plurality of narrowband filters, and a signal processor. The plurality of medium-band filters and narrowband filters pass sensed voltage and current waveforms at a plurality of predetermined frequencies. The signal processor calculates medium-band RMS voltage and current values using the output from the plurality of medium-band filters, calculates narrowband phase and magnitude values using the output from the plurality of narrowband filters, calculates tissue impedance based on the medium-band RMS voltage and current values and the narrowband phase value, and generates a control signal to control the energy generated by the electrosurgical generator based on the calculated tissue impedance.

Abstract: A cryogenic ablation catheter includes a catheter shaft, a balloon and a connector respectively at the catheter shaft proximal and distal ends, a refrigerant delivery tube assembly including a refrigerant delivery tube rotatable within the catheter shaft lumen, and a refrigerant delivery element with an outlet located inside the balloon which directs refrigerant outwardly against the balloon at different rotary positions as it rotates. A cryogenic balloon ablation system includes the cryogenic ablation catheter, a catheter coupler mating with the connector, a motor including a rotatable hollow motor shaft, and a delivery line fluidly coupled to a cryogenic gas source for supplying cryogenic gas to the refrigerant delivery tube. At least one of the refrigerant delivery tube and the delivery line passes at least partway through the hollow motor shaft. The coupling tip of the connector and the refrigerant delivery tube rotate with the motor shaft.

Abstract: An electrosurgical wand is described, for treating a target tissue using electrosurgical energy, which has an elongate shaft with a handle end and a distal end. A first active electrode surface is disposed on the distal end of the shaft and a first digester electrode surface is recessed away from the first active electrode surface and electrically connected with the first active electrode surface. An aspiration aperture is also disposed adjacent the first active electrode surface and fluidly connected with an aspiration lumen, wherein the first digester electrode surface is disposed within the aspiration lumen.

Abstract: A surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The instrument comprises a handle and an end effector connected to the handle. The end effector comprises upper and lower opposing jaw members, wherein the upper jaw member comprises a plurality of co-linear, separately actuatable, RF electrodes.

Abstract: A surgical cutting and fastening instrument. The instrument comprises a handle and an end effector connected to the handle. The end effector comprises upper and lower opposing jaw members, wherein the upper jaw member comprises a plurality of co-linear, separately actuatable, RF electrodes.

Abstract: The electrosurgical systems and methods of the present disclosure perform cable compensation using an electrosurgical generator that includes a plurality of sensors configured to sense voltage and current waveforms, a plurality of medium-band filters, a plurality of narrowband filters, and a signal processor. The plurality of medium-band filters and narrowband filters pass sensed voltage and current waveforms at a plurality of predetermined frequencies. The signal processor calculates medium-band RMS voltage and current values using the output from the plurality of medium-band filters, calculates narrowband phase and magnitude values using the output from the plurality of narrowband filters, calculates tissue impedance based on the medium-band RMS voltage and current values and the narrowband phase value, and generates a control signal to control the energy generated by the electrosurgical generator based on the calculated tissue impedance.

