Abstract: The disclosure of the present application provides devices, systems, and methods for the prevention of stroke. In at least one embodiment of a device of the present application, the device comprises an extension portion sized and shaped to fit within an artery extending from an aortic arch, and a flange portion sized and shaped to prevent the device from advancing into the artery extending from the aortic arch in which the device may be positioned. In at least one embodiment of a system for preventing stroke of the present application, the system comprises a hypotube, a folder coupled to a distal end of the hypotube, a sleeve positioned circumferentially around the hypotube proximal to the folder, and a stent, wherein a first part of the stent may be positioned within the folder, and wherein a second part of the stent may be positioned within the sleeve.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for filling a therapeutic substance or drug within a hollow wire that forms a stent. The stent is placed within a chamber housing a fluid drug formulation. During filling, the chamber is maintained at or near the vapor-liquid equilibrium of the solvent of the fluid drug formulation. To fill the stent, a portion of the stent is placed into contact with the fluid drug formulation until a lumenal space defined by the hollow wire is filled with the fluid drug formulation via capillary action. After filling is complete, the stent is retracted such that the stent is no longer in contact with the fluid drug formulation. The solvent vapor pressure within the chamber is reduced to evaporate a solvent of the fluid drug formulation. A wicking means may control transfer of the fluid drug formulation into the stent.

Abstract: The invention relates to a catheter device for fenestrating a stentgraft (76). The catheter device comprises a first needle catheter (14) with a needle (40) having a barbed hook (42) and a thread (30) which is connected to the needle (40).

Abstract: A modular catheter system including a sheath projecting distally from a delivery catheter having a main body module An inner core module carrying a stent thereon, the inner core being axially movable through the main body of the delivery catheter and the delivery catheter sheath, a handle member supported by the main body of the delivery catheter, the handle member being selectively axially engageable with the inner core such that the handle member and the inner core move together in an axial direction when the handle member is engaged with the inner core; and an adjustment member supported by the main body, the adjustment member being configured such that rotation of the adjustment member causes the adjustment member to move axially along the main body by either axially sliding the handle member relative to the main body or by rotating the adjustment member.

Abstract: Described herein is an improved device and method for acquiring, and optionally, fastening a tissue fold. The device has an improved configuration for forming a single, two-layer tissue fold.

Abstract: Systems and devices of providing therapy to injured joints are disclosed. The device comprises a first body coupling member and a second body coupling member, wherein the first and second body coupling members are adapted to surround a patient's joint; a cage coupling the first body coupling member to the second body coupling member, wherein the cage is adapted to traverse the joint; at least one elevating support coupled to the first body coupling member; at least one elevating support coupled to the second body coupling member; at least one clip coupled to the first body coupling member adapted to be coupled to a therapy device; and at least one clip coupled to the second body coupling member adapted to be coupled to the therapy device.

Abstract: A leg support that attaches to a user's leg and extends below the user's foot, where stepping on the portion below the user's foot causes the portion around the user's upper leg to tighten. This allows the leg support and the user's leg to bear the user's weight with the user's foot remaining untouched. When the user takes his or her weight off of the leg support, the portion around the user's upper leg loosens for the user's comfort. The leg support insures that there is zero pressure on the bottom of the user's foot and all of the user's weight and vertical shear pressure is converted into horizontal compression pressure around the user's leg.

Abstract: A pressure relief pad for the prevention of pressure ulcers includes a pressure relief layer that is a foam structure that evenly disperses forces that the skin is subjected to; a thin film layer that is a hydrophilic thin film structure that attaches to the skin; and a release liner having a smooth surface and a rough surface, and including a predetermined pattern. The pressure relief layer, the thin film layer and the release liner are attached to and disposed on each other as a stack in that order, and have a same shape. The pressure relief pad may reduce pressure and shearing forces that the skin is subjected to, in order to prevent pressure ulcers from occurring.

