Abstract: A suspensory fixation device has an elongated anchor member adapted to be transversely situated at the exit of a bone tunnel. A graft supporting loop member formed of a pair of parallel suture limbs extending from a bight portion is suspended transversely from the anchor member and has a loop length which is adjustable so the graft ligament can be supported in the bone tunnel at varying distances from the anchor member. When a graft ligament is attached to the saddle end of the loop member, the length of the loop member may be shortened by simply pulling distally on the pair of limbs at one end of the loop member to pull the graft ligament into the bone tunnel a predetermined distance or until it bottoms out at the floor of the bone tunnel. When tension is applied to the loop member by the graft pulling the loop proximally, the bight portion of the suture automatically locks the graft supporting loop member in place.

Abstract: A bearing component 2 for a joint replacement prosthesis comprises a first bearing element 4; a second bearing element 6, and a linking element 8, operatively connecting the first and second bearing elements 4, 6 and permitting relative motion there between. The flexible linking element 8 prevents dislocation of mobile bearings in a total knee replacement prosthesis. The invention also relates to a bridging element which retains the linking element 8 with some play, which acts as a ligament support 2051, and which causes a deflection of the line of action of a ligament 1018. A joint replacement prosthesis is also disclosed comprising a biasing element 1140 or a tensioning element 1220 operatively coupled to the artificial ligament 1018. The biasing element 1140 or tensioning element 1220 may be housed in the stem of a tibia tray 1006.

Abstract: A bearing component 2 for a joint replacement prosthesis comprises a first bearing element 4; a second bearing element 6, and a linking element 8, operatively connecting the first and second bearing elements 4, 6 and permitting relative motion there between. The flexible linking element 8 prevents dislocation of mobile bearings in a total knee replacement prosthesis. The invention also relates to a bridging element which retains the linking element 8 with some play, which acts as a ligament support 2051, and which causes a deflection of the line of action of a ligament 1018. A joint replacement prosthesis is also disclosed comprising a biasing element 1140 or a tensioning element 1220 operatively coupled to the artificial ligament 1018. The biasing element 1140 or tensioning element 1220 may be housed in the stem of a tibia tray 1006.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a delivery device and screw combination. The combination includes a delivery device comprising a handle and a shall coupled to the handle, the shaft including a proximal end, a distal end, a non-circular cannulation, and markings along a length of the shaft; an interference screw coupled to the delivery device comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the screw including threads extending in an open helical form from the proximal end to the distal end, a suture bridge located at a distal end of the screw and housed within a slot of the delivery device shaft, and a plurality of runners extending longitudinally along an interior of the screw, the runners housed within grooves of the delivery device shaft; and a suture disposed around the suture bridge, ends of the suture extending through the emulation of the delivery device shaft.

Abstract: A foldable lens comprises an outer refractive surface portion comprising a first plurality of convexly curved refractive profile regions having positive optical power to converge light energy with refraction toward a focus on the retina. The convexly curved refractive profile regions of the outer region may correspond to at least about a quarter of the refractive power of the lens, such that the lens thickness is decreased substantially and the folded lens can fit through a small incision. The outer refractive surface portion focuses light with refraction, in focus images viewed through the outer portion of the lens can appear sharp to the patient. The outer refractive surface portion also comprises a second plurality of concavely curved refractive profile regions having negative optical power disposed between the first plurality, so as to diverge the light energy substantially away from the focus on the retina, such that visual artifacts are inhibited.

Abstract: A mitral valve replacement device is adapted to be deployed at a mitral valve position in a human heart. The device has an atrial flange defining an atrial end of the device, a valve body defining a ventricular end of the device, and an annulus support that connects the atrial flange and the valve body, the annulus support including a ring of tabs extending radially therefrom and adapted to engage the native mitral annulus and/or the native leaflet(s) of the human heart.

