Patents Issued in January 12, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170007358
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of dentistry and is intended for restoration/reconstruction of teeth destroyed below the gum line using reinforcement technology of composite materials. The indirect noninvasive method of restoration/reconstruction of teeth destroyed below the gum line comprises using a laboratory-fabricated metal mesh-reinforced composite dental prosthesis according to M. L. Melikyan. The metal mesh-reinforced composite dental prosthesis is comprised of a flexible crown-root wire pin and reinforcing crown-root frame made from metal mesh and mesh wires. The walls of the crown part of the dental prosthesis are formed from dental composite material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Melikset Litvinovich MELIKYAN
  • Publication number: 20170007359
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for improved orthodontic treatment of a patient's teeth are providedherein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Avi Kopelman, Allen Boronkay, Peter Webber, Vadim Matov, Srinivas Kaza, Ryan Kimura, Yaser Shanjani
  • Publication number: 20170007360
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for improved orthodontic treatment of a patient's teeth are provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Avi Kopelman, Allen Boronkay, Peter Webber, Vadim Matov, Srinivas Kaza, Ryan Kimura, Yaser Shanjani
  • Publication number: 20170007361
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for producing orthodontic appliances are provided. In one aspect, an orthodontic appliance comprises an outer shell comprising a plurality of cavities shaped to receive the patient's teeth and generate one or more of a force or a torque in response to the appliance being worn on the patient's teeth. The orthodontic appliance can comprise an inner structure having a stiffness different than a stiffness of the outer shell. The inner structure can be positioned on an inner surface of the outer shell in order to distribute the one or more of a force or a torque to at least one tooth received within the plurality of cavities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Allen Boronkay, Jihua Cheng, Fuming Wu, Yan Chen, John Morton
  • Publication number: 20170007362
    Abstract: Provided herein are crosslinked polymers useful in orthodontic appliances and light polymerizable liquid compositions and formulations useful for making crosslinked polymers. Also provided are methods of making an orthodontic appliance comprising a cross-linked polymer formed by a direct fabrication technique.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Yan CHEN, Chunhua LI, Srinivas KAZA, Neil Brian CRAMER, Mary Catherine BERARD
  • Publication number: 20170007363
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for improved orthodontic treatment of a patient's teeth are provided herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Allen Boronkay
  • Publication number: 20170007364
    Abstract: A dual aligner assembly including a plurality of aligners, including a first aligner and a second aligner. The first aligner has a first shape corresponding to a set of target tooth positions and applies an orthodontic force against a set of target teeth. The first orthodontic force generates movement of the set of target teeth to the set of target tooth positions. The second aligner has a second shape corresponding to a combination of current tooth positions of the set of target teeth, the set of target tooth positions, and a thickness of the first aligner. The second aligner partially encloses the first aligner and provides an anchor for at least a portion of the first aligner. Via the anchor, a combination of the first aligner and the second aligner provides an orthodontic force that prevents the set of target teeth from moving to unwanted tooth positions during orthodontic treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: Align Technology, Inc
    Inventors: Fuming WU, Jihua CHENG
  • Publication number: 20170007365
    Abstract: Polymeric shell appliances are provided in which the polymeric shell appliances are configured to provide one or more activation forces to facilitate tooth movement. In many embodiments, the appliances comprise interproximal engagement structures to provide activation forces to interproximal tooth surfaces. In many embodiments, the activation forces are arranged to provide a plurality of forces, including a force in a direction opposite to an intended direction of tooth movement. The polymeric shell appliances may comprise one or more tooth receiving cavities, in which each of the plurality of tooth receiving cavities is shaped and arranged to provide a counter moment of each of the plurality of teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Avi Kopelman, John Morton
  • Publication number: 20170007366
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for producing appliances for expansion of the arch of a patient are provided. An arch expanding appliance comprises a force generating portion to apply an arch expansion force and a retention portion to hold the force generating portion on the teeth. The retention portion comprises a flexible portion and a stiff portion. The force generating portion applies a force to move teeth associated with the flexible portion, while the stiff portion resists movement of its associated teeth. The orthodontic appliances can be designed according to the specifications provided herein and manufactured using direct fabrication methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Avi Kopelman, Allen Boronkay, Ryan Kimura, Yaser Shanjani
