Abstract: An apparatus can include a base plate. A glenosphere can be configured to be mountable to the base plate. The glenosphere can be adapted to operate with a complementary humeral component. The base plate can include a removable taper member on a side of the base plate facing the glenosphere. The taper member can be configured to mount the glenosphere to the base plate.

Abstract: An interbody fusion cage having upper and lower canals for receiving the heads of bone screws that have been pre-installed in opposing vertebral body endplates. In certain embodiments, the interbody fusion cage can include a main interbody device having a guide surface canal, and a rail component configured to slidingly engage the guide surface canal.

Abstract: An inter-vertebral disc prosthesis intended for percutaneous deployment comprises an expandable annular enclosure and an expandable nuclear enclosure. The expandable annular enclosure incorporates a reinforcing annular band along its periphery and is filled with in-situ curable rubber. The expandable nuclear enclosure is filled with a gas. The nuclear prosthesis further incorporates a novel, integrally molded sealing valve assembly and is stretchable and collapsible into a minimal profile for ease of insertion into a specially designed delivery cannula, and is inflation-assisted expandable into an inter-vertebral disc in which complete percutaneous nuclectomy has been performed.

Abstract: Instruments, kits, and methods are disclosed for installing an implant spacer through an incision and down a surgical corridor. The instruments also serve to align a drill guide and align and insert a spacer stabilizer for stabilization of adjacent bone portions. The instrument comprises an elongated guide bar body, an inserter face at a distal end of said guide bar body for abutting an instrument attachment portion of a spacer, a connection tip portion for securing a spacer against an inserter face, and a guide portion of said elongated guide bar body for aligning instruments with said spacer and for introducing a stabilizer to secure the spacer in a predetermined position between the bone portions. Included is a retractable graft block for securing graft material within an aperture of said spacer during insertion of the spacer.

Abstract: A spinal fusion system method and apparatus can include: providing segments including a first segment and a second segment; and coupling the first segment to the second segment with a flexible member, the flexible member configured to have a deformable state based upon a temperature of the flexible member being below a transition temperature range or based upon a stress being applied to the flexible member, and the flexible member configured to enter a shape-set state from the deformable state based on the temperature of the flexible member rising above the transition temperature range, or based upon the stress being removed from the flexible member and the temperature of the flexible member being above the transition temperature range.

Abstract: A knee arthroplasty system for use in a patient's knee joint comprises a spacer block instrument including a base portion, a tibial component extending from the base portion and configured for placement against a tibia, and a femoral component configured for placement against a femur. The femoral component is rotatably coupled to the tibial component. The system further includes one or more spacer block shims structured for removable attachment to the tibial component.

Abstract: A prosthetic or robot part, comprising a base, a proximal and a distal. The proximal is mounted on the base so as to be rotatable thereabout in a given sense. The distal is mounted on the proximal so as to be rotatable thereabout in the same sense to effect a gripping action of the prosthetic or robot part. The proximal and the distal are rotatable in the opposite sense to release the grip. One part of a drive of the part is pivoted to the base about a base pivot axis. Another part of the drive is pivoted to the distal about a distal pivot axis. The distal is also pivoted to the proximal about the said distal pivot axis. Thus the proximal, the distal and the said another part of the drive are all pivotable relative to one another about the said distal pivot axis.