Abstract: A retainer with a block extending downwards from an otherwise generally flat surface is disclosed. The block corresponds to a region of one or more of the cuspids or pre-molars. A side block or other device on the upper retainer also abuts a wing or other abutment device of a lower retainer, causing the lower jaw to be pushed forward relative to the upper jaw and resting position (regular organic closing position) of the upper and lower jaw together. Thus, the upper teeth are pushed forward and a space is created between the teeth behind the (lower) block preventing an apnea during sleep.

Abstract: Systems for maintaining a vacuum in a patient's oral cavity comprises an oral device, a vacuum control system, and an assembly including first and second tubes for connecting the vacuum control system to the oral device. The oral device has an internal plenum, and a vacuum is drawn in the plenum by a vacuum pump connected by a first tube of the tubular assembly. The vacuum is maintained by an air source which is connected to the plenum by the second tube of the tubular assembly. By maintaining a constant circulating air bleed through the oral device and the connecting tubes, saliva may be removed from the system and collected in a saliva trap located before the vacuum pump.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable electronic moxibustion therapy device which can be conveniently carried after being charged by a user to provide the effects of conventional moxibustion treatment anywhere and anytime, and which can maximize the effects of moxibustion treatment by directly applying heat stimulation while being near but not in direct contact with an acupuncture point to be treated and simultaneously providing an indirect thermal effect continuously to the surrounding area and the area around the acupuncture point to be treated. The portable electronic moxibustion therapy device according to the present invention comprises: an upper main body including a battery and a control circuit unit provided therein, and separate the skin from the bottom end of the funnel portion.

Abstract: A body surface temperature adjustment apparatus efficiently adjusts a surface temperature of a treatment target site of a patient. The apparatus includes a first tank that stores water, a water temperature adjustment unit that adjusts a temperature of the water to a predetermined temperature, a cooling apparatus that surrounds a scalp, a first pump that circulates the water, a controller that controls the water temperature adjustment unit and the first pump, and at least one water outlet for releasing the water circulated by the first pump toward the scalp surrounded by the cooling apparatus body, and a collection unit that collects the water released within a scalp surrounding space into the first tank.

Abstract: A protector includes a body having a cooling/warming device and a connection device. The cooling/warming device includes a bag, a circulation device and a chip, wherein the circulation device is connected to the bag and the chip. Liquid is received in the water bag and circulates within the circulation device, and the chip changes the temperature of the liquid in the circulation device. The connection device is easily attached to the user's body and the temperature of the liquid is set to provide cooling or warming features to the muscles of the user's body.

Abstract: An elongated gel band is provided. The elongated gel band is dimensioned so that a gel-filled tubing sheathed by a covering sleeve is adapted to bend around various body parts, providing cooling temperatures for 45 to 60 minutes. The covering sleeve is adapted to removably connect opposing ends thereof so as to secure the elongated gel band in a desired place. The elongated gel band can be made in various lengths to accommodate various head or neck sizes. Extra long elongated gel bands (36? to 50?) will provide immediate and highly effective treatment for injuries to various body parts, especially joints.

Abstract: Controllers for dry eye treatment apparatus and methods are described herein which generally comprise a patch or strip affixed to the skin of the upper and/or lower eyelids to deliver heat to the one or more meibomian glands contained within the underlying skin. The treatment strip or strips include one or more strips configured to adhere to an underlying region of skin in proximity to one or both eyes of a subject such that the one or more strips allow for the subject to blink naturally without restriction from the one or more patches. A controller is in communication with the one or more strips and is programmable to monitor a temperature of the one or more strips to provide a treatment therapy above a threshold temperature. Additionally forceps for mechanically expressing the Meibomian glands may be included with the strips and/or controller.

Abstract: A hypoallergenic garment is provided that offers relief by achieving a desirable cooling or heating effect in an individual experiencing pain or discomfort. It can be used for treatment of conditions such as itching, burning, yeast or bacterial infection, urethral pain, inflammation, urinary tract infections, dermatitis, vaginal varicosity, menopausal perspiration, post-surgery swelling, edema due to a sports injury, swelling due to trauma, damage to the perineum, menopausal pain and combinations thereof.