Abstract: Conventional electrosurgical devices used in a conductive fluid environment have one or more electrodes at the active electrode potential, and one or more return electrodes at the return potential. The shape of the electric field and the current density for a given power setting are determined primarily by the configuration, size and relative locations of the active and return electrodes and of dielectric elements surrounding and separating the electrodes. Two potentials are supplied to the site by the electrosurgical power supply. Disclosed herein are mechanisms and methods for enhancing the effectiveness of an electrosurgical device in a conductive fluid environment that utilize an additional electrode (i.e., an auxiliary electrode) that designates a third potential between that of the active and return electrodes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a condition in a patient such as BPH, irretractable infection, cyst, fibroid, or any mass such as prostate or breast cancer, skin cancer, melanoma, or any other soft tissue cancerous or benign mass, employs a unique, three-dimensional software-controlled electronic amplifier array using arbitrary waveforms that dynamically and proportionally steer electrical currents by using two or more current vector paths, sequentially or simultaneously, through a defined area containing electrically-conductive ionic solutions so as to obtain 100% thermal heating or hyperthermia through the defined area. The condition is treated or a mass is destroyed with a minimally-invasive treatment which requires no radiation or chemotherapy which could be harmful to the patient.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a surgical instrument is provided that may comprise an end effector for performing a surgical procedure on tissue, for example. The end effector may comprise at least one energy delivery surface and heat dissipation means for dissipating heat from at least a portion of the end effector. For example, in at least one embodiment, the end effector may comprise a first jaw, a second jaw, and a cutting member. The cutting member may comprise a cutting surface and a body, which may define a cavity and at least one opening communicating with the cavity. A fluid may be moved through the cavity to and/or from the opening(s). Additionally, in at least one embodiment, a surgical instrument's end effector may comprise a first jaw, a second jaw, a cutting member, and at least one heat pipe. Various other heat dissipation means are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electrosurgical resection instrument for applying to biological tissue radiofrequency electromagnetic energy has a protective hull comprising a shaped piece of dielectric material mounted to cover an underside of an instrument tip of the instrument. The protective hull acts as a shield to protect tissue that may lie under the instrument tip from damage during treatment. The instrument may be particularly useful in procedures performed in a gastrointestinal tract, where bowel perforation is a concern, or in the pancreas, where damage to the portal vein or the pancreatic duct may occur when a tumour or other abnormality is being resected, dissected or removed.

Abstract: Medical devices for sympathetic nerve modulation are disclosed. An example medical device for sympathetic nerve modulation may include a catheter shaft having a distal region. An expandable member may be coupled to the distal region. A flexible circuit assembly may be attached to the expandable member. The flexible circuit assembly may include a first electrode strip, a second electrode strip, and a sensor strip disposed between the first electrode strip and the second electrode strip. The first electrode strip may include a first electrode. The second electrode strip may include a second electrode. The first electrode and the second electrode may define a pair of bipolar electrodes.

Abstract: An energy-induced embolization system includes an introducer sheath having an inner wall defining a longitudinal opening extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion of the introducer sheath. The system also has a first catheter having an outer wall and having a longitudinal opening extending from a proximal portion to a distal portion of the first catheter, with the first catheter disposed through the longitudinal opening of the introducer sheath. The system also includes a conduit having a first end disposed in fluid communication with an inside portion of the introducer sheath and having a second end disposed in fluid communication with an inside portion of the first catheter, wherein antegrade blood flow is establishable in a lumen of a target vessel through a path between the inside portion of the introducer sheath, through an inside portion of the conduit, through the inside portion of the first catheter, and exiting through the distal portion of the first catheter.

Abstract: A circuit configured for connecting an electrode to a catheter or sheath is disclosed. The circuit includes a member having a longitudinal axis and configured to extend along at least a portion of the length of the catheter or sheath. The circuit further includes a trace printed on the member, where the trace includes at least a longitudinal segment extending generally along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis and a transverse segment extending generally transverse to the longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the circuit further includes a pad integral with and extending from the circuit proximal the transverse segment of the trace. A catheter or sheath assembly comprising the circuit and an electrode connected to the circuit is also disclosed. A method of forming a catheter or sheath assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A multi-pole synchronous pulmonary artery radiofrequency ablation catheter, wherein an adjustment apparatus is arranged on a control handle; a catheter body is hollow, and a cavity is arranged therein; a lead wire, a temperature sensing wire and a pull wire are arranged in the cavity; one end of the catheter body is flexible, and the flexible end is connected to an annular ring; the other end of the catheter body is connected to the control handle; one end of the pull wire is connected to the flexible end, and the other end of the pull wire is connected to the adjustment apparatus on the control handle, the tension of the pull wire is adjusted through the adjustment apparatus to achieve radian control of the flexible end; a shape memory wire is arranged in the annular ring, one end of the shape memory wire extends to the end of the annular ring and the other end of the shape memory wire passes through the root of the annular ring and is fixed on the flexible end of the catheter body; the annular ring is provi