Abstract: A stent is formed of at least a cobalt-based alloy. The cobalt-based alloy may include 10-35 weight % metal member selected from the group consisting of platinum (Pt), gold (Au), iridium (Ir), osmium (Os), rhenium (Re), tungsten (W), palladium (Pd), tantalum (Ta), and combinations thereof; 16-21 weight % chromium (Cr); 9-12 weight % molybdenum (Mo); 0-25 weight % nickel (Ni); and balance cobalt (Co). The cobalt-based alloy may be a thin outer shell of a hollow stent. The cobalt-based alloy may be used to form at least one of an inner core and an outer shell of a core-shell structure of a stent. The cobalt-based alloy may be used to form an end of a wire for forming a stent.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described, including identifying a subject as suffering from hypertension. In response to the identifying (a) a radius of curvature of a first set of at least three regions of an arterial wall of the subject is increased at a given longitudinal location, while (b) allowing the first set of regions of the arterial wall to pulsate. A device is implanted inside the artery at the longitudinal location such that the device applies pressure to the arterial wall at a second set of at least three regions of the artery, but does not contact the first set of regions, the first set of regions and the second set of regions alternating with each other. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A flexible stent structure includes a plurality of axially spaced strut portions defining generally tubular axial segments of the stent and constructed to be radially expandable. A helical portion is interposed axially between two strut portions and has a plurality of helical elements connected between circumferentially spaced locations on the two strut portions. The helical elements extend helically between those locations and the length of a helical element is sufficient so that, when the stent is in a radially expanded state, it can simultaneously withstand repeated axial compression or expansion and bending.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for improving airflow within an airway. One example embodiment includes a method for treating a subject. The method includes (1) placing an expandable object into one or more airways of the bronchial tree of the subject, (2) expanding the expandable object within at least one of the one or more airways such that at least a portion of a wall of the one or more airways is expanded, and (3) placing a stent in the airway such that a portion of the stent is adjacent to the portion of the wall of the one or more expanded airways.

Abstract: Stents can become twisted during deployment within tortuous vessels such that proper expansion against the vessel wall is inhibited. Stents can be twisted prior to deployment in a direction opposite the direction of twisting during deployment to facilitate full expansion of the stent against the vessel wall along the stent's entire length.

Abstract: A device for delivering and deploying a radially expandable prosthesis is disclosed and comprises a proximal prosthesis release mechanism having a first resistance and a distal prosthesis release mechanism having a second resistance. The device further comprises an actuation mechanism for actuating the distal and proximal release mechanisms in a single coordinated movement and a biasing compensator for regulating the relationship between the first resistance and the second resistance. Additional aspects of the invention include devices and methods for delivering and deploying a radially expandable prosthesis.

Abstract: Bioresorbable scaffolds for treatment of bifurcation lesion are described herein. Generally, an expandable scaffold may be fabricated from a high molecular weight isotropic PLLA material, wherein the scaffold incorporates one or more strain relief features which are configured to allow side branch treatment.

Abstract: A delivery system for a self-expanding medical device is provided. The delivery system includes an outer sheath that radially restrains the medical device. First and second inner catheters are disposed within the outer sheath. The first inner catheter is a composite structure with a closed coil wire covered by a polymer outer layer. The second inner catheter is disposed within the closed coil wire but is not attached to the closed coil wire.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes treatment of the vasculature of a patient with an expandable implant. The implant is constrained to a reduced delivery profile for delivery within the vasculature by at least one sleeve. The implant may be constrained to other diameters, such as an intermediate configuration having a diameter larger than the delivery profile and smaller than the deployment diameter. The sleeves may be expanded, allowing for expansion of the diameter of the expandable implant, by disengaging a coupling member from the sleeve or sleeves from outside of the body of the patient. The expandable implant may comprise a number of side branch fenestrations or fenestratable portions.

Abstract: A liner support frame is configured to be positioned in a gastrointestinal tract of a human and to support a liner which inhibits nutrient absorption and anchor the liner in place in the gastrointestinal tract, the liner support frame includes a plurality of frame members connected to one another so that the liner support frame possesses a plurality of openings. The liner support frame includes a plurality of frame portions arranged axially and possessing different tapers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shoulder mechanism for an orthosis comprising in succession: a first element (1) that is stationary relative to the user; a second element (2) that is hinged to the first element about a first hinge axis (A1); a third element (3) that is hinged to the second element about a second hinge axis (A2); and an upper arm (4) that is hinged to the third element about a third hinge axis (A3). According to the invention, the hinge axes (A1, A2, A3) extend in directions that define a frame of reference that is non-orthogonal.

