Abstract: A securing apparatus for a prosthetic leg including a belt strap, a pair of hook and loop fasteners disposed on the belt strap, and a pair of top attachment loops attached to the belt strap. A sled-shaped support attachment includes a flattened base portion, a pair of support extensions, and a pair of bottom attachment loops. Each of a right ratchet strap and a left ratchet strap of a pair of ratchet straps has an upper spring-loaded clip and a lower spring-loaded clip. The upper spring-loaded clip of each of the right ratchet strap and the left ratchet strap is attachable to the right top attachment loop and the left top attachment loop, respectively. The lower spring-loaded clip of each of the right ratchet strap and the left ratchet strap is attachable to a right bottom attachment loop and a left bottom attachment loop, respectively, of the support attachment.

Abstract: A suspension liner for a residual limb has a liner body with a plurality of anterior and posterior projections formed from a thickness of the liner body. Medial and lateral tendons are located between and correspond to profiles of the plurality of the anterior and posterior projections such that the medial and lateral tendons are located on opposed sides of the liner body relative to one another. The medial and lateral tendons flare circumferentially toward proximal and distal sections of the liner body.

Abstract: An implantable system includes cells that produce and release a therapeutic agent, or agents, to a host in need. The system can include cells capable of eluting therapeutic agents in response to changing physiological conditions within a host. The system may comprise naked cells, encapsulated cells, or a mixture of non-encapsulating and encapsulated cells. The system may also comprise cells, and/or cell groups, of different origins. The implantable device may be placed intra-vascular, within bone marrow, within soft tissue, in the peritoneal cavity, or intra-hepatic, etc. The system can be comprised of a stent, or like devices. Such stents and like devices may optionally include port(s), catheter(s), and containment envelope systems for holding the above cells.

Abstract: An open frame prosthesis is formed with looped end terminations at its proximal and distal ends. At one end of the prosthesis, the filaments or strands are welded together in pairs to form strand couplings. A plurality of loop segments are connected to the strand couplings, one loop segment for each pair of adjacent strand couplings. In one version of the prosthesis, strands at the opposite end are bent to form looped ends. In another version, loop segments are connected to pairs of strand couplings at both ends of the prosthesis. The loop segments can be connected to the couplings by welding, fusion bonds, or tubes, which are either crimped or heat shrunk.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and apparatus for manufacturing intravascular stents wherein the intravascular stent has its inner surface treated to promote the migration of endothelial cells onto the inner surface of the intravascular stent. In particular, the inner surface of the intravascular stent has at least one groove formed therein.

Abstract: A delivery tool of a system for deploying medical diagnostics and/or therapy includes a deployment member and a sheath. An elastic cantilever element secured to a tubular sidewall of the deployment member, in proximity to a distal opening of a lumen formed by the sidewall, is spring biased to extend outward from the sidewall. When the cantilever element is received within the sheath, a sheath sidewall pushes the cantilever element inward, against the spring bias thereof, and a radius of curvature of the cantilever element approximately conforms to that of an outer surface of the deployment member sidewall. A helical track for receiving passage of a medical device helix fixation element therein may extend around a perimeter of the deployment member lumen, wherein a distal terminal end of the track is located in close proximity to the distal opening and generally opposite a free end of the cantilever element.

Abstract: An introduction arrangement for a fenestrated or branched stent graft (13) intended for deployment into the lumen of a vessel having a blind vessel extending from it. The introducer (1) has a distal end intended to remain outside a patient in use and a proximal end with a nose cone dilator (11) and an arrangement to retain the branched stent graft distally of the nose cone dilator. A sheath (15) on the introducer extends over the branched stent graft to the nose cone dilator. An indwelling catheter (22) extends from the distal end of the introducer and enters the fenestration or side arm and through to the nose cone dilator, the indwelling catheter has a guide wire (29) extending through it. The guide wire can be extended beyond the nose cone dilator in use before the sheath is withdrawn from the branched stent graft so that it can be snared from the contra-lateral artery.

