Abstract: Intraocular lens delivery devices and methods of use.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis (1), including: a stent framework (2), which can be transferred from a collapsed state into an expanded state, in which the stent framework (2) extends along an axis (A?), wherein the stent framework (2) has a plurality of struts (20, 24), which form a plurality of cells (21a, 21b, 25) connected to one another; and a heart valve (3), which is fixed to the stent framework (2). In accordance with the invention, the thickness (d?) of the struts varies in the peripheral direction (U) of the expanded stent framework (2).

Abstract: A delivery catheter and a method for deploying a cardiovascular prosthetic implant using a minimally invasive procedure are disclosed. The delivery catheter comprises an elongate, flexible catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end has an outer diameter of 18 French or less, a cardiovascular prosthetic implant at the distal end of the catheter body, wherein the cardiovascular prosthetic implant comprises an inflatable cuff and a tissue valve coupled to the inflatable cuff, and at least one link between the catheter body and the cardiovascular prosthetic implant.

Abstract: Stent-valves (e.g., single-stent-valves and double-stent-valves), associated methods and systems for their delivery via minimally-invasive surgery, and guide-wire compatible closure devices for sealing access orifices are provided.

Abstract: Heart valve delivery systems and methods of delivering and implanting heart valves using delivery catheters are disclosed. The delivery systems can include a handle assembly which can include a first control mechanism, a second control mechanism, and a decoupling mechanism. The delivery systems can also include a delivery catheter extending from the handle assembly. The delivery catheter can include an outer shaft, which can be controlled by the first control mechanism; a prosthesis containing capsule comprising a proximal capsule portion connected to the outer shaft, and a distal capsule portion releasably coupled to the proximal capsule portion. After deploying a valve prosthesis, the capsule can be closed by activating the decoupling mechanism in the handle to rapidly close the distal and proximal capsule portions together. The delivery system can also include a centering element to guide the distal and proximal capsule portions together.

Abstract: Minimally invasive catheters and methods are provided for adjusting the chordae associated with an atrio-ventricular valve. The catheter is adapted to engage a selected chord and draw it into a pair of transversely spaced, receptive clamps at the distal end of the catheter in readiness to be clamped The clamps are part of a prosthetic cord assembly that includes the clamps and a cord attached to each of the clamps. The effective length of a natural chord can be increased by employing a long prosthetic cord and clamping and severing the natural chord between the clamps. The effective length of a chord can be decreased by drawing the natural chord into the distal end of the catheter to a hairpin shape and clamping the legs of the hairpin-restrained chord. The chord need not be severed when its effective length is being reduced.

Abstract: A system for improving cardiac function is provided. A foldable and expandable frame having at least one anchoring formation is attached to an elongate manipulator and placed in a catheter tube while folded. The tube is inserted into a left ventricle of a heart where the frame is ejected from the tube and expands in the left ventricle. Movements of the elongate manipulator cause the anchor to penetrate the heart muscle and the elongate manipulator to release the frame. The installed frame minimizes the effects of an akinetic portion of the heart forming an aneurysmic bulge. Devices and methods are described herein which are directed to the treatment of a patient's heart having, or one which is susceptible to heart failure, to improve diastolic function.

Abstract: An anatomically-shaped, human bone graft may be cultivated ex vivo using a bioreactor capable of perfusing large complex porous scaffolds. Scaffolds derived from image-based modeling of a target are seeded with human mesenchymal stem cells and cultivated. A bioreactor configured to house complex three-dimensional scaffold geometries provides controlled flow for perfusion of the cells. Dense uniform cellular growth can be attained throughout the entire scaffold as a result of the medium perfusion. In an embodiment, the bioreactor has a mold into which perfusion medium is pumped under pressure and multiple ports through which the medium exits the mold.

Abstract: A system and method for further improving upon an ability of a surgeon to reduce or eliminate impaction forces when installing or assembling a prosthesis. An implant includes a surface treatment for aiding operations with the implant. For example, some surface treatments provide an asymmetry in installation versus removal to bias the associated implant deeper into an installation site.

Abstract: A system and method for further improving upon an ability of a surgeon to reduce or eliminate impaction forces when installing or assembling a prosthesis. An implant includes a surface treatment and/or foundational structural regions for aiding operations with the implant. For example, some surface treatments and foundational structural regions provide an asymmetry in installation versus removal to bias the associated implant deeper into an installation site.