Abstract: A collapsible bondage rack with use and collapsed configurations. An upper retaining structure, potentially formed by upper legs disposed in a V-configuration, and a lower support structure, potentially formed by anterior and posterior lower legs, each disposed in a V-configuration, are retained relative to a main hinge assembly. The upper retaining structure and the lower support structure are relatively pivotable between use and collapsed configurations. The anterior and posterior lower legs are pivotable about a lateral pivot axis between use and storage configurations, and the anterior lower legs are pivotable about a longitudinal pivot axis. The legs are disposed in a stack when the bondage rack is collapsed. Foot mount assemblies are retained by the anterior lower legs, and attachment assemblies are retained by the upper legs and the anterior lower legs. Leveling mechanisms can stabilize the bondage rack.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an ostomy device comprising an adhesive wafer, wherein said adhesive wafer comprises means for preventing deformation and tearing when the adhesive wafer is removed from the skin. In particular, the present invention relates to adhesive wafers formed of soft adhesives.

Abstract: An endoluminal occluding device consisting of a conical-shaped structure which is attached to a threaded central tubular element is capable of occluding a body lumen immediately after placement. When deployed within a body lumen, such as a fallopian tube, the conical-shaped structure extends radially outward from the central tubular element, thereby acutely occluding the body lumen, and, in the case of the fallopian tubes, preventing conception. As the acute occlusion device is being implanted into a body lumen, it is rotated, as the screw threads, which embed into the body lumen wall, advance the device within the body lumen to the desired located. Once implanted and deployed into a body lumen, the acute occlusion device provides immediate occlusion of the body lumen. A proximal anchor prevents the endoluminal device from migrating into the body lumen once it has been deployed.

Abstract: A heat generating device includes a heat generating element enclosed in an air-permeable stretch bag. The heat generating element includes an air-permeable first side adapted to be located proximal to the skin of a wearer, a second side adapted to be located distal to the skin of a wearer, and a heat generating member interposed between the first side and the second side. It is preferred that a part of the heat generating element is fixed to a part of the inner side of the stretch bag in the overlap between the stretch bag and the heat generating element in a plan view of the heat generating device.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a medical device and a method of treating mammals, especially humans, to alleviate the symptoms, including pain, of several conditions and symptoms, including hemorrhoids, tissue inflammation and/or yeast infections, and open, draining wounds or incisions.

Abstract: Delivery devices, systems and methods are provided for inserting an implant into an eye. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used to dispose or implant an ocular stent or implant, such as a shunt, in communication with the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space of the eye. The implant can drain fluid from an anterior chamber of the eye to a physiologic outflow path of the eye, such as, the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space. Alternatively, or in addition, the implant can elute a drug or therapeutic agent. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used in conjunction with other ocular surgery, for example, but not limited to, cataract surgery through a preformed corneal incision, or independently with the inserter configured to make a corneal incision.

Abstract: An ocular fixation device includes a body configured to be placed on an eye. The ocular fixation device also includes multiple twist picks configured to be turned to secure the body to the eye and to release the body from the eye. The body includes connection points on which a surgical tool is mountable on the body.

Abstract: A method is described for treating glaucoma by surgically implanting a shape recoverable member in the sclera of the eye. The shape recovery member is adapted to recover involutely when shape recovery is caused to occur. The bending of the shape recoverable member during its recovery exerts pressure on longitudinal ciliary muscle to supply tension to and open the trabecular meshwork. As a result, aqueous humor flows more freely and reduces the intraocular pressure.

