Abstract: An energy applicator for directing energy to tissue includes a feedline and a radiating section operably coupled to the feedline, wherein the radiating section has a length. The energy applicator also includes a length adjustment member adapted to allow for selective adjustment of the length of the radiating section.

Abstract: Methods and systems for drilling precise orifices in a wall of non-uniform thickness are provided. In one aspect, a thickness profile of at least a portion of the wall is created and the wall is irradiated with at least one laser beam to ablate a portion of the wall to thereby form an orifice in the wall. During the irradiation, one or more parameters of the least one laser beam are adjusted one or more times in accordance with the thickness profile to compensate for the non-uniform thickness of the wall.

Abstract: A device for robot-assisted surgery, comprising at least one non-sterile manipulator arm (12) having a coupling unit (100) with drive elements. The device further has an instrument unit (300) which comprises a surgical instrument (500) and a sterile sterile unit (400) for coupling the surgical instrument (500) to the drive elements of the coupling unit (100). The coupling unit (100) comprises a translatory drive element (110, 112) for generating a translatory drive movement and a rotatory drive element (114, 116) for generating a rotatory drive movement. The sterile unit (400) has a translationally driven element (408, 410) couplable to the translatory drive element (110, 112) and a rotationally driven element (412, 414) couplable to the rotatory drive element (114, 116). The device has a sterile lock (200) which is capable of being coupled to the coupling unit (100) and to the sterile unit (400).

Abstract: A surgical illumination apparatus comprises a fiber optic input, and illuminated surgical instrument, and an optical coupling bracket for coupling the fiber optic input to the illuminated surgical instrument. The coupling bracket comprises an elongate frame having a proximal end, a distal end, and a central channel extending therebetween, wherein the central channel is sized to receive and support optical fibers of the fiber optic input. The proximal end of the bracket is coupled to the fiber optic input, and the distal end of the bracket is coupled to an illumination element of the illuminated surgical instrument. The apparatus may further comprise a shroud disposed around the illumination element that is coupled to the bracket.

Abstract: A visual guidance system for use in a surgical procedure. The system includes an image processing unit programmed to receive a three-dimensional image of a surgical area, information on an instrument being used in the procedure, and a surgical plan including a planned trajectory that the instrument should follow. The image processing unit generates a derived representation of the surgical procedure depicting the movement of the instrument on the three-dimensional image. A graphical guidance indicator is disposed on the three-dimensional image with a center point of the graphical guidance indicator centered on the planned trajectory, the graphical guidance indicator being displayed orthogonal to the planned trajectory. The derived image and the graphical guidance indicator depict at least five degrees of freedom of motion of the instrument. The graphical guidance indicator is changed based on the movement of the instrument in accordance with the surgical plan.

Abstract: An endovascular navigation system and method are disclosed. The endovascular navigation system includes an elongate flexible member configured to access the venous vasculature of a patient, a sensor disposed at a distal end of the elongate flexible member and configured to sense a physiological characteristic of the venous vasculature of the patient, a processor and an output device. The processor is configured to receive and process the physiological characteristic of the venous vasculature of the patient, and to determine that the position of the distal end of the elongate flexible member is within a predetermined structure within the venous vasculature of the patient. The output device is configured to display a visual indication that the distal end of the elongate flexible member is within the predetermined structure within the venous vasculature of the patient, where the visual indication is different from the physiological characteristic of the venous vasculature of the patient.

Abstract: A surgical guidance system for orthoscopic drilling is disclosed which comprises a probe, the end of which is suitable for locating on the emergence site of a hole to be drilled through body tissue, a targeter comprising one or more sensors for locating the position of the probe, a drill guide, and a control system in communication with the targeter for determining the position of the probe measured by the targeter and providing a real-time visual representation of the relationship between the direction of the drill guide and the tip of the probe to allow the user to align the drill guide to the tip of the probe. The probe comprises an elongate shaft and one or more, preferably two or more markers located at distant positions along the shaft, and wherein further the markers can be detected by the targeter and are each positioned at locations removed from the tip of the probe.

