Abstract: Described is a prosthetic device and methods for repairing a mitral valve having an annulus, leaflets, and chordae tendinae. The device comprises an elongate band including a plurality of reference elements that are located along the elongate band and protrude inwardly with respect thereto towards a center of the annulus, the plurality of reference elements being adapted to receive a corresponding plurality of artificial cords that are tied onto the reference elements and the plurality of reference elements adapted to be cut or removed in order to release the tied artificial cords.

Abstract: Penile implant and system comprising such an implant. The penile implant comprises a number of features which improves the function of the penile implant, e.g. a certain surface structure and portions with specific functions.

Abstract: A mosaic implant conformable to a curved surface, comprising first and second implant sections coupled along a beam portion extending across a length of the implant, each of the implant sections having—a plurality of biocompatible mosaic plates, and—a plurality of wires which interconnect the plates with one another. The mosaic implant is configured to be deformable such that at least a portion of the mosaic implant is conformable to a curved surface, with the beam portion providing structural support which resists inward deformation of the curved portion of the implant. A kit for forming a mosaic implant is also provided, along with a method for correcting a bone defect in a patient.

Abstract: Photodynamic devices for replacement of an articular head of a bone are provided. In an embodiment, a photodynamic device includes a photodynamic support member and an articular member attachable, either fixedly or removably, to the photodynamic support member and having a bearing surface. In an embodiment, the articular member includes a recess designed to receive the photodynamic support member. In an embodiment, the photodynamic support member includes an opening into which a shaft of the articular member can be inserted to attach the articular member to the photodynamic support member.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to a femoral component of a hip prosthesis consisting of two parts; a superior (metaphyseal) portion made from biocompatible, non-bioabsorbable material, and an inferior (diaphyseal) portion which is bioabsorbable. The diaphyseal portion will be absorbed by the organism months after implantation thereof, which is the necessary time for definitive attachment of the metaphyseal portion in a suitable position by osseointegration. This assembly allows perfect alignment of the prosthesis during the surgical procedure, the diaphyseal shank acting as a guide in the femoral canal, and due to the small size thereof will enable removal of the superior portion if revision surgery is necessary.

Abstract: A prosthetic femoral component (10) for an orthopaedic prosthesis has a canted patellar groove adapted for optimal patella/component interaction, with the component configured to have a medial or lateral cant depending upon the method of implantation. The femoral component defines a distal “component transverse plane,” which is a plane tangent to the distal-most points of the component condyles (12, 14). In a “mechanical” implantation, the component transverse plane is substantially normal to the mechanical femoral axis of the femur after the component has been implanted. Where the femoral component is configured to be “mechanically oriented” in this manner, the component has a medially canted patellar groove. On the other hand, an “anatomic” implantation is one in which, after the component has been implanted, the component transverse plane is substantially parallel to an “anatomic” transverse plane.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for replacing damaged meniscal tissue includes a meniscus implant including a porous body having a plurality of interconnected open micro-pores and one or more open cavities for receiving meniscal tissue. The interconnected micro-pores are arranged to allow fluid to flow into the porous body and are in fluid communication with the one or more open cavities.

Abstract: A glenoid component for coupling to a scapula of a subject includes a body. The body includes an articulation surface adapted to articulate with a humeral component, and the body further includes a distal surface adapted to face the glenoid of the scapula. The distal surface includes a base surface portion adapted to face a first portion of the glenoid. The distal surface further includes an augmented surface portion adapted to face a second portion of the glenoid. The base surface portion and the augmented surface portion define an obtuse angle therebetween.

Abstract: The invention relates to three-dimensional implants to facilitate fusion between two adjacent bone bodies and methods of manufacture thereof.

Abstract: Systems for minimally invasive disc augmentation include an anulus augmentation component and a nucleus augmentation component. Both are suited for minimally invasive deployment. The nucleus augmentation component restores disc height and/or replaces missing nucleus pulposus. The anulus augmentation component shields weakened regions of the anulus fibrosis and/or resists escape of natural nucleus pulposus and/or the augmentation component. Methods and deployment devices are also disclosed. Method of supporting and augmenting a nucleus pulposus by inserting a flexible biocompatible material into the disc space using an anchoring means are also provided.

