Abstract: An ophthalmic apparatus includes a resting member configured to provide rest for a human patient, and an ophthalmic device configured to perform one or more procedures with respect to an eye of the patient resting on the resting member, where the one or more procedures include at least one of an eye-surgical, therapeutic and diagnostic procedure. The apparatus also includes a user interface device configured to receive log-in data from a user, and a controller configured to access stored user profile data based on the log-in data and configure one or more configurable components of the apparatus in accordance with the accessed user profile data.

Abstract: A method of cleaning and sanitizing surgical tools or surgical instruments and accessories in general, and a device configured to implement the method. The method includes the use of a an abrasive cleaning material, which is emitted under pressure and at high speed to abrade and remove substances that adhere to the surfaces of the instruments and accessories, and the pressure of which can be regulated according to the type of surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: A method includes receiving during a first time interval associated with a path of motion of a dynamic body, image data associated with a plurality of images of the dynamic body. The plurality of images include an indication of a position of a first marker coupled to a garment at a first location, and a position of a second marker coupled to the garment at a second location. The garment is coupled to the dynamic body. During a second time interval, an image from the plurality of images is automatically identified that includes a position of the first marker that is substantially the same as a position of a first localization element relative to the dynamic body and a position of the second marker that is substantially the same as a position of the second localization element relative to the dynamic body.

Abstract: A method for placing an implant on a patient in a robotic surgical procedure using a robotic system. During the robotic surgical procedure, a navigation system tracks the patient. The navigation system also provides information to the robotic system to guide movement of a cutting tool to remove material from the patient such that a cut surface is created to receive the implant. The implant is then robotically placed on the cut surface.

Abstract: Three-dimensional depiction of image information is provided during minimally invasive surgery carried out by an endoscope by detecting an operation region of the using a sensor device in three dimensions. Stereoscopic image data is generated from the 3D-data acquired from the sensor and is visualized on a suitable display device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an assisting apparatus (2) for assisting a user in moving an insertion element (11) like a catheter to a target element within, for instance, a person (8). A target element representation representing the target element within the object in its three-dimensional position and three-dimensional orientation and with its size is generated based on a provided target element image. Moreover, a three-dimensional position of the insertion element is tracked, while the insertion element is moved to the target element, and the target element representation and the tracked position of the insertion element are displayed. The three-dimensional position and orientation of the target element relative to the actual position of the insertion element can therefore be shown to the user, while the insertion element is moved to the target element, which allows the user to more accurately and faster move the insertion element to the target element.

Abstract: A shape sensor comprises a shape sensor main body which comprises an optical fiber capable, a detection object section, and a light detecting section to detect the detection light and which is capable of measuring a shape of a measurement target object by utilizing a change in characteristics of the light detected through the detection object section in accordance with a change in curvature of the optical fiber when the optical fiber curves; and a curving direction regulating section which is provided on at least a part of the optical fiber along an optical axis thereof and regulates a curvable direction of the optical fiber to a desired direction; wherein the curving direction regulating section is a core member which is disposed in at least a part of the shape sensor main body along the light propagating direction of the optical fiber and whose main curving direction is regulated.

Abstract: At least one embodiment is directed to a tracking system for the muscular-skeletal system. The tracking system can identify position and orientation. The tracking system can be attached to a device or integrated into a device. In one embodiment, the tracking system couples to a handheld tool. The handheld tool with the tracking system and one or more sensors can be used to generate tracking data of the tool location and trajectory while measuring parameters of the muscular-skeletal system at an identified location. The tracking system can be used in conjunction with a second tool to guide the second tool to the identified location of the first tool. The tracking system can guide the second tool along the same trajectory as the first tool. For example, the second tool can be used to install a prosthetic component at a predetermined location and a predetermined orientation. The tracking system can track hand movements of a surgeon holding the handheld tool within 1 millimeter over a path less than 5 meters.