Abstract: Described herein is a device and method used to effectively remove volume inside a patient in various types of surgeries, such as spinal surgeries (e.g. laminotomy), neurosurgeries (various types of craniotomy), ENT surgeries (e.g. tumor removal), and orthopedic surgeries (bone removal). Robotic assistance linked with a navigation system and medical imaging it can shorten surgery time, make the surgery safer and free surgeon from doing repetitive and laborious tasks. In certain embodiments, the disclosed technology includes a surgical instrument holder for use with a robotic surgical system. In certain embodiments, the surgical instrument holder is attached to or is part of an end effector of a robotic arm, and provides a rigid structure that allows for precise removal of a target volume in a patient.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a reference fixture. The reference fixture includes a joint, and a joint tracker to track motion of the joint. The apparatus also includes a surgical instrument. A tether is connected between the joint and the surgical instrument. A shape sensor extends from the reference fixture through the joint, through the tether, and into the surgical instrument. The shape sensor is substantially free of twist. The joint tracker measures the motion of the joint. Information from the shape sensor in combination with information from the joint tracker provides absolute three-dimensional information relative to the reference fixture, i.e., provides absolute three-dimensional information in a fixed world reference frame.

Abstract: An instrument having a flexible and elongated body includes at least a lumen and a flex member disposed within the lumen. The flex member may be capable of providing steering control to a first portion of the elongate body while providing load bearing support to a second portion of the elongate body. A pull wire may be disposed within the flex member, and at least a distal portion of the pull wire may be coupled to the elongate body and a proximal portion of the pull wire may be operatively coupled to a control unit. The control unit may be coupled to a proximal portion of the elongate body. In addition, a control member may be operatively coupled to the control unit such that a distal portion of the control member may be positioned near a proximal portion of the flex member. The control member may be configured to support the flex member and control the movement or displacement of the flex member.

Abstract: A medical sterile container includes a tray-like first container part, a lid-type second container part, a fastener and a ventilation valve to ventilate a container interior surrounded by the first container part and the second container part. The fastener is mounted on one of the container parts so as to be pivotable between a closed position, in which the container parts are locked to one another by the fastener, and an open position in which the container parts are unlocked.

Abstract: The invention generally provides implants comprising polymers and contrast agents for marking and monitoring medical conditions.

Abstract: A device for dispensing a dental material has a cartridge and a ball-shaped closure member. The cartridge and the closure member in combination form a rotary slide valve for selectively opening and closing a cartridge outlet for the dental material, such that the device can be operated between an operative position in which the cartridge outlet is open and a storage position in which the cartridge outlet is closed. The device further has a cannula which is removably receivable within the closure member. The cannula in the operative position of the device is mechanically locked against removal. The cannula further has an annular seal which in the operative position extends into the outlet.

Abstract: A dental abutment for retrofit use to allow for repair of different types of existing root form implants after traumatic events, reduces or eliminates the need for further surgery. The abutment comprises a threaded spindle having an integrated taper, a plurality of segments secured around the axis of the spindle, and a tapered nut threaded on a distal end of the spindle. The threaded engagement of the tapered nut radially displaces the segments against the root form, fixing the abutment thereto.

Abstract: A dental component including a universal joint. In one form, the invention relates to a cam screw for fastening a temporary tooth to an implant including a driving component, a sleeve socket and an abutment screw. The driving component extends along a first axis and includes an internal hex opening for removably coupling the standard hex driving tool. The sleeve socket is provided for pivotally coupling to a portion of the driving component. The abutment screw extends along a second axis and portion thereof pivotally couples to the sleeve socket. With the first axis being offset at an angle relative to the second axis, the driving component is configured to provide torque to the abutment screw such that rotary movement about the first axis in turn causes rotary movement about the second axis.

