Abstract: A haptic is provided for use in an accommodating intraocular lens. The haptic has multiple filaments, each connected to the edge of the optic at one end. Each filament has a shape that conforms to an equatorial region of the capsular bag. The haptic couples the forces exerted by the capsular bag of the eye during accommodation radially to the edge of the optic, produce a diametric expansion or compression of the optic. This diametric motion distorts the optic, producing a change in any or all of the anterior radius, the posterior radius, and the thickness. These changes affect the power of the lens and/or location of the image. The haptic may optionally have a thin membrane joining the filaments at the optic end, and may optionally have a connecting ring that joins the filaments at the end opposite that of the optic.

Abstract: An intraocular lens insertion device and a cartridge which enable the intraocular lens to be inserted into an eye more stably and easily than ever before. A supporting portion 102 of an intraocular lens 100 arranged on a lens-advancing side in a lens-advancing direction x is pressed against a protrusion 21 so as to be bent backward. Thus, releasing the intraocular lens 100 from a nozzle portion 13 is allowed to begin with the releasing of a curved portion of the supporting portion 102 that has become U-shaped and hard to move freely. As a result, there can be provided an intraocular lens insertion device and a cartridge which enable the intraocular lens 100 to be inserted into an eye more steadily and easily than ever before.

Abstract: A scaffold for reshaping the cartilaginous portion of an ear. The scaffold is formed of shape memory material and in the form of a horseshoe shape, or is formed from a thermoplastic pliable material.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for fine adjustment of a prosthetic valve device and a method of adjusting the position of a prosthetic valve after implantation. The adjustment mechanism includes complementary structures on a valve member and device frame that cooperate to provide relative axial and/or angular motion between the valve member and device frame (and thus the native vessel). The adjustment mechanism of the invention may also include a means for selectively maintaining the relative position of the valve member and device frame. The device and method are particularly applicable for use with a modular prosthetic valve device that is assembled in the body lumen.

Abstract: A prosthetic valve comprises a self-expanding frame which includes a self-expanding atrial skirt that forms a flanged region, a self-expanding ventricular skirt, and a first self-expanding tab coupled with the ventricular skirt. A receptacle for receiving a valve leaflet is formed by the area bounded by an outer surface of the atrial skirt, an outer surface of the ventricular skirt, and an inner surface of the first tab. The receptacle has a window for receiving the valve leaflet that is defined by a gap between an edge of the flange and a tip of the first tab. The gap is maximized when the tip of the first tab is unconstrained and a base of the first tab is at least partially constrained. The gap is minimized when the tip of the first tab and its base are unconstrained.

Abstract: A method of making a replacement heart valve device whereby a fragment of biocompatible tissue material is treated and soaked in one or more alcohol solutions and a solution of glutaraldehyde. The dried biocompatible tissue material is folded and rehydrated in such a way that forms a two- or three-leaflet/cusp valve without affixing of separate cusps or leaflets or cutting slits into the biocompatible tissue material to form the cusps or leaflets. After the biocompatible tissue material is folded, it is affixed at one or more points on the outer surface to the inner cavity or a stent.

Abstract: A prosthetic mitral valve comprising an expandable anchor comprising a first anchor, a central portion and a second anchor; wherein the first anchor comprises a first outer frame and a second outer frame, the first outer frame comprising a plurality of first arcs joined together, and the second outer frame comprising a plurality of second arcs joined together, wherein the plurality of first arcs are out of phase relative to the plurality of second arcs when the first anchor is viewed in an end view from the first anchor to the second anchor; and a plurality of replacement leaflets secured to the expandable anchor.

Abstract: Thin, biocompatible, high-strength, composite materials are disclosed that are suitable for use in a valve for regulating blood flow direction. In one aspect, the composite material maintains flexibility in high-cycle flexural applications, making it particularly applicable to high-flex implants such as a prosthetic heart valve leaflet. The composite material includes a porous polymer membrane and an elastomer, wherein the elastomer fills substantially all of the pores of the porous polymer membrane.

