Abstract: Implants and methods for augmentation of the disc space between two vertebral bodies to treat disease or abnormal pathology conditions in spinal applications. The implant includes a chain of biocompatible material suitable for insertion into a disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies in a patient's spinal column, wherein the spinal disc space has a transverse plane. The chain comprises a plurality of adjacent bodies having a height configured to reside within the disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies and a length configured to reside in the disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies when the chain is curved in an orientation substantially along the transverse plane of the spinal disc space.

Abstract: Craniotomy closures comprising surgical fasteners are described for use in reattaching a skull flap removed from the skull of a patient during brain surgery. Methods of using the same are also described. Surgical strips used in combination with the fasteners are shaped to follow the perimeter contour of the skull flap. The craniotomy closures are designed to encourage bone growth and healing of the skull flap and they can be used to deliver medication and bone growth enhancement materials to the surgical site.

Abstract: Internal pedicle insulator apparatuses and methods are provided. A representative method includes: providing an internal pedicle insulator implant; inserting the implant into a pedicle such that the implant is positioned between a nerve and material that is to be applied in a vicinity of the nerve; applying the material in the vicinity of the nerve; and using the implant to prevent the material from contacting the nerve.

Abstract: The present application discloses methods for treating spinal deformities. One embodiment includes inserting an elongated corrective member into the patient. During insertion, the corrective member is operatively attached to a first vertebral member that applies a first corrective force to correct a first vertebral member alignment. The corrective member is further inserted into the patient and subsequently operatively attached to a second vertebral member that applies a second corrective force to correct a second vertebral member alignment. The corrective member is further inserted and subsequently operatively attached to a third vertebral member that applies a third corrective force to correct a third vertebral member alignment. The embodiment may further include operatively attaching the corrective member to additional vertebral members to correct further misalignment. In one embodiment, a second member is attached to the vertebral members after they have been aligned to maintain the alignment.

Abstract: A polyaxial bone anchor including a housing and a bone screw. A bottom surface of the housing includes an aperture that defines an angulation limit of the bone screw for each azimuthal angle around a longitudinal axis of the housing. The aperture is V-shaped, with the V-shape having converging side walls that define a low-angulation direction near their intersection and a high-angulation direction opposite the low-angulation direction. In some cases, the angulation limit of the bone screw is generally constant over a range of azimuthal angles centered around the high-angulation direction. The housing may be modular, including tabs on one component that are plastically deformed to engage a lip on another component. During assembly, a mandrel advances longitudinally along a bore in the housing, and forces the tabs radially outward toward the lip to a radially outward plastically deformed state.

Abstract: A locking assembly for securing a rod in a polyaxial bone anchoring device includes a first locking element having a first end, a second end, an outer surface with an external advancement structure, an inner wall, an internal advancement structure on the inner wall, and an engagement portion for a tool, and a second locking element having a first end configured to be oriented towards the first end of the first locking element, an opposite second end, an outer surface with an external advancement structure configured to cooperate with the internal advancement structure of the first locking element, and a portion at the second end having a width greater than a greatest width of the external advancement structure of the second locking element, wherein the second locking element is configured to move axially relative to the bone anchoring device at a speed different than the first locking element.

Abstract: A bone anchoring device includes a bone anchoring element having a shaft for anchoring in the bone and a head; and a receiving part for coupling a rod to the bone anchoring element. The receiving part includes a first portion with a first end and a second end and a U-shaped recess for receiving the rod, the recess extending from the first end in the direction of the second end thereby forming two free legs and a second portion at the side of the second end opposite to the first end for accommodating the head, the second portion having a free end and being flexible so as to allow introduction and clamping of the head. The bone anchoring device also includes a locking ring embracing the second portion. The head is locked by means of exerting pressure with the rod onto the locking ring resulting in compression of the second portion of the receiving part and wherein the locking ring is mounted to the receiving part from the free end of the second portion.

Abstract: A surgical tool holder includes a flange comprising a body defining a first surface and a second surface, a first end and second end. The second surface defines a first opening configured for disposal of a cannula, wherein the first end of the flange is configured to engage at least a portion of skin of a patient to prevent the cannula from moving into the patient.

