Abstract: Various apparatuses and related methods are disclosed. According to one example, a tibial implant is disclosed that can be configured for attachment to a tibia in a knee arthroplasty. The tibial implant can include a baseplate having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion is symmetrically shaped, sized, and positioned with respect to the second portion and one or more fixation features configured to extend from a distal surface of the baseplate and configured for attachment to a resected proximal surface of the tibia.

Abstract: There are provided various embodiments of medical instruments to perform knee surgery. In one embodiment a finned platform for mounting a cutting block is provided. The finned platform can be used on either a femur or tibia to allow for the proper cuts when performing a knee surgery. In another embodiment, a tibial trial is shown having a fin. The fin is useful to reinforce the bone to reduce the risk of fracture during bone preparation. In another embodiment, a reamer is provided having a plurality of cutting flutes. It may be desirable to utilize a guide with the reamer to allow the reamer to cut a non-circular portion of the tibial bone. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of fixation pegs are provided on the tibial implant to allow for easy removal of such implant if a revision surgery becomes necessary.

Abstract: Knee prostheses featuring components that more faithfully replicate the structure and function of the human knee joint in order to provide, among other benefits: greater flexion of the knee in a more natural way by promoting or at least accommodating internal tibial rotation in a controlled way, replication of the natural screw home mechanism, and controlled articulation of the tibia and femur respective to each other in a more natural way. In a preferred embodiment, such prostheses include an insert component disposed between a femoral component and a tibial component, the insert component preferably featuring among other things a reversely contoured posterolateral bearing surface that helps impart internal rotation to the tibia as the knee flexes.

Abstract: A shoulder implant device includes one or more fixation features including an acromial intrusion element and an inflatable humeral balloon portion that receives a fluid through the acromial intrusion element. The intrusion element comprises a valve that can receive multiple needle sticks to add or remove fluid to or from the inflatable humeral balloon. The device is implanted in a subacromial space such that the one or more fixation features at least secure the device to the acromion and the inflatable balloon portion rests against the proximal end of the corresponding humerus. Fluid in the balloon portion maintains separation of the acromion and the humerus to reduce or prevent impingement.

Abstract: An implant assembly and associated method for selectively performing reverse and traditional arthroplasty for a shoulder joint that includes a humerus and a glenoid. The implant assembly may include a head, a cup, a humeral stem and an adaptor. The method includes inserting the humeral stem to the humerus and connecting a male taper of the adaptor to a female taper of the head. For reverse arthroplasty, the method includes attaching the adaptor to the glenoid and the cup to the stem. For traditional arthroplasty, the method includes attaching the adaptor to the humeral stem and the cup to the glenoid. The method also includes articulating the head with the cup.

Abstract: A talar dome is provided as an element of a total ankle arthroplasty, to fit over a resected talus bone. The talar dome has an integral dome body with a smooth and rounded superior articulating side facing the tibia, and an inferior mounting side with mutually inclined flat faces that complement the flat surfaces of the resected talus. On the inferior or mounting side, the talar dome has at least two pegs integral with and rigidly protruding from the dome body. The pegs each taper along flat faces to a point that is embedded in the talus bone for operatively attaching the talar dome to the talus bone. At least one flat face is of each peg is perpendicular to the sagittal plane and resists anterior/posterior displacement of the talar dome until healed.

Abstract: An expandable implant includes an implant body defining an internal void, the implant body including a plurality of interconnected linkages. A first plurality of the linkages has an expansion characteristic that is different from a second plurality of the linkages. An expandable bladder is sized to be disposed in the internal void. The bladder defines a bore configured to receive an expansion material, such that the expansion material applies an expansion force against the bladder, which thereby applies the expansion force against the implant body so as to cause the first linkage to expand greater than the second linkage. The expandable implant can be placed in a fracture location so as to restore height to a fractured target bone.

Abstract: Described herein are devices, methods, systems, and kits configured for use in the surgical treatment of cervical disc disease. Surgery for cervical disc disease may comprise vertebral fixation with screws and plates as well as insertion of one or more intervertebral implants. In some embodiments, a cervical implant may be connected as one single unit with a cervical plate. In some embodiments, a cervical implant and a cervical plate may be separate elements that are configured to be inserted independently into a subject during cervical spinal surgery. In some embodiments, a cervical implant and a cervical plate are designed to be coupled together.