Abstract: A low pressure gradient prosthetic heart valve for implant in a human. The valve includes a support frame with undulating inflow cusps and outflow commissure posts to which flexible leaflets attach and coapt in a flow area. The commissure posts angle outward in a neutral state to widen the outflow orifice area. Also, the leaflets are designed to fit within the support frame and expand outward in a valve open state without creating a shelf or belly that would restrict flow.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve includes a collapsible and expandable stent having a proximal end, a distal end, an annulus section adjacent the proximal end and an aortic section adjacent the distal end. The heart valve further includes a plurality of commissure features disposed on the stent, and a collapsible and expandable valve assembly, the valve assembly including a plurality of leaflets connected to the plurality of commissure features, each of the plurality of leaflets having a free edge and being configured to have a tension line aligned near the free edge to prevent backflow.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis that can be quickly and easily implanted during a surgical procedure is provided. The prosthetic valve comprises a support structure that is deployed at a treatment site. The prosthetic valve further comprises a valve member configured to be quickly connected to the support structure. The support structure may take the form of a stent that is expanded at the site of a native valve. If desired, the native leaflets may remain and the stent may be used to hold the native valve open. In this case, the stent may be balloon expandable and configured to resist the powerful recoil force of the native leaflets. The support structure is provided with a coupling means for attachment to the valve member, thereby fixing the position of the valve member in the body. The valve member may be expandable or a non-expandable type.

Abstract: A catheter assembly according to the present invention includes a handle assembly, an introducer sheath, and a distal tip assembly. The distal tip assembly can include first and second retaining sleeves and a slotted tip with a non-traumatic tip guard positioned at the proximal end of the slotted tip. The handle assembly can include a fixed main handle and two or more rotating handles that allow a user to control the distal tip assembly of the catheter. Each control knob on the handle assembly controls a portion of the components on the distal by of the catheter by allowing for precise manipulation of various delivery shafts. Each delivery shaft extends from the handle assembly to respective positions towards the distal end of the catheter.

Abstract: Apparatus for delivering a prosthetic heart valve into a patient by means that are less invasive than conventional open-chest, open-heart surgery. The prosthetic valve may be collapsed while in a delivery device. When the valve reaches the desired implant site in the patient, the valve can be released from the delivery device, which allows the valve to re-expand to the configuration in which it can function as a heart valve. For example, the delivery device may be constructed to facilitate delivery of the prosthetic valve into the patient via the apex of the patient's heart.

Abstract: Tissue restraining systems and devices as well as methods of using these devices are disclosed herein. According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a tissue restraining device that may include an annuloplasty member having one or more contact points along a portion of the annuloplasty member in a spaced relation to one another. The tissue restraining device may also include a second anchor for placement in a substantially opposing, spaced relation to the annuloplasty member. A restraining matrix may extend from the contact points of the annuloplasty member to the second anchor.

Abstract: Synthetic chord devices and methods for using the same for connecting tissues are provided. Aspects of the synthetic chord device include a flexible cord having an attachment element at both a first and a second end, wherein each attachment element includes a piercing member coupled to a securing member that attaches the flexible cord to a first tissue. At least a portion of the flexible cord can be configured to be secured to a second tissue. Aspects of the invention also include sets of the synthetic chord device with pre-measured flexible cords. The devices and methods of the invention find use in a variety of applications, such as in is applications in which it is desired to repair a heart valve.

Abstract: A method for implanting a penile prosthetic insert in a corpora cavernosum of a penis and engaging a first magnetic unit with an inflatable penile prosthetic cylinder. The method includes locating a second magnetic unit outside the penis and attracting the first magnetic unit through tissue of the penis with the second magnetic unit to effect moving of the first magnetic unit and the inflatable penile prosthetic cylinder inside the corpora cavernosum. Also disclosed is a kit of parts for implanting a penile prosthetic insert in a corpora cavernosum of a penis including a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit for delivering an inflatable penile prosthetic cylinder into the corpora cavernosum of the penis.

