Abstract: A transverse connector system having a first and a second locking element. The present invention also provides transverse rod having opposing first and second ends, the first end being retained within a portion of the first locking element and the second end being retained within a portion of the second locking element. The first locking element is configured with a connector body for engaging and capturing an elongated rod and a transverse rod simultaneously.

Abstract: An inventive iliac connector comprises a connector head (1) and a connecting rod (2) for connecting a sacrum (S) or a spine (SP) to an ilium (I). The connector head (1) has a first hole (15) for holding a spinal rod (3) and a second hole (16) for holding the connecting rod (2), wherein the connecting rod (2) is made of a material being more flexible than titanium. This iliac connector enables a stabilization of ilium, sacrum and spine and enables at the same time movement between ilium and sacrum.

Abstract: Orthopedic fixation devices, assemblies, and methods. The orthopedic fixation devices may comprise coupling elements, hook components, and/or bone fasteners. The bone fastener may be loaded into the coupling element through the bottom of a bore in the coupling element. The orthopedic fixation devices may include modular locking clamp assemblies that can be fixed onto fasteners that are already implanted in bone. The modular locking clamp assemblies can include polyaxial locking clamp assemblies, as well as monoaxial locking clamp assemblies. The hook components may include a female hook component slidably coupled to a male hook component.

Abstract: Various embodiments described herein provide devices and associated methods for treating spinal disease by implanting one or more interspinous process spacing devices. In one embodiment, an interspinous process spacing device includes a first attachment side, a second attachment side, a spacer tray, and a securing means. The spacer tray extends from the first attachment side and is slideably insertable through a spacer tray slot formed in the second attachment side. The spacer tray is adapted to be positioned between a spinous process of a first vertebra and a spinous process of an adjacent second vertebra, and the spacer tray includes a trough formed in a top surface of the spacer tray. The securing means is configured to engage the trough of the spacer tray to secure the second attachment side relative to the first attachment side.

Abstract: Various interspinous process spacing devices and associated methods are provided for treating spinal disease. In one embodiment, an interspinous process spacing device includes a first attachment side and a second attachment side, each attachment side including one or more slots formed therein and positioned proximate one end for receiving fasteners extending inwardly from a second interspinous process spacing device. The device further includes a spacer tray extending from the first attachment side and slideably insertable through a spacer tray slot formed in the second attachment side, wherein the spacer tray is adapted to retain adjacent spinous processes in a spaced apart orientation, and wherein at least a portion of the spacer tray has a longitudinally arcuate shape adapted to facilitate angled insertion of the spacer tray through the spacer tray slot. The device further includes securing means for securing the second attachment side relative to the first attachment side.

Abstract: This disclosure describes exemplary screw and intramedullary devices that are better able to bring bone fragments into close proximity with each other, generate a compressive load, and maintain that compressive load for a prolonged period of time while healing occurs. The devices are made of a shape memory material.

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

Abstract: An extramedullary bone lengthener and use thereof that is an internal device that does not require nailing. The invention includes a telescoping plate that attaches to the upper and lower portions of the bone via screws; a small motor affixed on or within the plate. This motor, controlled remotely, will controllably lengthen the plate, thus lengthening the bone. The bone will be cut (osteotomy) then the plate will be applied to both ends and fixed to each end with screws. The motor will be controlled from outside by a remote control which will allow the plate to expand causing lengthening of the attached bone.

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a medical device is disclosed that includes an end plate. The end plate includes a fixation portion configured to attach to a proximal bone segment. The end plate further includes a second portion including an opening configured to receive a medical device. The apparatus further includes a tightening head shaped for selective placement within the opening. The tightening head is further configured for engagement with the medical device.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a moveable bone plate implantation system, controlled movement assembly, and method. The moveable bone plate implantation system includes a movement instrument, translation member removeably coupled to the movement instrument, and a bone plate detachably connected to the translation member. The controlled movement assembly includes a translation member and a bone plate. The translation member includes a shaft with a first end and a second end and a head portion at the first end. The head portion includes an engagement groove recessed into the head portion and a lip extending out from a bottom portion of the engagement groove. The bone plate includes an engagement aperture for receiving the engagement groove and the lip engages a bottom surface of the bone plate during translation of the bone plate. A method for moving bones is also disclosed.

Abstract: An anatomical shoulder fixation system having a stem having a plurality of holes configured to receive bone screws. The stem having compressible suture locking members protruding from the flared head portion configured to receive and lock an elongated member. The plurality of holes configured to have locking mechanisms abutting the holes. The locking mechanisms preventing the bone screw from backing out while also providing the screw the freedom necessary to realign itself during the healing process. In one locking mechanism embodiment, a locking member utilizing a frustoconical split ring configured lock within a retention groove of the bone screw. Another embodiment has a rotating member with a protrusion that locks into a retention groove of the bone screw. An alternative embodiment has a rotating member that rotates over the bone screw utilizing a complimentary angle between the screw head and the protrusion.