Abstract: A tray for loading a medical device on a catheter assembly includes a reservoir and a temperature sensing and indicating device disposed in the reservoir. The reservoir is defined by a bottom surface, a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall, and includes an open top opposite the bottom surface. The reservoir configured to receive a liquid such that a medical device may be loaded onto a catheter assembly while submerged in the liquid. The temperature sensing and indicating device senses the temperature of the liquid in the reservoir and indicates to the user when the liquid is at a desired temperature for loading the medical device onto the catheter assembly.

Abstract: A valve insertion device for traversing a wire guide through a valve within an intraluminal passage. A wire guide is positioned near the outflow of a valve within an intraluminal passage. Alongside the wire guide, a pressure sensor is positioned to detect the pressure of the fluid in the intraluminal passage. As the valve opens, the fluid pressure at the outflow of the valve increases. This information is sent from the pressure sensor to a control system. From this information, the control system can determine when the valve will open and can actuate an advancement system to move the wire guide to traverse the open valve. After traversing the valve, various catheters and sheaths may be advanced over the wire guide through the valve.

Abstract: This invention relates to a delivery apparatus and method for deployment of a mitral valve replacement.

Abstract: An improved holder and storage system for a tissue-type prosthetic mitral heart valve that constricts the commissure posts of the valve and prevents suture looping. A rod axially movable relative to the holder tensions lengths of attachment sutures that extend between the commissure post tips to create a tent and flex the tips inward, thus helping to prevent looping of any of an array of pre-implanted sutures around the leading tips during delivery of the valve. The holder has a safety mechanism that prevents valve delivery before the rod is deployed. One embodiment automatically deploys the rod upon opening a storage jar. One embodiment permits a delivery handle to directly deploy the rod, while another uses a separate worm screw and coupling. A holder clip that attaches to a packaging sleeve may be formed of flexible members meshed together from which the heart valve and holder are easily pulled free to eliminate a step of decoupling the clip from the sleeve.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods to reduce ventricular volume are disclosed. The device takes the form of a transventricular anchor, which presses a portion of the ventricular wall inward, thereby reducing the available volume of the ventricle. The anchor is deployed using a curved introducer that may be inserted into one ventricle, through the septum and into the opposite ventricle. Barbs or protrusions along the anchor body combined with a mechanical stop and a sealing member hold the device in place once deployed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device and method of use for a thoracic expander. More specifically, the present invention generally relates to a device and method of use for a horizontal thoracic expander, which allows for the creation of thoracic volume in a patient by expanding the thoracic cavity in the horizontal plane. In one embodiment the device is comprised of a housing element and at least one extending element. In another embodiment, the device is comprised of two opposing extending elements. In yet another embodiment, the opposing extending elements are also comprised of interchangeable attachment elements that are positioned on the distal ends of the extending elements. In yet another embodiment, the device is also comprised of a gear element, which is coupled to the extending elements and a control element allowing for the displacement of the extending arms in opposing horizontal directions.

Abstract: An artificial hip joint stem of the present invention includes a stem body divided into a stem proximal part, a stem distal part, and a stem intermediate part located between the stem proximal part and the stem distal part. The stem body includes a rough surface located at the stem proximal part and having a surface roughness (Ra) of 10-80 ?m, a smooth satin surface located at the stem intermediate part and having a surface roughness (Ra) of 0.1-1.0 ?m, and a shiny surface located at the stem distal part and having a surface roughness (Ra) of less than 0.1 ?m. The present invention also provides an artificial hip joint including the artificial hip joint stem.

Abstract: A semi-synthetic hybrid material having a pH from 7 to 7.4 includes an inorganic fraction and a cross-linked organic fraction. The method for producing this material, and osteosynthesis devices or implants made of semi-synthetic hybrid material are also described.

Abstract: A four-component artificial intervertebral disc may provide six degrees of movement: flexion, extension, lateral bending, axial rotation, axial deflection, and anterior/posterior translation. The disc may include a superior endplate, a superior core, an inferior core, and an inferior endplate. The superior endplate may include a concave mating surface, and the inferior endplate may include a spherical mating surface. The superior endplate may roll across the superior core to provide flexion, extension, and lateral bending. The superior endplate may twist or rotate atop the superior core to provide axial rotation, and the superior endplate may slide over the superior core to provide anterior/posterior translation. The superior core may be connected to the inferior core, and the inferior core may be connected to the inferior endplate. The inferior core may be made from a flexible material that may enable the artificial disc to expand or compress vertically.