Abstract: An ophthalmic laser treatment apparatus comprises: an observation optical system; first and second irradiation optical systems to irradiate first and second laser lights for treatment toward a patient's eye; and first and second guide optical systems to irradiate first and second guide lights toward the eye. The second irradiation optical system displaces a condensing position of the second laser light to either one of a position far from of a reference plane on which the observation optical system is focused and a position short of the reference plane, so that a spot size of the second laser light on the reference plane is increased to a larger size than a spot size of the first laser light on the reference plane. The first and second guide optical systems respectively condense the first and second guide lights on the reference plane.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical apparatus supplies perfusion solution into a patient's eye from a perfusion solution container stored with the perfusion solution. The ophthalmic surgical apparatus includes a perfusion passage, a non-positive displacement pump, a perfusion pressurizing motor, and a controller. The perfusion passage introduces the perfusion solution in the perfusion solution container to a surgical instrument which will be inserted in an eye. The non-positive displacement pump provided in the perfusion passage includes a blade-like rotor which is rotatable without shutting off the perfusion passage. The perfusion pressurizing motor applies pressure to the perfusion solution by rotating the rotor. The controller controls the drive to the perfusion pressurizing motor.

Abstract: Description of a phacofragmentation and phacoaspiration tip used in cataract surgery prepared for insertion of its distal end into any of the corneal incisions made for the fragmentation and aspiration of the lens. The tip is made up by an internally hollow cannular body that comprises a proximal portion for connection to any type of handle. The main characteristic is that this phaco tip presents a portion from the head portion up to the distal end and a distal end portion that in turn presents a pronounced external conical shape as it progresses towards the free end which length is considerably shorter than the intermediate portion, determining a gradual or staggered reduction in the thickness which, upon reaching the mentioned free end, forms a slimmed edge, polished although not cutting in itself, that ends in a blunt or rounded shape which is defined through an “r” radio.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus, including eyewear and a contact lens, for delivering sound energy to an eye, comprising two or more sonic or ultrasonic transducers that emit sound energy, wherein each transducer is (i) operably linked to a power source and (b) capable of emitting sound energy at more than one frequency and for a variable time period; and a positioning mechanism to position the transducers at an exterior surface of an eye so as to deliver sound energy to an internal part of the eye, for example the Schlemm's canal or trabecular meshwork.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical cutting apparatus. In one instance, the apparatus includes a pneumatically-powered surgical cutter driven by a pneumatic pulse generator and a tubing assembly comprising multi-stage tubing connecting the generator to the cutter. The multi-stage tubing has a length of about two feet or more and includes a first-stage tube and a second-stage tube. The first-stage tube has a first end coupled to the output port of the generator, a second end opposite the first end, and a first inner channel having a first diameter for transmitting the pressure pulses to the cutter. The second-stage tube has a first end in pneumatic communication with the second end of the first-stage tube, a second end opposite the first end of the second-stage tube coupled to the cutter, and a second inner channel having a second diameter different than the first diameter for transmitting the pressure pulses to the cutter.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing intraocular pressure is provided. A tube extends from an inlet end in fluid communication with an anterior chamber of the eye, to direct an aqueous humor flow from the anterior chamber to an outlet end in fluid communication with a cavity, defined by a housing, for receiving the aqueous humor. A proximal end of an elongate tubular member defining a longitudinally-extending channel is engaged with the housing such that the channel is in fluid communication with the cavity and such that a distal end of the tubular member is spaced apart from the housing, wherein the channel is configured to receive the aqueous humor from the cavity and to direct the aqueous humor through the distal end to a drainage site disposed distally to the anterior chamber and to the housing. An associated method is also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for a medical treatment of a sclera, the device comprising a single applicator connected to a shaft, wherein the applicator is configured to be placed into the Tenon's space; the applicator has a first surface, wherein the first surface of the applicator is superficially contactable to the surface of an area of the sclera so as to superficially cover said area; and the applicator comprises a single optical outlet connected to a single optical guiding element extending from a proximal end of the shaft to the single distal optical outlet at the first surface of the applicator, the optical guiding element being configured for guiding electromagnetic waves towards the optical outlet, wherein the optical guiding element is configured to guide electromagnetic waves of a wavelength adapted for thermal treatment of the sclera by protein coagulation.

Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, an actuation lever of the handle, a flexible housing tube having a flexible housing tube distal end and a flexible housing tube proximal end, and an optic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and the flexible housing tube. An actuation of the actuation lever may gradually curve the flexible housing tube and the optic fiber. An actuation of the actuation lever may gradually straighten the flexible housing tube and the optic fiber.

Abstract: Systems and methods automatically locate optical surfaces of an eye and automatically generate surface models of the optical surfaces. A method includes OCT scanning of an eye. Returning portions of a sample beam are processed to locate a point on the optical surface and first locations on the optical surface within a first radial distance of the point. A first surface model of the optical surface is generated based on the location of the point and the first locations. Returning portions of the sample beam are processed so as to detect second locations on the optical surface beyond the first radial distance and within a second radial distance from the point. A second surface model of the optical surface is generated based on the location of the point on the optical surface and the first and second locations on the optical surface.

Abstract: A planning apparatus for generating control data for an eye surgery treatment device which creates at least one cut surface in the cornea using a laser device. The planning apparatus includes a calculation tool for determining the at least one cut surface in the cornea. The calculation tool determines the at least one cut surface in the cornea based on data from a refractive correction and generates a set of control data that control the laser device for the at least one cut surface in the cornea. The at least one cut surface in the cornea includes an edge and optically effective areas. The calculation tool determines the at least one cut surface in the cornea such the at least one cut surface in the cornea is deeper at the edge than in the optically effective areas.

Abstract: A planning system for generating control data for a treatment device for eye surgery that creates at least two incision surfaces in the cornea using a laser apparatus is provided. The planning system includes a processor configured to specify the cornea incision surfaces based on data of a refractive correction, the cornea incision surfaces including an lenticule incision and a cap incision, at least one of the cap incision or the lenticule incision being irregularly shaped and having extensions to the surrounding tissue, and generate a control data record for the cornea incision surfaces for purposes of controlling the laser apparatus.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of treating a hard lens region of an eye with a laser where one method includes identifying a boundary of the hard lens region, selecting a laser-parameter to enable a photodisruptive procedure in the hard lens region and to control a spreading of bubbles in the hard lens region, modifying a mechanical property of a posterior portion of the hard lens region in a proximity of the identified boundary by the photodisruptive procedure, and modifying a mechanical property of a portion anterior to the modified posterior portion of the hard lens region by the photodisruptive procedure. The laser bubbles can be applied to form incisions which are non transverse to an axis of the eye and intersect the lens fibers.

Abstract: The disclosure features systems for providing information to a user about the user's environment, the system featuring a detection apparatus configured to obtain image information about the environment, where the image information corresponds to information at multiple distances relative to a position of the user within the environment, and an electronic processor configured to obtain focal plane distance information defining a set of one or more distance values relative to the position of the user within the environment, construct one or more confocal images of the environment, from the image information and the set of one or more distance values, wherein each of the one or more confocal images corresponds to a different distance value and comprises a set of pixels, and transform the one or more confocal images to form one or more representative images comprising fewer pixels and a lower dynamic range.

Abstract: The present invention is an ear cleaner designed to have limited insertion into the ear canal so as not to impact ear wax, also known as cerumen, or damage the ear drum. The ear cleaner has several possible embodiments. All of the embodiments are designed to be fit over the user's finger. The user's finger is the limiting factor in how far the ear cleaner is inserted. The ear cleaner has a limited surface area. The ear cleaner can have one or more features to entrap ear wax. The ear cleaner is made from a coarse fabric to entrap ear wax. The ear cleaner may be treated with antimicrobial agents, a lubricant, or both.

Abstract: An earplug dispenser is provided which dispenses earplugs directly into a user's hand upon turning of a knob in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. The earplug dispenser is designed for quick and efficient replacement of an empty container with a container full of earplugs. The internal delivery components are particularly designed to prevent earplug jamming or sticking and aid in the quick delivery of a desired number of earplugs directly into the user's hand. The design also allows the earplugs to be delivered without relying on a separate opening or port apart from the impeller thereby eliminating the need to use two hands to deliver or dispense the desired earplugs.