Abstract: A multi-unit dental implant system including a dental implant, a straight abutment, an angled abutment, and a plurality of copings or other components configured to universally fit on the cone-section of the straight abutment and the cone-section of the angled abutment.

Abstract: An implant fixture is disclosed. The implant fixture contains an elongated shaft section, and a head section, wherein the head section contains at least one concave area for bone growth therein.

Abstract: This invention refers to a device exploitable within the scope of dental implantology, with specific reference to the set up and to the installation of a multi-teeth fixed prosthesis, either partial or total. The said invention specifically concerns a connection device (1) between a dental implant and the prosthesis. In particular, this invention concerns a connection device (1) including a bearing element (2) and a prosthesis connecting element (3, 3?), with the said connecting element (3, 3?) being matchable with the aforementioned bearing element (2), wherein the bearing element (2) includes a base portion (7) on which a conical portion (8) is further positioned and is characterized by the fact that between the base portion (7) and the conical portion (8) a shoulder (12) with a stop portion (13) is formed to prevent relative rotation of the connecting element (3, 3?) with respect to the bearing element (2).

Abstract: A 3-D camera for obtaining an image of at least one surface of at least one object. The camera comprises a light source, arranged to illuminate the object, wherein a light beam emitted from the light source defines a projection optical path. The camera also includes at least one first aperture having a first predetermined size, interposed in the projection optical path such that the light beam passes through it. An image sensor receives light back-scattered by the object, the back-scattered light defining an observation optical path. At least one second aperture having a second predetermined size, is interposed in the observation optical path such that the back-scattered light passes through it. In one example embodiment of the invention, the first predetermined size is greater than the second predetermined size, and at least one optic is arranged in both the projection and observation optical paths.

Abstract: Herein are provided methods, systems, computer-readable media, techniques and processes for occlusion estimation in dental prosthesis design. These include determining a first contact point between antagonist teeth, then simulating motion in order to determine additional contact points. Various of the determined contact points may not be used in the simulated motion, based on the simulated physics. When one or more predetermined stopping criteria have been met, then the contact points may be used to define the relative occlusal positions of antagonists. In some embodiments, sets of teeth in a bridge or crown, e.g., may be simulated as moving separately and a new state for each set of teeth may be determined.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an oral irrigator. In one embodiment, the oral irrigator includes a motor, a pump body, a connecting rod, and a diaphragm seal. The connecting rod is at least partially received within the pump body and is movably connected to the motor such that the motor moves the connecting rod between a first position and a second position within the pump body. The diaphragm seal is connected to the connecting rod and the pump body and deforms from a first orientation to a second orientation as the connecting rod moves from the first position to the second position.

Abstract: A chemical formulation that is adapted to be used for the control and prevention of periodontal and perimplant conditions and diseases. The formulation comprises a chemical agent, such as an antibiotic. Also included are topical anesthetics. Delivery systems, kits used for delivery, and delivery methods are also contemplated.

Abstract: A coupling device for connecting a water powered apparatus to a faucet having a mouth (1) to which a cylindrical aerator housing (3), has an aerator (2) and an attachment (4) of water powered apparatus. The aerator (2) has an upper cylindrical portion (12) and a lower cylindrical portion (15) that are joined together by converging arms (14) between which the ventilation openings (16) are formed for aerating flowing water. The attachment (4) of water powered apparatus is provided with connecting elements for coupling with engagement elements not integral with the aerator cylindrical housing (3).

Abstract: A prosthesis for repairing a hernia defect includes a patch body, a hoisting frame releasably attachable to the patch body, and a tether attached to the hoisting frame and having a free end extendable through the thickness of the patch body and accessible from the side of the patch body opposite to the side where the hoisting frame is releasably attached. The patch body and/or the hoisting frame includes a self-expanding support member. The hoisting frame includes a frame body and a translation component for directing pulling forces on the tether to the frame body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a synthetic degradable medical implant, comprising an essentially two-dimensional mesh structure with a width and a modulus of elasticity, for reinforcing abdominal wall tissue at and around an incisional wound. The mesh structure is characterized in that the modulus of elasticity varies continuously or gradually over the width of the two-dimensional mesh structure.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for minimally invasive mastopexy, or other soft tissue suspension, which may be accomplished with our without augmentation.