Abstract: A device for performing a surgical procedure comprising an elongated shaft extending between a proximal end and a distal end and including an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface defining a passageway. A stylet is configured for moveable disposal within the passageway of the elongated shaft. The stylet includes a blunt distal tip configured for disposal outside the distal end of the elongated shaft and to prevent damage to adjacent tissue. An expandable member includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the expandable member is disposed with the distal end of the elongated shaft and the distal end of the expandable member is connected to the distal end of the stylet. At least one electrode disposed with the expandable member.

Abstract: Methods for injecting light absorbing materials or particles into the skin and irradiating the materials or particles to create zones of thermal injury are provided. Such methods can be used to treat the effects of aging and/or photoaging, among other indication.

Abstract: An improved medical device for revascularization of vascular occlusion and method for using same. The improved device includes a first catheter with a central lumen or guide wire capable of creating a channel within the CTO, and having a magnetic connection tip. One or more magnets or magnetic alignment elements are secured within or on the catheter connection tip to provide the desired positioning or straight line alignment of the catheter tip with respect to a second guide wire. The second guide wire includes a magnetic connection tip, with one or more magnets or magnetic alignment elements secured within or on the wire connection tip.

Abstract: A device for insertion into a body lumen includes an operator unit which may be hand held by an operator. A cannula is operatively associated with the operator unit and the cannula includes two parallel lumens. At least one of two lumens terminates at its distal end before the distal end of the other lumen and wherein one of the two lumens is contained at most partially within the other lumen.

Abstract: The instant application discloses, among other things, an animal first aid kit. The animal first aid kit may comprise any container capable of holding its contents. The contents may include medicines and supplies that allow the user to evaluate an animal or to tend to it by providing comfort, controlling bleeding, or preventing further injury or infection, or example. The animal first aid kit may also include a pamphlet describing its contents and providing instructions on its use. In one embodiment, the pamphlet may direct the user to obtain a prescription for a particular device or medicine, for example, for an antihistamine such as Diphenhydramine.

Abstract: A re-usable medical procedure power tool includes a handle portion connected to a tool attachment portion and a power source portion. A removable, single use, contamination-blocking cover substantially covering the power source portion, the handle portion and the tool attachment portion. The cover also includes a primary opening adjacent an exposed first end of the tool attachment portion, whereby a tool accessory is selectively attached to and removed from the first end of the tool attachment portion during a medical procedure.

Abstract: A surgical device according to an exemplary aspect of this disclosure includes, among other things, a tool at a distal end of the surgical device, and a joystick including a ball. Movement of the joystick results in movement of the tool. The surgical device further includes a housing including a socket receiving the ball of the joystick.

Abstract: Described herein is a surgical instrument guide for use with a robotic surgical system, for example, during spinal surgery. In certain embodiments, the guide is attached to or is part of an end effector of a robotic arm, and provides a rigid structure that allows for precise preparation of patient tissue (e.g., preparation of a pedicle) by drilling, tapping, or other manipulation, as well as precise placement of a screw in a drilled hole or affixation of a prosthetic or implant in a prepared patient situation.

Abstract: A device for positioning a knee joint line for revision total knee arthroplasty. In revision total knee arthroplasty, the position of the joint line of an existing femoral element is measured before the existing femoral element is removed from the femur in revision total knee arthroplasty. A new femoral element is implanted according to the measured position of the joint line. The joint line is formed at the same position as the joint line of the other leg. The position of the surface of the femur to be cut is determined based on the position of the joint line when a loss or the like in the femur must be compensated for by implanting a block between the femur and the femoral element.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention relates to a medical device with a tubular interior space for accommodating the subject to be examined, a cladding of the tubular interior space facing towards the subject to be examined and a device for lighting the tubular interior space, which includes at least one lamp. The lamp is mounted on the side of the cladding of the tubular interior space facing towards the subject to be examined and forms the tunnel contour of the tubular interior space.