Abstract: A device for stabilizing impaled objects in the human body, the device having a first and a second component each of which is comprised of a generally T-shaped support plate that is adhered to a generally T-shaped foam pad. Each component has a lower section and a base section. The support plate comprises a bend line between the tower section and the base section and a channel along each outside edge of that portion of the support, plate that comprises the tower section. The foam pad comprises a slit along each, outside edge of that portion of the foam pad that comprises the tower section. First and second fastening straps are bonded between the support plates and foam pads.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wound dressing material comprising a substrate, about 2.5% to about 8% by weight of a bicarbonate, and a film-forming agent, the film-forming agent serving as a binder for said bicarbonate to said substrate, the film-forming agent and the bicarbonate being present in a ratio of between 1:2 and 2:1 with respect to one another. Also disclosed are a method for preparing a wound dressing material and a method for treating a wound.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a pants-type diaper comprises: a step (A) of conveying a first continuous sheet; a step (B) of laminating a plurality of continuous elastic bodies on an inner side of the first continuous sheet, laminating a second continuous sheet, and bonding at least a part of the continuous elastic bodies and the second continuous sheet; a step (C) of cutting a part of continuous elastic bodies from an outer side of the second continuous sheet or an outer side of the first continuous sheet; and a step (D) of disposing the absorbent body so as to arrange the absorber in a predetermined region. In the step (C), a part of the continuous elastic bodies that is not bonded to the first continuous sheet is cut in a region for forming the pants-type diaper, the region other than a predetermined region for arranging the absorber.

Abstract: A method of making a breathable, elastic film laminate comprising the steps of stretching an elastic film in a first direction, spot welding at least one nonwoven web to the film while it is stretched, and stretching the film laminate in a second direction to create apertures in the film. Articles derived from the method are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for fabricating absorbent article having multiple layers, and deformed zones of targeted performance, and colored regions, the method comprising the steps of forming discrete features on at least one layer, printing colored regions on at least one layer, integrating multiple layers to form an absorbent assembly, and cutting the absorbent assembly into individual absorbent articles, wherein the steps are carried out continuously.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent garment includes front and rear panels with zones of elastification and non-elastication in the abdomen and rear regions of the garments. The zones of elastification comprise an elastified region, and a non-elastified region or a de-elastified region. The elastified non-elastified or de-elastified regions work in tandem to provide greater contour support and improved fit.

Abstract: Tampon packaging and disposal systems and methods are disclosed. The packaging has a flexible mitten and an optional attached tampon enclosure. The tampon enclosure can package a tampon and the flexible mitten wraps around the tampon enclosure. When unwrapped, the tampon enclosure is detachable from the mitten and the tampon can be used by a user. The mitten is used for removing the used tampon worn by the user and disposing of the used tampon after removal.

Abstract: Described is a diaper that includes an absorbent core and a chassis surrounding the absorbent core. The chassis may include a first end and a second end, the first end including at least two tabs. Each of the at least two tabs may include a fastening portion with a grip portion and a handle portion. Each grip portion is configured to removably attach to a portion of the second end, and each fastening portion may include at least one cut portion extending through an entire thickness of the fastening portion.

Abstract: The invention provides a method wherein a first unit (10) is provided having a field of grip elements (12), and a second unit (20) provided with retention means (22) suitable for co-operating with the grip elements (12) of the first unit (10) in order to provide a self-gripping fastening. The first and second units are put into contact in such a manner that the grip elements (12) of the first unit and the retention means (22) of the second unit provide a self-gripping fastening (F). A treatment zone of the self-gripping fastening is treated in order to deform the grip elements (12) of the first unit (10) and/or the retention means (22) of the second unit (20), whereby the first and second units (10, 20) are permanently secured to each other, thereby forming an assembled structure.

Abstract: A disposable diaper includes a disposal aid which is embedded inside the diaper. The disposal aid includes a base, a removable cover and a tab. The diaper includes a slit and the disposal aid is embedded inside the diaper during manufacturing so that the tab protrudes from the slit. The base of the disposal aid includes one or more compartments where one or more items can be placed. By pulling the tab, the disposal aid can be pulled out of the diaper, thereby, facilitating access to the disposal aid, and by removing the cover, the one or more items become accessible, thereby, facilitating removal of the one or more items from the one or more compartments.