  • Publication number: 20170007367
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for producing appliances for expansion of the palate of a patient are provided. A palate expanding orthodontic appliance comprises a teeth engagement portion comprising a plurality of teeth engagement structures and a force generating portion coupled to the teeth engagement portion and configured to apply force to cause the patient's palate to expand. The orthodontic appliances can be designed according to the specifications provided herein and manufactured using direct fabrication methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Chunhua Li, Avi Kopelman, Srinivas Kaza, Ryan Kimura, Yaser Shanjani
  • Publication number: 20170007368
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for producing orthodontic appliances are provided. In one aspect, an orthodontic appliance comprises an outer shell comprising a plurality of cavities shaped to receive the patient's teeth and generate one or more of a force or a torque in response to the appliance being worn on the patient's teeth. The orthodontic appliance can comprise an inner structure having a stiffness different than a stiffness of the outer shell. The inner structure can be positioned on an inner surface of the outer shell in order to distribute the one or more of a force or a torque to at least one tooth received within the plurality of cavities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Allen Boronkay
  • Publication number: 20170007369
    Abstract: Dental assemblies and related methods of making are provided. The dental assemblies include a dental article with a bonding surface an adhesive having both a compressible material and at least one hardenable dental composition extending across the bonding surface. The compressible material is coupled to the dental article by a first quantity of hardened dental composition extending at least partially through the compressible material and contacting the bonding surface. The hardened dental composition extends over less than the entire bonding surface. Adjacent portions of the compressible material contain a second quantity of unhardened dental composition, preserving flexibility of the compressible material. Advantageously, this configuration was found to enhance bond reliability and facilitate manufacturing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David K. Cinader, JR., MaThazin Aung, Lee C. Yick, James D. Cleary
  • Publication number: 20170007370
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a passive self-ligating bracket, comprising a bracket body, wherein the middle part of the bracket body is sunken downwards to form an archwire slot; a locking piece in slide fit with the bracket body is arranged above the archwire slot; at least one locking position is provided on one of the bracket body and the locking piece; a fixing mechanism for fixing the locking piece at the locking position is arranged on one of the bracket body and the locking piece; the fixing mechanism comprises an elastic element located on one of the bracket body and the locking piece; the elastic element is provided with a bulge capable of being received at the locking position; when the locking piece is in a locked state, the bulge on the elastic element is received at the locking position; and when the locking piece is in an unlocked state, the end part of the bulge on the elastic element is in close abutment with one of the bracket body and the locking piece, and forces the elastic element to s
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Qijun Ni
  • Publication number: 20170007371
    Abstract: Method for determining a patient's open-position occlusal plane comprising: obtaining a global model of the patient's jaw including a model of the mandible and maxilla in articulation; determining a natural occlusal plane of the patient from a global model of the patient's jaw in a centric occlusion position; determining a necessary opening to enable the advancement of the patient's mandible; determining a mandibular virtual plane from the global model of the patient's jaw in an open position based on the necessary opening determined; and determining the open-position occlusal plane from the mandibular virtual plane, the natural occlusal plane and the global model of the jaw in the open position based on the necessary opening determined. A method of designing a mandibular advancement device for a patient based on the open-position occlusal plane is also described as well as the resulting mandibular advancement device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Jean Robichaud
  • Publication number: 20170007372