Abstract: A screw fixing apparatus includes a screw inserted into a human body, and a screw anchor having an insertion hole that receives the screw. The screw anchor is inserted into the human body and the screw is inserted into the human body.

Abstract: Systems and methods for indicating an interval in which a procedure (or sub-procedure) should be carried out are disclosed. Some systems and methods involve timing various sub-procedures and alerting a practitioner at the completion of a sub-procedure period. Some systems and methods include a sensor, such as a temperature sensor, that is used determine a window of time in which a variable-viscosity material is of suitable viscosity for delivery to a patient.

Abstract: A handling device for handling an augmentation implant is proposed, comprising an elongated housing having an axial through-bore for accommodating a sonotrode of an ultrasound applicator, and a lateral opening for inserting a pin magazine with an augmentation pin, wherein the axial through-bore and the lateral opening are connected to each other.

Abstract: A centering assembly for centering a surgical guidewire, includes a guidewire having an elongate body having a first end and a second end. The assembly further includes an expander located at the first end. The expander has a center point aligned with the elongate guidewire. An actuator is located at the second end. Actuation of the actuator moves the expander between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration.

Abstract: A reference guide tool for conforming a bone plate can include a series of bone templates, each having a distinct three-dimensional shape that replicates portions of various clavicles. Each bone template of the series of bone templates can have a plate engaging surface that is configured to engage a bone plate and provide a reference for the bone plates during structural modification of the bone plate.

Abstract: A bone fixation device for treatment of a bone fracture includes a fixation screw defining a transverse opening, a fixation arm configured for inserting the fixation screw through a bone fracture, a set screw, and an aiming arm configured for inserting the set screw into the transverse opening and engagement with the fixation screw. The set screw stabilizes the fixation screw.

Abstract: A device, system, and method for ligating the left atrial appendage without creating pro-arrhythmic tissue. The device may generally include a snare including a thermally transmissive distal portion and a suture including a distal portion, both distal portions having a lasso-shaped configuration that may be positioned proximate the base of the left atrial appendage. Once the distal portions of the snare and the suture are tightened around the base of the left atrial appendage, the thermally transmissive distal portion of the snare may be activated to create an ablation lesion in adjacent left atrial appendage tissue. The lesion may be created with radiofrequency energy or through cryoablation by the circulation of refrigerant within the thermally transmissive distal portion of the snare.

Abstract: A cryosurgical instrument including: a shaft having a closed distal end defining an expansion chamber and a proximal end that receives an inflow of cryogen and to exhaust a flow of expanded cryogen; and a heat exchanger with a cryogen delivery tube that spirals around a core disposed along a longitudinal axis thereof. The cryogen delivery tube, where it spirals, is in fluid tight contact with the inner surface of the shaft so as to form spiraling cryogen exhaust pathways that extend along a portion of a length of the cryosurgical instrument from the distal end of the shaft The cryogen delivery tube forces a two-phase flow of cryogen to undergo phase separation by centrifugal forces and urges the liquid phase against the external walls of the spiral coil and the outer surface of the spiral gap. Heat exchanging occurs close to the external wall of the instrument.

Abstract: A cautery pen tip accessory cover comprises a cylindrical member that can receive a cautery pen in a first end and the tip of the cautery pen can extend from a second opposite end when the cover is in a retracted configuration. The cylindrical member has an opened lateral exposure that allows the feel of the cautery pen therethrough. A cover exposure opening in the cylindrical member to provide access to a trigger of the cautery pen when the cautery pen tip cover is in the retracted configuration. A resilient member urges the cautery pen tip cover to the non-retracted configuration where access to the cautery pen trigger is prevented. The cylindrical member is easily retracted by a finger ring configured permanently into the cylindrical member, allowing easy retraction of the cover by the operator squeezing the cover to a resistance bar stabilization system accessory configured over the cautery pen.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument includes an elongated housing having proximal and distal ends. The proximal end is configured to couple to a source of electrosurgical energy via first and second channels extending along a length of the housing to the distal end thereof. The distal end includes a reflector having a dielectric load operably coupled thereto and configured to receive at least a portion of the first conductor therein. In a first mode of operation, electrosurgical energy is transmitted to the first channel and reflected from the reflector to electrosurgically treat tissue. The reflector is configured to receive at least a portion of the second channel therein. In a second mode of operation, electrosurgical energy is transmitted to the second channel to dissect tissue.