Abstract: The present invention provides an expandable fusion device capable of being installed inside an intervertebral disc space to maintain normal disc spacing and restore spinal stability, thereby facilitating an intervertebral fusion. In one embodiment, the fusion device includes a central ramp, a first endplate, and a second endplate, the central ramp capable of being moved in a first direction to move the first and second endplates outwardly and into an expanded configuration. The fusion device is capable of being deployed down an endoscopic tube.

Abstract: An expandable intervertebral cage device includes a first base plate and a second base plate, a proximal block with internal threading that mechanically couples the first base plate and the second base plate, and a distal block comprising an internal passage. The device has exactly two arm assemblies, one on each side. Each arm assembly includes a first arm mechanically coupled to the first base plate and the distal block, and a second arm is mechanically coupled to the second base plate and the distal block. A screw is arranged partially within the internal threading of the proximal block and passes through the internal passage of the distal block, such that rotation of the screw relative to the proximal block causes a change in distance between the proximal block and the distal block, and a corresponding change in the spacing and lordosis of the device.

Abstract: A dynamic intervertebral spacer includes a ring which is split on an anterior portion. A posterior portion of the ring acts as a torsion spring. After implantation, the ring is able to act as a spring between superior and inferior vertebral bodies, thus allowing dynamic bone growth in fusion procedures.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant includes an insertion end, an opposing engagement end, and first and second opposed main surfaces configured to contact respective adjacent vertebral endplates. Each of the first and second main surfaces has an anterior edge, a posterior edge, and extends between the insertion and engagement ends. Anterior and posterior walls are formed between the first and second main surfaces and along the respective anterior and posterior edges and converge at the insertion and engagement ends. A slot is formed at the engagement end and extends continuously between and at least partially along the anterior and posterior walls. A post is positioned within the slot, spaced from at least one of the anterior and posterior walls and extending at least partially between the first and second main surfaces. The post includes a plurality of exposed facets and is configured for engagement with a pivotable insertion instrument.

Abstract: A prosthetic implant useful in a cementless application is disclosed. The implant may include a curved bone facing surface and one or more pegs or keels. Preferably, the implant is implanted on a bone surface that has been prepared so as to allow for a snap fit between the implant and the bone.

Abstract: An intervertebral prosthesis, particularly for percutaneous minimally-invasive surgery having a substantially disc-like geometry with a thickness equal to the intervertebral distance to be restored is provided. In a lateral elevation view, in the intervertebral prosthesis there is a through-hole adapted to allow its sliding along a guiding wire inserted previously in the patient through a percutaneous minimally-invasive anterolateral access.

Abstract: A temporary neck for a hip joint prosthesis comprising a mechanism that will allow the length of the temporary neck to be varied while in place, during implant surgery and after the stem and base of a permanent prosthesis have been positioned. In one best mode the variation in length is driven by rotating a pinion gear that engages a rack gear connected to the interior of the side walls of a moveable unit, and the ball is connected by a stud to the front wall of the moveable unit; thus the ball moves the same distance as the moveable unit, and that distance is a direct function of gear tooth spacing and number of rotations of the gear. In an alternative mechanism, a threaded drive axle (worm gear) moves in response rotation an adjustment base (wheel gear) in which the base comprises a drive disk with a female, threaded bore. The axle is secured to the pressure disk at one end and free at the other.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medical registration apparatus (1), comprising •two flanks (2a, 2b); •a pivot portion (3) around which at least one of the flanks (2a, 2b) is rotatable with respect to a rotation centre (3c, 3d) (FIG. 1, FIG. 3); •a contacting portion (4a, 4b) on each of the flanks (2a, 2b), each contacting portion (4a, 4b) being spaced apart from the rotation centre (3c, 3d); and •a sensor (5, 6) being arranged with an offset (r, FIG. 4 A) to a line (a) connecting the contacting portions (4a, 4b). The invention also relates to a data processing method for use with the medical registration apparatus.