    Abstract: Methods of taking an impression or scan of a patient's oral cavity without requiring removal of a healing cap coupled within the implant in the subgingival void. The method may include providing an anatomical healing cap received within the subgingival void of a given tooth position, where the anatomical healing cap is coupled into an implant in the void. A scanning body or an impression post is inserted into an open end (e.g., the hollow core) of the anatomical healing cap, in-situ, with the anatomical healing cap positioned in the subgingival void, and the implant thereunder (or thereover for a maxillary tooth position). The scanning body or impression post is used as a reference in making the impression or scan. Because this is done without requiring removal of the healing cap, further collapse of the gingival tissue surrounding the void is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Mark H. Blaisdell, Todd C. Liston
  • Publication number: 20170007373
    Abstract: A system for increasing organic cell regeneration in a cellular medium includes an electromagnetic (EN) field generating device adapted to produce a constant EM field of less then 1 mT at a radiation frequency of substantially 7.69 Hz, which comprises at least one coil and is adapted to generate the EM field so that the cellular medium is substantially within the generated EM field. A resonance medium is also provided for locating substantially at or adjacent the cellular medium, wherein the resonance medium comprises a composition which is adapted to resonate at the frequency of The EM field generated by the device, wherein the composition is a biologically active composition containing at least a composition comprising crystalline structure minerals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Bogdan Constantin VLADILA
  • Publication number: 20170007374
    Abstract: Provided is a technique of allowing a dental implant to be stably placed after extraction, to be accurately placed in a tooth extraction socket, and to be stably placed in the tooth extraction socket according to implantation position and angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Sang Hwa LEE
  • Publication number: 20170007375
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Ophir Fromovich, Yuval Jacoby, Nitzan Bichacho, Ben-Zion Karmon
  • Publication number: 20170007376
    Abstract: The present invention provides a dental impression acquisition tray that includes: a handle; a dental acquisition frame including a first extending from an end of the handle, a second part opposite the first part, and a middle connection part connecting the first part and the second part to each other; a dental acquisition film disposed in a space inside the dental acquisition frame; and a reinforcing member extending along the dental acquisition frame, inserted in the first part and the second part, and exposed to the outside at the middle connection part, in which a plurality of grooves is formed in the first part and the second part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: BeakJin Kim
  • Publication number: 20170007377
    Abstract: A method for measuring regions of a tooth in a mouth including: measuring at least one surface point on a surface of the tooth with respect to an element mechanically coupled to said surface point; determining a location of at least one visible reference mechanically coupled to said surface point with respect to said element; estimating a location of said surface point with respect to said visible reference. A device used for such measuring may include a main body comprising a final optical element of an imager which defines an optical field of view directed in a first direction; and a measurement element coupled to said main body extending generally in said first direction; where a tip of said measurement element is sized and shaped to be inserted between a tooth and adjacent gingiva; where said optical field of view is sized to image at least part of a tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: DENTLYTEC G.P.L. LTD.
    Inventors: Benny Pesach, Ygael Grad, Blanc Zach Lehr, Georgy Melamed
  • Publication number: 20170007378
    Abstract: The dental plate liner includes: a paste (i) containing (A) a (meth)acrylic acid-based polymer, and a fluorine-containing (meth)acrylic acid-based polymerizable monomer in which (A) the (meth)acrylic acid-based polymer has a solubility of less than 20 mass %; and a paste (ii) containing a (meth)acrylic acid-based polymerizable monomer in which (A) the (meth)acrylic acid-based polymer has a solubility of 20 mass % or more, and a filler, in which at least one paste selected from the group consisting of the paste (i) and the paste (ii) contains a polymerization initiator, and in which the dental plate liner is used through mixing of the paste (i) and the paste (ii) immediately before use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Ayumu GYAKUSHI, Kouji MATSUSHIGE
  • Publication number: 20170007379
    Abstract: Gingiva indexing devices and methods with various defined red colour regions have a colour grey card or grey card assigned to it for detecting the gingiva status, in particular for producing a gingival restoration. The devices and method comprise an analysis of at least one region of the gingiva status with regard to its shades of red, the position of the shades of red, the colour profile of the shades of red, their geometry and/or their morphology. The analysis can take place manually and/or digitally, and gingiva information is obtained, in particular in the form of a gingiva map, and optional production of a virtual or real model of a gingival restoration as a reproduction of the missing part of the gums and/or part of gingiva.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: HERAEUS KULZER GMBH