Abstract: A pathology localizer and therapeutical procedure guide system comprising an elongate strip (1) provided with an array of three linear columnar members (2,3,4) having a common point of origin (O) at one end of strip (1) and extending divergently to corresponding ends (X,Y,Z) at the other end thereof. These linear columnar members (2,3,4) are equipped with a contrast medium visible in imaging modalities of a body portion with strip (1) placed thereupon, thereby producing an array of visible imprints of three linear segments (OX), (OZ), (OY) in a frontal X-Ray image and a series of visible imprints of three sequential spots (X1,Z1,Y1) in a sectional CT or MRI image, wherein these visible imprints are used in precisely determining the locus of a pathology, if any, identified within the body portion being scanned and in subsequently determining an accurately defined path of instrumentation adapted to effect a therapeutical procedure therein.

Abstract: The invention provides an ultrasonic tip in titanium for ultrasonic instrument, and further provides a method of dental treatment of peri-implantitis using an ultrasonic tip operable to cooperate with an ultrasonic instrument to transmit ultrasonic vibrations to a surface of a dental implant to be treated, said implant and said ultrasonic tip being made of titanium. The present invention guarantees a safe and complete debridement of most implants for the dental treatment of peri-implantitis, and for the maintenance of the implant surface after such a treatment. Designed in pure titanium, like most dental implant in the market, the tip of the present invention advantageously avoids the transfer of material on the implant and the alteration of the surface, thereby preventing the risk of bacterial recontamination.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, device, tools, kit and method is provided for the preparation of the jawbone and insertion of dental implants. The apparatus includes a universal and reusable clamping device and removable components for the clamp which allow for precision surgical preparation and implantation of dental implants into the jawbone. According to some embodiments, an apparatus is provided that includes a platform; one or more frames connected to the platform, wherein the frames include a clamp arm that extend to opposing sides of the bone; and one or more fixation cleats on each arm; wherein the apparatus includes one or more features for positioning the platform, for changing a position of the platform, for changing an angle of a component of the platform or any combination thereof, following the securing of the clamp arms to the bone and prior to the procedure.

Abstract: An improved dental handpiece is described. The handpiece has a reverse radius grip and an angled bulkhead for attachment of a power cord.

Abstract: An orthodontic device for retaining teeth in position, or for making minor adjustments to tooth position. The dental retainer includes a rigid lingual portion or arch, and a more flexible and comfortable labial portion or arch, arranged so as to allow the cutting surfaces of the upper and lower molar teeth to meet. Small protrusions of harder material may be located on the inner surface of the labial portion to fit between the teeth in order to prevent relapse of tooth position.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides method, systems, and devices for expanding arch of teeth. A device for expanding an arch of teeth of a patient can include a removable shell formed of a first material having a number of cavities formed therein. The number of cavities are shaped to receive teeth of a patient. A device for expanding an arch of teeth of a patient can include an arch element extending from the removable shell in a lingual direction and across an arch width of the removable shell. The arch element can be formed of the first material and a second material that is a different material than the first material, can be designed to expand an arch of the teeth of the patient, and can have a width specific to a stage of a treatment plan.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides method, systems, and devices for adjusting an arch of teeth. An appliance includes a removable shell formed of a first material having a number of cavities formed therein, wherein the number of cavities are shaped to receive teeth of a patient, and an arch element extending from the removable shell in a lingual direction and across at least a portion of the arch width of the removable shell, wherein the arch element is designed to expand an arch of the teeth of the patient, wherein the arch element has a width specific to a stage of a treatment plan.

Abstract: Abutment (5) for a two-part dental implant for receiving an element that is to be applied, the abutment (5) having at least one core (75) and a cover layer (70). The at least one core (75) and the cover layer (70) are visually and/or acoustically distinct from each other.

Abstract: A dental implant that facilitates insertion includes a body having a coronal end and an apical end opposite the coronal end. An implant-prosthetic interface region is provided adjacent the coronal end. A tapered region is adjacent the apical end. A variable profile helical thread extends along the tapered region. The thread becomes broader in the apical-coronal direction and higher in the coronal-apical direction. The threads include an apical side, a coronal side and a lateral edge connecting them. The variable profile thread includes an expanding length of the lateral edge while the distance of the lateral edge from the base is reduced in the direction of the coronal end. The implant also has a gradual compressing tapered core, a self drilling apical end with a spiral tap, and a coronal end with and inverse tapering.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dental restoration, having a base which in particular comprises an implant (1) in combination with an abutment (4), and a supraconstruction (3) which is fixed to the base, in particular by adhesive bonding, wherein the base has a screw connection having a screw head which extends over or on the base. Said screw head connects the two parts of the base to each other so as to be fixed against rotation, and has an access channel (10, 35) for the screw, the opening of which is offset with respect to the extension of the axis of the screw in the lingual direction of the supraconstruction (3). The diameter of the access channel (10, 35) is smaller than the diameter of the screw head of the screw, and the screw can be screwed through the access channel (10, 35), i.e. can be screwed in and screwed out.

