Abstract: Assemblies for securing fractured bone are provided. The assembly includes a first fixation element, a second fixation element, and an adjustable flexible member construct. The first fixation element having a male or a female sleeve is secured within a first portion of the fractured bone. The second fixation element having the other of the male or female sleeve telescopically received within the one of the male or female sleeve is secured within a second portion of the fractured bone. The adjustable flexible member construct extends between the first and second fixation elements and has at least one adjustable loop coupled to the first fixation element and the second fixation element and a pair of adjusting ends extending through an opening in the first fixation element. The pair of adjusting ends can be pulled to reduce a diameter of the adjustable loop and to compress fragments of the fractured bone.

Abstract: An apparatus for securing a cerclage member about a bone within a living body comprises a crimp including a first space extending longitudinally therethrough from a first space proximal opening to a first space distal opening, the first space sized and shaped to slidably receive a cerclage member therein and a second space extending parallel to the first space from a second space proximal opening to a second space distal opening, the second space including a proximal portion to receive the cerclage member and a distal portion decreasing in cross-sectional area and an insert that, when inserted into the second space distal opening adjacent to a cerclage member, a decreasing cross-sectional area of the second space distal portion forces the insert laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the second space, pinching and locking the cerclage member against movement relative to the crimp.

Abstract: A closure system may secure a first bone portion to a second bone portion. The closure system may include a bracket, a band and a tensioning device. The bracket may include a first portion adapted to engage the first bone portion and a second portion adapted to engage the second bone portion. The band may engage the bracket and may be adapted to be looped around the first and second bone portions. The tensioning device may include a body and a threaded member. The threaded member may be received in the body and may engage the band such that rotation of the threaded member relative to the body moves a first end of the band relative to a second end of the band.

Abstract: A patella protector may be positioned in a manner in which it does not obstruct a patella or a prosthesis, while providing protection for the patella from accidental damage during a surgical procedure, such as a knee replacement. The patella protector may be a clamp with two contact surfaces connected by a stainless steel connecting element providing an inward bias to hold the contact surfaces against the patella.

Abstract: An orthopedic guidewire includes an elongate guidewire body having longitudinally spaced proximal and distal guidewire ends. An engaging feature is located at the distal guidewire end and is configured to selectively engage a bone surface. At least one of a variable diameter and a variable stiffness are along a portion of the guidewire body spaced apart from the engaging feature. A method of providing a relative location indication during a surgical procedure utilizing the orthopedic guidewire is also included.

Abstract: A cassette for a heated fluid ablation system, comprises a fluid supply lumen receiving an ablation fluid from an external fluid source and a fluid chamber containing a therapeutic agent in combination with an impeller pumping the ablation fluid out of the cassette via to a fluid delivery lumen when the cassette is in a first configuration and pumping the therapeutic agent out of the cassette via the fluid delivery lumen when the cassette is in a second configuration.

Abstract: An electrosurgical wand. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are electrosurgical wands configured as a surgical forceps including opposed legs that defines respective distal end portions, the legs of the forceps operable to be actuated between an open position and a closed position, an active and return electrode disposed on one of the respective distal end portions, a discharge aperture on one of the distal end portions coupled to a first fluid conduit, and an aspiration aperture through the return electrode on the other of the distal end portions fluidly coupled to a second fluid conduit. In embodiments, the position of the forceps' legs, and the electrical energy applied to the electrodes, is adjusted to provide dissection or coagulation to the tissue. A stop or latch on the forceps' legs may maintain the active and return electrode a fixed distance from one another.

Abstract: An in vivo capsule has a cauterization element that may be deployed by physician while in vivo for cauterizing a lesion, such as bleeding. Energy is transferred from outside of the patient's body to the capsule and specifically to the ablating element, such as via a resonance circuit. Accordingly, it is the object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for precisely cauterizing or ablating tissue in-vivo. Embodiments of the invention may provide an in-vivo device having a cauterization or ablation element incorporated therein and a system and method for controlled navigation of the in-vivo cauterization device through a body lumen.

Abstract: A surgical instrument system includes a surgical instrument, a power supply, and an accessory. The surgical instrument has a first induction device positioned therein. The accessory is selectively operably couplable to the surgical instrument. The accessory includes a second induction device that is inductively coupled with the first induction device when the accessory is operably coupled to the surgical instrument such that the power supply provides power to the accessory.