Abstract: Methods, compositions, and devices for treating a vascular aneurysm, including an abdominal aortic aneurysm, are disclosed. In particular, the various embodiments relate to a method of treating an abdominal aortic aneurysm by increasing the mechanical stiffness of an aortic segment adjacent to the abdominal aortic aneurysm in a subject. The mechanical stiffness of the adjacent aortic segment may be increased, for example, by applying a surgical adhesive or intravascular stent. Such treatment reduces stress on the aortic wall and limits further growth of the abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Abstract: A biodegradable in vivo supporting device is disclosed. In one embodiment, a coated stent device includes a biodegradable metal alloy scaffold made from a magnesium alloy, iron alloy, zinc alloy, or combination thereof, and the metal scaffold comprises a plurality of metal struts. The metal struts are at least partially covered with a biodegradable polymer coating. A method for making and a method for using a biodegradable in vivo supporting device are also disclosed.

Abstract: A biocompatible metallic material may be configured into any number of implantable medical devices, including intraluminal stents. The biocompatible metallic material may comprise a magnesium alloy. The magnesium alloy implantable medical device may be designed to degrade over a given period of time. In order to control the degradation time, the device may be coated or otherwise have affixed thereto one or more coatings, one of which comprises a material for controlling the degradation time and maintain a pH neutral environment proximate the device. Additionally, therapeutic agents may be incorporated into one or more of the coatings on the implantable medical device.

Abstract: A medical device includes a tubular network of struts including a bioerodible polymer. The tubular network can include a plurality of bands and a plurality of connector struts. Each band can include a plurality of peaks between adjacent band struts. Each band can be connected to one or more adjacent bands by at least two connector struts at a plurality of connector intersections. The bioerodible polymer can include a plurality of polymer chains functionalized with a photo active group.

Abstract: A bidirectional twistable stent is disclosed. The stent comprises a cylinder-shaped stent body having a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen and a plurality of flex connectors that connect at least two adjacent rows of struts in such a manner that allows the stent to be twisted clockwise or counter clockwise without causing deformation of any struts in the stent body. Also disclosed are the method of making the stent, method of using the stent, and a kit containing the stent.

Abstract: A delivery device and methods for deploying an endovascular prosthesis within the common and internal iliac arteries are described. The device comprises a pusher catheter having a proximal end and a pusher extension extending proximally therefrom. A tubular prosthesis having a side branch is releasably coupled to the pusher extension. An extension dilator extends proximally from the proximal end of the pusher catheter, extends at least partially along an external surface of the main tubular body, into a distal end of the side branch and exits a proximal end of the tubular prosthesis. The extension dilator can be tracked over a guide wire which serves to both position the device within a vessel and also to facilitate cannulation of an internal iliac artery.

Abstract: Catheter comprising an inner tubular member defining a fluid lumen and inflation lumen therein. An exterior surface of the inner tubular member defines a fluid flow port in fluid communication with the fluid lumen and located along a region of the inner tubular member. Catheter further includes an outer member having a distal section movable relative to the inner tubular member and having an interior surface. A piston balloon is coupled to the inner tubular member distal to the fluid flow port and is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen. A pressure chamber is in fluid communication with the fluid flow port. Fluid introduced through the inflation lumen inflates the piston balloon to seal against the interior surface and fluid introduced through the fluid flow port and into the pressure chamber applies a force to urge at least the distal section of the outer member in a proximal direction.

Abstract: A device and method for remodeling or partitioning a body cavity, hollow organ or tissue tract includes graspers operable to engage two or more sections of tissue within a body cavity and to draw the engaged tissue between a first and second members of a tissue remodeling tool. The two or more pinches of tissue are held in complete or partial alignment with one another as staples or other fasteners are driven through the pinches, thus forming a four-layer tissue plication. Over time, adhesions formed between the opposed serosal layers create strong bonds that can facilitate retention of the plication over extended durations, despite the forces imparted on them by stomach movement. A cut or cut-out may be formed in the plication during or separate from the stapling step to promote edge-to-edge healing effects that will enhance tissue knitting/adhesion.