Abstract: A delivery device and implantable prosthesis for repairing a soft tissue defect such as an abdominal wall hernia. The delivery device includes a support body that is nested between a first and second layer of the prosthesis. The support body includes a zone of weakness to facilitate collapse of the nested delivery device and prosthesis. A handle extends from the support body and may be used to position the prosthesis as well as to cause the support body to move to a reduced configuration for removal of the support body from the prosthesis.

Abstract: A method of implanting a surgical mesh in tissue includes providing an implant having an insertion aid connected with an end, and providing an insertion device having a handle, an actuator, an elongated shaft, and a cutting element. The elongated shaft has an outer wall with an opening for receiving the insertion aid. The method includes inserting the insertion aid into the opening of the shaft for connecting the implant with the insertion device, forming a surgical opening in tissue, advancing the distal end of the elongated shaft and the implant connected with the insertion device through the surgical opening, and engaging the actuator for moving the cutting element from a first position to a second position for severing the insertion aid from the end of the implant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods tor providing embolic protection in a patient's vascular system, in particular, it relates to an embolic protection device comprising, in one embodiment, braided mesh-like tubular embolus collection structure or structures that can be deployed in a patient's aorta to protect the aortic arch vessels and downstream organs from, embolus formation by collecting and removing emboli from the blood stream. This embolic protection device can be used acutely, for example for embolic protection during cardiac surgery and interventional cardiology procedures, or it can be implanted for chronic embolic protection, for example from cardiogenic emboli or emboli front ruptured or vulnerable aortic plaque. In one coaxial embodiment, multiple i.e., 20 or more, braided, mesh-like tubular structures are used.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems, methods and devices for providing embolic protection in a patient. In some embodiments, the device is configured for implantation in a body vessel including fluid flow. The device may assume, or be constrained to assume, an undeployed state and a deployed state. In the undeployed state, the device or a portion thereof has a substantially linear shape configured to reside in the lumen of a thin needle having a diameter of less than about 0.5 mm (for example), in the deployed state, the device has a primary axis. When the device is implanted the primary axis is approximately perpendicular to the fluid flow. In some embodiments, the device comprises a thin filament body. In the deployed state the filament takes a helical shape. Emboli that are larger than the distance between consecutive turns or windings of the helix are thus filtered by the device and are prevented from causing deleterious conditions such as stroke or pulmonary embolism.

Abstract: An attachment configuration for a vascular filter assembly including a self-expanding filter member attached to a catheter body and constrained from expansion in a first configuration by a constraining sheath is presented. The attachment configuration includes an outer tube of material that is overlaid over an end of the filter member and bonded to the catheter body through cutouts disposed through the end of the filter member.

Abstract: A vascular filter stent is disclosed for deployment within a vessel for filtering of body fluids. A preferred embodiment is the placement of such vascular filter stent within the inferior vena cava (IVC) to filter emboli for the prevention of pulmonary embolism. By incorporating a stent into the filter design, vessel patency and filter positioning is maintained, while minimizing endothelialization thereby obviating the long term complications of conventional metal VC filters such as filter migration and increased deep vein thrombosis.

Abstract: A protection sleeve (10) has a proximal end joined to a first shaft (12) and a distal end joined to a second shaft (14). The first shaft (12) slides over the second shaft (14). A catheter (16) passes through a lumen of the second shaft (14), and a distal portion (20) of the catheter (16) includes a medical device. Relative sliding movement of the first and second shafts (12, 14) with respect to each other either causes contraction or expansion of the protection sleeve (10).