Abstract: Systems and methods for performing orthopedic surgical procedures to treat a patient are presented herein. The orthopedic anchoring system may include an implant assembly and a delivery tool to perform the orthopedic surgical procedure. The implant assembly may include an implant outer layer, an implant body situated within the implant outer layer, and a fastener attached to a locking element of the implant body. The delivery tool may include a targeting arm, a fastener guide removably attached at a first end of the targeting arm and an implant guide removably attached to a second end of the targeting arm. The delivery tool may maintain a fixed spatial relationship between a longitudinal axis of the fastener and a longitudinal axis of the implant outer layer and implant body. The orthopedic anchoring system may be used to perform orthopedic surgical procedures related to joint reinforcement or immobilization.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for repairing a defect in an anatomical feature, the defect having a surface that defines a volume. The method includes receiving imaging data obtained using a medical imaging technique. The imaging data represents the anatomical feature. In one example, the method further includes creating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a mold for an implant based on the imaging data. The mold includes a cavity that replicates the volume of the defect. In another example, the method further includes creating a 3D model of an implant based on the imaging data. The implant is configured to fill the volume of the defect. In various implementations, the mold, the implant, and/or a replica of the implant are formed based on the 3D model of the mold or the 3D model of the implant. Guides and implants corresponding to the method are also disclosed.

Abstract: An artificial knee joint includes a femoral component (1) and a tibial component (2). The femoral component (1) includes an intercondylar box (11). A cam (12) is provided on posterior of the intercondylar box (11). The tibial component (2) includes a medial condyle bearing surface (21) and a lateral condyle bearing surface (22) arranged on right and left side respectively. A post (23) is provided between the medial condyle bearing surface (21) and the lateral condyle bearing surface (22). The post (23) is adapted to the intercondylar box (11). The post (23) has a first arc surface (231) on the lateral side of posterior surface. The post (23) has a second arc surface (232) on the posterior surface and on the medial side of the first arc surface (231). A third arc surface (121) and a forth surface (122), cooperating with the first arc surface (231) and the second arc surface (232), are provided on the cam (12) accordingly.

Abstract: The invention concerns a tibial prosthetic component comprising a plate (100) for forming a tibial plateau of a tibia (16), wherein a peripheral region of the plate (100) has a thickness of less than 3 mm. The invention also concerns a tibial prosthetic component having a keel of depth less than 9 mm. The invention also concerns a method of selecting a tibial prosthetic component comprising receiving measurements of at least one physical attribute of an individual into whom the tibial prosthetic component is to be implanted, selecting a thickness of a plate (100) and depth of keel of the tibial prosthetic component based on the measurements and providing a tibial prosthetic component comprising a plate (100) having the selected thickness and a keel having the selected depth.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing implant for use in shoulder arthroplasty has a bearing surface, a mounting base affixed to or formed with the bearing surface, a convex element extending outwardly of the mounting base opposite the bearing surface, a receptacle positioned so as to slidably or pivotably receive a portion of the convex element therein, a housing receiving at least a portion of the receptacle therein, and a resilient element received in the housing and bearing against a surface of the housing and against a surface of the receptacle. The bearing surface can be concave when the implant is used as a glenoid implant. The bearing surface can be convex when the implant is used as a humeral head implant.

Abstract: An implant that facilitates the fusion of a first bone part with a second bone part includes an implant body that extends between the first bone part and the second bone part. The implant body includes a first portion that fits within a first receiving aperture in the first bone part, and the implant body includes a second portion that fits within a second receiving aperture in the second bone part. At least one of the first portion and the second portion can be made of bone. Additionally, at least the second portion is formed to have a non-circular cross-sectional shape to inhibit relative motion between the bone parts and the implant body.

Abstract: A fixation device comprises a first clamping member having an adjustable clamping collar and a first curved support portion attached to the adjustable clamping collar. The first clamping member is adapted to receive a digit. The first curved support portion is adapted to support an inferior surface of a proximal phalanx of the digit. A distal member is adjustably attachable to the first clamping member. The distal member has a second curved support surface adapted to support an inferior surface of a distal phalanx of the digit and a curved distal end adapted to apply a compressive force in a proximal direction to a distal end of the distal phalanx.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for partial replacement of a metatarsophalangeal joint defined by a proximal face of a phalanx and a distal face of a metatarsal. The apparatus and method include a joint surface element and an elongated fusing element. The elongated fusing element has an end configured for tool engagement. The joint surface element has a generally concave surface configured to serve as the proximal face of the phalanx and a socket configured to engage the end of the elongated fusing element. The elongated fusing element fuses an interphalangeal joint when the apparatus is surgically implanted to prevent the deterioration of the interphalangeal joint.