Abstract: An energy source for use with an electrosurgical system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the energy source includes a power supply, one or more capacitors coupled to the power supply, and a switching component coupled to the one or more capacitors. The switching component is configured to output pulses of a biphasic waveform. The pulses are capable of treating undesired tissue by inducing a change in voltage potential across cell membranes of a plurality of cells in the undesired tissue to promote non-thermal cell death in the plurality of cells. The pulses are also capable of treating the undesired tissue with no or minimal muscle contractions in patient tissue within reach of the biphasic waveform during treatment of the undesired tissue.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treating nasal airways are provided. Such devices and methods may improve airflow through an internal and/or external nasal valve, and comprise the use of mechanical re-shaping, energy application and other treatments to modify the shape, structure, and/or air flow characteristics of an internal nasal valve, an external nasal valve or other nasal airways.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device that has a head having a face. A handle connectable to an RF generator. The device has a plurality of teeth extending from the face. At least one of the plurality of teeth as a first electrical charge. A second of the plurality of teeth has a second electrical charge.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating tissue in a tissue treatment region. The apparatus can comprise an electrode ring having an interior perimeter and an electrode probe having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the electrode probe can be structured to axially translate relative to the interior perimeter of the electrode ring. The electrode ring and the electrode probe can be operably structured to conduct current therebetween when at least one of the electrode ring and the electrode probe is energized by an energy source. Further, the energy source can be a Radio Frequency (RF) energy source, a pulsed energy source, an irreversible electroporation energy source, or a pulsed irreversible electroporation energy source. A current from the energy source can be selected to non-thermally ablate tissue in the tissue treatment region.

Abstract: An electrosurgical probe with internal cooling for use in systems and methods for lesioning in bone and other tissue is disclosed. The probe includes a distal electrical insulator, a proximal electrical insulator, a distal electrical conductor defining a distal electrode with a closed distal end and a proximal electrical conductor defining a proximal electrode, the distal electrode longitudinally spaced apart and electrically isolated from the proximal electrode by the distal electrical insulator. The distal electrode has a closed proximal end formed by a distal face of the distal electrical insulator to thereby define a closed distal inner lumen for circulating the cooling fluid. The proximal electrode has a closed distal end formed by a proximal face of the distal electrical insulator and a closed proximal end formed by a distal face of the proximal electrical insulator to thereby define a closed proximal inner lumen for circulating the cooling fluid.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate.

Abstract: Ablation electrode assemblies include an inner core member and an outer shell surrounding the inner core member. The inner core member and the outer shell define a space or separation region therebetween. The inner core member is constructed from a thermally insulative material having a reduced thermal conductivity. In an embodiment, the space is a sealed or evacuated region. In other embodiments, irrigation fluid flows within the space. The ablation electrode assembly further includes at least one thermal sensor in some embodiments. Methods for providing irrigation fluid during cardiac ablation of targeted tissue are disclosed that include calculating the energy delivered to irrigation fluid as it flows within the ablation electrode assembly through temperature measurement of the irrigation fluid. Pulsatile flow of irrigation fluid can be utilized in some embodiments of the disclosure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a catheter (20) adapted for open-loop irrigated ablation, such as RF ablation, of a tissue (40). Said catheter has a distal tip (22) with an ablation entity (15) adapted for performing ablation of the tissue, an irrigation hole (21) and an ultrasound transducer (5) adapted for transmitting and/or receiving ultrasonic waves. The ultrasound transducer is disposed behind or in the irrigation hole of the catheter, so as to allow an irrigation fluid to flow out of the irrigation hole, and so as to allow transmitting and/or receiving the ultrasonic waves through the irrigation hole. The invention also relates to an imaging system and to a corresponding method for operating a catheter.

Abstract: A catheter includes an elongated body having a longitudinal axis, a distal assembly distal the elongated body, the distal assembly having a tapered helical form comprising a larger, electrode-carrying proximal loop and a smaller, softer distal loop, and a shape-memory support member extending through at least the proximal loop. For example, the helical loop subtends at least about 720 radial degrees, with the proximal loop subtending about 360 radial degrees, and the distal loop subtending about 360 radial degrees. The softer distal loop with a straight distal end atraumatically guides the distal assembly into a tubular region so that the larger proximal loop can sit on the ostium of the tubular region with improved electrode and tissue contact.

Abstract: The catheter allows mapping and/or ablation of the area around two or more PV ostia at the same time, with a single placement of a distal section of the catheter having a 2D configuration resembling an infinity or lazy 8 symbol. The catheter has an elongated catheter body, a distal section having at least a flexible elongated member with shape memory, the member being configured to assume a 2D configuration resembling an infinity symbol, and at least one electrode mounted on the member. The 2D configuration resembles a first loop and a second loop, wherein the first and second loops are side-by-side, generally extending in a common plane.

