Abstract: An oral apparatus for mandibular jaw manipulation which in some embodiments may include: an upper tray configured to receive a plurality of maxillary teeth and which may have a first upper anchor member coupled to a first side of the upper tray and a second upper anchor member coupled to a second side of the upper tray; a lower tray configured to receive a plurality of mandibular teeth and which may have a first lower anchor member coupled to a first side of the lower tray and a second lower anchor member coupled to a second side of the lower tray. The first upper anchor member may be configured to contact the first lower anchor member and the second upper anchor member may be configured to contact the second lower anchor member to adjust the positional relationship between the mandible and the maxilla of a mouth.

Abstract: An oral apparatus for mandibular jaw manipulation is provided. The apparatus having an upper tray configured to receive a plurality of maxillary teeth and a lower tray configured to receive a plurality of mandibular teeth. The upper tray may optionally have one or more upper anchor members configured as adjustable upper anchor members coupled to the upper tray. The lower tray may optionally have one or more lower anchor members configured as adjustable lower anchor members coupled to the lower tray. Each upper anchor member, which may be adjustable, may be configured to contact a lower anchor member, which may be adjustable, to adjust the positional relationship between the mandible and the maxilla of a mouth when a user wearing the oral apparatus closes their mouth to bring the upper and lower anchor members into contact with each other.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a screw coupling structure for preventing loosening, and more particularly, to a screw coupling structure for preventing loosening for preventing loosening between a screw portion and an engagement portion, which includes the screw portion having a predetermined length and the engagement portion having a screw hole through which the screw portion is inserted and engaged, in which the screw portion is formed of a shape memory alloy deformable by an external force applied thereto at a temperature lower than a predetermined threshold temperature and recoverable from the deformation by heating to a temperature higher than the threshold temperature.

Abstract: Method for planning dental treatment which includes collecting data and images of the initial situation, creating an initial 3D model, studying the initial situation, analyzing the smile and planning in a center, all by means of software, creating and producing an envisaged final 3D model, creating a negative of the envisaged final model, creating in-situ a provisional prosthesis (mock-up) on the teeth of the patient which represents the final result which would be left after the treatment, reviewing the result and collecting photographs and video of the envisaged result and producing the required prosthesis, implant or brace elements from the digital data.

Abstract: A machinable preform for shaping into dental restorations is described that comprises material having suitable strength for use in dental applications without requiring further processing after shaping to strengthen the material (such as sintering). In one embodiment, a preform is comprised of a machinable dental material having a Vickers hardness value in the range of 4HV GPa to 20HV GPa, and comprises a body and a stem that extends from the outer surface of the body that supports the body during shaping. A method for making the machinable preform, and a kit comprising a machinable preform and a grinding tool, are also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for processing prosthetic teeth for the production of a full denture or at least a partial denture with at least two prosthetic teeth with the following steps: at least two prefabricated prosthetic teeth are inserted with their coronal sides into recesses an elastic mold, a clamping device is attached to the elastic mold, and after insertion of the prosthetic teeth into the elastic mold a mechanical pressure is applied to the elastic mold with the clamping device, wherein the pressure exerts a force onto the prosthetic teeth inserted into the elastic mold via the elastic mold and thus the prosthetic teeth are affixed in the elastic mold, the prosthetic teeth are positioned and aligned in the elastic mold in such a manner in relation to each other that at the latest following application of the clamping device on the elastic mold, the prosthetic teeth comprise the desired position and desired alignment in relation to each other, the elastic mold is affixed with the clamping

Abstract: The invention provides a dental curing device comprising a light source having a wavelength capable of inducing polymerization of a photopolymer, and a noncontact thermal detector in alignment with said light source and capable of measuring the temperature or temperature change of the photopolymer upon polymerization.

Abstract: An applicator pad for cleaning and drying a surface prior to applying a material. The applicator pad cleans and dries a tooth prior to application of a wax material. The wax material may comprise a tooth whitening agent or a fluoride material. In one embodiment a plurality of flexible absorbent posts extend above the wax material surface. In another embodiment a grid extends above the wax material surface. In another embodiment two different wax material portions are divided by a fold line. In another embodiment a cleaning and drying portion is placed adjacent the wax material applying portion. Cleaning and drying of the tooth surface prior to the application of the wax material facilitates the adherence of the wax material onto the tooth surface. The applicator pad is particularly beneficial for tooth whitening and maintenance.