Abstract: A stent comprising a radially expandable elongate tubular support structure, the elongate tubular support structure comprising an inner surface and an outer surface and an anchoring element disposed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the tubular support structure, the anchoring element is separate and removable from the elongate tubular support structure.

Abstract: A medical device includes an elongate body configured to be disposed within a urinary tract of a patient such that a first end portion of the elongate body is disposed at a first location of the urinary tract and a second end portion of the elongate body is disposed at a second, different location of the urinary tract. The elongate body defines a lumen that is configured to convey urine from the first location of the urinary tract to the second location of the urinary tract. An agent is formulated to visually alter urine of the patient, the agent is coupled to the elongate body and releasable into the patient's urine.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the insertion of an artificial ligament into an ankle of a human. The method comprises drilling a first hole through the talar neck of the ankle, and drilling a second hole though the distal part of the fibular. The method further comprises passing the artificial ligament through the first hole, looping the artificial ligament over the dorsal part of the talus neck and using a soft loop of the artificial ligament to anchor the artificial ligament over the talar neck. The artificial ligament is then passed through the second hole and securing the artificial ligament onto the calcaneus using a screw inserted through a hard look of the artificial ligament.

Abstract: A vision correction system comprising an intraocular lens having a lens body and one or more haptics is provided. The lens body may be configured to be positioned posteriorly to an iris of an eye and may have a convex anterior surface, a concave posterior surface, and a circumferential edge having a rounded anterior portion and a rounded posterior portion. Haptics may extend at an anterior angle from the lens body and be configured to contact the ciliary sulcus of an eye. The haptics may secure the intraocular lens in the eye in a relatively fixed position and prevent rotation of the lens over time.

Abstract: The present invention provides a technique that makes it possible, when inserting an intraocular lens into an eye by pushing a plunger, to insert a support positioned on the rear side of the pushing direction of the lens body of the intraocular lens integrally with the lens body and to stabilize the shape of the support after insertion. A slanted part (61f) slanted so as to be higher from the front side to the rear side of a plunger (60) or from the left side to the right side of a plunger (60) is provided at the tip (61d) of a plunger (60). A wall part (61g) formed in a plane perpendicular to the pushing direction of the plunger (60) is provided on the rear side of the slanted part (61f). A plate-shaped protrusion (61e) that protrudes forward from the slanted part (61f) so that part of the lens body can be mounted is provided on the lower side of the slanted part (61f).

Abstract: An apparatus to treat a cataract where the cataractous lens is pierced and the resulting opening is mechanically maintained using a lens system device such as a cylindrical lens, tubular lens, pinhole device, a stent or similar small diameter device, or where the device itself is the lens. The resulting passageway for visible light created in the cataractous lens allows light to better reach the retina, thus improving vision. This lens system device that can be placed into an in situ cataract provides for a much simpler surgical technique and reduces related pre and post operative procedures and potential complications. Intraocular lenses may also be used in concert with this invention. The apparatus and related methods can be applied to humans as well as animals.

Abstract: A system for delivering and deploying a self-expandable heart valve to a site of implantation such as the aortic annulus includes a deployment mechanism that engages the valve and regulates the rate of expansion of both the proximal and distal ends thereof. The heart valve may be a rolled-type valve and the deployment mechanism may include a plurality of distal fingers and a plurality of proximal fingers that engage the outer layer of the heart valve. Controlled radial movement of the fingers regulates the unwinding of the rolled heart valve. The deployment mechanism may include an umbrella structure that forces the rolled valve outward into its fully expanded configuration. Alternatively, a gear shaft that engages one or more gear tracks on the valve may be utilized to regulate expansion of the valve.