Abstract: An assembly for distraction of spinal vertebrae and which can optionally accommodate retraction blades. The assembly includes a pair of pins each having a first end adapted for vertebral bone engagement and a second end. A pair of sleeves respectively and concentrically engage said pins. A frame includes respective openings which receive the pins and a first end of each said sleeves. The first end of each said sleeve including a portion offset relative to a longitudinal axis of said sleeve such that when the first end of each said pins is anchored in bone, axial rotation of each said sleeves enables said first end of each said pins to move between a first position in which said vertebral bones are not distracted and a second position in which said vertebral bones are distracted.

Abstract: Bone anchors and surgical instruments (e.g., bone taps, drivers, etc.) are disclosed herein that include integrated guide tips. Use of these anchors or instruments can eliminate one or more of the steps in a conventional bone anchor installation procedure, improving surgical efficiency and safety. For example, a surgical instrument can include a guide projection configured for insertion through a cannulation formed in a bone anchor when the surgical instrument is coupled to the bone anchor. The surgical instrument can also include various mechanisms for adjusting the position of the guide projection relative to the bone anchor. The guide projection can replace the needle, stylet, and guidewire used in typical insertion procedures. The bone anchor can also include integrated tapping features to eliminate the need for a separate bone tap instrument. Thus, in some embodiments, targeting, tapping, and driving the bone anchor can be performed in a single step.

Abstract: A collar for extenders and an extender assembly including a collar is disclosed. The collar is configured to receive extenders and maintain the extenders in a parallel orientation so as to prevent splaying and premature beak-off of the extenders from the spine. Methods of use are disclosed.

Abstract: The device includes tubular elements capable of being temporarily fastened at the level of pedicle screw heads arranged to be connected by an implantable curved rod, and at least one rod intended to be movably inserted into slots of each tubular element, to align them for the correction of the spinal column by translation, tilting, and rotation of the vertebrae in the three planes of space. Each tubular element is configured in such a way that it can be coupled with the outside of the pedicle screw heads. The rod forms an alignment and handling rod, being capable of acting, as it moves, on rings for simultaneously displacing the curved rod. Each ring is assembled with the ability to slide along the tubular element, and to be height-adjustable to compensate for dimensional deviations between the alignment and handling rod and the curved rod.

Abstract: Orthopaedic plate and spreader apparatuses and methods for distracting and compressing bones and fractured bones in a patient. A first orthopaedic plate and tab assembly has ratcheting teeth on the plate and tab for distracting two bone surfaces to a desire wedge shape. The plate may have longitudinal and diametral curvatures. A second orthopaedic plate and tab assembly has a female plate with ratcheting teeth configured to mate with a male plate with ratcheting teeth for compression and distraction of two bone surfaces. The ratcheting teeth of the first and second orthopaedic plate and tab assemblies may be one way ratcheting teeth or two way ratcheting teeth. Surgical methods for inserting the implants within the patient.

Abstract: An orthopedic device for a shoulder joint includes a patient-specific alignment guide. The alignment guide includes a cap having a three-dimensional engagement surface customized in a pre-operative plan by computer imaging to be complementary and closely mate and conform to a humeral head of a proximal humerus of a patient. The alignment guide includes a tubular element extending from the cap and defining a longitudinal guiding bore for guiding an alignment pin at a patient-specific position and orientation determined in the pre-operative plan, and an orientation feature on the cap. The orientation feature is designed to orient the cap relative to the humeral head when the orientation feature is aligned with a landmark of the proximal humerus.

Abstract: A method for determining a temperature and/or a temperature change at a neutral electrode having a contacting agent layer. The method comprises determining at least one impedance value of the contacting agent layer and calculating a temperature change and/or a temperature at the neutral electrode, at least on the basis of the impedance value. The contacting agent layers may be made from hydrogel and the method uses a correlation that exists between the temperature change and the impedance change.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for renal neuromodulation using a pulsed electric field to effectuate electroporation or electrofusion. It is expected that renal neuromodulation (e.g., denervation) may, among other things, reduce expansion of an acute myocardial infarction, reduce or prevent the onset of morphological changes that are affiliated with congestive heart failure, and/or be efficacious in the treatment of end stage renal disease. Embodiments of the present invention are configured for percutaneous intravascular delivery of pulsed electric fields to achieve such neuromodulation.