Abstract: A method for producing an artificial sphincter comprises the steps of effecting a skin incision (2), forming a passage (3) for a prosthesis (4) and releasing the prosthesis (4) inside the passage (3). Said prosthesis passing from one miniaturized state in the step preceding the release, to an expanded state in the step following the release. The steps mentioned above are repeated at least seven times in order to release at least seven prosthesis (4), which are uniformly distributed along a circumferential arc (5) surrounding the anal canal (AC); said at least seven prosthesis (4) defining a plurality of prosthesis (40) forming a third artificial sphincter.

Abstract: Described are methods, devices, and systems related to implants for the treatment of a female pelvic condition. The implants include absorbable and non-absorbable materials and can be introduced into the pelvic area transvaginally. Meshes of the invention provide benefits relating to improved tissue integration into the mesh, reduced infection likelihood, improved patient comfort following implantation, or combinations of thereof.

Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to repair of defective hernias by use of a mesh material. However, inaccurate hernia defect measurements can cause ineffective treatment and a waste of mesh material. Therefore, accurate hernia defect measurements can aid in the effective treatment and repair of hernia defects.

Abstract: A medical device and method of delivery of the medical device within a patient's body are disclosed by the present invention. The medical device includes a first elongate member and a second elongate member. The first elongate member further includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The first elongate member is made of a first material. The second elongate member includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the second elongate member is attached to the first elongate member and the second portion of the second elongate member is attached to the first portion of the second elongate member at one of its transverse edge. The first portion and the second portion of the second elongate member are configured to form a defined non-planar shape such that the first portion is a first arm of the defined non-planar shape and the second portion is a second arm of the defined non-planar shape.

Abstract: A filter device has a catheter having a lumen, a shaft extended in the longitudinal direction from the lumen, and a filter capturing an embolus. The filter is connected to the shaft through a slide ring at the distal end thereof. The shaft is inserted into and passed through the ring. The ring is rotatable with respect to the shaft and slidable in the longitudinal direction. When the filter is expanded in a blood vessel, the ring slides on the shaft. The filter is connected to the shaft through another ring on the peripheral edge of an opening. The shaft is inserted into and passed through the ring. The ring is rotatable with respect to the shaft. The ring is held between a pair of stoppers fixed onto the shaft. Therefore, the movement of the ring in the longitudinal direction with respect to the shaft is prevented.

Abstract: A vascular prosthesis with tubular woven structure, the prosthesis includes an inner layer adapted to contact a blood flow, the inner layer being formed of warp and weft yarns and having a cover factor of 1800 or more, each of a warp and weft yarns including a microfiber multifilament yarn with a monofilament fineness of 0.50 dtex or less, the multifilament yarn including microfiber monofilaments having an average intersecting angle S of the monofilaments of less than 25°.

Abstract: An endovascular apparatus is provided for treating the effects of vascular disease including aneurysms and arterial blockages using a percutaneous, minimally invasive technique. In one embodiment the endovascular apparatus includes a tubular sleeve having a cranial end, a first caudal branch, and a second caudal branch such that the tubular sleeve is shaped like an upside down “Y.” The apparatus further includes at least one expandable attachment device attached to the tubular sleeve for securing the endovascular apparatus to an interior wall of a vessel.

Abstract: A stent device includes a first graft member, a second graft member and a stent frame defining a central axis. The frame has an abluminal surface engaged with the first graft member and a luminal surface engaged with the second graft member such that the first graft member and the second graft member encapsulates the stent frame along the length of the central axis. The stent frame includes a configuration where the stent frame is disposed on a curvature such that the abluminal surface has a radius of curvature of approximately 20 millimeters about a center of the curvature and the luminal surface defines a substantially constant effective cross-sectional area at any portion generally transverse to the central axis of the stent frame disposed about the curvature.