Abstract: A prosthesis system comprises plates that can be positioned against vertebrae and a selected resilient core that can be positioned between the plates to allow the plates to articulate. The selected resilient core can be chosen from a plurality of cores in response to patient characteristics, such as age and/or intervertebral mobility, such that the prosthesis implanted in the patient is tailored to the needs of the patient. The plurality of cores may comprise cores with different resiliencies, and one of the cores can be selected such that the upper and lower plates articulate with the desired shock absorbing resiliency and/or maximum angle of inclination when the one selected core is positioned between the plates.

Abstract: A spacer for separating bones of a joint, the spacer includes a frame having a longitudinal axis, and ramped surfaces. An endplate configured to engage a bone of the joint has ramped surfaces mateable with the ramped surfaces of the frame. When the endplate is moved relative to the frame in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the frame, the endplate is moved in a direction away from the frame to increase the height of the spacer. A second endplate configured to engage a second bone of the joint can be similarly configured.

Abstract: An vertebral implant for fusing adjacent vertebrae or for replacing vertebral bodies is disclosed. The implant is a biocompatible metal, resorbable, or radiolucent implant conforming substantially in size and shape with an end plate of a vertebra. The implant preferably has a wedge-shaped profile to restore disc height and the natural curvature of the spine. The top and bottom surfaces of the implant have areas with a plurality of teeth to resist expulsion and provide initial stability and areas devoid of any protrusions to receive implantation instrumentation. The implant also has a stackability feature. The implant provides initial stability needed for fusion without stress shielding.

Abstract: Bone matrix compositions having nanoscale textured surfaces and methods for their production are provided. In some embodiments, bone matrix is prepared for implantation and retains nanoscale textured surfaces. In other embodiments, nanostructures are imparted to bone matrix wherein collagen fibrils on the surface of the bone matrix have been compromised, thus imparting a nanoscale textured surface to the bone matrix. Generally, these methods may be applied to mineralized or demineralized bone including partially or surface demineralized bone.

Abstract: There is provided a movement support apparatus including a lower limb coupling portion configured to be coupled to a lower limb, an elastic member, a ground contact unit configured to include a ground contact plate coming into contact with a surface and a transmission portion transmitting force generated by the elastic member, and an ankle portion configured to be installed between the lower limb coupling portion and the ground contact unit. The ground contact unit is installed to be displaceable between a position at which the transmission portion comes into contact with the ankle portion and a position at which the transmission portion is uncoupled from the ankle portion.

Abstract: Hybrid terrain-adaptive lower-extremity apparatus and methods that perform in a variety of different situations by detecting the terrain that is being traversed, and adapting to the detected terrain. In some embodiments, the ability to control the apparatus for each of these situations builds upon five basic capabilities: (1) determining the activity being performed; (2) dynamically controlling the characteristics of the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (3) dynamically driving the apparatus based on the activity that is being performed; (4) determining terrain texture irregularities (e.g., how sticky is the terrain, how slippery is the terrain, is the terrain coarse or smooth, does the terrain have any obstructions, such as rocks) and (5) a mechanical design of the apparatus that can respond to the dynamic control and dynamic drive.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis shaft for receiving an amputation stump of an extremity, comprising connecting means for a distal prosthesis device (2), wherein the prosthesis shaft (1) comprises at least one shell (11, 12), which has an arched, open cross-section and the shell ends of which in the applied state overlap each other at least partially, at least one tensioning means (14, 15) being disposed on the shell (11, 12), said means acting in the circumferential direction and tensioning the shell ends relative to each other, and the shell (11, 12) being made of a dimensionally stable plastic having regions with varying elasticity.

Abstract: A stent (10) for transluminal implantation comprises a first, second and third stent section (11, 12, 13) for splinting and/or keeping open a hollow organ which are connected to each other via elastic tubular sections (14, 15). The stent (10) combines at least three different stent designs in one stent and can therefore be adjusted to the motion behavior of a hollow organ in an improved fashion (FIG. 1).

Abstract: Methods and systems of fabricating a polymeric stent are disclosed herein.