Abstract: Surgical end effectors are disclosed having angled tissue-contacting surfaces. The end effectors may have a first jaw member that is movable relative to a second jaw member between an open position and a closed position. The first jaw member may have a first positively-angled tissue-contacting surface. The second jaw member may have a second positively-angled tissue-contacting surface. At least one of the jaw members may have at least one active electrode configured to deliver RF energy to tissue located between the first jaw member and the second jaw member when in the closed position.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for endometrial ablation. In accordance with a method, a working end of an RF ablation device is positioned in a patient uterus to contact endometrial tissue, the working end comprising a dielectric wall capable of non-expanded and expanded shapes. An indicator mechanism is operatively coupled to the wall and configured to indicate non-expanded and expanded shapes of the wall.

Abstract: A medical system for delivering treatment or therapy to a patient has a kill switch for interrupting the delivery. The kill switch, which can disrupt the delivery directly or can cause an error message to be generated that disrupts the delivery, can be activated by the operator or remotely. In an ablation catheter system, a kill switch mechanism immediately and abruptly terminates delivery of ablation treatment or therapy.

Abstract: An electrophysiologic catheter with an improved control handle is provided. The catheter includes a heat transfer assembly to better dissipate heat in the control handle. The heat transfer assembly includes a pump, a reservoir containing a coolant, a heat transfer member, and a coolant transport network transporting coolant between at least the reservoir and the heat transfer member. In one embodiment, the heat transfer member is located within the control handle as a heat exchanger on the circuit board to receive the coolant for transferring heat from the integrated circuits to the coolant. In another embodiment, the heat transfer member is located on the circuit board directly surrounding the integrated circuits to internally cool the integrated circuit within the control handle. A second heat transfer member is located outside of the control handle as a heat exchanger.

Abstract: The solution of the problem to be solved is the provision of a means for determining timing both accurately and securely at which a treatment is shifted from gripping and coagulation (hemostasis or sealing) to resection by using a multifunctional treatment tool capable of exfoliation, gripping, coagulation (hemostasis or sealing) and resection of the treated region in a bipolar microwave treatment tool. A microwave surgical device control method and a device, in which the completion of coagulation (hemostasis or sealing) of tissue is detected and a microwave oscillation output is controlled by making use of the change in the direct current electric resistance value due to the reduction in the amount of water as the temperature rise of the tissue at the time of heating and coagulation of the tissue in the treated region with microwaves.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device comprising: an electrode having a first portion whose exterior is electrically uninsulated, a second portion whose exterior is electrically insulated, and a third portion; an elongated hollow body having an internal cavity, a front end, a rear end, an external surface, and an electrical wire arranged within the body. The hollow body is configured to reversibly receive the third portion of the electrode at the front end of the body such that electrical contact is made between the electrode and the electrical wire and the second portion of the electrode is not surrounded by the hollow body. A first button is provided for controlling a current flow at a first level to the electrode and is arranged on the external surface. A vacuum tube is slidably engaged by the body and has an inlet generally facing the front end and adjacent the electrode.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus according to an embodiment includes a distal end portion of an optical fiber core having a multilayer dielectric coating. For side-firing optical fibers, the coating can be disposed on an angled surface at the core distal end to produce total internal reflection of laser energy at the angled surface. The coating can also be disposed on an outer surface of the distal end portion of the core. The coating and the angled surface can be collectively configured to redirect laser energy in a lateral or side-fired direction. For end-firing optical fibers, the coating can be disposed on an outer surface of the distal end portion of the core. The coating and a perpendicular surface at the core distal end can be collectively configured to direct laser energy in a direction substantially parallel to the distal end portion of the optical fiber.