Abstract: An endovascular delivery system includes a bifurcated and inflatable prosthesis including a main tubular body having an open end and opposed ipsilateral and contralateral legs defining a graft wall therein between. A tether is disposed securably disposed to the contralateral leg, and the contralateral leg is releasably restrained towards the ipsilateral leg tether to prevent undesirable movement of the contralateral leg. A release wire within the endovascular delivery system releasably retains the tether near the ipsilateral leg.

Abstract: The present invention provides an actuator, comprising a fiber and a temperature regulator capable of at least one of heating and cooling the fiber. The fiber is twisted around a longitudinal axis thereof. The fiber is folded so as to have a shape of a cylindrical coil. The fiber is formed of linear low-density polyethylene. The following mathematical formula (I) is satisfied: D/d<1 (I), where D represents a mean diameter of the cylindrical coil; and d represents a diameter of the fiber.

Abstract: A method of producing organized skeletal muscle tissue from precursor muscle cells in vitro comprises: (a) providing precursor muscle cells on a support in a tissue media; then (b) cyclically stretching and relaxing the support at least twice along a first axis during a first time period; and then (c) optionally but preferably maintaining the support in a substantially static position during a second time period; and then (d) repeating steps (b) and (c) for a number of times sufficient to enhance the functionality of the tissue formed on the support and/or produce organized skeletal muscle tissue on the solid support from the precursor muscle cells.

Abstract: Examples of the invention include implants, instruments, and methods for surgical transosseous attachment to a bone. More particularly, examples of the invention relate to knotless suture anchors.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device and method for repairing a partially or totally ruptured tendon. The device comprises an implant placed inside or outside of the tendon on either side of the rupture in order to strengthen the ruptured area during repair. Once positioned inside the tendon, the tendon is held in place so it can heal either by sewing or stapling through the tendon and implant, or by any other suitable method that utilizes the implant to provide strength to the ruptured area. In this manner the tendon can heal with less chance of rupturing again prior to healing.

Abstract: A reconstruction system and associated techniques for soft tissue repairs and repair augmentation. The reconstruction system is an internal soft tissue brace formed of at least one fixation device (for example, anchors or screws) and a replacement/reinforcement construct (for example, a suture construct in the form of a suture tape such as FiberTape® or a collagen tape or a suture with biological material or a collagen coated material, or a collagen patch, or a biological construct such as Arthroflex). The reinforcement construct and fixation devices may be used as a suture repair alone (to replace the ligament or tendon), or in conjunction with other traditional soft tissue repair procedures, acting as a reinforcement system for the repaired soft tissue.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a coating composition for an in-vivo implantable prosthesis including a photoinitiator, a crosslinking agent, and a phosphorylcholine (PC) monomer having an acrylate group, a method of coating an in-vivo implantable prosthesis using the coating composition, and a cosmetic prosthesis coated with the crosslinked polyphosphorylcholine. An in-vivo implantable prosthesis coated with crosslinked polyphosphoryicholine may be manufactured by a simple method of applying a coating composition including a photoinitiator, a crosslinking agent, and a phosphorylcholine (PC) monomer having an acrylate group according to the present invention, and then irradiating UV rays. The crosslinked polyphosphorylcholine coating may provide hydrophilicity for the surface and may also remarkably reduce adsorption of proteins and fibroblasts, which may cause side effects such as capsular contracture.

Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body and an insert. The body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end and part of a remainder of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated along at least about half of a total length of the body by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The ends are wider than the remainder. The insert is configured to be placed between the first portions and to substantially fill the empty space. The first portions are biased so that they maintain separation from one another without external interference but are configured to be pushed towards each other in order to reduce a width of the first end. The insert, when placed between the first portions, keeps the first portions separated and prevents the first portions from being pushed together and reducing the width of the first end.

Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) a pair of first portions that form the first end and part of a remainder of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated along at least about half of a total length of the body by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The ends are wider than the remainder. The scleral prosthesis also includes an insert configured to be placed between the first portions and to substantially fill the empty space. The insert, prior to insertion, includes one or more slots. The first portions include one or more ridges configured to engage with the one or more slots of the insert.

Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end of the body and part of a remainder of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated along at least about half of a total length of the body by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The ends are wider than the remainder. The scleral prosthesis also includes an insert configured to be placed between the first portions and to substantially fill the empty space. The body includes a convex upper surface extending lengthwise between the ends. The insert includes a convex upper surface extending lengthwise along the insert.

Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The elongated body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end of the body and part of a remainder of the body between the first and second ends. The first and second ends are wider than the remainder of the body. The first portions are separated by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the first and second ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The first end projects beyond one or more sides of the remainder of the body and angles back towards the second end. The second end projects beyond the one or more sides of the remainder of the body and angles back towards the first end.

Abstract: A foldable lens comprises an outer refractive surface portion comprising a first plurality of convexly curved refractive profile regions having positive optical power to converge light energy with refraction toward a focus on the retina. The convexly curved refractive profile regions of the outer region may correspond to at least about a quarter of the refractive power of the lens, such that the lens thickness is decreased substantially and the folded lens can fit through a small incision. The outer refractive surface portion focuses light with refraction, in focus images viewed through the outer portion of the lens can appear sharp to the patient. The outer refractive surface portion also comprises a second plurality of concavely curved refractive profile regions having negative optical power disposed between the first plurality, so as to diverge the light energy substantially away from the focus on the retina, such that visual artifacts are inhibited.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices and methods for improving the function of a defective heart valve, and particularly for reducing regurgitation through an atrioventricular heart valve—i.e., the mitral valve and the tricuspid valve. For a tricuspid repair, the device includes an anchor deployed in the tissue of the right ventricle, in an orifice opening to the right atrium, or anchored to the tricuspid valve. A flexible anchor rail connects to the anchor and a coaptation element on a catheter rides over the anchor rail. The catheter attaches to the proximal end of the coaptation element, and a locking mechanism fixes the position of the coaptation element relative to the anchor rail. Finally, there is a proximal anchoring feature to fix the proximal end of the coaptation catheter subcutaneously adjacent the subclavian vein. The coaptation element includes an inert covering and helps reduce regurgitation through contact with the valve leaflets.

Abstract: A vascular implant for replacing a native heart valve comprises a self expanding stent supporting a valve body having leaflets. The stent preferably comprises an anchoring structure configured to prevent the implant from passing through the valve annulus. For delivery, the implant is compacted within a delivery device and secured at one end. During delivery the implant is partially released from the delivery device, and positioning of the implant can be verified prior to full release. The implant can be at least partially resheathed and repositioned if desired.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis is provided having a self-expanding multi-level frame that supports a valve body comprising a skirt and plurality of coapting leaflets. The frame transitions between a contracted delivery configuration that enables percutaneous transluminal delivery, and an expanded deployed configuration having an asymmetric hourglass shape. The valve body skirt and leaflets are constructed so that the center of coaptation may be selected to reduce horizontal forces applied to the commissures of the valve, and to efficiently distribute and transmit forces along the leaflets and to the frame. Alternatively, the valve body may be used as a surgically implantable replacement valve prosthesis.

Abstract: A replacement prosthetic heart valve for engagement with a structure of a previously implanted prosthetic heart valve. The replacement heart valve includes a stent structure including a generally tubular body portion with an interior area and a series of wire portions arranged in a mesh-like configuration, and at least one stent post engaging structure extending radially outwardly from the body portion for engaging with an outer surface of a stent post of the previously implanted prosthetic heart valve. The stent structure further includes at least two leaflets attached within the interior area of the tubular body portion of the stent structure.

Abstract: A prosthesis for implantation at an implantation site proximate a native aortic valve, the implantation site including a valve annulus and a plurality of Valsalva sinuses located distal to the valve annulus. The prosthesis comprises an armature and a valve connected to the armature, wherein the armature includes a proximal portion configured for anchorage to the valve annulus, a distal portion configured to be positioned distal to the Valsalva sinuses when the proximal portion is anchored to the valve annulus, and first, second and third Valsalva sinus anchors each extending between and connecting the proximal and distal portions and arching radially outward between the proximal portion and the distal portion.

Abstract: An intravascular device includes a shaft having a body defining a major lumen and a plurality of minor lumen. The minor lumens are spaced about the major lumen. The major lumen and the plurality of minor lumen extend from a proximal end of the body to a distal end of the body. One or more wires may extend through the major lumen and/or minor lumen.