Abstract: A component of an artificial joint according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia, a base plate and a post selectively removable from the base plate. Further, an outer surface of the post includes a layer of the bone ingrowth material along substantially the entire length of the post.

Abstract: A bicondylar knee implants with improved fixation means for resurfacing only the weight-bearing surface of the femoral medial and lateral condyles, while preserving the cruciate ligaments and avoids displacing the patella. The inventive device includes metallic convex articular surfaces for resurfacing the medial and lateral femoral condyles, and concave multifacial non-articular surfaces to be affixed to the resected distal surfaces of the femur. The prosthesis provides claws situated at the anterior and posterior ends of the medial and lateral metallic condyles, which will firmly attach the implant against the resected femoral condyle. The prosthesis is designed to be implanted through a direct lateral approach and does not resurface the femoropatellar joint. Furthermore, a minirobot or electromechanical actuator is used to perform the femoral and tibial bone cuts using electromagnetic bone chipper.

Abstract: A radiocarpal wrist joint replacement includes a radial member configured to be affixed to a portion of an end of the radial bone proximal to the wrist including a fixture to be affixed over a longitudinal aspect of the radial bone and a radial resurfacing plate having a substantially concave surface configured to be located at the end of the radial bone. A carpal capitate bone insert configured to be inserted and affixed into the carpal capitate bone. A bulbous component includes a first convex head and a second convex head, substantially opposite each other and connected by a neck defining an annular groove between the first convex head and the second convex head. The carpal capitate bone insert is configured to be flexibly coupled to the first convex head of the bulbous component. The radial resurfacing plate of the radial member with the concave surface is configured to be operably coupled to the second convex head of the bulbous component so as to allow radial freedom of motion in the joint replacement.

Abstract: An expandable interbody implant is expandable from a contracted configuration to an expanded configuration by moving opposing first and second vertebral-engaging surfaces apart from one another. The implant includes a locking system for restraining contraction of the implant. The locking system may have a locked configuration, in which the first and second surfaces are prevented from moving back towards the contracted configuration, and the locking system may have an unlocked configuration, in which the first and second surfaces are permitted to move back towards the contracted configuration. The locking system may be controlled by rotation of one or more pinions. The pinions may, in turn, be controlled by linear movement of a rack. The rack may be configured so as to bias the locking system towards the locked configuration. The implant may also include a stop for constraining the maximum expansion of the implant.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to composite bone grafts and to methods for providing such grafts for orthopedic and other surgical uses in a subject in need thereof. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method for producing a composite bone graft, the method comprising, for example, the steps of: (i) selecting at least one donor site on at least one subject; (ii) removing at least one piece of bone, comprising cortical bone, from the at least one donor site; (iii) machining the at least one piece of bone to produce at least two bone components, each having a surface comprising at least one of a protuberance and a recess thereon; and (iv) joining the at least two machined bone components to produce a composite bone graft.

Abstract: An expandable interbody fusion device includes superior and inferior plates that are configured to receive a sequentially inserted stack of expansion members or wafers. The superior and inferior plates include features that at least initially interlock the two plates until the superior plate is dislodged by pressure from the growing wafer stack. The wafers include features on their top and bottom surfaces that interlock the wafers in multiple degrees of freedom so that the wafer stack is not disrupted when the fusion device is fully expanded. Each wafer also includes features that interlock with the inferior plate until the wafer id dislodged by sequential introduction of another wafer.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surfaces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surf aces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surf aces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surf aces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: An adjustable spinal fusion intervertebral implant is provided that can comprise upper and lower body portions that can each have proximal and distal wedge surf aces disposed at proximal and distal ends thereof. An actuator shaft disposed intermediate the upper and lower body portions can be actuated to cause proximal and distal protrusions to converge towards each other and contact the respective ones of the proximal and distal wedge surfaces. Such contact can thereby transfer the longitudinal movement of the proximal and distal protrusions against the proximal and distal wedge surfaces to cause the separation of the upper and lower body portions, thereby expanding the intervertebral implant. The upper and lower body portions can have side portions that help facilitate linear translational movement of the upper body portion relative to the lower body portion.