Abstract: A catheter adapted for pulmonary vein isolation, has a distal electrode assembly that can sit stably in an ostium as secured by a plurality of spines and a membrane member. Preshapened and flexible, the spines support the membrane in a concave configuration when the distal electrode assembly approaches the ostium, the spines and membrane member being sized and configured to span across and over the ostium. As the distal electrode assembly is pushed into the ostium, the membrane member elastically deforms, generally turning inside out to expose surface electrodes carried on a contact surface of the membrane member and ring electrodes carried on the spine for contact with the ostium. The membrane member may be inflated. The ring electrodes contact tissue along axial lines of the ostium. The surface electrodes contact tissue along radial lines of the ostium.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a catheter having a lasso electrode assembly with a movable spine. The lasso electrode assembly may have an array of sensing electrodes and may be configured to engage the ostium of the vessel of a patient. The movable spine may have an ablation electrode and may travel along track around the circumference of the lasso electrode assembly. By adjusting the position of the movable spine, tissue may be ablated to form lesions around a circumference of the vessel.

Abstract: A catheter for ablating tissue is disclosed that has a self-centering multiray electrode assembly. The self-centering multiray electrode assembly may have a plurality of spines, each of which a preshaped, expanded configuration that curves to change an orientation of the spine from being directed towards the distal end of catheter body to being directed towards the proximal end of the catheter body. The ablation electrodes engage ostial tissue when a maximal outer diameter of the self-centering multiray electrode assembly is engaged with an inner diameter of a vessel. The compliance of each spine may vary along its length. When the self-centering multiray electrode assembly is engaged within a vessel, the ablation electrodes are brought into contact with tissue and may be used to form lesions in a circumferential path around the vessel.

Abstract: Surgical resection electrodes use a tungsten heavy metal alloy for construction of the active head, providing long operating time as compared to conventional designs. A bore-through design adds to the stability of the electrode head and provides full electrode ignition very efficiently. Angled branch wire connections enhance visualization of tissues and minimize deterioration of insulation by reducing buildup of concentrated heat. A cavity on the back side of the electrode blocks any discharge from leads' insulation at the back side, thus reducing the risk of premature breaking of the lead wires because of sparking.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a electrocatheter for surgical operations with electrodes. It allows you to adjust the physical properties of the electrodes during the electrocatheter production, thus eliminating undesirable effects due to energy absorption by these electrodes, and which allows to obtain a remarkable reduction of production time of the electrocatheter.

Abstract: A device for delivering a composition to a hollow body region is disclosed. In one aspect, the device comprises a first longitudinal member and a second longitudinal member. Both of the longitudinal members may comprise conductive electrodes. The longitudinal members are further configured to be connected to an energy source such that the conductive electrodes are configured to generate an energy field. At least one of the longitudinal members further comprises a delivery element configured to deliver at least one composition to the body region, such that the composition is delivered in a direction that is influenced by the generated energy field.

Abstract: A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an antenna assembly and an elongated body member. The elongated body member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal and distal end portions define a longitudinal axis. The elongated body member has a chamber defined therein that extends along the longitudinal axis, and a body wall surrounding the chamber. An antenna assembly is disposed in the chamber. The elongated body member also includes an opening in the body wall to allow energy radiated from the antenna assembly to transfer into the target volume of tissue.

Abstract: Microwave ablation applicators and methods for manufacturing the microwave ablation applicators are disclosed. A microwave ablation applicator includes a feed-line segment, a step-down segment, and a radiator base segment. The feed-line segment includes a first inner conductor, a first dielectric disposed on the first inner conductor, and a first outer conductor disposed on the first dielectric. The step-down segment includes a second inner conductor, a second dielectric disposed on the second inner conductor, and a second outer conductor disposed on the second dielectric. The radiator base segment includes a third inner conductor disposed on the third inner conductor, a third outer conductor disposed on the proximal end of the third dielectric so as to form a feed gap at a distal end of the radiator base segment, a balun dielectric disposed on the third outer conductor, and a balun outer conductor disposed on the balun dielectric.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a planning station can receive image data associated with an image(s) of an area of interest within a body of a patient and display the image(s) on a display device. A user can make a selection of a first interventional tool and a second interventional tool about which information is stored in a memory of the planning station. The planning station can execute a simulation viewable on the display device of a treatment plan for disposing the first and second interventional tools in the body of the patient and applying thermal energy from the first and second interventional tools to the body of the patient. The planning station can generate a thermal model of the thermal effect collectively produced on tissue of the patient by the first interventional tool and the second interventional tools and display the thermal model on the display device.