Abstract: A catheter adapted for mapping and/or ablation in the atria has a basket-shaped electrode array with two or more location sensors with a deflectable expander. The catheter has comprises a catheter body, a basket electrode assembly at a distal end of the catheter body, and a control handle at a proximal end of the catheter body. The basket electrode assembly has a plurality of electrode-carrying spines and an expander that is adapted for longitudinal movement relative to the catheter body for expanding and collapsing the assembly via a proximal end portion extending past the control handle that can be pushed or pulled by a user. The expander is also adapted for deflection in responsive to an actuator on the control handle that allows a user to control at least one puller wire extending through the catheter body and the expander.

Abstract: A radiation applicator (102) for applying electromagnetic radiation to tissue, comprising: an axial central conductor (124) adapted to be coupled to a source of electromagnetic radiation and defining an axis; an elongate dielectric member (126), the dielectric member surrounding at least part of said central conductor along an axial length thereof; a metal ferrule (106), the ferrule being attached to the dielectric member and surrounding a portion of the central conductor and extending parallel thereto along a length thereof. The ferrule and the dielectric member have respective elongate cooperating surfaces and wherein the ferrule and the dielectric member are fixed to each other with said cooperating surfaces in close abutment, thereby providing a rigid structure.

Abstract: The device for carrying out underskin radiation treatment consists of a handpiece that allows easy manipulation by physicians, with a part that can be inserted below the skin and a part that can be held and manipulated outside the body. The part inserted below the skin can be vibrated or oscillated by means of suitable transducers to aid in distributing the radiation. Simultaneously or immediately afterwards, liquefied tissue is aspirated. If convenient, fluid irrigation of the area to be treated can be done. In a preferred embodiment, handpiece consists in a hollow cannula incorporating at least one channel for suction and/or irrigation and a light guiding means in its body/wall section for the purpose of the treatment and liquefaction of adipose tissue. The device further comprises at least one radiation source, included in device part affixed to the handpiece either in a permanent or detachable manner.

Abstract: An apparatus may include an optical fiber having an angled grating aligned along a plane non-normal to a longitudinal axis of a distal end portion of the optical fiber. The angled grating may be configured to redirect a first laser energy propagated within the optical fiber and incident on the angled grating to a direction offset from the longitudinal axis. The apparatus may also include a metallic cap coupled to the optical fiber. The metallic cap may have an inner surface configured to redirect a second laser energy incident on the inner surface along the direction offset from the longitudinal axis. The second laser energy being different than the first laser energy.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a method of initiating an optical fiber of a tip assembly to form a finished tip assembly. In some embodiments, at least a portion of a distal portion of the optical fiber is coated with an energy absorbing initiating material. In some embodiments, the initiating material is an enamel material including a mixture of brass (copper and zinc) flakes or aluminum flakes in a solution of organic solvents. After the initiating material dries, a diode laser is fired through the optical fiber. The laser energy is at least partially absorbed in the initiating material and ignites the organic solvents. This combustion melts the material of the optical fiber, and impregnates the optical fiber with the metal flakes of the initiating material. The resulting initiated optical fiber is thus permanently modified so that the energy applied through the fiber is partially absorbed and converted to heat.

Abstract: A surgical instrument positioning system includes articulating arms for coarse adjustment and a micro manipulator connectable to the articulating arms for fine adjustment. The micro manipulator selectively holds the surgical instrument and is operable to adjust the position of the surgical instrument. The micro manipulator includes two adjustment assemblies for providing linear adjustment and two adjustment assemblies for providing rotational adjustment. Features of the system also provide for control of the amount of free movement or play within the micro manipulator. Also a stop feature works in conjunction with the adjustment assemblies to maintain the tip of the instrument at an intersection of the two rotational axes facilitating rotational adjustment of the micro manipulator without linear displacement of the instrument tip.

Abstract: A robotic punch system employs a robot unit (70) and a control unit (80). The robot unit (70) includes a robot (71) and an endoscopic punch (72) mounted to the robot (71). The endoscopic punch (72) includes a calibrated spatial alignment of an endoscope (73) and a punch (74). The control unit (80) commands the robot (71) for deploying the endoscopic punch (72) in executing a puncture of an anatomical tissue (92).