Abstract: At least one embodiment of the invention relates to a catheter arrangement comprising a catheter with a proximal section and a distal section, to measure a force acting on the distal section and simultaneously receive a temperature signal prevailing in the distal section. According to at least one embodiment of the invention, the catheter arrangement comprises an evaluation unit connected to a single combined optical force and temperature sensor, and further comprises a readout signal generator to generate and feed a readout signal modulated with a carrier frequency into the force sensor and temperature sensor. According to at least one embodiment of the invention, the catheter arrangement comprises a first readout device to read out a first modulated measuring signal portion, a second readout means to read out a second unmodulated measuring signal portion, and a processing unit to combine the first and second measuring signal portions.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for guiding an instrument, comprises determining, by a processor associated with a computer, a current orientation angle of an instrument axis relative to a target axis. The method also comprises establishing, by the processor, a haptic boundary associated with the instrument based on the determined orientation angle of the instrument axis relative to the target axis. The haptic boundary is configured to constrain the instrument axis from being moved to an angle substantially greater than the current orientation angle.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible sensor for measuring torque with respect to an axis of rotation in conjunction with an applied linear force includes a shaft arranged in a longitudinal direction substantially along the axis of rotation, a base component arranged along the axis of rotation and displaced with respect to the shaft, a torque detector assembly configured to be coupled to rotational motion of the shaft about the axis of rotation relative to the base component, and a linear-force detector assembly configured to be coupled to linear motion of the shaft from a force applied in a direction substantially coincident with the axis of rotation relative to the base component. The torque detector assembly and the linear-force detector assembly are substantially de-coupled from each other such that torque measurements are substantially independent of linear force measurements. The MRI compatible sensor consists essentially of MRI compatible materials.

Abstract: Described herein are drive systems and methods. One exemplary system includes a tool having a proximal handle and a catheter body. The tool can be mated with a rail and the rail mated with a frame. The connection between the tool and rail and/or the rail and frame can allow relative movement of the tool with respect to the frame, a patient, and/or a point of reference. In one exemplary configuration the handle of the tool rotates around an axis that corresponds to a portion of the catheter body, such that rotational movement of the handle has a minimal impact on longitudinal movement and/or position of a distal end of the tool.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for presenting three-dimensional data to a physician is provided to facilitate the flexible navigation of an endoscope and surgical instruments with respect to anatomical structures. In accordance with a first embodiment a first set of data corresponding to a three dimensional model of a patient's anatomy is received. This three-dimensional model may be rendered from images taken in CT or MRI scanning, as discussed above. In accordance with this embodiment, this model is then combined with a second set of data corresponding to a view obtained from an endoscope. In another embodiment, the view from the illustrative endoscope is displayed as an inset image on the display of the three-dimensional image. In yet another embodiment, the three-dimensional image comprises a graphical representation of at least a first surgical instrument, such as said endoscope. The surgeon may select among various combinations of views and may zoom in or out from any particular view.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for tracking a target by tracking the location of an imaging device while the imaging device is tracking the target is described.

Abstract: A lighting device comprises a first light source (10) at a first color temperature (Tk1), a second light source (20) at a second color temperature (Tk2) that is different from the first color temperature, and an optical system that forms an illumination spot (3) at an intermediate color temperature (Tkr). The optical system comprises a beam splitter (13) that is arranged to split the light produced by each light source (10, 20) into a transmitted light beam and a reflected light beam. It is arranged to focus said transmitted and reflective light beams (FR1, FR2) and to combine them in a certain superposition configuration in a superposition plane in which said illumination spot is formed, and the optical system and the light sources are arranged to modify the size of the illumination spot (3) at said intermediate temperature.

Abstract: A system can be used to navigate or guide an instrument or device into an anatomy of a patient. The navigation can occur with the use of image data acquired of the patient. The image data can be registered to the patient space for navigation. One or more tracking devices can be the associated with the patient and with guiding instruments for tracking guiding devices relative to the patient.

Abstract: A dental handpiece has a head section, a neck section, a grip section connected to the grip section, and a drive unit connected to the grip section. The handpiece also has a detent unit for preventing relative rotation between the neck and grip sections. The detent unit includes a detent pin arranged axially slidably in the grip section, a spring for biasing the pin proximally so that the distal end of the pin is arranged inside the grip section in a rest position, and a catch formed at the proximal end of the neck section for receiving the pin for engagement. When the drive unit is brought into connection to the grip section, the pin is pressed distally to project out of the grip section into engagement in the catch, to thereby prevent relative rotation between the neck section and the grip section.