Abstract: An intraocular shunt can be manufactured using a system that includes a liquid bath and a wire, which is moved through the bath. When moved through the bath, the wire is coated with a material, such as gelatin. For example, the liquid bath can have a top layer, including water, and a bottom layer, including gelatin. The coated wire passes through an aperture formed in a plate component of the system. The gelatin can be dried on the wire in a humidity-controlled space, thereby forming the shunt.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods and systems for laser beam positioning, shape profile, size profile, drift, and/or deflection calibration using an image capture device, such as a microscope camera, for enhanced calibration accuracy and precision. The methods and systems are particularly suited for iris calibration and hysteresis measurement of a variable diameter aperture. One method for calibrating laser pulses from a laser eye surgery system using an image capture device comprises imaging a known object with an image capture device. A pulsed laser beam is directed onto a calibration surface so as to leave a mark on the calibration surface. The mark on the calibration surface is then imaged with the image capture device. The laser eye surgery system is calibrated by comparing the image of the mark on the calibration surface to the image of the known object.

Abstract: This invention is related to refractive eye surgery and specifically regarding guiding a laser beam through free space using a set of rotatable mirrors to guide said laser beam into a hand piece module that converts the laser beam into a two dimensional random overlapping scanning parallel laser beam that is delivered to the eye for ablation of cornea tissue to reshape the cornea of the eye. The rotating mirror set module allows a hand piece having an eye stabilization and distance control unit to be positioned by the surgeon onto a patient's eye for performing the surgery.

Abstract: A system and method for performing a femto-fragmentation procedure on tissue in the crystalline lens of an eye requires that a laser beam be directed and focused to a focal point in the crystalline lens of the eye. The focal point is then guided, relative to an axis defined by the eye, to create a segment cluster by causing Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB) of tissue in the crystalline lens. The resultant segment cluster includes a plurality of contiguous, elongated segments in the crystalline lens that are individually tapered from an anterior end-area to a posterior end-area. Specifically, this is done to facilitate the removal of individual segments from the segment cluster in the crystalline lens.

Abstract: Systems and methods for removing an epithelial layer disposed over a stromal layer in a cornea irradiate a region of the epithelial layer with a pulsed beam of ablative radiation. The ablative radiation is scanned to vary the location of the beam within the region in accordance with a pulse sequence. The pulse sequence is arranged to enhance optical feedback based on a tissue fluorescence of the epithelial layer. The penetration of the epithelial layer is detected in response to the optical feedback. The use of scanning with the pulse sequence arranged to enhance optical feedback allows large areas of the epithelium to be ablated such penetration of the epithelial layer can be detected.

Abstract: A wound healing system and a wound care bandage are provided. The wound care bandage has an electronics housing that houses a battery and wound care microcontroller. A bandage layer is provided and it defines a pad recess in which a pad is disposed. The pad has channels to allow for airflow. The wound care bandage at least first and second snap button electrodes, but there may be more snap button electrodes in other preferred embodiments. There are also electrically conductive adhesive strips with one being in contact with each of the first and second snap button electrodes. When current is controllably supplied to the first and second snap button electrodes a plurality of electric current flow paths are generated and that extend across the wound and stimulate the healing of the wound. The wound care bandage can be monitored and controlled wirelessly.

Abstract: A method includes contact printing an active composition onto a surface of a release substrate to form a printed surface. The active composition spontaneously dewets the surface of the release substrate to form active deposits on the surface of the release substrate. The active composition comprises an active agent dissolved or dispersed in an aqueous liquid vehicle. A pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is disposed on the printed surface.

Abstract: An apparatus (11) for producing stretchable sheet of the present invention includes a pair of conveyance belts (12, 13) which is separately arranged, elastic body winding means (14) which winds a threadlike elastic body (7) around the pair of conveyance belts (12, 13) and orients the threadlike elastic body (7) to a direction intersecting with a conveyance direction of continuous-length sheets, and integrating means which fixes the threadlike elastic body (7) to the continuous-length sheets. The conveyance belts (12, 13) include upper belts (12a, 13a) and lower belts (12b, 13b). Proceeding portions (12a?, 13a?) which convey the threadlike elastic body (7) at respective upper belts are inclined so that an upper side is located closer than a lower side to a center position (PC) between the conveyance belts, and proceeding portions (12b?, 13b?) which convey the threadlike elastic body (7) at respective lower belts are inclined so that a lower side is located closer than an upper side to a center position (PC).