Abstract: A surgical instrument device includes a surgical instrument portion which is used in a surgical operation, a slave arm which holds the surgical instrument, a driving rod which is formed in a shaft shape, of which one end portion in the axial direction is connected to the surgical instrument and the other end portion in the axial direction is supported by the slave arm, and which transmits a force between the surgical instrument and the slave arm, a distance change detecting unit which detects a change in distance between two points in the axial direction of the driving rod based on a distance when no load is applied to the surgical instrument, and a force calculating unit which calculates a force applied from the surgical instrument or the slave arm to the driving rod based on the change in distance detected by the distance change detecting unit.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a method and system for performing robot-assisted surgical procedures. The system includes a robotic arm system assembly, an end effector assembly, and a hybrid control mechanism for robotic surgery. The robotic arm is a lightweight, bedside robot with a large range of motion, which can be easily manipulated to position endoscope and surgical instruments. The control console is mounted at the distal end of the robotic arm to enable robotic arm to follow operators arm movement, provide physical support, filter out hand tremor, and constrain motion. A universal adapter is also described as an interface to connect traditional laparoscopic tools to the robotic arm.

Abstract: A computer-assisted surgery system comprises a first surgical device with a tracking unit tracked during a surgical procedure and adapted to perform a first function associated to the surgical procedure. A second surgical device is adapted to perform a second function associated to the surgical procedure. A triggered unit is triggered when the first surgical device and the second surgical device reach a predetermined proximity relation. A surgical procedure processing unit tracks the first surgical device. A trigger detector detects a triggering of the triggered unit. A CAS application operates steps of a surgical procedure. A controller commands the CAS application to activate a selected step associated with the second function in the surgical procedure when the trigger detector signals a detection. An interface displays information about the selected step in the surgical procedure.

Abstract: A system and method for converting static/still medical images of a particular patient into dynamic and interactive images interacting with medical tools including medical devices by coupling a model of tissue dynamics and tool characteristics to the patient specific imagery for simulating a medical procedure in an accurate and dynamic manner by coupling a model of tissue dynamics to patient specific imagery for simulating cerebral aneurysm clipping surgery.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided in which devices that are employed during a medical procedure are adaptively configured during the medical procedure, based on input or feedback that is associated with the current state, phase or context of the medical procedure. In some example embodiments, the input is obtained via the identification of one or more medical instruments present within a region of interest, and this input may be employed to determine configuration parameters for configuring the device. In other example embodiments, the input may be based on the image-based detection of a measure associated with the phase or context of the medical procedure, and this input may be employed to adaptively control the device based on the inferred context or phase of the medical procedure. In other embodiments, images from one imaging modality may be employed to adaptively switch to another imaging modality.

Abstract: Certain aspects and features of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for accessing a surgical data structure that that includes a plurality of nodes, each associated with a procedural state, connected by a plurality of edges. The surgical data structure is used to determine a current node associated with a discrete procedural state and present relevant procedural metadata associated with the procedural state to the relevant system user. The current node is determined by receiving live surgical data, detecting a component from the live surgical data using feature extraction techniques, and identifying a current node based on the component extracted from the live surgical data. In some examples, the systems and methods retrieve a set of procedural metadata associated with the current node from the surgical data structure and transmit the set of procedural metadata to the appropriate user.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a synthetic (virtual) orthopedic treatment device (e.g. a virtual external fixator representing a physical fixator attachable to a patient anatomic structure) is displayed concurrently in two views (e.g. anterior-posterior and lateral) along corresponding digital medical images (e.g. X-rays), and rotation/translation user input received along one of the images is used to concurrently control both displays of the orthopedic treatment device to reflect the rotation/translation user input.

Abstract: A synthetic representation of a tool for display on a user interface of a robotic system. The synthetic representation may be used to show force on the tool, an actual position of the tool, or to show the location of the tool when out of a field of view. A three-dimensional pointer is also provided for a viewer in the surgeon console of a telesurgical system.

Abstract: A tension mechanism for a robotically-controlled medical device measures the tension applied to an actuation tendon to provide feedback to a robotic controller. In one embodiment, the device comprises an elongated instrument, an elongated member, and a base. The elongated member is coupled to the distal end of the elongated instrument, configured to actuate the distal end of the elongated instrument in response to tension in the elongated member. The base is located at the proximal end of the elongated instrument, and comprises a first redirect surface that redirects the elongated member. The first redirect surface is coupled to a lever element that is configured to exert a reactive force on a sensor in response to tension in the elongated member.