Abstract: Distal tips for use with delivery catheters are disclosed that are configured to facilitate deflection of the catheters as they are advanced through the vasculature to a desired treatment site. Distal tips so configured realize one or more of the objectives of safer, more accurate steering of the catheter through the vasculature.

Abstract: A delivery catheter (12) for a stent valve (10), the delivery catheter having a distal portion (14) insertable into an anatomy, the distal portion comprising an accommodation region (18) for accommodating a stent-valve for delivery into the anatomy, the delivery catheter further comprising at least one sheath (20; 22) that is translatable between a closed position for at least partly closing the accommodation region and an open position for at least partly opening the accommodation region.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for treating native heart valves are disclosed herein. A system for delivering a prosthetic device into a heart of a patient includes an elongated catheter body and a delivery capsule. The delivery capsule can be hydraulically driven to deploy at least a portion of a prosthetic heart valve device. The delivery capsule can release the prosthetic heart valve device at a desired treatment site in a patient.

Abstract: An assembly for collapsing a prosthetic heart valve includes a compression member and a pusher member. The compression member has a first open end with a first diameter, a second open end with a second diameter less than the first diameter, and a tapered wall between the first open end and the second open end. The pusher member has a base adapted to engage an end of the valve. The pusher member and the compression member are movable relative to one another between an initial position in which the base of the pusher member is relatively far from the first open end of the compression member and an operative position in which the base of the pusher member is relatively close to the first open end of the compression member. Movement of the pusher and compression members from the initial position to the operative position radially compresses the valve.

Abstract: A reverse total hip prosthesis is characterized by a femoral cup component and an acetabular ball component and is used for reconstruction of a hip joint. The prosthesis reverses the mechanics across the joint medializing the center of rotation, preventing dislocation in a posterior direction. Both ball and socket portions of the components lie outside of bone enabling larger sizing of the femoral and acetabular components improving stability, regardless of the size of the patient's anatomy. A method for reverse hip prosthesis implantation eliminates reaming through the base of the acetabulum preserving acetabular bone stock.

Abstract: A total knee prosthesis including a tibial component having a baseplate portion and a protruding portion extending from the baseplate portion is disclosed. An axle is connectable to the tibial component directly or indirectly. A femoral component has an articular surface and an opening for receipt of the axle. The opening defines a pivot center about which the femoral prosthesis rotates. The articular surface has a posterior portion having a first flexion radius defining a first flexion center. The first flexion center is offset from the pivot center a distance substantially equal to a product of a constant and the first flexion radius.

Abstract: Implants and methods for augmentation, preferably by minimally invasive procedures and means, of body tissue, including in some embodiments repositioning of body tissue, for example, bone and, preferably vertebrae are described. The implant may comprise one or more chain linked bodies inserted into the interior of body tissue. As linked bodies are inserted into body tissue, they may fill a central portion thereof and for example in bone can push against the inner sides of the cortical exterior surface layer, for example the end plates of a vertebral body, thereby providing structural support and tending to restore the body tissue to its original or desired treatment height. A bone cement or other filler can be added to further augment and stabilize the body tissue. The preferred implant comprises a single flexible monolithic chain formed of allograft cortical bone having a plurality of substantially non-flexible bodies connected by substantially flexible links.

Abstract: The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a spinal implant assembly having features to prevent or minimize fixation elements, such as screws, from being dislodged, or from backing out over time and with use. The spinal implant assembly may comprise an implantable body having first apertures for receiving fixation elements. A plate configured to nest against the posterior portion of the implantable body and comprising one or more second apertures can be provided. These second apertures permit access to the head portions of the fixation elements. One or more locking elements are then passed through the second apertures and engage the head portions of the fixation elements. In addition, the plate may comprise an adjustable arm to allow the plate to be used with implantable bodies of different size.