Abstract: A dental implant includes a fixture having a shaft hole in an upper portion thereof and implanted into a jawbone; and an abutment having a lower coupling shaft part and an upper mounting part, the lower coupling shaft part being inserted into the shaft hole of the fixture and being elastically coupled to the fixture, and the upper mounting part allowing a prosthesis to be mounted thereto, wherein the lower coupling shaft part of the abutment includes: a shock-absorbing part having at least two coupling legs with a cutout portion formed between the coupling legs; a coupling part formed on the outer surface of the shock-absorbing part; and a deformation control part projecting inwardly from the coupling legs and defining a width (d1) that is less than a width (d2) of the cutout portion inside the coupling part, thereby preventing the coupling shaft part from being excessively bent when an external force is applied to the coupling shaft part.

Abstract: The instrument (10) for handling a dental part (50), for example, a male part, extends in a longitudinal axis (11) between a handling end (10c) and a connecting end (10a) for connection to the dental part (50). The connecting end (10a) has a receiving opening for receiving the head (51) of the dental part (50), which is laterally open, so that the connecting end (10a) and the dental part (50) can be connected by displacing them relative to one another transversely to the longitudinal axis (11). The male part (50) includes a head end having at least one protrusion, (53a) with which a stop (17b) that is formed on the instrument (10) can be contacted for transferring a torque generated on the instrument.

Abstract: A bone implant drill includes a bearing received in a sleeve. A transmission shaft includes a rod extending through the bearing and a transmission member formed on an end of the rod and received in the sleeve. The other end of the rod extends beyond the sleeve. A cutting rod includes a cutter, a coupling member received in the sleeve, and a positioning member between the cutter and the coupling member. The cutter and the coupling member are provided on two ends of the cutting rod respectively. The coupling member includes second teeth releasably engageable with first teeth on a free end of the transmission member. An elastic element is mounted in the sleeve. The elastic element includes a first end mounted around the coupling member and abutting the positioning member. The elastic element further includes a second end mounted around the transmission member and abutting the bearing.

Abstract: The female part for forming a releasable connection to a male part (50) that is configured to be fastened in a mouth includes a housing (20), which is configured to be fastened to a dental prosthesis, an insert (1), which is insertable into the housing and rotatable with respect to the housing and in which a portion (51) of the male part can be accommodated, and an adjusting mechanism that is formed in the housing and on the insert and that cause a change in the diameter of the insert when the insert is rotated with respect to the housing. At least one protrusion (5b, 5c) and at least one recess are provided to form the adjusting mechanism. The female part has a locking mechanism, which is formed on the housing and in the insert for defining discretely arranged locking positions, wherein the insert is compressed more in at least one locking position than in at least one other locking position.

Abstract: A zirconia sintered body is provided in which the strength between layers of powders is improved. A flexural strength of a test sample of the zirconia sintered body, measured pursuant to JISR1601, is not less than 1100 MPa. The test sample is formed by preparing a plurality of zirconia powders, each containing zirconia and a stabilizer that suppresses phase transition of zirconia, the zirconia powders differing in a composition, layering the zirconia powders to form a zirconia composition, and sintering the zirconia composition to form a zirconia sintered body. The flexural strength is measured such that a load point is positioned at a boundary of the zirconia powders, the boundary traversing the test sample of the sintered body along a direction of load application.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sensing and/or tracking the state of an electronic toothbrush or an operation of the electric toothbrush, the apparatus including a sensor configured to sense a vibration sound generated from the electric toothbrush; and a controller configured to compare a vibration frequency from the sensed vibration sound and a reference frequency and determine the load state and/or the operation of the electric toothbrush.