Abstract: A device sized and shaped for insertion into a body comprising: at least one mechanical limb comprising: a support segment; a first flexible section extending from the support segment and terminating in a coupling section; and a second flexible section extending from the coupling section and terminating in a tool or an connector for a tool; wherein one or more of the flexible sections is bendable by at least 120°; wherein a long axis length of the first flexible section is at least double a maximum extent of the first flexible section perpendicular to a flexible section long axis; wherein a long axis length of the second flexible section is at least double a maximum extent of the second flexible section perpendicular to a flexible section long axis.

Abstract: A sterile packaging unit of a medical filter module including a filter module packed in a sterile primary package, wherein the primary package is a blister package including a molded part having a receiving compartment for the filter module and a cover part arranged on the molded part and hermetically sealing the receiving compartment, wherein the primary package includes a getter for binding molecular oxygen present in the receiving compartment and the filter module is mounted by form closure with respect to the molded part.

Abstract: A surgical system is disclosed. The surgical system can include a tray and a vacuum-fitted cover covering at least a portion of the tray. The surgical system can comprise a tray and a drape at least partially vacuum-fitted to the tray. A surgical drape is also disclosed. The surgical drape can comprise a cover including an opening and an interior cavity defined by a flexible wall which is configured to receive a support surface. The surgical drape can further comprise a closable portion configured to close the opening and seal at least a portion of the support surface within the interior cavity. The surgical drape can further include a valve in fluid communication with the interior cavity, wherein the valve is configured to enable the suction of air from the interior cavity and draw the flexible wall inwardly to closely envelop at least a portion of the support surface.

Abstract: A bilateral hearing implant surgical template arrangement is described. An adjustable headpiece with left and right sides fits over the head of a surgical patient. There are left and right implant stimulator templates, each configured to conform against an underlying side of the patient's head and each connected to a corresponding left and right side of the adjustable headpiece by an adjustable connection. Each adjustable connection is configured to allow adjustment of the position of the implant stimulator template with respect to the adjustable headpiece so as to define stimulator implantation sites at symmetric locations on each side of the patient's head.

Abstract: A dental laser system for treatment of hard and/or soft tissue includes a main chamber housing optical and primary fluid supply subsystems, for directing a laser beam and fluid to a treatment area. A hand piece affixable to the main chamber, includes mating optical and secondary fluid supply subsystems. The hand piece can be rotatable or re-orientable about an optical axis within the hand piece. A lock can maintain a selectable angular orientation of the hand piece relative to the main chamber. A coupling can maintain a fluidic communication between the primary and secondary fluid supply subsystems even when the hand piece is rotated or re-oriented. A sensor and controller can sense a selected angular orientation of the hand piece and adjust the main optical subsystem according to the sensed angular orientation, to align the two optical subsystems. The laser may be controlled using a variable speed foot pedal.

Abstract: A guided drill for osteotomy for a dental implant is provided. The guided drill includes a guide body configured to fit within a guide sleeve attached to a surgical template. A surgical kit includes a series of guided drills with each guided drill having a different combination of a drilling diameter and a drilling length, a container containing the series of guided drills in a form of an array, and a chart comprising a map of the array and graphical indications. The graphical indications are configured to indicate to a user of the surgical kit a suggested order of sequentially using the series of guided drills from the array to perform a part of osteotomy procedure and obtain a hole, having a prescribed diameter and a prescribed length, for a dental implant.

Abstract: A method for treating an orthodontic condition can include receiving patient data, such as through a website, accessing a database having information derived from patient treatments, generating a model of an orthodontic condition defining one or more anatomic features of a set of teeth, identifying a diagnosis of an orthodontic condition and identifying a treatment regimen for the diagnosis. A method can include tagging an anatomic feature with an electronic identifier and automatically generating a tooth setup. A system can include a server and a database, which can include information relating to patient treatments, and a website for receiving patient data. A system can include an electronic model representing anatomic features of a patient's teeth and an application adapted to identify a diagnosis and a treatment regimen for an orthodontic condition, which can include executing artificial intelligence and/or other algorithms.

Abstract: The invention relates to the production of a dental correction splint (1) and to the resulting splint, in which a patient record is made by taking an impression of his/her teeth (2) and said impression is processed by processing the image of the impression. The method comprises the production of an orthodontic splint (1) which is based on the processed impression and provided externally with the desired result of the correction. The method is characterized in that it includes a step of calculating the internal modifications to the splint (1) by removing and/or replacing the material of the splint (1) which is adapted for each orthodontic movement specific to each stage of the correction.