Abstract: An artificial disc is provided which more closely matches the movement of the natural spine. The artificial disc uses one or more projections and corresponding recesses to provide a sliding articulation. The artificial joint is inherently stable in that compressive forces placed on the disc such as the weight placed upon the joint or the tension of surrounding tissues urges the joint towards a neutral position and not farther away from a neutral position.

Abstract: Surgically installed prostheses replace either the caudal portion of a natural facet joint, the cephalad portion of a natural facet joint, or both. The prostheses are readily attached to the pedicles of a vertebral body and support at least one element that defines an artificial facet joint structure. The caudal facet joint structure is sized and located to articulate with the cephalad facet joint structure. Together, the prostheses form a total facet replacement system. The system is suitable for use in virtually all levels of the spine.

Abstract: A device for insertion into a spinal (intervertebral or intravertebral) space is expandable and contractable. The device includes a body assembly, a top member configured to fit within a gap in the body assembly, a drive gear disposed within the body assembly at a distal end of the body assembly, a proximal gear assembly, and a distal gear assembly. The drive gear includes a receiver accessible from outside the body assembly and configured to be rotated in order to rotate the drive gear. Each gear assembly is attached to the top member. The distal gear assembly engages the drive gear. Rotation of the drive gear in a first direction causes the gear assemblies to translate the top member away from the body assembly, and rotation of the drive gear in a second direction causes the gear assemblies to translate the top member towards the body assembly.

Abstract: An expandable intervertebral fusion device is provided including a core, an upper endplate for contacting a first vertebral body and a lower endplate for contacting a second vertebral body. The expandable intervertebral fusion device is configurable in a first state, a second state and a third state. In the first state, the upper and lower endplates are generally planar to one another and define a first height. In the second state, the upper and lower endplates remain generally planar to one another and define a second height greater than the first height. In the third state, a lordotic angle is defined between the upper and lower endplates.

Abstract: An expandable interbody fusion device includes a superior endplate and an inferior endplate. The superior endplate is designed and structured to be angled; the angled surface of the superior endplate becomes prominent upon expansion. The inferior endplate has a bounded cavity in which the superior endplate is fully nested in an unexpanded condition. In a fully expanded condition, the entire outer surface of the superior endplate moves out of the cavity and above an upper surface of the inferior endplate.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant (100) for the fusion between two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column comprising: —a fusion cage (1), extending from a posterior side to an anterior side, adapted to be interposed between two adjacent vertebral bodies of a patient; —an asymmetrical fixing plate (2), attached to the fusion cage (1) and having a plurality of passageways (16; 7) for the insertion of bone screws on a single side.

Abstract: A separate nub component between the plate and an intervertebral fusion cage, wherein the nub is attached to the plate. The nub lessens the undesired pivotal movement of the plate. It is believed that when the nub fits snugly between the endplates of the adjacent vertebral bodies, it acts as a stop against the undesired pivotal movement of the plate.

Abstract: The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a body portion, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the first and second endplates capable of being moved in a direction away from the body portion into an expanded configuration or capable of being moved towards the body portion into an unexpanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed and installed in both configurations.

Abstract: Provided is a walking assist device independent of a deviation of a bending/stretching state between user's legs and applying a force to a user in a direction intended by the user. The walking assist device performs control so that the larger the deviation of a value of a bending/stretching state variable representing the bending/stretching state of each of a pair of right and left legs of a user P is, the larger the deviation between the assist forces Fr and Fl acting on the user P from each of the leg links 2 is.

Abstract: Prosthetic feet and foot covers that provide a more natural appearance and improved performance are provided. A foot element for a prosthetic foot can extend from a heel end to a toe end and include a heel, arch, forefoot, and toe regions. The forefoot region can be wider than the arch and heel regions. The toe region can include a U-shaped cut out to define a big toe. Various features of the foot element can guide rollover of the foot through the big toe during use. A foot cover can be designed to receive a prosthetic foot including such a foot element. The foot cover can have a region of increased flexibility at a transition between the forefoot region and toe region. The foot cover can also have a padded area extending from the heel region across a lateral part of the arch region and forefoot region.