Abstract: A spinal implant comprises an interbody portion including a first endplate engaging surface and a second endplate engaging surface. The portion defines at least one first cavity oriented to implant a fastener with endplate tissue. A plate portion extends from the interbody portion in a substantially perpendicular orientation and defines at least one second cavity oriented to implant a fastener with vertebral wall tissue. Systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: An orthopedic device for implanting between adjacent vertebrae comprising: an arcuate balloon and a hardenable material within said balloon. In some embodiments, the balloon has a footprint that substantially corresponds to a perimeter of a vertebral endplate. An inflatable device is inserted through a cannula into an intervertebral space and oriented so that, upon expansion, a natural angle between vertebrae will be at least partially restored. At least one component selected from the group consisting of a load-bearing component and an osteobiologic component is directed into the inflatable device through a fluid communication means.

Abstract: To remove a damaged acetabular cup attached to the hipbone, applicant positions the cutting surface of a curved cutting blade at the acetabular cup/hipbone interface. The blade mounts to a head. The powered drive shaft of a motor rotates the blade and head. A linkage, part of which may be around the drive shaft, moves longitudinally relative to the drive shaft under surgeon control. The linkage pivots the head and urges the blade into the interface. As the power tool rotates the curved blade and the linkage pivots the blade into the interface, the blade follows the hemispherical contour of the interface. Continued powered rotation of the drive shaft and blade and further pivoting of the blade cuts the cup from the hipbone.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a control method of a wearable robot, including: generating reference gait data based on the results of sensing by a sensor unit included in a structure; estimating, when a wearer walks, the wearer's gait phase based on the results of sensing by the sensor unit; detecting a gait phase having a minimum difference from the estimated gait phase from the reference gait data; and driving a driver of the structure, according to a control signal generated based on the estimated gait phase and the detected gait phase.

Abstract: Various embodiments of methods for coating stents are described herein. Applying a composition including polymer component and solvent to a stent substrate followed by exposing the polymer component to a temperature equal to or greater than a Tg of the polymer component is disclosed. Repeating the applying and exposing one or more times to form a coating with the result that the solvent content of the coating after the final exposing step is at a level suitable for a finished stent is further disclosed.

Abstract: A method for treating an aneurysm can include inserting a medical device partially in a first artery and partially in a third artery. The device can be expanded radially outwardly from a first position to a second position to engage an inner surface of the first artery and an inner surface of the third artery, so as to maintain a fluid pathway through said arteries. Further, the device can be positioned such that, when the device is in the second position, a porous membrane of the device is located at a neck of the aneurysm.

Abstract: A method for repairing an abnormality in the wall of a body lumen, the method comprising: isolating the abnormality in the wall of the body lumen from flow in the body lumen; positioning flowable forming material adjacent to the abnormality in the wall of the body lumen; and transforming the flowable forming material into a substantially stationary state so as to repair the abnormality in the wall of the body lumen. Apparatus for repairing an abnormality in the wall of a body lumen, the apparatus comprising: a supply of flowable forming material; zone isolation apparatus for isolating the abnormality in the wall of the body lumen from flow in the body lumen; and positioning apparatus for positioning the flowable forming material adjacent to the abnormality in the wall of the body lumen so as to repair the abnormality in the wall of the body lumen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a catheter for delivery of a self-expanding stent into a body lumen, comprising a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, the shaft defining a lumen and a stent accommodating portion at its outside for carrying a self-expanding stent, a catheter tip arranged at the distal end of the shaft, a sheath arranged concentrically to the shaft, a pusher coil arranged concentrically in between the shaft and the sheath, and proximal to the stent accommodating portion, wherein the sheath comprises an inside layer, an outside layer, and a wire layer of interwoven wires, the wire layer being arranged in between the inside layer and the outside layer.