Abstract: Stents are disclosed with an adhesion promoting layer that improves adhesion of polymer coatings over polymer surfaces of a stent substrate.

Abstract: A stent includes a central portion of helically wound undulations formed of struts, cylindrical end portions, and transition zones between the helical portion and the cylindrical portions. According to a first aspect of the invention, the torsional flexibility of the stent is maximized by having bridges connecting adjacent winding be interrupted by the maximum possible number of undulations. In one embodiment, each winding includes nineteen undulations around the circumference, bridges are provided every five undulations. According to a second aspect of the invention, uniform opening of the transition zone is achieved by altering the width, and thereby the flexibility, of a series of struts in accordance with their lengths. Specifically, the long transition zone struts are made wider.

Abstract: A medical device-includes a scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes one or more balloon pressurization steps. The balloon pressurization steps are selected to enhance scaffold retention to the balloon while retaining, at least partially, the original balloon folds as the balloon is pressurized and de-pressurized within a crimper head. By at least partially retaining the original balloon folds, a uniformity of scaffold expansion by the balloon is improved.

Abstract: Methods for delivering a vascular prosthesis to a treatment site of a subject include advancing the vascular prosthesis, rotating a proximal handle in a first direction about a handle body, shifting the position of a first locking component securing the proximal handle to the push rod from a first position to a second position, rotating the proximal handle in a second direction, releasing the proximal end of the prosthesis from the apex delivery device, shifting the second locking component to disengage the push rod from the handle body; and withdrawing the push rod and the guidewire catheter from within the prosthesis, thereby delivering the vascular prosthesis to the treatment site.

Abstract: Powered medical device deployment systems and methods are described herein. An embodiment of a powered medical device deployment system has a housing, a cannula, a sheath slidably disposed over the cannula, a flush port, a trigger, a drive mechanism, and a medical device. The drive mechanism is moveable between an on state and an off state. When the drive mechanism is in the on state the sheath is axially advanced over the cannula such that the medical device can be deployed at a point of treatment.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention includes a preformed gastric band comprising a flexible substrate and a plurality of band members. The flexible substrate comprises oppositely disposed first and second major surfaces defined by first and second minor side portions and first and second major side portions. The first major surface includes a lower collar section and an upper band section. The plurality of flexible band members is securely connected to the upper band section and extends between the first and second minor side portions of the substrate. Each of the band members includes first and second ends that comprise an attachment mechanism for connecting the first and second ends. Each of the band members is separated from one another by a spacing region.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to prosthetic devices for use in restricting food and caloric intake into the stomach and of absorption of the food components in the stomach and small intestine. The system includes an elongated bariatric sleeve having a normally superior or upper proximal end and a normally inferior or lower distal end. An elongated lumen support member is positioned within the first lumen in contacting relation with the first membrane for maintaining the first lumen in an open position. A proximal anchor ring with a central aperture and a catheter channel is connected to the proximal end of the sleeve to the collar member. The anchor is inflatable or expandable memory material for anchoring the sleeve in superior relation to a pyloric valve of the patient's stomach. An anchor weight is connected to the distal end of the first flexible tube.

Abstract: A strap tightener assembly has a base, a tightening device mounted on the base and movable relative thereto, and a strap assembly coupled to the tightening device. The tightening device provides incremental movement of the strap assembly relative to the base at a plurality of predefined settings. A cover extends over the strap assembly and connects to the base so that the base and the cover form a channel permitting movement of the strap assembly therethrough. The cover defines an elongate slot extending along a portion of a length of the cover, and the strap assembly has an indicator identifying the relative location of the strap assembly to the cover. A strap is securable to the strap assembly.

Abstract: Example embodiments of the brace assembly utilize an elastic cross strap attached to mounting facilities about a joint to provide progressive resistance to the extension, flexion or other movement of body parts about the joint. In some embodiments for a knee joint, the brace assembly provides a progressive resisting force to resist hyperextension of the knee. Some embodiments of the assembly may be able to accommodate different joints, different size wearer's of the assembly and different tension settings such as for athletes during competition. Some embodiments of the brace assembly may be used bilaterally and can be made without metal bracing to comply with the requirements of some sports. Some embodiments of the mounting facilities may have through holes.