Abstract: A method for assisting in navigation of a medical instrument such as a catheter inside a hollow body such as a vascular system based on a dataset provided by a sensor device of the medical instrument is provided The method includes determining, by a control device, an internal extent of the hollow body based on the provided dataset and determining, by the control device, a navigation path for an impending movement of the medical instrument through the hollow body based on the determined internal extent. The control device is able to generate a control signal that describes a movement along the navigation path.

Abstract: A system, method and devices are described that use fiducials to help localize and treat a region of tissue. The fiducials are cooperative with at least one imaging modality, but may also be located using a second physical method to determine the proximity of a seeker probe to the fiducials. The fiducials may also contain electronics and subsystems to enable them to be used to deliver therapy to the region of tissue near the fiducial.

Abstract: A device for holding small dental parts may include a bowl member having central recess defined by a recess wall that has an inner surface adapted to engage dental parts and an outer surface. A plurality of magnets may be arranged around the recess wall and may be position adjacent to the outer surface of the recess wall. Also, a magnetic bowl system, which provides a bowl member that is disposable to avoid cross contamination and a separate magnet holder member that is reusable.

Abstract: An endosseous dental implant assembly comprises a dental implant comprising an abutment portion for connecting to a tooth crown and a hollow base portion defining a cavity therein, and a bio-supportive or biodegradable scaffold carried by the hollow base portion of the dental implant in the biomimetic approach. The abutment portion is formed integrally with the hollow base portion. The scaffold is impregnated with regenerative stem cells, growth factors, biomorphic proteins, or autogenous cells. In the osseointegrated approach bone graft material can be carried to the extraction socket without a scaffold.

Abstract: The invention relates to method of preparing the fitting of at least one dental implant, comprising the linking of a first three-dimensional model of the external surface of at least a part of the buccal cavity of a patient or of a reproduction made of a solid material of said at least one part of the buccal cavity and of a second three-dimensional model of at least a part of the bone system of the jaw of the patient on the basis of the recognition of faces of a benchmark element in the first model and of at least one portion of the benchmark element in the second model.

Abstract: A dental impression tray comprising a dental impression channel and an outer surface which outer surface presents an inclined surface is capable of being applied to a tray for paediatric primary anterior dentition impression taking significantly improving paediatric compliance in the taking of dental impressions so negating the need for the use of a general anaesthetic and to an impression tray for self-formed dental impression taking for use in making a mouth guard which facilitates improved accuracy of the dental impression and thus of the mouth guard.

Abstract: An oral care system that provides a beneficial effect to an oral cavity of a mammal by using a liquid effective for providing the beneficial effect, where the system includes means for directing the liquid onto a plurality of surfaces of the oral cavity, means for providing the liquid to the means for directing the liquid onto the surfaces of the oral cavity, means for providing reciprocation of the liquid over the plurality of surfaces under conditions effective to provide the beneficial effect; and a reservoir for containing the liquid.

Abstract: A saliva ejector construction useful in the prevention of cross-contamination and the spread of infection between dental patients through the backflow of bacteria retracted through the saliva ejector tubing of evacuation systems used in the dental operatory, said saliva ejector comprising an elongated ejector tube having a proximal end being attachable to a suction or vacuum capability having factory pre-set calibrations for removing the unwanted build-up of saliva and debris from the inside of the patient's mouth during the course of a dental procedure or operation, a distal end having a saliva ejector tip for insertion into the patient's mouth to contact the unwanted build-up of saliva and debris during the course of said dental procedure or operation, and an aperture disposed within a wall of the elongated ejector tube to control and minimize the occurrence of pressure differentials within the tubing of the evacuation system when a patient closes their lips around said saliva ejector tip placed within the

Abstract: An urogynecologic implant has a curved body that disperses force and reduces the ability of the urethra to expand into the pelvic floor under impulses of abdominal pressure in order to inhibit, reduce or prevent stress urinary incontinence.