Abstract: Methods, devices and systems for delivering a device assembly into a gastric or other space within the body, allowing the device to expand to occupy volume within the gastric space and, after an effective period of time, delivering a substance or stimulus to begin breakdown of the expanded device so that it may release from the body.

Abstract: A system includes an adjustable implant configured for implantation internally within a subject and includes a permanent magnet configured for rotation about an axis of rotation, the permanent magnet operatively coupled to a drive transmission configured to alter a dimension of the adjustable implant. The system includes an external adjustment device configured for placement on or adjacent to the skin of the subject having at least one magnet configured for rotation, the external adjustment device further comprising a motor configured to rotate the at least one magnet and an encoder. Rotation of the at least one magnet of the external adjustment device effectuates rotational movement of the permanent magnet of the adjustable implant and alters the dimension of the adjustable implant. Drive control circuitry is configured to receive an input signal from the encoder.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a device for improving flow of air through the nasal cavity of wearer of the device, the device comprising a substantially U-shaped body forming a bridge for spanning the nostrils of a wearer when the device is in use; and a first body and a second body interconnected with opposite upright portions of the U-shaped body, each comprising a rib which extends outwardly from a portion of the U-shaped body distal to the bridge and ends in a section provided with padding which forms a relatively large surface area portion, wherein the first and second bodies are adjustable such that each relatively large surface area portion can be urged against a nostril wall, whereby resistance to flow of air is substantially reduced.

Abstract: A condom with a surrounding prophylactic shield provides a thick inner lining, preferably one-eighth inch thick, covers the user's penis. The inner lining is placed at the center of a circular shield manufactured from soft rubber or latex, preferably four inches in diameter. The shield is sufficiently deformable for sexual intercourse and ensures no skin to skin contact between the participants, thus preventing the spread of contact STDs.

Abstract: A forced air warming blanket for providing conditioned gas to a patient and a method of using and manufacturing the same. The forced air warming blanket comprises a first blanket portion which comprises a generally U-shaped inflatable region, at least part of the external surface of the inflatable region being air permeable, as well as an inlet port for receiving temperature conditioned gas. An inner blanket portion is provided within the generally U-shaped inflatable region of the first blanket portion. The inner blanket portion is at least partially (or wholly) detachable from the first blanket portion. The inner blanket portion may also have an inflatable region. An outer blanket portion may be provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable, self-contained, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) providing heating (or cooling) for the patient by controlled exchange of thermal energy between a transparent enclosure that houses the infant and an internal reservoir. The invention has no requirement for electrical power. The internal reservoir utilizes water that is heated (or cooled) by an external source. The micro-environment inside the transparent enclosure for the infant and the water inside the internal reservoir are thermally and acoustically isolated in order to minimize heat and sound exchange with the ambient environment.

Abstract: Improvements in devices, systems and methods for non-invasively lowering intra-ocular pressure (IOP). In examples, the device applies non-invasive, focal, mechanical oscillation to the limbal region at a low amplitude and frequency, targeting the trabecular meshwork to restore outflow function and lower IOP.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical apparatus for phacoemulsification includes an aspiration line to transport an aspiration fluid and particles of an eye generated by phacoemulsification. A suction vacuum pump draws in the aspiration fluid and the particles of the eye via the aspiration line and a flow limiter adjustably limits the flow to a flow lying in a range of 5 milliliter to 100 milliliter per minute. The aspiration line defines an inner cross section and has an outer wall. The flow limiter is arranged upstream of the suction vacuum pump and has at least two press-on elements. The elements are each configured to contact engage the outer wall so as to cause the inner cross section to be reduced. The press-on elements are disposed mutually spaced so as to define a predetermined distance therebetween and are arranged to be rotatably movable in a rotational direction about a common rotational axis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a handpiece for the phacoemulsification of an eye lens, having a needle with an aspiration line arranged therein for transporting an aspiration fluid and at least one drive element for generating a longitudinal wave, wherein the drive element is arranged in such a way that the longitudinal wave can be coupled directly into the aspiration fluid.