Abstract: A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. A sheath is placed over the crimped scaffold after crimping to reduce recoil of the crimped polymer scaffold and maintain scaffold-balloon engagement relied on to hold the scaffold to the balloon when the scaffold is being delivered to a target in a body. The sheath is removed by a health professional either by removing the sheath directly or using a tube containing the catheter.

Abstract: A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis self-expandable from a collapsed position in which the prosthesis has a first diameter to an expanded position in which the prosthesis has a second, larger, diameter. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed in the collapsed position and inserted into a stomach of a patient. The prosthesis is allowed to self-expand from the collapsed position to the expanded position and into contact with the walls of the stomach, where it induces feelings of satiety and/or inhibits modulation of satiety-controlling factors such as Ghrelin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an impedance modulation device for an orthotic application. The device includes a high-stiffness loading spring, a low-stiffness return spring, a shaft having an output connector, and an engagement mechanism. When the engagement mechanism engages the shaft, the device exhibits a high stiffness at the output connector, and wherein when the engagement mechanism disengages the shaft, the device exhibits a low stiffness at the output connector.

Abstract: A hinge includes an upper hinge component and a lower hinge component. A cover plate is pivotally connected at first location point to the upper hinge component and at a second location point to the lower hinge component. First and second plates are pivotally connected at a third location point to the upper hinge component and at a fourth location point to the lower hinge component. The first plate is positioned between the cover plate and the upper and lower hinge components. The upper and lower hinge components are positioned between the first and second plates. The cover plate is mounted on an outer side of the hinge and the connection of the cover plate at the first location point rotates around the third location point and the connection of the cover plate at the second location point rotates around the fourth location point.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace system for bracing a joint with a dimensionally stable, flexible base body, which can be placed around the members adjoining the joint and has closure devices by way of which the base body can be fixed to the members adjoining the joint. A dimensionally stable outer frame extending over the joint is removably attached to the base body by way of adjustable fastening members, wherein the outer frame is braced on the members adjoining the joint.

Abstract: A hinge for an orthopedic device includes an upper hinge component having a bottom peripheral surface defined by a first geometrical configuration, and a lower hinge component having a top peripheral surface defined by a second geometrical configuration. An outer plate pivotally connects at first location points to the upper and lower hinge components, and a rear component pivotally connects at second location points to the upper and lower hinge components. The hinge has a rotation stop defining a third geometrical configuration defining a top portion corresponding in shape to at least a portion of the bottom peripheral surface and is arranged to directly abut the portion of the bottom peripheral surface. The rotation stop also defines a bottom portion corresponding in shape to at least a portion of the top peripheral surface and is arranged to directly abut the portion of the top peripheral surface.

Abstract: A simple, reusable, adjustable nasal dilator is disclosed for improved breathing by the user. The dilator includes first and second elastic bands to which nose clips are attached. The nose clips are used for engaging with the side walls of the user's nostrils, and optionally have nose pads for increased comfort level during use. The two bands of the dilator work together to pull the user's nostrils open, thereby providing force and tension to dilate the nasal passages of the user. The nasal dilator can be worn during sleep periods to improve breathing and sleeping, as well as other times the user wishes to improve air flow through the nasal passages.

Abstract: A device for correcting ingrowing foot nails. It comprises a base (101; 201; 301), on which there are mounted means (111, 112; 211, 212; 311) for immobilizing the toe with respect to the base (101; 201; 301), means (121; 221; 321) pressing the middle portion of the nail towards the base (101; 201; 301), slidable and pivotable means (131, 132; 231, 232; 331) for manipulating at the lateral edge of the nail and slidable and pivotable means (141; 241, 242; 341) for manipulating at the front portion of the nail.

Abstract: An ostomy bag including in an accessible wall 1 a closable exit aperture 5 and means 4 for selectively releasing accumulated gas through the aperture 5.

Abstract: This invention is a device that utilizes hydro-block venting material in various condom catheter configurations to permit adequate airflow into the catheter thereby permitting efficient and complete drainage of urine away from the user following urination by means od gravity, siphoning or pumping. In one embodiment the condom that fits on the penis is itself made of hydro-block venting material. In another embodiment the hydro-block material is placed on the proximal end of a storage bag. In yet another embodiment a retro-fit assembly containing the hydro-block venting material can be retrofitted for use with any condom catheter. Both adhesive and inflatable rings are disclosed as attachment means to secure the condom catheter to the user and prevent leakage.