    Inventors: David J. REAY, Harald KUBIAK-ESSSMANN
  • Publication number: 20170007380
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dental restoration model comprising a positive model (15) of a dental restoration piece. Said positive model (15) defines at least the outer contour (36) of a dental restoration piece to be made using lost wax technology and is provided with a locating pin region which is defined especially according to a given optimization process. The invention is characterized in that the locating pin region is provided with a guiding element (30) which accommodates and/or guides a material feeder (22, 24, 26 and 28).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Foser, Oliver Voigt
  • Publication number: 20170007381
    Abstract: An object is to provide an artificial tooth that can be attached to a denture base designed by CAD/CAM to be formed easily and accurately when the artificial tooth is arranged on the denture base. In an artificial tooth (21) that has a shape corresponding to a denture base that is designed on CAD based on three-dimensional data and is cut out, a regulator (21a to 21h) that regulates the rotation on the axis of the tooth as the center is provided for a portion to touch the denture base, and the regulator has a shape so as not to engage with the denture base in the direction of the axis of the tooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Shunsuke MINAKUCHI, Manabu KANAZAWA, Shinta YAMAMOTO, Takayuki MICHII, Tomohiro KUMAGAI, Daisuke MATSUURA
  • Publication number: 20170007382
    Abstract: The appliance includes a jet source of fluid, and a nozzle assembly (10) through which the fluid is directed and then out for application to the teeth. A flow interrupter assembly is mounted within the nozzle assembly, such that the interrupter assembly (20) is responsive to the fluid flow to produce momentary successive interruptions of the fluid flow by the action of the interrupter assembly moving from an original position to a flow interrupting position and then returning to its original position as the flow decreases and then is interrupted, due to the fluid flow itself, resulting in a cyclical perturbation in the fluid flow from the nozzle, by flow action alone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: GREGORY RUSS GODDARD, ANANDH BALAKRISHNAN, YU-WEN CHANG, JOHN THEODORE FERRIER
  • Publication number: 20170007383
    Abstract: Hands-free oral care devices and methods are described herein. In one embodiment, an oral care device includes a mouthpiece configured to be received within a user's mouth, the mouthpiece including an upper bristle track and a lower bristle track that are pivotably coupled together. The device further includes a first housing component coupled to the mouthpiece such that at least a portion of the first housing component can be compressed between the upper bristle track and the lower bristle track, and a second housing component sealingly coupled to the first housing component to define a watertight cavity therebetween. A battery can be disposed within the cavity, as well as an actuator and a pressure sensitive switch that is effective to detect pressure exerted on the first housing component when the upper and lower bristle tracks pivotably move relative to one another and selectively couple the actuator to the battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Andrew Blank, Jeffrey Freedman
  • Publication number: 20170007384
    Abstract: A brushing device including a motor having an eccentric drive shaft, an output shaft operably connected to the motor, and a power train assembly coupled between the eccentric drive shaft and the output shaft. The power train converts rotation of the eccentric drive shaft into an oscillating movement of the output shaft. The power train includes one or more conservation features that absorb energy when the output shaft rotates in a first direction and reapply energy to the output shaft when it rotates in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Robert D. Wagner
  • Publication number: 20170007385
    Abstract: A dental light curing device includes a first shell segment, a second shell segment coupled with the first shell segment to jointly define an installation space, and a light emitting module and a duty module located in the installation space. The first shell segment and the second shell segment have respectively a first confining rib and a second confining rib to divide the installation space into a first zone and a second zone. The light emitting module is located in the second zone to form electric connection with the duty module and be controlled to generate a curing light. The light emitting module includes a primary heat sink, a secondary heat sink located on the primary heat sink and a light emitting chip located on the secondary heat sink. The primary heat sink is hollow and includes a cooling passage and a cooling fan located in the cooling passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Shu-Lung WANG
  • Publication number: 20170007386