Abstract: A solar powered dental hygiene device is described and includes a hollow handle including a switch disposed an outer surface; a cleaning assembly including a head, a brush type cleaning unit rotatably disposed on the head, and a neck extending out of the head and configured to releasably secure to the handle; a solar module disposed on the outer surface of the handle and configured to generate electrical power in response to light; a rechargeable battery disposed in the handle and configured to store the electrical power wherein the rechargeable battery is electrically connected to the switch; a drive source disposed in the handle and electrically connected to the rechargeable battery; and a rotation member disposed in the handle and electrically connected to the drive source. The cleaning unit is configured to rotate in response to an activation of the rotation member.

Abstract: A porous material for insertion cleaning of instruments is provided, such porous material including an at least partially open-cell foam body and a surface configured to enable an instrument having contaminants to be inserted into the body. The body may be configured to substantially grip the instrument to remove a substantial portion of the contaminants from the instrument.

Abstract: A stainless steel apparatus with edges to enable the users teeth to hold in place. The metal is processed by an electropolishing passivation process to make it stronger and more effective. The edges are coated with a non toxic plastic coating which may or may not contain a stainless steel mixed plastic. Various sizes and shapes can be used to make the apparatus.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dosage projectile for administering an active agent to an animal, the projectile configured to contain an active agent and having a frangible shell adapted to fragment on impact with an animal to deliver the active agent to the animal and produce a plurality of shell fragments associated with the animal after impact to provide a visible mark on the animal.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides composite prosthetic devices comprising two or more layers of electrospun polymers and methods of preparation thereof. In some embodiments, the two or more layers can be porous and in other embodiments, one or more components is nonporous. The composite prosthetic devices can comprise various materials and the properties of the prosthetic devices can be tailored for use in a range of different applications.

Abstract: A filter with translating hooks is described. The filter can include strut members having first and second struts connected by a connecting portion. A translating hook is disposed adjacent the connecting portion of the strut members, the hook including a first elongate member attached at one end to the first strut and a second elongate member attached at one end to a second strut, the opposite ends of the elongate members connected together to define a tip. The translating hooks are configured to bend toward a central axis of the filter when the filter is in a collapsed configuration for delivery to a blood vessel and recovery from a blood vessel, and away from the central axis of the filter when the filter is in an expanded configuration within a blood vessel such that the hooks engage a vessel wall.

Abstract: An implantable medical device includes a plurality of legs and, preferably, a circumferential array of support elements. The legs have anchoring elements at their distal ends. The anchoring elements are formed from a turn of the wire forming the legs, while piercing elements are formed by the extremities of the wire. The loops formed in this manner hold the piercing elements in the desired position and orientation during use of the filter assembly and also provide resiliency to counter any effects of movement of the filter assembly caused by movement or changes in the vessel in which the filter assembly is deployed. The anchoring elements can also straighten during removal of the filter assembly, thereby facilitating the removal of the filter even after endothelialisation.

Abstract: Systems and methods utilize semipermeable nanotubes in conjunction with application of controlled electrical potentials across semipermeable nanotube walls allow selective transport of charged impurities (e.g., charged impurities, ions, etc.) from a fluid into these nanotubes. Impurities collected in these nanotubes can then be removed from the fluid, (e.g., blood) as a waste stream. A collection of semipermeable nanotubes each carrying a waste stream can be aggregated and merged into a ureter for excretion thereby providing an artificial kidney system. Sensors that detect/measure various impurities may be included in the system to feed information to a microprocessor to inform on concentrations of impurities, and thereby control electrical potentials applied to the system.

Abstract: A vascular repair device assembly includes a main prostheses, first internal prostheses, an optional second internal prostheses, and at least two sub-prostheses. Methods for delivering vascular repair devices include delivering a vascular repair device through a blood vessel to the aneurysm site, aligning a proximal open end of a main prosthesis cranially to the site of the aneurysm patient and directing a distal end of at least one additional one vascular repair device through a proximal end of at least a first internal lumen, and aligning the proximal end of the additional vascular repair device into a distal end of the at least one sub-prosthesis.