Abstract: An orthopedic device comprises a hip plate, a first strut defining an anatomical curvature between first and second ends, and a second strut having a first end slidably received by the hip plate. A hinge couples the first and second struts to one another at the first end of the first strut and the second end of the second strut, and is arranged to provide adjustable abduction ranging from a plurality of angles. A thigh cuff connects to the second end of the first strut.

Abstract: A resin MMF/reimplantation kit is provided with a dental arch bar that includes an elongated pliable splint and a plurality of attachment members. The pliable splint includes an interiorly facing side surface and an exteriorly facing side surface. The pliable splint includes a curable component that cures from a moldable state to a rigid state in less than one minute upon being activated. The attachment members can be ether partially embedded in the pliable splint or can be separate from the pliable splint until after the pliable splint is attached to the patient's teeth.

Abstract: A pump includes a pump bulb connected to a pump body. An exhaust valve assembly is disposed in the pump body within an exit flow path communicating between the pump bulb and the cylinder. An inlet valve is rotatably disposed in the pump body within an inlet flow path communicating between the reservoir and the pump bulb. The inlet valve includes a spherical part retained in a seat formed by the pump body, an inlet flange connected to and extending radially away from the spherical part, and a lockout flange connected to and extending radially away from the spherical part. A channel is formed through a portion of the spherical part of the inlet valve. The channel includes an outlet hole that is blocked from the inlet flow path by the seat formed in the pump body and opened to the inlet flow path by rotation of the inlet valve.

Abstract: An anti-snoring device for positioning within the mouth cavity of a person is disclosed. The invention is characterized in that a displacement member (9) is provided with a shape and size suitable for placement within the mouth cavity between the bottom of the tongue and the musculature at the bottom of the mouth, the member lifting the tongue in toward the mouth cavity, wherein the displacement member is connected to a mouthpiece-shaped element (8) placed between the teeth of the upper and lower jaw, and provides a passage opening (15) for ventilation of the mouth cavity with air that is breathed.

Abstract: A retinal treatment apparatus for treatment of a detached retina of an eye is provided. The treatment apparatus includes a removable elastomeric patch formed of a biocompatible material containing ferromagnetic particles encapsulated within the elastomeric patch and a permanent rare-earth magnet secured adjacent an exterior surface of the eye. The removable elastomeric patch is inserted into the eye and positioned adjacent the detached retina, and wherein the permanent rare-earth magnet is secured to the exterior surface of the eye substantially adjacent to the removable elastomeric patch to maintain the elastomeric patch against the retina, thereby maintaining the retina against an underlying support tissue of the retina.

Abstract: Systems and methods for delivering multiple ocular implants to reduce intraocular pressure are disclosed. The ocular implants can be implanted at multiple sites within a single human eye without requiring removal of the delivery apparatus from the eye. A system for delivering multiple ocular implants can include at least two implants preloaded within a delivery device and configured to be implanted within the eye, a metering device configured to transfer energy to the implants for delivery at selected locations within the eye, wherein the metering device is configured to meter a variable amount of energy for each implant delivery event in the eye. The system can further include an injector mechanism configured to serially engage and drive each of the implants.

Abstract: Described herein are delivery devices and methods of using the devices for delivering an ocular implant into a suprachoroidal space without use of a goniolens. The delivery device includes a handle including a channel extending from a proximal end of the handle to a distal end of the handle, an applier coupled to the handle, the applier including a blunt distal tip and an elongate, flexible wire insertable through a fluid channel of an ocular implant, and a fiber optic image bundle reversibly inserted through the channel such that the fiber optic image bundle extends to a region proximal to the blunt distal tip of the applier.

Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include a handle, an actuation lever, an optic fiber, and a housing tube. The housing tube may have a first housing tube portion having a first stiffness and a second housing tube portion having a second stiffness. The second stiffness may be greater than the first stiffness. The optic fiber may be disposed within the housing tube and within an inner bore of the handle. An actuation of the actuation lever about a pivot pin of the handle may gradually curve the optic fiber. An actuation of the actuation lever about the pivot pin of the handle may gradually straighten the optic fiber.