    Abstract: A dental appliance having an integrally formed reservoir and/or an ornamental design integrated thereon. The ornamental design can be selected or customized by a patient. The design can be created by directing energy to the dental appliance to alter a material property of at least a portion of the appliance to create the design. Alternatively, a groove or recess can be formed on a surface of the appliance to either mechanically retain an ornamental design or the groove or recess can be filled with ink to form the design. The appliance, including the integrally formed reservoir, can be formed using direct fabrication techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David MASON, Shiva SAMBU, Chunhua LI, Yan CHEN
  • Publication number: 20170007387
    Abstract: A hernia repair device includes a mesh configured figured to extend across a tissue defect and a plurality of filaments coupled to the mesh. The filaments are coupled to the mesh in proximity of an outer periphery thereof and extend from a central portion of the mesh. Each filament includes a plurality of barbs disposed along at least a portion of the length thereof. Each filament further includes a needle disposed at a free end thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Matthew D. Cohen, Michael Prescott
  • Publication number: 20170007388
    Abstract: A method of packaging a surgical implant is provided. The method includes receiving a portion of the surgical implant or a component coupled to the surgical implant at least partially within a recess of an implant holder. The recess includes a plurality of lobe shapes adapted to engage the implant or component. The recess only receives a top portion of the surgical implant or component couple to the surgical implant. The holder is inserted into a container. The holder has a first configuration in which the mouth of the recess is arranged to partially surround a portion of an implant or a component coupled to an implant. When the holder is at least partially received in the container, the recess grips the implant in a position spaced apart from the container. The holder also has a second configuration in which the mouth of the recess opens to release the implant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: KEVIN NEAL, THOMAS STACEY
  • Publication number: 20170007389
    Abstract: An embolus filter introducer system has a symmetric introducer sheath with a filter inside. The introducer sheath can be attached at either end to a deployment actuator. The deployment actuator can thereby be used to push the filter out of the introducer sheath. Since the sheath can be oriented in a selectable direction, so can the filter, allowing the sheath to be introduced via a jugular or femoral approach to the vena cava.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Jonathan D. Miller
  • Publication number: 20170007390
    Abstract: A percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device includes an embolic filter mounted to the catheter shaft at a location distal to the angioplasty balloon. Thus the filter can be down-stream from the blockage and can be properly positioned to capture embolic particles that may be set loose into the blood stream as the angioplasty procedure can be performed. The embolic filter can be normally un-deployed against the catheter shaft to facilitate introduction and withdrawal of the device to and from the operative site. Once the angioplasty balloon can be properly positioned, however, means operatively associated with the embolic filter can be actuated to deploy the filter to position a filter mesh across the lumen of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Contego Medical, LLC
  • Publication number: 20170007391
    Abstract: This invention provides a stent-graft that has both shape-maintainability and flexibility, and when implanted in a living body, the stent-graft performs its intended functions for a considerably long period of time relative to conventional stent-grafts, without causing conflict. The stent-graft comprises a stent comprising multiple elastic rings and a graft. An auxiliary elastic wire whose rigidity is lower than that of the stent is arranged at the end-part of the graft, and the auxiliary elastic wire is connected to the multiple elastic rings at the opening part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Kanji Inoue
  • Publication number: 20170007392
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an endoprosthesis for endovascular treatment of thoracic-abdominal aortic aneurysms or dissections, wherein the endoprosthesis has a proximal region, an intermediate region and a distal region, comprising five inner cylinders parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis, said inner cylinders, having elliptical apertures in the intermediate region. The present invention also relates to an endoprosthesis for endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms or dissections which compromise the iliac arteries, wherein the endoprosthesis has a proximal region, an intermediate region and a distal region, comprising an inner cylinder parallel to the longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis, said inner cylinder having an elliptical aperture in the intermediate region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: BIOKYRA PESQUISA E DESENVOLVIMENTO LTDA.