Abstract: The centric relation bite registration tool is a tool for recording the centric relation of a patient's mandible in order to obtain proper occlusion to fabricate a full mouth fixed dental prosthesis. The centric relation bite registration tool includes both a vertically adjustable portion and a horizontally adjustable portion. The vertically adjustable portion is adapted for mounting in a dental implant in the patient's mandibular arch, and the horizontally adjustable portion is adapted for mounting in a dental implant in the patient's maxillary arch. The vertically adjustable portion and the horizontally adjustable portion are releasably secured to one another between the mandibular and maxillary arches providing a single tool which is both horizontally and vertically adjustable for recordation of the proper occlusion between the patient's mandible and maxilla.

Abstract: The invention relates to an endosseous implant capable of being implanted into osseous tissue. The implant comprises an attachment device (3), comprising: a so-called gripping portion (31) for gripping the osseous tissue, a so-called expansion portion (32), said two portions being mobile in relation to each other, engaging mechanical connection means (33, 33a, 33b), located on the gripping portion (31) on the one hand and on the expansion portion (32) on the other hand, such that the relative mobility of the two portions has at least one degree of freedom, and such that a relative movement of said two portions causes an extension of the gripping portion, said extension causing the gripping portion to engage with the osseous tissue. The endosseous implant can in particular be used in the dental field.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for releasable attachment of a removable dental prosthesis to a head part of an implant or of an abutment that can be anchored in an implant, comprising a retention matrix (1) having a receptacle that accommodates a circular-ring-shaped retention element (2) that has at least two clamping arms (22), which is disposed so as to be displaceable along a center axis of the retention matrix (1), wherein the at least two clamping arms (22) form a mantle surface that widens conically toward the outside, and that the receptacle for the retainer element (2) has two sections (14, 15) having a different inside diameter, against the transition of which the at least two clamping arms (22) lie. The invention furthermore relates to a dental implant system, having such an apparatus.

Abstract: Systems and methods for cleaning teeth by removal of dental biofilm. In one illustrative embodiment, a custom fit tray that fits over the teeth and seals against the gum of a mammal. A number of ports are embedded in the tray, each in fluid communication with a hose or line supplied with either a vacuum or an irrigant/fluid source. A small space between the tray and the teeth provides for fluid to flow around the teeth. A router may be connected to both an irrigant fluid supply reservoir and a vacuum pump to direct either fluid or vacuum to the various hoses with the routing changing over time for optimum cleaning. Air may be injected into the cleaning fluid in varying amounts, to create bubbles, water droplets, and/or boluses of the cleaning fluid to increase and focus the hydrodynamic forces of the fluid upon reaching the teeth.

Abstract: A device for drying a root canal includes a cannula configured to inject a gas stream into the root canal. The cannula is a conduit having a proximal end in fluidic communication with a distal end. A handpiece is configured to removably hold the proximal end of the cannula at a distal handpiece end. A gas stream source is connectable to a proximal end of a tube. A distal end of the tube is connectable to the proximal handpiece end. A cut-off valve is disposed within the handpiece in fluidic communication in series between the distal handpiece end and the proximal handpiece end. The cut-off valve is configured to cut off the gas stream flowing through the handpiece. A manually-controlled operating element is mechanically coupled to the cut-off valve, where the operating element is configured to be controlled by a dentist or technician holding the handpiece.

Abstract: A dental mouthpiece is provided that may be attached to a high-suction dental adapter for the purpose of assisting the dental staff during dental procedures through chair-side, hands-free suction, and isolation. Such mouthpiece may include a main body portion, a cheek retractor portion, and a suction connector portion. In some embodiments, the main body portion, cheek retractor portion, and suction connector portion (and sub-portions thereof) may be molded in one piece, preferably by injection molding. In an exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece may be made of a material that is flexible, translucent, conducive to injection molding, high heat-resistant, and autoclavable. Such a material may include silicone. Because the mouthpiece may be made of a high heat-resistant and autoclavable material, such a mouthpiece may be reusable.

Abstract: A device includes a connecting end and a working end. Device has an internal fluid passageway and a bend area. The fluid passageway has a discharge opening or hole, which opening is positioned or located substantially away from the bend area, such that the discharge opening and upstream portions of the passageway will remain unaffected, substantially unaffected, or selectively affected by any deformation thereof due to the bending procedures employed to make the other portions of the tool, such as those conventionally involved in fabricating the bend area.