Abstract: A wall, for example the wall of a vascular graft, has multiple channels within it. The channels may be used to hold drugs or reinforcing fibers. The channels may have a predetermined roughness. The channels may be formed by coextrusion using a soluble material, for example, to define the channels and then dissolving them to open the channels in the extrudate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for coupling a soft tissue implant into a locking cavity formed within a bone is disclosed. The apparatus includes a member to pull the soft tissue implant into a femoral tunnel. The member includes a suture having first and second ends which are passed through first and second openings associated with the longitudinal passage to form a pair of loops. A collapsible tube is positioned about the suture. Application of tension onto the suture construction causes retraction of the soft tissue implant into the femoral tunnel and the collapse of the tube to form an anchor.

Abstract: Devices and methods for reinforcing tissue grafts are described herein. In one embodiment, an implant is described that includes a proximal end portion having a through-hole formed therein, a distal end portion, and a reinforcing insert disposed in the through-hole. The insert includes a proximal face, a distal face opposed to the proximal face, a first upper surface extending between the proximal and distal faces and having a generally convex shape that abuts against at least a portion of a sidewall of the through-hole, and a second lower surface extending between the proximal and distal faces and having a generally concave shape. The second lower surface and portions of the sidewall of the through-hole not abutted by the first upper surface form a reinforced through-hole of the implant.

Abstract: Various intraocular pseudophakic contact lenses are disclosed. For example, an intraocular pseudophakic contact lens can include a first optical lens and multiple anchors. The first optical lens is configured to at least partially correct a residual refractive error in an eye. The anchors are configured to be inserted through an anterior surface of an intraocular lens into lens material forming a second optical lens of the intraocular lens in order to secure the intraocular pseudophakic contact lens to the intraocular lens. The anchors can be configured to couple the intraocular pseudophakic contact lens to different types of intraocular lenses, including intraocular lenses not specifically designed to be coupled to or receive the intraocular pseudophakic contact lens. The intraocular pseudophakic contact lens could also include at least one drug-eluting device located on the first optical lens and configured to deliver at least one medication.

Abstract: Generally, an intraocular implant and methods for treating an ocular condition. In particular, an intraocular implant which implanted between an intraocular lens and the surface of the posterior capsule of the eye inhibits migration of residual lens epithelial cells after cataract surgery by providing structural barriers to reduce posterior capsule opacification of the eye.

Abstract: An ocular adaptive lens prosthesis apparatus is provided. In some implementations the apparatus includes a tunable liquid crystal lens encapsulated in the ocular prosthesis with control electronics and a power source. The tunable liquid crystal lens is driven in response to a convergence signal to provide accommodation. In some embodiments the tunable liquid crystal device corrects other visual shortcomings of the natural eye. The ocular prosthesis has a remote programmable tunable liquid crystal lens controller configured to recalibrate the tunable liquid crystal lens to compensate for dynamic adaptation of the eye over time. A coil is employed to transmit a convergence signal between a pair of ocular prostheses in a dual eye vision correction system.

Abstract: Implantable corneal and intraocular implants such as a mask are provided. The mask can improve the vision of a patient, such as by being configured to increase the depth of focus of an eye of a patient. The mask can include an aperture configured to transmit along an optical axis substantially all visible incident light. The mask can further include a transition portion that surrounds at least a portion of the aperture. This portion can be configured to switch from one level of opacity to another level of opacity through the use of a controllably variable absorbance feature such as a switchable photochromic chromophore within a polymer matrix.

Abstract: A cartridge for an intraocular lens insertion device is disclosed. An example cartridge may include an intraocular lens insertion cartridge body having a distal end and a proximal end and configured to receive an intraocular lens for insertion into a patient's eye through an incision; the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body having an inner surface comprising at least one polymeric material having a hardness greater than about 50D and an elongation at break greater than about 150%; the inner surface of the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body defining an at least partially tapering insertion pathway disposed within the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body and extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the intraocular lens insertion cartridge body.

Abstract: A middle ear implant includes a first interface portion configured to interface with a first structure of a middle ear of a patient, a second interface portion configured to interface with a second structure of the middle ear of the patient, a shaft that connects the first and second interface portions, a carrier plate removably mounted in one of the first or second interface portions, and a removable sensor disposed at one end of the shaft, between the shaft and one of the first interface portion or the second interface portion. The removable sensor is configured to provide a DC signal output indicative of static pressure on the sensor based on placement of the sensor between the first and second structures, and provide an AC signal output indicative of a frequency response of the implant. The removable sensor is disposed at a portion of the carrier plate.