    Inventors: Marco Antonio LOURENÇO, Charles Cristian Facchini de Souza, Isaias Masiero Filho
  • Publication number: 20170007393
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to instruments and methods for manipulating soft tissue during a soft tissue repair procedure. The instruments and methods may include use of a handle and a shaft coupled to the handle, the shaft including a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion of the shaft may include a tip with at least two prongs and a channel located between the prongs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Mark E. Housman, Paul S. Vincuilla, Nikhil N. Verma, Scott Trenhaile
  • Publication number: 20170007394
    Abstract: Improved breast prostheses, methods of making breast prostheses, and methods of treatment using such breast prostheses are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: LifeCell Corporation
    Inventors: Dhanuraj Shetty, Aaron Barere, Evan Friedman, Melissa Richter, Timothy Roock
  • Publication number: 20170007395
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of altering the refractive properties of the eye, the method including forming a pocket in a cornea of an eye of a patient so as to gain access to tissue bounding the pocket; after the pocket in the cornea has been formed, applying a photosensitizer inside the pocket so that the photo sensitizer permeates at least a portion of the tissue bounding the pocket, the photosensitizer facilitating cross-linking of the tissue bounding the pocket; inserting a lens implant into the pocket so as to change the refractive properties of the eye; and irradiating the cornea so as to activate cross-linkers in the portion of the tissue bounding the pocket and thereby stiffen the cornea and prevent corneal ectasia of the cornea.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Gholam A. Peyman
  • Publication number: 20170007396
    Abstract: System, ophthalmic lens, and method for extending depth of focus includes an optic having a clear aperture disposed about a central axis. The optic includes a first surface and an opposing second surface. The first and second surfaces are configured to introduce an asymmetric aberration to the eye while maintaining the in-focus visual acuity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Hendrik A. Weeber, Patricia Ann Piers, Pablo Artal, Silvestre Manzanera
  • Publication number: 20170007397
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of practicing transcatheter valve replacement (TAVR) employing an expandable hollow mesh-like catheter which may be inserted through an aorta to the proximity of a diseased or degenerated aortic valve in a retracted form and then expanded to compress the valve to open it up. Subsequently a new valve will be placed on the collapsed mesh, will be fed through the aorta, and the mesh will be expanded to push the leaflets of the old valve aside. The mesh does not block blood flow, eliminating the need to instigate a rapid heartbeat as required in the prior art procedure employing a balloon rather than the mesh.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David Rizik, Bert S. Bedrosian
  • Publication number: 20170007398
    Abstract: A heart valve assembly includes a base including a multi-lobular annular shape within a plane, a valve member or other annular body including a multi-lobular shape complementary to the shape of the base, and cooperating connectors on the base and the annular body for connecting the annular body to the base. The base includes an anchoring ring, and a flexible cuff for attaching the base to a biological annulus. The base and the annular body include guides for aligning their multi-lobular shapes, e.g., visual, tactile, or other markers, or tethers that extend from the base that are slidable through the annular body. During use, the base is attached to a biological annulus, the annular body is directed adjacent the annulus, oriented such that the multi-lobular shape of the annular body valve member is aligned with the base, and the annular body is attached to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Michael J. Drews, Donnell W. Gurskis, Stephen R. Bacich
  • Publication number: 20170007399
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an arrangement, a loop-shaped support, a prosthetic heart valve and a method of repairing or replacing a native heart valve. With the method or the arrangement, leakage or regurgitation between a prosthetic heart valve and the surrounding valve tissue is prevented. In one embodiment, an arrangement for replacement or repair of a native heart valve is provided, which comprises a loop-shaped support 41 and a prosthetic heart valve 70 and wherein an outer segment 32 of the loop-shaped support 41 is positionable towards surrounding valve tissue of a native heart valve and wherein an outer surface 74 of the prosthetic heart valve 70 is positionable towards an inner segment 34 of the loop-shaped support 41 so as to prevent paravalvular leakage or regurgitation between the prosthetic heart valve 70 and the surrounding valve tissue of the native heart valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Applicant: Medtentia International Ltd. Oy
    Inventor: Olli Keränen
  • Publication number: 20170007400
    Abstract: A composite biomaterial having a continuous metal sheet with arcuate members that define a first fenestration pattern, and a polymer layer over at least one surface of the continuous metal sheet. The arcuate members elastically stretch to allow the continuous metal sheet to bend in more than one axis without buckling or wrinkling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: David J. Sogard, Scott R. Smith, Jason P. Hill, Patrick A. Haverkost, Susan M. Shoemaker