Abstract: A syringe assembly for dispensing medicine from a cartridge having a diaphragm and a piston opposite the diaphragm. The assembly includes a barrel having a hollow interior, an open proximal end, a closed distal end, and an outlet. The assembly also includes a cartridge receiver slidably receivable in the hollow interior of the barrel. The receiver includes an interior space for receiving the cartridge, an access needle extending into the interior space for puncturing the diaphragm of the cartridge. The access needle directs fluid to the barrel outlet. The cartridge receiver includes a plunger rod movable into the interior space of the cartridge receiver for engaging the piston of the cartridge to selectively force medicine in the cartridge through the access needle.

Abstract: A system and method for translating teeth along an arch wire which utilizes brackets with larger dimensions and with variable dimensions so that larger lever arms are possible thereby reducing the need for excessive pressure and reducing occasions of excessive tooth rotation which is incidental to tooth translation.

Abstract: Provided are orthodontic appliances including a bonding base, a body extending outwardly from the base and an elongated slot extending along the body in a generally mesial-distal direction, and first and second protrusions disposed on the body on opposite sides of the slot. A clip is slidably engaged to the body and movable between open and closed positions. When operating the clip, the first protrusion extends into the clip to retain the clip to the body in an interference fit while the second protrusion extends into the clip when in its closed position. Optionally, the clip comprises at least one deflectable portion aligned along a reference plane extending over the slot, where the deflectable portion resiliently bends out of the reference plane to traverse the second protrusion as the clip moves between open and closed positions.

Abstract: The invention discloses a bionic tooth implant, comprising a main root and a basal platform, wherein the main root comprises a fixing root part positioned at the lower part thereof and a basal platform positioned at the upper part thereof; the bionic tooth implant also comprises at least one subsidiary root; the basal platform is mounted on the main root via the basal platform of the main root, wherein an inclined hole is provided on the basal platform; an inclined-direction hole communicated with the inclined hole is provided on the main root; the subsidiary root comprises the fixing root part positioned at the lower part thereof and a connected part positioned at the upper part thereof; the connected part is mounted in the inclined hole; the subsidiary root extends from the inclined-direction hole through the main root; and at least a part of the fixing root part is positioned at the outer part of the main root.

Abstract: Tools in a system for the design of customized three-dimensional models of dental restorations for subsequent manufacturing. Dental restorations such as implant abutments, copings, crowns, wax-ups, bridge frameworks. Moreover, a computer-readable medium for implementing such a system on a computer. A system for designing at least one dental restoration, said system including: a display, means for acquiring and displaying a three dimensional dental restoration model of the dental restoration, and means for displaying a plurality of control points, each of the control points corresponding to a respective location on the dental restoration model, and each of said control points enabling manual customization of the dental restoration model.

Abstract: The present invention is an artificial tooth with a device for attaching it to a patient's real tooth, in a position next to the real tooth. The device allows for attachment without the installation of any device in the patient's real tooth. Rather, only a dimple is drilled into the patient's tooth for accepting the device. In one embodiment there is a device on either side of the artificial tooth for installation to a tooth on either side of the artificial tooth.

Abstract: Devices and methods for intra-vaginal bowel control.

Abstract: A composite prosthesis and method for limiting the incidence of postoperative adhesions. The composite includes a non-inflammatory or coated mesh and a barrier material which prevents exposure of tissue elsewhere in the body to tissue covered by the composite prosthesis. The barrier material is absorbable which allows tissue through-growth and localization of the composite prosthetic. In use, the composite prosthesis is positioned over the tissue defect and may be positioned with the barrier material oriented against the tissue defect or repair site.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for filtering obstructive material within the vasculature of a subject. The device includes a generally ellipsoid shaped frame having a plurality of shape-memory arms with a collapsible, sieve-like structure positioned within the elliptical frame. The device may be used as an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter for the prevention of pulmonary embolism, or any other procedure requiring filtering of a vein.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implantable stomach prosthesis for surgically replacing or augmenting all or part of the antrum and/or pylorus of a stomach. The prosthesis controls the passage of food from the stomach to the small intestine. The prosthesis may be configured to churn ingested material and release it from the stomach through a prosthetic pyloric valve. At least one expandable member is arranged to be expanded to control the passage of food and/or to mimic the churning action of a patient's stomach. The prosthesis includes an outer support structure, a flexible inner member forming a conduit for the movement of material, and at least one expandable member located between the outer support structure and inner member. An implantable pump system is provided for inflating and deflating the expandable member(s).