Abstract: Spinal implants are disclosed. One spinal implant includes a support body, an articulating element, a blocking member and a motion limiting member. The support body includes a superior end surface and a lower end surface having teeth. In between the superior end surface and the lower end surface is a recess formed in a sidewall of the support body for receiving the articulating element. The blocking member can be received in the recess to prevent inadvertent back-out of the articulating element from within the recess. The articulating element can articulate in one or more directions, thereby allowing articulation of the spinal implant into a desired position within a disc space.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft having a distal end connectable with an implant, and a handle connected to a proximal end of the shaft. The instrument defines an internal fluid channel through which a fluid can be passed. A kit includes the instrument and a spinal implant that is expandable through the introduction of the fluid therein. A method of using the instrument includes passing a fluid through an internal fluid channel defined by the instrument and toward the implant.

Abstract: A finger actuator, includes a plurality of fluidically interconnected inflatable chambers, wherein each chamber comprises outer walls having an embedded extensible layer selected to constrain radial expansion and freestanding inner walls; and an inextensible layer connected to the chambers at a base of the chambers, the inextensible layer comprising a flexible polymer and having an embedded inextensible layer that extends along the length of the finger actuator.

Abstract: The present invention is a switchable gripping terminal device that can be switched from a voluntary open prehension mode to a voluntary closed prehension mode, at will by the user. In an embodiment of the present invention, the terminal device may comprise a movable digit attached to a fixed digit, whereby the user can actuate the movable digit, such that the movable digit rotates relative to the fixed digit. The terminal device may comprise a lever, which enables the user to switch from a first mode, voluntary open (VO), to a second mode, voluntary closed (VC). This switchable biasing means, allows the user to decide the prehension mode, and easily switch the mode at will, according to the circumstances.

Abstract: Prosthetic knee joint includes: proximal part mobile in rotation around first axis between extended position and flexion position of prosthetic knee joint; the proximal part being mobile in first direction of rotation from extended position to flexion position, at least one part that is fixed when proximal part is moved in first direction of rotation; link part, arranged to connect the proximal part and part, and presenting contact surface with part; the link part and part being arranged so, when proximal part is moved in first direction of rotation, link part slides on contact surface being subjected to first friction force, when proximal part is moved in second direction of rotation, the link part slides on contact surface being subjected to second friction force strictly lower than first friction force.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for a powered ankle prosthesis. The prosthesis may comprise a polycentric mechanism having a defined path for an instantaneous center of rotation. The path of the instantaneous center of rotation may be defined by a trajectory substantially equal to an arc positioned over a joint of the polycentric mechanism.

Abstract: A method utilizing digital scanning, additive manufacturing, and electronic embedded garments for advanced fitment of prosthetic devices.

Abstract: A stent (scaffold) or other luminal prosthesis comprising circumferential structural elements which provides high strength after deployment and allows for scaffold to uncage, and/or allow for scaffold or luminal expansion thereafter. The circumferential scaffold may be formed from degradable material, or may be formed from non-degradable material and will be modified to expand and/or uncage after deployment.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for the prevention of stroke. Devices and systems hereof comprise stents configured to fit within at least part of an artery extending from an aortic arch, and at least one component comprising struts for diverting emboli from entering an artery when the component is positioned at or near its ostium. The stents and the deflection component(s) are coupled in a linked configuration. Additionally, a retrieval system and methods of using the same are provided, the retrieval system comprising a sleeve catheter and a retrieval device slidably disposed therein. The distal end of the retrieval device comprises an attachment portion configured to engage a device positioned within an artery extending from the aortic arch.

Abstract: Bioabsorbable scaffolds having high crush recoverability, high fracture resistance, and reduced or no recoil due to self expanding properties at physiological conditions are disclosed. The scaffolds are made from a random copolymer of PLLA and a rubbery polymer such as polycaprolactone.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a branched endoprosthesis comprising a graft component and at least one support component. In various embodiments, the branched endoprosthesis comprises a body portion and a plurality of leg portions, wherein the legs are in an aligned configuration for ease of cannulation. In various embodiments, at least one leg is in an open configuration for ease of cannulation. Cannulation methods are also taught.

Abstract: A stent delivery system and methods are described. The stent delivery system can include an elongate outer member defining an outer member lumen through which a self-expanding stent is deliverable. The elongate outer member can include an anisotropic portion and a rigid portion proximal to the anisotropic portion. The anisotropic portion can be radially elastic and longitudinally inelastic. The rigid portion can be radially inelastic and longitudinally inelastic.