Abstract: An implant stabilizes two adjacent bones of a joint, while enabling a natural kinematic relative movement of the bones. Support components are connected to each bone of the joint, and a flexible core is interposed between them. The core and at least one of the support components are provided with a smooth sliding surface upon which the core and support component may slide relative to each other, enabling a corresponding movement of the bones. The surfaces may have a mating curvature, to mimic a natural movement of the joint. The core is resilient, and may bend or compress, enabling the bones to move towards each other, and or to bend relative to each other.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for distracting tissue and particularly spinal tissue. The device and method may include insertion of at least one elongated member and an augmenting member to form a structure between the tissues to be distraction, such that a dimensional aspect of the structure is augmented upon movement of the augmenting structure.

Abstract: A joint spacer therapeutically maintains separation of bones of a joint. A carriage is slideably retained within the frame and has at least one ramped surface. An actuator screw is threadably engaged with the frame, and rotatably connected to the carriage, to cause the carriage to slideably move within the frame when the actuator screw is rotated. First and second endplates engage the bones of the joint, and each has at least one ramped surface that is mateable with the ramped surface of the carriage, whereby when the carriage is slideably moved by rotation of the actuator screw, the endplates ramped surface slides against the carriage ramped surface to cause the endplates to move along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the frame, to increase the height of the spacer. Piercing elements are connected to the carriage to pierce bone of the joint when the carriage is moved.

Abstract: An orthopedic device for implanting between adjacent vertebrae comprising: an arcuate balloon and a hardenable material within said balloon. In some embodiments, the balloon has a footprint that substantially corresponds to a perimeter of a vertebral endplate. An inflatable device is inserted through a cannula into an intervertebral space and oriented so that, upon expansion, a natural angle between vertebrae will be at least partially restored. At least one component selected from the group consisting of a load-bearing component and an osteobiologic component is directed into the inflatable device through a fluid communication means.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device and methodology for use in spinal fusion surgeries. An implant is proved for forming a rigid structure between adjoining vertebrae in a patient. The implant is a cage defined by at least a first end, second end, first side, and second side surface, wherein first and second side surfaces extend substantially parallel to each other to span a space between adjoining vertebrae and first and second ends interconnect said first side surface and second side surface. The cage incorporates one or more flexible joints that allow the cage to be deformed for insertion into a patient. The ability to deform the cage allows a greater ease and flexibility in inserting and positioning the implant.

Abstract: An instrument for establishing orientation of a pelvic prosthesis comprises a tripod having an angularly adjustable guide rod on it. The tips of the legs define a plane, and the guide rod is set by the surgeon to a defined orientation with respect to this plane on the basis of preoperative studies. In use, two of the legs of the instrument are positioned by the surgeon at defined anatomical locations on the pelvis (e.g., a point in the region of the posterior/inferior acetabulum and a point on the anterior superior iliac spine). The third leg then lands on the pelvis at a point determined by the position of the first two points, as well as by the separations between the third leg and the other two legs. The position of the guide rod then defines with respect to the actual pelvis the direction for insertion of a prosthesis.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for introducing a spinal disc implant into an intervertebral space of a subject. The subject is placed in a lateral position, and the anterior face of the spinal disc intervertebral space is accessed, between the L5 and S1 vertebrae, from an anterior and lateral retroperitoneal approach. An operative corridor to the anterior face of the spinal disc space is established by introducing a retractor instrument anterolaterally to the spinal disc space between the anterior superior iliac spine and the anterior inferior iliac spine. The damaged spinal disc contents are removed from the intervertebral space through the operative corridor, and the implant is advanced into the intervertebral space at an oblique angle and pivoted to position the implant substantially laterally within the intervertebral space. Elongated retractor and insertion instruments, as well as a modified disc implant, are also disclosed for carrying out the method.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for interfacing with nerve fibers, such as axons. Embodiments provide multiple micro-channels, into which individual fascicles of a nerve may be placed, one fascicle per micro-channel. Each micro-channel has an associated set of micro-wire electrodes that penetrate the fascicle in the micro-channel. The micro-wire electrodes are thinner than prior art photolithographed micro-electrode arrays. Consequently, more micro-wire electrodes may interface with a single fascicle, and each micro-wire electrode interfaces with fewer axons, than in the prior art. Multiple rows of micro-channels may be stacked to construct two-dimensional arrays of micro-channels. These embodiments thereby facilitate finer motor control in prosthetic devices, and more granular sensory feedback from prosthetic devices to central nervous systems, than is achievable in the prior art.