Abstract: A device attached to a person's head constrains movement of the face soft tissue, particularly during strenuous exercise with vigorous head movement. The device minimizes the retaining ligament's stretching and potential weakening which occurs as a natural aging process leading to a premature aging manifestation in a form of face sagging and drooping. The device includes a generally U-shaped head attachment body configured to be disposed behind the person's head and neck area and to be in contact at or near a nape area of the person. A left temporal element configured to be in contact with the person's left temporal area. A right temporal element configured to be in contact with the person's right temporal area. A left cheek supporting element configured to be in contact with the person's left cheek area. A right cheek supporting element configured to be in contact with the person's right cheek area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method of contraception which addresses the problems of initial bleeding and spotting associated with the use of intrauterine delivery systems, and to an improved intrauterine delivery system.

Abstract: Temperature of the extremities is a significant factor in temperature control of the body due to the presence of thermal receptors in the extremities. The brain uses signals from these thermal receptors as an indication of environmental conditions, and responds accordingly. Thermal monitoring of extremities and adjustment of extremity temperature are valuable in controlling body temperature, leading to a more optimum body temperature in an array of environmental conditions. Devices, such as a wearable article, and an apparatus to monitor the temperature of extremities, adjust the temperature of the extremities in response to the monitored temperature.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for conducting a stimulus treatment on a subject who stays at a stimulation treatment institution, based on a treatment schedule prepared by the stimulation treatment institution. The treatment may include conducting a stimulation application treatment, a dietary treatment, and a body exercise treatment in combination so as to increase a blood flow in the subject.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a portable semiconductor apparatus for treatment of an injury site in a body portion. The disclosure also provides for a method of treating the body portion. The apparatus comprises a fixing plate, a semiconductor element, a heat radiator, a fan element, and a temperature controller to change the apparatus between a hot mode and a cold mode. The apparatus further comprises adjustable straps, which secure the apparatus to the user. This portable apparatus may be used in hot and cold intervals to treat an injury remote from other first aid care.

Abstract: Described herein is a pouch or strap system for holding a temperature control element (i.e., hot/cold element). The system described herein may include multiple straps that may be retained and/ or interconnected such that the system may position a temperature control element at various parts of the body. The system may include a central pouch encompassed by a first panel and a second panel, wherein the first panel has a higher thermal resistance than the thermal resistance of the second panel. The system may include a first couple of straps attached to and extending away from the central pouch, each of the first couple of straps including a single quick-release buckle component, and a second couple of straps attached to and extending away from the central pouch, wherein each strap of the second couple of straps includes two quick-release buckle components.

Abstract: An insulated outer case is shaped like a clam shell, preferably with a fabric hinge. In a top half is an ice bag or gel pack. In a lower half is an optional pocket holding a long securing wrap and anchored short straps for encircling a limb. In a closed mode the ice bag is surrounded by two insulated clam shell halves secured together by a zipper. In an open mode the straps can be adjusted and the bag filled with ice (or water to be heated). Then the halves are reversed and zippered into the reverse mode for application. A combo pack embodiment adds a drinking water bladder to the bottom half.

Abstract: FreezePocket is a therapeutic device that secures plastic ice packs, allowing an individual to apply targeted cold temperature to multiple different injured areas of the body. The device functions in a hands-free manner and allows for re-application of treatment over an extended period of time, while the user rests comfortably.

Abstract: The present concept is a cooling system and method for cooling the spinal cord dura which in turn cools the spinal cord. This method involves exposing the spinal cord leaving the dura intact at the location of the spinal cord injury, and applying a cooling pad to the spinal cord dura at the point of the spinal cord injury in order to cool the dura which in turn cools the spinal cord. The pad is cooled to achieve a dura temperature of between 2 to 10 degrees centigrade for a period of ½ to 96 hours. The cooling pad is a saddle shaped cooling saddle that follows the exterior profile of the dura to maximize the heat transfer between the saddle and the dura. It is made of a light soft pliable material, a biomedical grade elastomer, which conforms to the outer contour of the dura when gently placed on the dura. The cooling saddle includes an inlet and outlet for communicating cooling liquid through the pad thereby cooling the pad and the dura in contact with the pad.