  • Publication number: 20170007401
    Abstract: An adjustable annuloplasty device (1) comprising a tube (2) having a basically annular shape or adopted to be brought into an annular shape. At least one portion, preferably three portions, of an outer wall (3) or the whole outer wall of the tube (2) is more rigid than opposite portion(s) of an inner wall (4) or the whole inner wall (4). The inner wall is arranged nearer to an inside (5) area defined by the annular shape than the outer wall (3). The inner wall (4) is adapted to be displaced inwardly at least along less rigid portion(s) of the circumference upon actuation by at least one actuation element (10) while the outer wall (4) remains basically constant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel HAYOZ
  • Publication number: 20170007402
    Abstract: A medical device for delivering and retrieving a medical implant is disclosed comprising a sheath, a wire having a distal end and being movable in a lumen of the sheath in a longitudinal direction of the sheath. The distal end comprises a locking structure for receiving and interlock with a complementary mating surface of a medical implant, wherein the locking structure comprises a first locking surface aligned in a first radial direction to lock rotational movement of the implant, when received in the locking structure, around the longitudinal direction. The wire comprises a pivotable locking portion having an open and a closed position, the locking portion has a locking structure with a recess locking movement of the implant, when received in the locking structure, in the longitudinal direction, when the locking portion is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Hans-Reinhardö Zerkowski, Ger O'Carroll, Mark Pugh
  • Publication number: 20170007403
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the administration of substances onto the epicardial surface of the heart. The device comprises a frame structure which is able to assume shaping, positioning, guiding and stabilizing functions. The frame structure may contain at least one sleeve. The device comprises a substance carrier which is able to accommodate the substance to be administered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Stephen Manuel Wildhirt, Andreas Maier, Kei Wieland Muller, Bjorn Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20170007404
    Abstract: A method of implanting a cardiac device featuring the insertion of an inner seal member through an opening in a pericardium about a living human heart. The inner seal member has a first sealing lip disposed inside the pericardium and surrounding an aperture through the inner seal member. An outer seal member is aligned with the inner seal member. The outer seal member has a second sealing lip disposed outside the pericardium, surrounding an aperture through the outer seal member. The inner seal member is secured to the outer seal member. The firsts sealing lip is engaged against an inner surface of the pericardium. The second sealing lip is engaged against an outer surface of the pericardium. A cardiac device is inserted into the pericardium through the apertures of the inner and outer seal members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Stephen Manuel Wildhirt, Andreas Maier
  • Publication number: 20170007405
    Abstract: A device 10 for repairing mitral valve leaflets 2, 3 includes a jaw mechanism 15 that may be positioned adjacent a mitral valve leaflet 2, 3. The jaw mechanism 15 may move between an open position and a closed position by pivoting a first jaw relative 16 to a second jaw 18. The first jaw 16 may include a rivet 28 that may move from a stored position to an application position projecting away from the first jaw 16 when the jaw mechanism 15 is moved from the closed to the open position. Closing the jaws 16, 18 about a valve leaflet 2, 3 causes the rivet 28 to pierce the leaflet. The jaw mechanism 15 may then be rotated to wind the leaflet 2, 3 thereabout and again pierce the leaflet. The rivet 28 may then be released from the jaw mechanism 25 and the device 10 removed from the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Mark Griffin, Benjamin E. Morris, Eric E. Bielefeld, Gregory R. Furnish, Wayne Johnson
  • Publication number: 20170007406
    Abstract: A method of constructing a surgical implant is provided. The method comprises providing a multiplicity of substantially identical blocks, each having features thereon to allow blocks to be mechanically joined together. A surgical implant may then be constructed by using these features to join the blocks together into a desired configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Zhanfeng CUI, Phillipus Johannes PUTTER, Michael Tian-Ao CUI
  • Publication number: 20170007407
    Abstract: Provided is a compression resistant implant configured to fit at or near a bone defect to promote bone growth, the compression resistant implant comprising porous ceramic particles in a biodegradable polymer, and an oxysterol disposed in or on the compression resistant implant. Methods of making and use are further provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Publication date: January 12, 2017
    Inventors: Benjamin T. Reves, David S. Scher, Susan J. Drapeau, Roger E. Harrington, Jerbrena C. Jacobs