Abstract: Methods of operating a prosthesis (10a) having at least one moveable component (12) and an electronic control device (18) are provided, where the at least one moveable component (12) has two or more operating modes (30) and at least one operating parameter (28). The method comprises receiving at least one input control signal (p1,p2,pn) from the wearer of the prosthesis (10a), comparing the at least one input control signal (p1,p2,pn) with an operating profile (26) stored in the electronic control device in order to determine a desired operating mode (30) and operating parameter (28), and instructing the moveable component (12) to move in accordance with the desired operating mode (30) and operating parameter (28).

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to methods, compositions, devices and kits which pertain to the attachment of stent-containing medical devices to tissue.

Abstract: Described are various embodiments of an improved endoprosthesis that includes a generally cylindrical graft portion that extends along a longitudinal axis to define a flow passage and a plurality of stent hoops. The plurality of stent hoops are connected to the graft portion and disposed in a spaced apart relationship along the longitudinal axis. There is at least a first suture disposed along on the outer surface of the main body. The first suture connects at least two of the spaced apart stent hoops together. The first suture also includes unidirectional barbs (or multidirectional barbs) configured to reduce movement of the main body with respect to a direction of blood flow in an artery.

Abstract: A personalized prosthesis for implantation at a treatment site of a patient includes a self-expanding mesh or membrane having collapsed and expanded configurations. The collapsed configuration is adapted to be delivered to the treatment site, and the expanded configuration engages the personalized prosthesis with the treatment site. The mesh or membrane is personalized to match the treatment site in the expanded configuration, and has an outer surface that substantially matches the treatment site shape and size. The self-expanding mesh or membrane forms a central lumen configured to allow blood or other body fluids to flow therethrough. Methods of manufacturing and delivery of the personalized prosthesis are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods of preparing and using a stent assembly that includes a stent jacket formed from an expansible mesh structure having apertures and that includes a fiber having a diameter of about 7 micrometers and about 40 micrometers, and an expansible stent operatively associated with the stent jacket. The method further comprises administering to the subject an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) eluted from the stent assembly.

Abstract: The stent of this invention is a self-expanding stent created by a scaffolding lattice. The stent may be made from a nickel-titanium alloy. The lattice is formed from two different types of helices that proceed circumferentially in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis of the stent. The helices have no free ends. The first type of helix is formed by a series of undulations and the second type of helix is formed from a series of connection elements. The undulations may be in a zigzag or sinusoidal pattern. The connection elements connect the junction points lying on adjacent turns of the first type of helix. The junction points are formed by the ascending and descending arms of the undulations or zigzags. The ends of the stent may be formed by a closed circumferential element which is linked by connection elements to a transition zone. The transition zone is formed by a closed loop that connects directly to the first helix.

Abstract: The disclosure provides biodegradable implantable devices such as a stent comprising a biodegradable polymeric wherein the polymeric material is treated to control crystallinity and/or Tg. The stent is capable to expand at body temperature from a crimped configuration to a deployed diameter and have sufficient strength to support a body lumen.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an endoscopic stent delivery device. The device includes an endoscope having an elongate shaft including a proximal end, a distal end, an outer wall and a longitudinal working channel through the elongate shaft defining an inner wall of the elongate shaft; a stent juxtaposingly disposed to a distal portion of the inner wall; and an inner tubular member slidably disposed within the working channel and having a stent holding member engaging an interior portion of the stent for releasably securing the stent to the distal portion of the inner wall. The device may further include a viewing device disposed at the distal end of the endoscope and/or an illuminating device disposed at the distal end of the endoscope.

Abstract: A trackable guidewire apparatus and method for use are described. Longitudinally spaced proximal and distal guidewire ends are separated by a guidewire body. A plurality of longitudinally spaced position sensors are configured to provide signals corresponding to a three-dimensional position of at least one position sensor in a coordinate system of an associated tracking system in response to an electromagnetic field/stimulus. At least one retention mechanism is provided for maintaining the medical device in a predetermined retention position longitudinally along the guidewire body. At least one stop structure is provided in a predetermined stop position longitudinally along the guidewire body.

Abstract: A device for isolating tissue in the digestive tract including a biocompatible portion having a surface sized to cover the tissue to be isolated and also includes a plurality of micro-anchors attached to the biocompatible portion and extending from the surface, the micro-anchors sized to penetrate the mucosa of the tissue. A method for isolating tissue in the digestive tract in which an isolation element is delivered to a desired location in the digestive system; the isolation element having fixed thereto a plurality of micro-anchors. The method also includes attaching the isolation element to tissue at the desired location by causing the micro-anchors to penetrate the mucosa of the tissue.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating obesity are provided. More particularly, intragastric devices and devices for inflating and methods of fabricating, deploying, inflating, monitoring, and retrieving the same are provided.