Abstract: A forceps for microsurgery having a tubular shaft with a coaxially placed central rod, an upper shank with a proximate end attached to the tubular shaft and a distal end with an upper jaw attached thereto, and a lower shank with a proximate end attached to the distal central rod and a distal end with a lower jaw attached thereto. The upper and lower jaws both have diameters greater than the outer diameter of the tubular shaft, and may be offset from the upper and lower shanks, respectively, so as to facilitate microsurgical maneuvers such as lifting and grasping thin objects or tissue edges positioned on the surface of an iris or lens during an ophthalmological surgical procedure.

Abstract: A probe for endo-ocular photocoagulation procedures provides straight and curved tip configurations. A flexible tubular material, pre-formed with a radius of curvature, allows the tip to be inserted through a trocar cannula and to resume its pre-formed shape for use during a surgical procedure. Alternatively, a tubular material is pre-formed with a radius of curvature, and is stiffened by use of a preferably stainless steel tube. Inside the tubular material is a distal end of at least one optical fiber, inserted such that its tip is coterminous with the tubular material. A tube surrounds the optical fiber and is free to move along the axis of the assembly, acting to straighten the tubular and optical fiber members as it moves forward via a sliding member that is associated with the hand piece. Illumination energy, laser energy, or both may be supplied to the targeted surgical site.

Abstract: Patterned laser treatment of the retina is provided. A visible alignment pattern having at least two separated spots is projected onto the retina. By triggering a laser subsystem, doses of laser energy are automatically provided to at least two treatment locations coincident with the alignment spots. All of the doses of laser energy may be delivered in less than about 1 second, which is a typical eye fixation time. A scanner can be used to sequentially move an alignment beam from spot to spot on the retina and to move a treatment laser beam from location to location on the retina.

Abstract: Ultra-short pulsed laser radiation is applied to a patient's eye to create a row of bubbles oriented perpendicular to the axis of vision. The row of bubbles leads to a region of the eye to be ablated. In a second step, a femtosecond laser beam guided through the row of bubbles converts it to a channel perpendicular to the axis of vision. In a third step, a femtosecond laser beam is guided through the channel to ablate a portion of the eye. Using a femtosecond laser with intensity in the range of 1011-1015 W/cm2 for the second and third steps facilitates multi-photon ablation that is practically devoid of eye tissue heating. Creating bubbles in the first step increases the speed of channel creation and channel diameter uniformity, thereby increasing the precision of the subsequent multi-photon ablation.

Abstract: A laser-assisted method for fully or partially separating tissue such as collagen containing tissue is provided. In one embodiment, the method pertains to a capsulorhexis whereby the laser-assisted method is applied to the lens capsule. A light-absorbing agent is added into or onto the tissue. A light beam with a wavelength capable of being absorbed by the light absorbing agent is then directed at the tissue to cause a thermal effect at the tissue following a predetermined closed curve with the goal to avoid irregularity or potential tears in the resulting rim of the tissue.

Abstract: A sleep mask apparatus for use over a user's eyes. The sleep mask apparatus includes an opaque element having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. The opaque element is sized and configured to extend across both of the user's eyes to mitigate the passage of light toward the user's eyes with the inner surface facing the user and the outer surface facing away from the user. A support element is coupled to the opaque element and includes a first support surface and an opposing second support surface. The inner surface of the opaque element is offset from the first support surface. The support element defines a peripheral margin extending around the opaque element, with the first support surface having an adhesive applied thereto at the peripheral margin to facilitate adhering of the support element to the user.

Abstract: A tympanostomy tube for insertion into and residence in a tympanic membrane of a mammal, is disclosed. The tympanostomy tube includes a body including a first end portion, a second end portion, a central portion dispensed between the first and second end portions. An axially extending passageway has a first open end disposed adjacent the first end portion, and a second open end disposed adjacent the second end portion, and an axis extending between the first open end and second open end. The first end portion includes a relatively enlarged diameter, generally radially extending flange. The central portion includes a reduced diameter portion sized for extending through and residing in tissue of the tympanic membrane. The second end portion includes a relatively enlarged diameter second flange disposed adjacent the second end portion.