Abstract: A shape estimation device includes an input circuit, a storage circuit and an arithmetic circuit. The input circuit receives light amount information being a relationship between a wavelength and a light amount. The light amount information is acquired by using a sensor configured such that the light amount to be detected with respect to the wavelength corresponding to each of sensing parts varies in accordance with a shape of each sensing part. The storage circuit stores a light amount estimation relationship including a relationship among the shape, the wavelength and the light amount. The arithmetic circuit calculates a light amount estimation value by an optimization arithmetic operation such that the estimation value based on the light amount estimation relationship and the light amount information satisfy a predetermined condition.

Abstract: In an articulating probe system, an articulating probe is constructed and arranged to articulate in at least one degree of motion and to transition between a flexible state and a rigid state, the articulating probe comprising a plurality of links between a proximal link and a distal link The distal link of the articulating probe includes a side port constructed and arranged to receive a distal end of an elongate tool. A tool support is in communication with the articulating probe for supporting the elongate tool, the tool support including a tool tube that extends from the tool support at an intermediate portion to the side port of the distal link at a distal portion, the tool tube having a first flexibility in the intermediate portion and having a second flexibility in the distal portion; the second flexibility being greater in flexibility than the first flexibility.

Abstract: An articulate probe device includes a first mechanism, a second mechanism, and an overtube mechanism. The first mechanism includes a proximal link which is movable coupled to a first intermediate link, a plurality of intermediate links, and a distal link which is moveably coupled to a second one of the intermediate links. The second mechanism includes a proximal link which is movable coupled to a first intermediate link, a plurality of intermediate links, and a distal link which is moveably coupled to a second one of the intermediate links. The overtube mechanism includes a proximal link which is movable coupled to a first intermediate link, a plurality of intermediate links, and a proximal link which is moveably coupled to a second one of the intermediate links. Further, at least one of the first mechanism, second mechanism, and overtube mechanism is steerable and extendable beyond the other mechanisms.

Abstract: Instrument device with an elongated, flexible shaft that is configured to both roll and articulate in a controllable manner. The claimed system and apparatus provides endoscopic rolling and articulating capabilities with minimal tradeoffs in control, allowing for greater ease of use and clinical efficacy.

Abstract: Waste container lid assemblies configured for attachment to a base having a lid body and cap portion slidalby connected by a tether. The lid body having an opening sized to accept medical waste and restrict access to prevent individuals from reaching into the waste container through the opening. A slot is in the lid body to permit slidable movement of the tether through the slot such the cap can be moved from a resting position in which the opening is configured for receiving waste to a closed position such that the cap portion covers the opening.

Abstract: A stabilizer system for supporting a medical device includes a platform and a stabilizer body positioned on the platform and being slidably translatable about the platform. The platform includes a translation actuator configured to engage with a receiving member of the stabilizer body. Actuation of the translation actuator passes a force to the receiving member of the stabilizer body and causes the stabilizer body to translate relative to the platform. The stabilizer body includes a base and one or more support wings extending from the base to support a medical device. A straddle actuator is coupled to a support wing and is configured to engage with the medical device. Actuation of the straddle actuator passes a force to the medical device and causes at least a portion of the medical device to translate relative to the stabilizer body.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are fiducial markers that include a sealed casing member containing a mixture of iodine and water that includes about 1-300 mg/ml iodine. The fiducial markers may be distinguishable on at least two imaging modalities, such as CT and MRI. The casing member may include a plastic or elastomeric material, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polypropylene, latex, nylon, dynaflex, and may take the form of a length of IV tubing sealed at each of two ends. The length of IV tubing may be crimped to form a desired shape, such as a triangle. Also disclosed are methods of making fiducial markers that are distinguishable on at least two imaging modalities, such as CT and MRI.

Abstract: A marking apparatus includes a rigid cannula having a peripheral wall forming a lumen that carries an imaging marker. A lateral opening in the peripheral wall is open to the lumen. The lateral opening has a proximal extent and a distal extent. A closed-off distal portion is distal to the lateral opening. A resilient end wall extends downwardly from the peripheral wall at the distal extent of the lateral opening. A stylet has a distal end having a ramp. The stylet is slidably received within the lumen of the rigid cannula for movement in the lumen. The resilient end wall of the rigid cannula is configured to engage the ramp of the distal end of the stylet when the stylet is advanced through the lumen of the rigid cannula to an extended position to substantially close off the lateral opening of the rigid cannula.