Abstract: A stent delivery system can include a plurality of stent-engaging elements configured to move relative to each other. Each of the stent-engaging elements can include a radially outwardly projecting portion configured to engage a stent. Each of the stent-engaging elements can be configured to move the stent when distally advanced and not move the stent when proximally retracted.

Abstract: A stent delivery device including an elongate shaft having a proximal region, a distal region and at least one lumen extending therein. The stent delivery device also includes a collapsible frame attached to the distal region of the elongate shaft. The collapsible frame includes a plurality of arms configured to surround a stent such that the plurality of arms define a stent containment region. The stent delivery device also includes an inner member extending within a least a portion of the stent containment region and an actuation member configured to actuate the plurality of arms of the collapsible frame from an expanded configuration to a collapsed configuration.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating obesity are provided, including intragastric devices and methods of fabricating, deploying, inflating, locating, tracking, monitoring, deflating, and retrieving the same. In one embodiment, a device includes a balloon capsule having a distal end, a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, a connector, a light sensor, and a balloon valve. At least one optical fiber extends along the length of the interior of the catheter and through the valve such that a distal end of the optical fiber is positioned at a distal end of the balloon capsule when the catheter is placed within the balloon capsule, and such that a proximal end of the optical fiber can be received by the light sensor.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for inserting an inflatable balloon which comprises a main body of revolution (12) which defines a cone-shaped distal end and a proximal end, said main body also comprising: a first internal channel (123) passing from the proximal end to the distal end of said body for inserting a thread (3) for guiding said device; an internal compartment (125) arranged in a portion of the distal end of said body for housing an inflatable balloon (4), said compartment comprising a breakable outer surface (1251) which is continuous with the surface of said body, and a second internal channel passing from the distal end of said body to said compartment, for housing a balloon inflation tube (5) suitable for connection at the distal end thereof with an inflatable balloon inside said compartment.

Abstract: A universally adjustable cervical collar is in the form of a U-shaped base with a front joined to a pair of rearwardly extending wings. Left and right planar chin supports are pivotally connected at their distal ends to the distal ends to of respective wings with a chin piece connected between the upper proximal ends of the chin supports. An adjustable latch is individually coupled between each wing and the lower proximal end of the associated chin supports.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes an infant brace for treating an infant with a fractured clavicle. The infant brace includes a torso portion for receiving the donning infant's torso, and an arm portion for receiving the donning infant's arm on the side coinciding with the fractured clavicle. The infant brace is formed from an elastic netting material. The infant brace provides effective immobilization of the infant's affected upper arm while minimizing risks of over-heating or causing pressure sores.

Abstract: A splint may be used to support or immobilize a body portion of a patient. Some splints may include one or more features to facilitate transport, placement, and/or manipulation of a splint. For example, some splints may be relatively lightweight, rugged, and in a compact configuration prior to use. Some splints may use radiolucent materials to permit x-ray examination of the relevant appendage without removal of the splint. Some splints may be used with other accessories or devices to facilitate immobilization of a limb and/or transport of the injured individual.

Abstract: An apparatus for damping involuntary hand motions occurring in at least first and second directions is provided, the first direction being opposite the second direction. The apparatus is securable to a hand and a forearm and comprises at least a first body having a terminal movable in an internal space in the body. The body contains a Non-Newtonian fluid. A link connects the terminal to a first portion of the apparatus.

Abstract: An oral appliance for the treatment of sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, in a user is presented. The oral appliance may include a mouthpiece configured to receive a user's dentition. The mouthpiece may include an oxygen sensor, a pressure sensor, an airflow sensor, an actigraphy sensor, a noise detector, and at least one stimulator for providing stimulation to a user's tongue in the event of decreased oxygen saturation levels, increased pressure applied to occlusal surfaces of the user's dentition, decreased actual airflow levels and/or increased noise levels. The mouthpiece may further include a microprocessor that receives data from the oxygen sensor, pressure sensor, airflow sensor, actigraphy sensor and noise detector, and activates the at least one stimulator.