Abstract: A system includes a focusing element configured to receive electromagnetic radiation coaxially and to focus the electromagnetic radiation to generate focused radiation. The system also includes a refracting element having an associated focal plane. The refracting element is configured to receive the focused radiation, and to refract the focused radiation to produce refracted radiation having an annular pattern at the focal plane. The system also includes a slit lamp having a receiving element to receive the refracted radiation.

Abstract: An optical beam scanning system for incising target tissue in a patient's eye includes a laser source configured to deliver a laser beam to produce optical breakdown and initiate a plasma-mediated process; an OCT imaging device used to create an image of eye tissue that includes the cornea; a delivery system for delivering the laser beam to the target tissue to form a cataract incision; a scanner operable to scan the focal spot of the laser beam to different locations within the patient's eye; and a controller operatively coupled to the laser source, the imaging device, and the scanner. The OCT device is configured to scan the eye tissue to generate imaging data used to define an incision pattern configured to incise one or more relaxation incisions into the cornea, so that the one or more relaxation incisions are formed starting from the inside and proceeding outward.

Abstract: A scanning system for treating target tissue in a patient's eye includes an ultrafast laser source configured to deliver a laser beam comprising a plurality of laser pulses; an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) device configured to generate signals which may be used to create an image of the cornea and limbus of the eye of the patient; a scanner configured to focus and direct the laser beam in a pattern within the cornea or limbus to create incisions therein; and a controller operatively coupled to the laser source and scanner configured to control the scanner to adjust the position of the laser beam based upon the signals from the OCT device to create a cataract incision in the cornea or limbus that provides access for lens removal instrumentation to a crystalline lens of the patient's eye, and a relaxation incision in the cornea or limbus.

Abstract: The invention is a tympanic membrane pressure equalization tube. The tube has a distal end and a proximal end and a tube lumen. A medial flange is located at the distal end of the tube and has 2 or more retention elements and a space between each retention element. A lateral flange is located at the proximal end of the tube. The outside diameter of the medial flange is greater than the outside diameter of the lateral flange and the diameter of the medial flange is between about 2.0 and 5.0 mm and the diameter of the lateral flange is between about 1.75 mm and 4.0 mm.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a negative pressure wound closure system and methods for using such a system. Preferred embodiments of the invention facilitate closure of the wound by preferentially contracting to provide for movement of the tissue. Preferred embodiments can utilize tissue grasping elements to apply a wound closing force to the tissue.

Abstract: The present invention is a disposable diaper of conventional construction that has centrally located apertures in the front and/or rear of the garment. The apertures size and contour allows for an adequate amount of air to flow throughout the diaper covered region reducing or eliminating diaper rash. The apertures contain an outer fold or flap that can be sealed and resealed as desired by the user. The inner layer of dry weave or interlocking material forms a leak proof barrier underneath the flap or cover to prevent leakage.

Abstract: An absorbent including: an absorbent body (AB) having a leak preventer sheet form and absorber for absorbing fluid, minimum one layer arranged above the leak preventer; a connection structure arranged from the AB's front to rear end parts in direction via front, crotch part and rear, the connection structure coupling to the AB at front and rear end parts; the connection structure has right and left belt-like supporters and connection sheet (CS), right and left edge parts of the CS respectively coupling to right and left belt-like supporters, the CS hangs down, on the belt-like supporters underside, toward the absorber in front, crotch part and rear, to form a canal with right and left edge parts vicinities of the CS serving as side surfaces and vicinity of the CS center part in lateral direction serving as bottom surface, the fluid canal enables the fluid from a wearer to the absorber.

Abstract: A cloth diaper flat's fabric is formed from a blend of multiple different types of fibers, including spandex fibers. The spandex fibers comprise 10% or less of the fibers in the blend but extend throughout the entirety of the fabric's dimensions so as to extend throughout the entirety of the cloth diaper flat's dimensions.