Abstract: A method of marking a surgical instrument with a symbol formed in or on a smooth surface comprises forming a symbol in or on a smooth surface of the surgical instrument; and forming a plurality of angled surfaces over at least part of the area of the symbol. The angled surfaces define a plurality of parallel ridges and grooves in the symbol. The steps of forming the symbol and forming the plurality of angled surfaces take place substantially simultaneously in a single step.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a dental screwdriver having a shaft portion made of a smart type alloy that bends with little or no resistance along an arch forming portion thereof and without imparting torqueing forces along a distal front end portion thereof onto which is connected a drive tip designed to interface with an appropriately sized screw. The smart alloy automatically assumes its original shape in the absence of twisting forces on the shaft along the arch forming portion. In an alternate embodiment, assuming the original shape involves applying heat and/or subtle finger pressure. The dental screwdriver may be part of a set of screwdrivers, each having a distal front end portion which is uniquely weighted, sized and/or dimensioned to accommodate different driver tips, handle different torqueing functions, and/or configured to bend to a specific maximum angular arch without permanent deformation. A dental prosthetic having a curved bore cavity is also described.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus for a flowable component includes a storage container having a storage chamber for the reception of the component, a filling opening and a dispensing opening. A piston is displaceably arranged within the storage container in the direction of an expulsion direction. Moreover, dispensing apparatus includes an actuation element by which the piston can be displaced stepwise in the direction of the dispensing opening. After release of the actuation element actuation element is displaced from a final position into a starting position by a spring.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for treating teeth to correct for malocclusions. This may be accomplished by applying a series of labels to a digital dental model and applying a rolling ball process to identify tooth boundaries separating one tooth from a neighboring tooth and to also determine the crown/gum margin. The user may further assign regions to the dental model to indicate hard regions and soft regions. With the dental model labeled and defined, the user may then generate a treatment plan for moving the labeled and defined tooth or teeth relative to one another to correct for any malocclusions. Upon approval of the treatment plan, a series of 3D printed dental appliances or aligners to be worn in series by the patient may be fabricated to ultimately move the tooth or teeth to a desired position.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of tooth models each including computer code controlling its movement. The system also includes a tooth movement control system (TMCS) with a processor executing a dental manager module and with memory scoring a different tooth movement plan for each of the tooth models. In practice, the tooth movement plans are stored in the memory of each of the tooth models (e.g., a different tooth movement plan for each tooth model). Then, during tooth movement operation, each of the local control modules independently controls the tooth model to execute the tooth movement plan stored in the memory of the tooth model.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for fabricating an oral appliance are described for correcting malocclusions on a dentition of a subject. A three-dimensional representation of the dentition may be captured and a free-form structure having a lattice structure which matches at least part of a surface of the dentition is generated. The lattice structure defines a plurality of open spaces such that the free-form structure is at least partially transparent. The lattice structure may then be manufactured by impregnating or covering a coating into or upon the lattice structure such that the oral appliance is formed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for fabricating a dental or oral appliance utilizing support structures. A three dimensional representation of the dentition of a patient may be captured and reconfigured for correcting one or more malocclusions. The oral appliance may be printed upon an inner structure which supports the oral appliance during fabrication. The inner structure may be subsequently removed once the oral appliance is completed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for cutting and trimming dental molds and oral appliances by receiving a digital model of teeth, determining a cutting loop path and applying a drape wall to the cutting loop to generate a simplified tooth base in a dental mold having an inner arch curve and an outer arch curve. The oral appliance may be formed on the dental mold and a cutter may be applied using a sweeping motion across the inner and outer arch curves.

Abstract: Method and system for displaying an orthodontic related image including one or more image segments, selecting one or more movement indicators associated with a corresponding one or more of the image segments, and dynamically displaying a modified orthodontic related image based on the selected one or more movement indicators are provided.

Abstract: Method and system including receiving one or more parameters associated with an orthodontic condition, receiving a treatment goal information associated with the orthodontic condition, and providing a predefined template associated with the received treatment goal information, wherein the predefined template includes at least one orthodontic condition related information, are provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for treating teeth to correct for malocclusions. This may be accomplished in one variation by receiving a scanned dental model of a subject's dentition, determining a treatment plan having a plurality of incremental movements for repositioning one or more teeth of the subject's dentition, and fabricating one or more aligners correlating to a first subset of the plurality of incremental movements.

Abstract: The orthodontic assembly is used in a user's mouth to facilitate tooth movement. The orthodontic assembly includes an interchangeable clip member configured to be removably affixed to a frame member such that the clip member engages at least one of the user's teeth. The orthodontic assembly further includes a frame member configured to be removably positioned proximate the lingual portion of user's teeth. The frame member includes a fastening mechanism configured to cooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member may be removably affixed to the frame member.