Abstract: Embodiments hereof relate to a transcatheter valve prosthesis including a tubular fabric body, a first or inflow tubular scaffold attached to a first end portion of the tubular fabric body, and a second or outflow tubular scaffold attached to a second end portion of the tubular fabric body. A prosthetic valve component is disposed within and secured to an intermediate portion of the tubular fabric body that longitudinally extends between the first and second end portions of the tubular fabric body. The intermediate portion is unsupported such that neither of the first and second tubular scaffolds surrounds the intermediate portion of the tubular fabric body. The intermediate portion may include one or more windows for coronary access and may include one or more commissure reinforcement members coupled thereto to provide support for the prosthetic valve component.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to valve replacement devices that are foldable for catheter-based deployment to the site of implantation, as well as systems for the delivery of valve prostheses, including prostheses having the special characteristics of the disclosed valve replacement devices. The devices include highly effective adhering mechanisms for secure and enduring precision implantation. The adhering mechanisms may employ a unique sealing mechanism that includes a cuff that expands slowly whereby the device is not secured in place until the completion of the implantation procedure. The implanted device, optionally together with the cuff, prevents perivalvular leaks and incorporate an appropriate leaflet system for reliable functioning in situ.

Abstract: A heart valve stent having a section with a heart valve implant and several proximally disposed tissue anchors, also comprising a plurality of anchoring threats, each with a proximate end fastened to the stent or valve and a distal end attached to tissue within a heart chamber to provide tension between the heart chamber tissue and the stent.

Abstract: This material comprises an annuloplasty member able to be introduced using a catheter through minimally invasive vascular access, then to be delivered by said catheter and fixed to the valve annulus. According to the invention, it includes at least one catheter comprising at least one guide member able to be deployed from said catheter such that it extends along one portion of the valve annulus of the valve, in the immediate proximity of said valve annulus, and an implant having a helical shape engaged on said guide member, connected, with separation possibility, to actuation means making it possible to cause this implant to move forward while driving it in rotation around its axis; the implant can thus be deployed from the catheter while being simultaneously moved forward and driven in rotation along its axis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fenestrated bone graft and a method of preparing cortical bone in thin strips then fully demineralizing it to give it formed flexibility and then creating fenestrations in the cortical bone in a fashion similar to but not identical to skin grafts.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tasseled cortical bone graft and a method of preparing cortical bone in thin strips or tubes then fully demineralizing it to give it formed flexibility and then creating a plurality of strands extending from one or more connection locations in the cortical bone in a fashion similar to a tassel.

Abstract: A biocompatible, resorbable collagen membrane containment member for a bone regenerative material, and a method of using such a containment member to regenerate a bone defect by surgically accessing the bone defect; disposing the containment member adjacent the bone defect, and thereafter injecting a bone regenerative material into the containment member.

Abstract: A tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) system is configured to maintaining a tuberosity in an advanced position relative to a tibial body. The TTA system includes an implant, a spacer, and a spacer fixation member.

Abstract: A ceramic bone replacement material and to a generative method for producing said bone replacement material, in particular ceramic bone replacement materials used in implants and preferably in spinal column implants. Generative manufacturing methods make it possible to shape the structures of the bone replacement.

Abstract: A knee prosthesis for a knee joint with a medial ball-like femoral condyle and with a width “w” is characterized on the lateral compartment by:—a trace-line “Lt1” of contact points “Pt1” for the tibia component (2) as a predetermined curve (15) on a spherical surface “Sc1”, which has its centre at the centre Mb of the medial ball 1 and which has a radius in the range “Rc1”=0.65 w+/?0.25 w—a trace-line “Lt2” of common contact points “Pt2” at given flexion angles ? for a similar spherical surface “Sc2” attached to the femoral component with radius “Rc2”=Rc1, whereby at a given flexion angle ? there exists a plane “E1” through the centre Mb and the common contact point Pt1/Pt2, which contains the same guiding curves “Bi”, “Be” on the tibial and on the femoral components, “Bi” towards medial and “Be” towards lateral, both of which stay in a geometrically fixed relation to the common contact point Pt1/Pt2, and—guiding curves “Bi” and “Be”, which generate an enforced gilding and rolling movement in both directions.