Abstract: A medical device for implantation into vessels or luminal structures within the body is provided. The medical device, such as a stent and a synthetic graft, is coated with a pharmaceutical composition consisting of a controlled-release matrix and one or more pharmaceutical substances for direct delivery of drugs to surrounding tissues. The coating on the medical device further comprises a ligand such as an antibody or a small molecule for capturing progenitor endothelial cells in the blood contacting surface of the device for restoring an endothelium at the site of injury. In particular, the drug-coated stents are for use, for example, in balloon angioplasty procedures for preventing or inhibiting restenosis.

Abstract: A tensioning device is provided comprising a locking device. The locking device comprises a locking enclosure comprising a groove and a locking pin comprising teeth. The tensioning device further comprises a suture comprising first and second portions. The first and second portions of the suture and the locking pin are positioned within the groove of the locking enclosure and the locking pin is movable within the groove between a first, outer position in which the teeth are disengaged from the suture so that the locking device is movable along the first and second portions of the suture and a second, inner position in which the teeth are engaged with the suture so that the locking device is not movable along the suture. Methods for treating mitral valve regurgitation are also provided.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a stent member is provided. The stent member may include a self-expanding stent frame defining in its expanded position a central annular opening along a longitudinal axis, the opening extending from a first end to a second end of the stent frame. The stent member may include at least one anchoring structure extending radially outwards from the second end of the stent frame. The stent member may further include a biocompatible coating on the stent frame.

Abstract: A device, kit and method may employ an implantable device (e.g., annuloplasty implant) and a tool to implant such. The implantable device is positionable in a cavity of a bodily organ (e.g., a heart) and operable to constrict a bodily orifice (e.g., a mitral valve). Tissue anchors are guided into precise position by an intravascularly deployed anchor guide frame and embedded in an annulus. Constriction of the orifice may be accomplished via a variety of structures, for example by cinching a flexible cable or anchored annuloplasty ring, the cable or ring attached to the tissue anchors. The annuloplasty ring may be delivered in a generally elongated configuration, and implanted in an anchored generally arch, arcuate or annular configuration. Such may move a posterior leaflet anteriorly and an anterior leaflet posteriorly, improving leaflet coaptation to eliminate mitral regurgitation.

Abstract: An implantable inflatable penile prosthesis cylinder includes an outer tube member having a longitudinal axis, an inner tube member contained within the outer tube member, and one or more tensile support members within the inner tube member. The inner tube member includes at least one inflatable chamber section, at least a portion of which is defined by a wall of the inner tube member. The one or more tensile support members extend between interior surfaces of the wall, and are placed in tension when the at least one chamber section is in an inflated state.

Abstract: An implantable penile prosthesis inflation apparatus includes a manual pump, and a pressure amplifier. The pressure amplifier includes a first sub-amplifier having a first chamber and a piston assembly contained in the first chamber. The first chamber includes an input port that is fluidically coupled to the manual pump, and an output port. The piston assembly is configured to move along a central axis.

Abstract: Osteoinductive and osteoconductive compositions for bone graft which utilize less allograft tissue, and methods for their production, are provided. The compositions and methods contain a combination of fibers of demineralized bone matrix from allograft bone and fibers of non-allograft bone material. The fibers of non-allograft bone material comprise non-fibrous demineralized bone matrix particles embedded within or disposed on the fibers of non-allograft bone material. The non-allograft fibers of the composition contain a bone void filler of collagen and one or more ceramics embedded with demineralized bone matrix particles. In some embodiments, the composition also contains a bioactive agent.

Abstract: Devices and methods for in situ drawing, filtering and seeding cells from the marrow of surrounding bone into a fusion cage without any of the challenges mentioned above. Various implants and devices with aspiration ports that enable in-situ harvesting and mixing of stem cells. These devices may include spinal fusion cages, long bone spacers, lateral grafts and joint replacement devices. Each device utilizes at least one aspiration port for harvesting of stem cell-containing marrow via aspiration from adjacent bony elements.