Abstract: Disposable pull-on diapers of the present disclosure may have optimized waist circumferential length and leg opening length.

Abstract: An open-type disposable diaper includes a crotch stretch unit formed in an absorber arrangement region where an absorber is arranged in a crotch region and being stretchable in a product longitudinal direction; a pair of leg stretch units formed along a leg hole openings and being stretchable in at least the product longitudinal direction; and a waist stretch unit formed in a back waistline region and being stretchable in a product widthwise direction; the absorber core arrangement region enclosed by the crotch stretch unit, the leg stretch units, and the waist stretch unit and configuring the absorber is formed so as not to be stretched. The length of the absorber core arrangement region in the product longitudinal direction is configured to be longer than half the length of the crotch stretch unit in the product longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A reusable diaper includes forward and rearward waist portions. At least one corner tab may be releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waist portions. The diaper may include at least one pocket configured to receive therein at least a portion of the corner tab. The pocket may be substantially impervious to liquids, such that positioning of the portion of the corner tab in the pocket helps inhibit wicking of liquid through the pocket and into the corner tab. Some embodiments may include first and second sets of interchangeable corner tabs that are releasably attachable to the forward and rearward waist portions. The second set of corner tabs may be sized differently than the first set of corner tabs such that the diaper size is adjustable depending on whether the first or second set of corner tabs are used.

Abstract: A fluid-distributing structure includes a flexible body having a plurality of fluid reservoirs defined therein, and a plurality of directional fluid barriers. The fluid reservoirs are fluidly connected to one another by openings defined within the body. Each fluid barrier is associated with one of the openings defined in the body, and is configured to permit fluid flow through the opening in a downstream direction and inhibit fluid flow through the opening in an upstream direction.

Abstract: A fastening tab that may be used with a disposable absorbent article such as a diaper, is disclosed. The fastening tab comprises a primary tape and a release tape. The primary tape may include a first and second mechanical fastener bearing region, an exposed adhesive region, and an intermediate region. The fastening tab provided may be directly attached to a nonwoven back sheet of a diaper chassis.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprising an odor control material comprising at least one inclusion complex of cyclodextrin with an organic compound which is dispersed in a matrix comprising a polysiloxane oil.

Abstract: A wheelchair (100) includes a chassis (101) defining a seat (102), a backrest (103), one or more armrests (104,105), and an undercarriage (106). One or more front caster wheels (118,119) are coupled to, and selectively detachable from, the undercarriage. One or more rear wheel assemblies (120,121) each include a rear wheel (125), an axle (127), and a mounting post (129) extending distally from the axle at a substantially orthogonal angle relative to the axle. One or more quick release devices (130,131) couple each mounting post of each rear wheel assembly to the undercarriage such that the each the one or more rear wheel assemblies is selectively detachable from the undercarriage.

Abstract: The pouch comprises a flexible bag (12) having an opening (12A) with its edge fastened to two opposite walls of a reinforcing sleeve (18) that projects to the outside of the bag. The pouch can adopt a flat configuration in which the walls of the sleeve are situated one against the other, and a utilization configuration in which the walls form a channel that holds the opening open. The first wall (20A) of the sleeve (18) presents a first longitudinal end strip (30A), while the second wall presents a sliding edge (32B) suitable for sliding against the inside face of the first longitudinal strip on the pouch passing from its flat configuration to its utilization configuration.

Abstract: Hyperbaric chamber control system and apparatus and related methods. A system for controlling, measuring, and reporting hyperbaric chamber sessions using the partial pressure of oxygen as the lead variable. Air is gently flushed from the bottom of the chamber, upwards, and a nostril-level oxygen pickup measures oxygen concentration in the chamber. Chamber pressure and oxygen concentration values are used to calculate the partial pressure of oxygen, and the session time is adjusted so that a subject treatment accurately reflects prescribed treatment.