Abstract: Methods and systems relating to an ankle and foot support system are disclosed. Some embodiments may include a covering having a cable tightening mechanism and a cable forming an exposed loop. The exposed loop may be attached to a loop receiving member located on the covering. The exposed loop may also be attached to a footwear loop anchor located on an article of footwear. In some embodiments, the covering may include more than one exposed loop for attaching to more than one loop receiving member located on the covering, as well as more than one footwear loop anchor located on an article of footwear. In some embodiments, adjusting the cable tightening mechanism may secure the covering to the article of footwear.

Abstract: An ankle-foot orthotic is provided that treats steppage gate by preventing foot drop during movement. The orthotic having an ankle brace linked to a user's shoe by an elastic strap. The elastic strap having sufficient elasticity to provide the appropriate amount of tensile force to the shoe to prevent foot drop, while having sufficient flexibility to allow the user to naturally flex their foot and ankle during movement. The elastic strap comprises hook fasteners attachable to and removable from the shoe, such that the orthotic can be easily put on or taken off by the user.

Abstract: A wrist brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the elbow. The wrist brace includes a base and two external straps for fastening the base to the wrist of a person, and a third strap located either on the inside or the outside of the base for pulling a support splint into the wrist when worn.

Abstract: A spiral brace has an inner surface that corresponds to a digital representation of an injured limb. The spiral brace can wrap around a length of the limb in a helical manner. The body of the spiral brace may be a single piece structure that is fenestrated to provide air circulation to the injured limb.

Abstract: A knee orthosis (1) for support of a knee joint in the case of instability comprises a thigh portion (4), which is attachable on the thigh, and a lower leg portion (5), which is attachable on the lower leg, which lower leg portion (5) is provided with splint elements (12), which are connected in an articulated way, via articulation means (13), to hinge plates (14) attached on the thigh portion (4). The lower leg portion (5) has a lower half shell (9), which in the region remote from the knee is borne in the splint elements (12) in a way pivotable about a pivot axis (15). Via a longitudinally stable, flexible traction (17) the lower half shell (9) is pushed ventrally against the lower leg, the pressure increasing with bending of the knee. An optimal support of the knee joint is thereby achieved, especially when the cruciate ligaments are injured.

Abstract: A knee brace to stabilize the patella has a main body positionable over the knee, a hinged longitudinal support assembly, a buttress, a buttress retention flap overlaying the buttress, a cam positioned proximal to the support assembly and a tensioning line. The buttress is positioned against the side of the knee opposite the support assembly and applies a variable compression force to the knee. The tensioning line engages the cam and operatively connects it to the buttress via the buttress retention flap to automatically vary the compression force applied to the knee in response to rotation of the support assembly.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace for a body joint has a first longitudinal support, a second longitudinal support and a hinge joint rotatably connecting the longitudinal supports, thereby rendering them positionable at different hinge joint angles. The brace also has a tensioner attached at its opposite ends to the first and second longitudinal supports which intermediately engages a cam positioned at the hinge joint. The tensioner applies a variable elastic tensioning force to the longitudinal supports which varies as a function of the hinge joint angle and biases the longitudinal supports toward a position corresponding to a desired hinge joint angle.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices for reducing postpartum hemorrhage, including a belt having a fastener for securing the belt around a patient's body, a bladder being inflatable with air and adapted to be placed over the patient's abdomen for applying selective external pressure to the patient's uterus, a manual pump operably connected to the bladder to change air pressure of the bladder, and a pressure gauge for indicating the air pressure. Methods for using the devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: A urine collection apparatus is disclosed to include an expandable bag connected to a urinary catheter, the bag being adapted to receive urine expelled from the person using the apparatus. The apparatus also has a check valve associated with the bag, which opens to admit gas to the interior of the bag to equilibrate the pressure within the bag with the pressure of the surrounding atmosphere whenever a partial vacuum occurs in the bag.