Abstract: A method and device for treating hernia by implanting at least one collapsible hernia repair patch, such as a planar mesh body at least partially enveloped by one or more elastic collars. A posterior end of an applicator carrying the repair patch may be inserted through a hernia and into the wall of the abdominal cavity, and the patch may be released into the cavity, e.g., so as to helically deploy the patch such that the patch lies in parallel to the abdominal wall. A balloon, which is removably attached to the patch, may be inflated to help move the patch to a deployed configuration, and thereafter the balloon removed from the hernia site.

Abstract: A surgical method is provided, the method including the steps of: providing an artificial or allograft flexible planar structure; providing an implant, the implant including material liquefiable by mechanical oscillation, exposing a surface region of hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material; positioning the implant on an exposed area of the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material; and fastening the implant to the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material by impinging the proximal end of the implant with mechanical oscillation and simultaneously pressing the implant against the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material while the distal end of the implant protrudes into a cavity of the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material and regions of the liquefiable material are in contact with the hard tissue or hard tissue substitute material, and thereby liquefying at least a portion of the liquefiable material, and letting the liquefiable material resolidify.

Abstract: In various examples, an apparatus includes a tray including a channel configured to hold a therapy delivery element at least partially within the channel. A retention clip is sized and shaped to fit within a portion of the channel. The retention clip is configured to releasably retain the therapy delivery element within the retention clip.

Abstract: Everting filter devices and methods for using the devices, including using the devices as intra-vascular filters to filter thrombus, emboli, and plaque fragments from blood vessels. The filter devices include a filter body nominally tubular in shape and having a large proximal opening. The filter body can extend from a proximal first end region distally over the non-everted exterior surface of the filter, further extending distally to a distal-most region, then converging inwardly and extending proximally toward the filter second end region, forming a distal everted cavity. The degree of eversion of the filter can be controlled by varying the distance between the filter first end region near the proximal opening and the closed second end region. Bringing the filter first and second end regions closer together can bring filter material previously on the non-everted filter exterior to occupy the distal-most region.

Abstract: Disclosed are tissue graft compositions made of materials having different densities, methods of making, and methods of treatment for restoring tissues in a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to covered endoprosthetic devices. Covered endoprosthetic devices comprise an endoprosthesis and a sheath. The sheath comprises a central portion and outer portions, wherein the central portion preferentially restricts or causes a restriction of blood flow. Blood flow can be reduced by the central portion of the sheath by varying the permeability of the sheath or by having projections on the sheath that slow blood flow. Permeability may be provided by perforations or holes in the material of the sheath or by varying the polymer structure that makes up the sheath itself. The outer portions of the sheath do not substantially reduce blood flow. Methods of using sheath-covered endoprosthetic devices of the invention to treat aneurysms, especially aneurysms in proximity to small perforator vessels or arteries, are also encompassed.

Abstract: This document provides implantable intralumenal stent graft medical devices. In some embodiments, the stent graft devices provided herein are implantable in bodily conduits that have side branches, and the stent graft devices are operable to allow the flow of fluids between the conduit and the side branches. In some embodiments, the walls of the stent graft devices provided herein include compliant channels which allow for fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the stent graft devices. In some embodiments, the compliant channels are configured to inhibit or reduce tissue ingrowth, tissue bridging, and/or endothelialization.

Abstract: Medical delivery devices include a needle and a flexible compressible impermeable tube attached to the needle. The compressible tube has an open interior channel. The device is adapted to releasably hold a length of a medical implant in the open interior channel of the tube. The medical implant can be slidably inserted into the interior channel of the tube and is loosely held by the tube.