Abstract: An electrode guide bridge is used for inserting a cochlear implant electrode into a cochlea scala of a patient cochlea. An electrode holder encloses at least a portion of a cochlear implant electrode while allowing the electrode to slide freely without friction. A pointed distal tip of the electrode holder is sized to fit within a posterior tympanotomy during electrode insertion surgery and into an electrode opening in an outer surface of the patient cochlea without entering the cochlea scala to prevent an apical tip of the enclosed electrode from contacting tissues around the electrode opening during the insertion surgery.

Abstract: Provided is an auditory sensitivity adjustment device suitable to enhance concentration and attentiveness in any direction. An auditory sensitivity adjustment device 100 includes grab parts 32a and 32b for holding a pinna 50, springs 22 for applying to the grab parts 32a and 32b a force for pulling, in an extending direction, the pinna 50 held by the grab parts 32a and 32b, and a base 38 for rotating the pinna 50 held by the grab parts 32a and 32b so as to twist the pinna 50.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to an active hearing protection device comprising a communication device operable to provide active hearing protection to a wearer; a set of earmuffs connected to the communication device, wherein each earmuff comprises an indicator mechanism operable to indicate to the communication device when the earmuff is inserted into a user's ear, a processor operable to receive information from the set of earmuffs and the indicator mechanisms of the earmuffs, and operable to automatically power the active hearing protection device on or off based on the information received from the indicator mechanism(s). When it is determined that both earmuffs are inserted into the user's ears, the active hearing protection device is powered on, and when it is determined that at least one of the earmuffs is not inserted into the user's ear(s), the active hearing protection device is powered off.

Abstract: An improved skin substitute is presented comprised of a silicone layer backed up with a woven nylon fabric layer, the silicone layer possessing a regular pattern of slits that permit the porosity of the skin substitute to be adjusted by clinicians by means of applying tension to the skin substitute that differentially opens the slits. A variety of therapeutic substances can be applied to the skin substitute to promote healing, including aloe and other medicinal preparations. The skin substitute is directed at chronic wound treatment and hernia repair.

Abstract: The invention relates to a flat wound care article having an essentially polygonal or ellipsoid base surface and at least one recess arranged on one side.

Abstract: A method for supporting a body part comprises a) removing a first release liner portion from an adhesive side of an anchor portion of a precut piece of kinesiology tape; b) adhering the adhesive side of the anchor portion to a generally flat surface of the body part; c) removing a second release liner portion from an adhesive side of a finger portion of the precut piece of kinesiology tape, while retaining a finger reinforcement layer on a non-adhesive side of the finger portion; d) after step c), adhering the adhesive side of the finger portion to the generally flat surface, so that the precut piece of kinesiology tape lies generally flat on the generally flat surface; and e) after step d), removing the finger reinforcement layer from the non-adhesive side of the finger portion.

Abstract: A dressing for the treatment of scar tissue. The dressing includes a silicone strip and an adhesive frame to securely attach the silicone strip to an area of scar tissue and where the frame partially covers the silicone strip.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical cast having a dual structure.

Abstract: A shield for a post-operative reconstructed nipple is disclosed. The shield includes a vertical shield portion and a flat base with rounded corners and symmetric suture holes. The shield may be made of polyethylene or other semi-rigid material. The shield is sutured to a patient's skin through the suture holes, with the shield base imposed on a dressing such as iodiform gauze that is in contact with the patient's skin.

Abstract: The apparatuses and methods herein may be configured to transport articles in the form of continuous lengths of substrates having thicknesses that varies along a machine direction and/or cross direction. The conveyance apparatuses may be configured to include a first carrier and second carrier, wherein each carrier includes an endless belt positioned adjacent to the other so as to define a nip region between the endless belts, the nip region extending in a machine direction and a cross direction. The carriers may also include compliant rollers in rolling contact with the endless belts. Each compliant roller may be elastomeric and adapted to provide a reaction force normal to the endless belt along the machine and/or cross direction of the nip region. As such, the compliant rollers help maintain and hold the endless belts in contact with both relatively thin and thick areas of the substrate advancing through the nip region.