Abstract: A medical device for treating aortic insufficiency (and associated aneurysms or defects of any other vessel associated with a valve) includes a support structure, a stent, a prosthetic valve and a deflector. Generally, the support structure is configured to cooperate with the prosthetic valve to pinch the native valve therebetween and provide an anchor for the stent which extends into the aorta and supports the deflector which is positioned to abate blood flow against the aneurysm.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel split barbed fixation device for tenodesis, soft tissue reattachment of tendons and ligaments to bones. The insertion device is adapted for an entirely arthroscopic approach while achieving fixation strength with ultimate pullout resistance comparable to interference screws. The device includes an integrated tendon grasper that provides for easy manipulation of the tendon arthroscopically while eliminating the need for external whip stitching of the tendon, thereby reducing preparation time. The device further includes elements that prevent the fixation implant from being destabilized or rotating during deployment and manipulation, including: a depth limiting sheath, a first implant retainer, a first implant retaining step, a tendon grasping needle tube, and an implant keyway for mating the implant to the tube.

Abstract: A bone block assembly including a bone block having a proximal end, a distal end, a central axis defined therethrough, and a hole formed therethrough, and a threaded screw having a proximal end, a distal end, and a first eyelet formed on the proximal end of the threaded screw, the threaded screw configured to be received within the hole of the bone block. The first eyelet of the threaded screw is, at least partially, exposed on the proximal end of the bone block when the threaded screw is fully engaged with the bone block. The first eyelet of the threaded screw is configured to receive a suture.

Abstract: A device for implantation in a bone is disclosed, wherein this device is a component part of a system, for controlled loading of the reconstructure anterior crucual ligament (ACL) of a knee joint. The device may comprise an outer body, which is provided with a damping mechanism between a distal end and a proximal end. Arranged inside the damping mechanism there is at least one securing element for fixing at least one thread which, at the proximal end of the device, is guided out from the outer body through an aperture in the base.

Abstract: The method of implanting hair grafts in which implant wounds are made at sites for implanting the hair grafts and the implantation is delayed while the implant wounds are allowed a period to heal. The period for healing may be at least 18 hours after the wounds are made.

Abstract: A modular IOL system including intraocular primary and secondary components, which, when combined, form an intraocular optical correction device, wherein the secondary component is placed on the primary component within the perimeter of the capsulorhexis, thus avoiding the need to touch or otherwise manipulate the capsular bag. The secondary component may be manipulated, removed, and/or exchanged for a different secondary component for correction or modification of the optical result, on an intra-operative or post-operative basis, without the need to remove the primary component and without the need to manipulate the capsular bag. The primary component may have haptics extending therefrom for centration in the capsular bag, and the secondary component may exclude haptics, relying instead on attachment to the primary component for stability. Such attachment may include actuatable interlocking members.

Abstract: An intraocular lens insertion device which dramatically reduces the possibility that a plunger damages an intraocular lens, and which can safely and surely insert an intraocular lens into an eye is provided. An intraocular lens insertion unit comprises a lens disposing part for disposing an intraocular lens, a plunger for pushing out the intraocular lens disposed at the lens disposing part, a transition part for deforming the intraocular lens pushed out by the plunger, and a nozzle for ejecting the deformed intraocular lens. The plunger has a lens contact part for contacting the outer edge of the intraocular lens, and a protrusive part for pushing the lens contact part downward the intraocular lens by the deformation of the intraocular lens, both lens contact part and protrusive part are provided at the leading end of the plunger.

Abstract: A device for anchoring a prosthetic heart valve on biological tissue, includes first and second anchoring assemblies, mutually couplable to secure biological tissue therebetween. The anchoring assemblies include at least one pair of complementary arched portions having anchoring formations for anchoring on the biological tissue. The anchoring formations include integral extensions of the anchoring assemblies extending radially outwardly of one of the anchoring assemblies.