Abstract: A base with retractable wheels is provided for an examination, procedure or surgical table or chair for use in the medical, dental, or veterinary fields that can be easily switched between a stationary state and a mobile state. The base includes fixed wheels on one end and on the other end stationary foot pads and retractable wheels that can be engaged by a lift mechanism that can transfer the weight of the table or chair from the foot pads onto the wheels, allowing the table or chair to be more easily moved within a room.

Abstract: A Force feedback type compliant orthotic device includes a fixing base, driving unit, first limb supporting unit, and second limb supporting unit. The driving unit has a motor disposed at the fixing base and an output shaft connected to the motor. The output shaft is inserted into a joint base to connect with a resilience unit. The first limb supporting unit has a first supporting element fixed at the fixing base and a first electromyographic signal sensor disposed at the first supporting element. The second limb supporting unit has a second supporting element disposed at the joint base and a second electromyographic signal sensor disposed at the second supporting element. The motor generates appropriate auxiliary power according to the sensing result of the first and second electromyographic signal sensors, such that the first and second supporting elements move relative to each other precisely.

Abstract: An exoskeleton mechanism according to the present disclosure includes: a fixed frame positioned to correspond to an upper physique; a rotatable frame positioned to correspond to a lower physique and coupled to the fixed frame by a hinge unit to be rotatable in the vertical direction; a support frame for supporting a terminal; a first motor mounted to the fixed frame and connected to the rotatable frame to drive the rotatable frame to rotate in the vertical direction; motors mounted to the rotatable frame and connected to the support frame to drive the support frame to rotate in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction and rotate around an axis (roll axis) of the lower physique; links for connecting the first motor and the rotatable frame; and links for connecting the motors and the support frame.

Abstract: A mobile crutch to facilitate improved ambulation of an impaired individual. The device includes a substantially rectangular vertical frame having two parallel vertical frame members, two transverse horizontal frame members, two rigid wheel assemblies, a handle and a brake. The mobile crutch is made from commercially available components. The mobile crutch includes wheels adjacent to the ground attached to the bottoms of the vertical members. The wheels allow the user, supported by the rigid arm rest, to maintain continuous ground contact and walk in an upright posture with uninterrupted strides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a walking aid suitable for supporting patients with cerebral palsy while walking and/or during physiotherapy. The walking aid comprises a frame supported by a pair of wheels positioned next to one another, and a support element connected to the frame, for securing the walking aid to a patient. The connection between the support element and the frame allows a rotational movement of the support element with respect to the frame, in two or more rotational degrees of freedom.

Abstract: Disclosed is a circulatory flow restoration (CFR) device that includes an abdominal pressure element configured to be arranged at or around a patient's trunk and including at least one unit capable of exerting pressure on patient's body, a thoracic pressure element configured to be placed at or around a patient's thorax and including at least one unit capable of exerting pressure on the patient's body, and a pulsatile generator. The present circulatory flow restoration (CFR) device may be used in cases of cardiac arrest. Also disclosed are methods of restoring heart beat in a patient.

Abstract: A system for repelling mosquitoes near a spa (referred to herein as a “Zika Mist System” or “ZMS”) includes a string of misting devices interconnected in fluid communications for mounting on a spa tub structure in order to produce an insect-repelling, spa-water mist over the spa from chemically treated spa water taken from the spa. The ZMS includes a misting pump for delivering pressurized spa water from an outlet on the misting pump to the string of misting devices via an outlet line component of the ZMS; it also includes an input line for coupling an inlet of the misting pump in fluid communications with a water-holding portion of the spa (e.g., preferably doing so via a drain assembly on the spa). A mosquito-repelling spa includes a spa tub structure on which is mounted such a ZMS.