Abstract: A foot warming assembly to receive and heat a person's feet has a housing that consists of a bottom wall and a perimeter wall. The perimeter wall is attached to the bottom wall and extends upwards to define an upper edge. A dividing wall is attached to the perimeter wall between the bottom wall and the upper edge and divides the area inside the housing into a compartment below and an upper portion above the dividing wall. A heating element is positioned within the compartment. A controller is electrically coupled to the heating element to turn the heating element on or off. A power supply is in electrical communication with the controller and the heating element to supply electrical power to the heating element. When the controller is turned on, the heating element warms the sand in the upper portion and the sand warms a person's feet.

Abstract: Closed loop heat exchange catheters having bi-directional flow heat exchange regions and their methods of manufacture and use. The heat exchange region may be formed of expandable or non-expandable tubular conduit(s) that are configured in a series of loops or coiled configuration defining a supply flow path and a return flow path through which heat exchange medium is circulated. The individual loops of convolutions of the coiled configuration may be the same or different size. In some embodiments, the tubular conduit(s) may be passed through generally transverse bore holes formed in a catheter shaft so that the loops or convolutions of protrude from the catheter shaft.

Abstract: Drug formulations, devices and methods are provided to deliver biologically active substances to the eye. The formulations are delivered into scleral tissues adjacent to or into the suprachoroidal space without damage to the underlying choroid. One class of formulations is provided wherein the formulation is localized in the suprachoroidal space near the region into which it is administered. Another class of formulations is provided wherein the formulation can migrate to another region of the suprachoroidal space, thus allowing an injection in the anterior region of the eye in order to treat the posterior region.

Abstract: An optical interface device having an opening for an optical path that can be non-circular and having engagement members having gradually varying angles of engagement. An embodiment of the interface device can be a one size fits all device, providing a configuration that fits in all typical eye openings, including narrow palpebral fissures and small eyes, while providing optical path access to features and structures of the eye. An embodiment of the interface device engages the limbus, cornea and sclera.

Abstract: Systems, circuits, and methods to mitigate effects of short-term power losses in medical systems are provided. An exemplary surgical system includes a fluidics subsystem, a surgical instrument subsystem that couples to a surgical instrument and a power supply subsystem coupled to the surgical instrument subsystem. The power supply subsystem includes a main power supply connectable to AC mains to generate a voltage, a power bus connected to the main power supply, an alternate power supply, and a circuit that monitors the voltage on the power bus for powering the surgical instrument subsystem. The circuit automatically connects the power bus to the alternate power supply when the voltage drops below a reference voltage due to a power loss from the main power supply.

Abstract: An ocular implant delivery system is provided with a number of features. In some embodiments, the delivery system comprises a rotation mechanism configured to rotate and orient a cannula of the system, and an advancement mechanism configured to advance and retract an ocular implant through the delivery system and into an eye of a patient. In some embodiments, the cannula is sized and configured to be inserted into Schlemm's canal of the eye. The ocular implant is configured to maintain its orientation within the delivery system as the cannula is rotated. In some embodiments, the ocular implant automatically disengages the delivery system when it is advanced beyond a distal tip of the delivery system. Methods of implanting an ocular implant are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a swimming goggle swimming goggle cushion pad in contact with a wearer's face around the eye socket, comprising: a connection frame defined with an inner peripheral face and an outer peripheral face, a circumferential fitting groove mounted between the inner peripheral face and the outer peripheral face to receive a circumference of the swimming goggle frame; a face contact portion extending along the inner peripheral face of the connection frame and defined with an outer ring surface and an inner ring surface; a buffer unit disposed between the inner peripheral face of the connection frame and the outer ring surface of the face contact portion; wherein the buffer unit provides the face contact portion with support and restoring forces against a deformation stress produced between the cushion pad and the wearer's face when worn, to ensure a comfortable engagement with the wearer's face skin.

Abstract: The present application discloses a wireless projector-type auto-darkening welding helmet comprising: a helmet housing; a headband structure for securing the helmet housing; an auto-darkening filter secured on the helmet housing; a wireless communication module; and a micro-projector which is data-connected to the auto-darkening filter and the wireless communication module, wherein when the auto-darkening filter is in a transparent state, the micro-projector is adaptable to project operating parameters of the auto-darkening filter and/or data received by the wireless communication module, as images, onto a plane in front of the welding helmet such that they can be watched by an operator who wears the welding helmet on his/her head. The present application also discloses a welding apparatus equipped with said wireless projector-type auto-darkening welding helmet.