Abstract: A urinal includes a urinal body, a urine receiving reservoir and a spout extending therefrom for receiving urine. A supplemental urinal spout is provided and comprises both an inlet portion and a retention portion, the supplemental urinal spout being attachable to the spout of the urinal to form a leak prevention seal. The supplemental urinal spout comprises a funnel-shaped element that is integrally formed with a cylindrical sidewall. The urinal body is preferably made of a plastic material and the supplemental urinal spout is made from a low durometer elastomeric material. The urinal and the supplemental urinal spout may be disposable.

Abstract: Apparatus for reducing obstructive sleep apnea, snoring and/or nasal drainage. One apparatus includes an upper member fitting the interior and exterior surfaces of a user's upper dentition, and a lower member fitting similarly adjacent a user's lower dentition. The lower member includes molar extensions projecting away from the lower member. The upper member includes upper molar extensions projecting away from the upper member and toward the lower molar extensions so that when the user bites or clenches, the upper right and lower right extensions impinge on one another in substantially overlapping fashion, as do the molar upper left and lower left extensions. The upper and lower members have an anterior shape to form a gap sufficient for the user's tongue to extend into the gap, and each molar extension may include a magnet. Methods of using the apparatus and kits to reduce sleep apnea, snoring, and/or nasal drainage.

Abstract: Systems and methods for thermal management of a patient in an MRI environment are disclosed. The systems include a non-magnetic pump that provides fluid through fluid flow channels to a patient in the MM environment. In one embodiment, a control system adjusts the temperature or rate of flow of fluid provided to the patient in order to maintain or adjust the patient's temperature. In one embodiment, a display unit provides information on the temperature of the patient or the fluid and enables a user to adjust parameters of operation.

Abstract: A method of treating a subject in need thereof, is carried out by (a) administering said subject a therapeutic intervention (e.g., an active agent) in a treatment effective amount; and concurrently (b) administering said subject caloric vestibular stimulation in a treatment effective amount, said caloric vestibular stimulation administered so as to enhance the efficacy of said active agent. In some embodiments, the caloric vestibular stimulation is administered as an actively controlled time varying waveform.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for treating a glaucomatous eye are provided. Embodiments may provide a treatment probe for treating an eye of a patient. The treatment probe may have an elongate body with a contact surface at a distal end of the elongate body. A treatment fiber or light source may be housed in the treatment probe and may be configured to direct treatment energy from the contact surface. The contact surface may be configured to couple to a surface of the eye to deliver the energy into the target area. In many embodiments the contact surface may have a convex configuration with a rounded outer shape and edge that facilitates the sweeping of the probe surface across the eye during treatment delivery. In some embodiments the probe may be swept in arc motions while delivering treatment energy to the eye.

Abstract: A change in the response of the cornea to ultrasonic energy directed into the cornea is monitored during irradiation of the cornea to bring about corneal crosslinking. Because the change in ultrasonic response is correlated with the degree of crosslinking achieved, a desired degree of crosslinking can be achieved by terminating the irradiation when the change reaches a threshold. The change in ultrasonic response can be determined by taking a baseline measurement before irradiation and additional measurements during irradiation using the same ultrasonic transducer (47). The transducers may be carried on a device (30) resembling a contact lens which overlies the eye and which transmits the light used in the irradiation step to the eye.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, an apparatus comprising a lacrimal implant insertable at least partially into a lacrimal punctum. The lacrimal implant comprises an implant core, and an implant body. The implant body includes a cavity sized and shaped to receive the implant core. At least one of the implant core and the implant cavity includes a detection device configured to allow automatic detection of the lacrimal implant with a separate detector device.

Abstract: Contact lenses comprising phosphorylcholine groups release beneficial polyionic or guanidinium-containing agents.

Abstract: A method, system, and device for magnetically pushing agents into an eye.

Abstract: A surgical device for use with a surgical site within a body includes a hub, a tube, and a compliant tip. The hub is configured to be connected to at least one of a vacuum source and an infusion source. The tube has a proximal end and an opposing distal end. The proximal end of the tube is connected to the hub. The compliant tip is connected to the tube and disposed adjacent the distal end of the tube, and includes a tip passage defined within the tip and a notch that defines a stepped opening in the tip. The stepped opening provides fluid communication between the at least one vacuum source and infusion source and the surgical site.