Abstract: Example embodiments of the systems and methods of preventing bedsores take the pressure off of the soft tissue and direct it on the bone, which is made to handle the weight and the pressure. In example embodiments, to insert pins, incisions are made in the skin. A hole may then be drilled into the bone and a pin may be inserted into the hole in the bone. The pins may extend out through the skin. A support plate may be connected to the pins. In one embodiment, holes are drilled though the plate to accommodate the external fixation pins. In an alternative embodiment, one or more crossbars may be connected from pin to pin and then the plate may be clamped onto the one or more crossbars. In an example embodiment, a removable panel is located in the plate to provide access to tend to the wound.

Abstract: A torso support for a seat, having: a padding base 2; an outer link 3; an inner link 4; a U shaped clamp 6; a release button 5; a pivot pin 7; and a seat attachment bracket 8. The inner link 4 has a space housing the button 5. The button 5 can be pressed so it pivots between locking and unlocking dispositions. When in the locking disposition, the inner edge 13 of the button is close to a short arm of the clamp so they are almost abutting. This prevents the inner link 14 pivoting because to move in that way would cause a clash between the inner edge of the clamp 6 and the button 5.

Abstract: The disclosed adjustable backrest provides a plurality of generally horizontal straps arranged from the top to the bottom of the rigid back shell to provide anterior to posterior support and comfort for a patient. Generally speaking, the generally horizontal straps provide variably adjustable tension straps that allow for precise positioning of the patient to reduce or remove pressure points from the patient's thoracic to sacrum region.

Abstract: An electric bed frame includes a retaining frame, a back supporting frame pivotally connected to the retaining frame, a thigh supporting frame having a front end pivotally connected to the retaining frame, a lower leg supporting frame having a front end pivotally connected to a rear end of the thigh supporting frame, and a first link rod having a front end pivotally connected to the thigh supporting frame, and a rear end slidably disposed in a slide coupling part of the retaining frame. An actuator has two ends pivotally connected to the back supporting frame and the retaining frame, respectively. A linking member has a front end connected to the actuator or a pushing member of the back supporting frame, and a rear end connected to the first link rod.

Abstract: A grossing station for use with performing autopsy, necropsy or pathology procedures comprises a table and an overhead hood connected to a top surface of the table. The grossing station further comprises a blower and ventilation system arranged in the table to move air across the table from a front to rear direction. The grossing station also comprises a trough arranged in an upper surface of the table, wherein the trough receives a plurality of interchangeable grid plates or sinks therein. The grossing station also comprises a first and second panel arranged at the side of the hood in order to create a fume hood for use by the user of the grossing station.

Abstract: A device, and the use thereof, for imparting shearing force to superficial and deep fascial layers to improve soft tissue mobility and function. Embodiments of the invention include three general components: a strike head, a force transmitter and a patient interface. A strike force generated at or by the strike head is transmitted by the force transmitter (and normalized/modulated in the case of the force modulator version of the force transmitter) to the patient interface and thence to patient tissue.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for adjusting a clamping force of a fixing portion of a walking assistance apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus and method may measure pressures at two points positioned between a fixing portion and a body of a user, calculate a clamping force of the fixing portion based on the pressures, and control the fixing portion to output the clamping force of the fixing portion.

Abstract: A walking aid device includes a support body inclusive of a plurality of support elements extending toward the ground. Each support element is coupled to a caster and a brake unit. Each brake unit has a clutching surface. The clutching surface controllably clutches a wheel of the caster or the ground to thereby generate friction for stopping the walking aid device.

Abstract: A device for providing hands-optional mobility to a visually impaired toddler is disclosed. The device has a frame with vertical rods that connect to a toddler's body with a fastener. Curved surfaces at the distal ends of the rods slide along the floor and transmit tactile sensations to the toddler. Advantageously, the vertical rods are sufficiently flexible that the toddler cannot utilize the rods as walking aids.