Abstract: A plug member integrally includes a base portion (35a) attached to a plug holder (31) to be mounted on a mouth portion of a container, a plug (34) engaged with an engagement portion (31c) provided in an outlet passage of the plug holder (31), and a resilient connection portion (35b) resiliently connecting the plug (34) to the base portion (35a). Before the first use, the outlet passage is closed with the plug member. In the first use, the container is squeezed to increase the internal pressure of the container. Thus, the plug (34) is disengaged from the engagement portion (31c) by the internal pressure. The outlet passage is thereafter constantly kept open.

Abstract: Methods and kits for treating or preventing an eye condition or for cleaning an eye area tissue are provided. A method of the invention includes administering an isoprenoidal essential oil to eye area tissue, chafing eye area tissue with an abrasive, and removing the abrasive. A kit according to the invention includes an isoprenoidal essential oil, an abrasive for chafing eye area tissue, and in instruction for use for treating an eye condition or cleansing an eye area tissue. The invention also includes a composition of matter comprising an isoprenoidal essential oil and a plurality of abrasive particles in ophthamologically acceptable base.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for targeted administration of a drug to a patient's eye. In one embodiment, the method includes inserting a hollow microneedle into the sclera of the eye at an insertion site and infusing a fluid drug formulation through the inserted microneedle and into the suprachoroidal space of the eye, wherein the infused fluid drug formulation flows within the suprachoroidal space away from the insertion site during the infusion. The fluid drug formulation may flow circumferentially toward the retinochoroidal tissue, macula, and optic nerve in the posterior segment of the eye.

Abstract: An ophthalmological device for the treatment of keratoconus includes a cylindrical reservoir made of a non-conductive material, open at the top and bottom, and formed by two telescopically engaged portions, a lower one open at the bottom and connected to a cylindrical chamber of smaller diameter, also open at the bottom and formed by an external annular chamber that is concentrically arranged around the chamber and is closed at the top, open at the bottom, and adapted to be placed on the eye; a first metallic conductor, housed in the container and connected to a terminal of a DC voltage generator, to the other terminal of which a second metallic conductor is connected; a first conduit provided with a closing device, one end of the first conduit flowing into the annular reservoir, the other end being located externally thereto, whereby vacuum may be applied through the first conduit; and a second conduit provided with a closing device, one end of the second conduit passing through the annular reservoir at its

Abstract: Contact lenses are a commonly used medical device that many users find difficult to insert and remove from the eyes. A contact lens insertion and removal apparatus of the subject invention utilizes a lens manipulator that can be controlled by a user to insert a contact lens into the eye or remove it from the eye. Further embodiments include a display system that provides a user with dual images of the lens manipulator such that the user sees an optical illusion of the lens manipulator from a side view. This provides the user with an increased sense of control and safety when inserting or removing contact lenses. Additional embodiments can include a hands-free contact lens cleaning and storage system.

Abstract: Phacoemulsification apparatus includes a phacoemulsification handpiece having a needle and an electrical circuitry for ultrasonic vibrating the needle. A power source provides pulsed electrical power to the handpiece electrical circuitry and an input is provided for enabling a surgeon to select an amplitude of dislighted pulses and a pulse width. A control system and pulse duty cycle is provided for controlling the off duty cycle to insure heat dissipation before a subsequent pulse is activated, including a foot pedal switch.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for treatment of eye disease such as glaucoma. Implants are described herein that create a flow field, such as between the anterior chamber and either the supraciliary space or suprachoroidal space. In addition, the implant can be treated with one or more treatments, including plasma treatments, for creating a variety of surface features and characteristics. Some of the surface features and characteristics can assist in controlling tissue responses to the implanted implant, including promoting or preventing tissue proliferation.

Abstract: Methods and devices are adapted for implanting into the eye. An incision is formed in the cornea of the eye and a shunt is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye. The shunt includes a fluid passageway. The shunt is passed along a pathway from the anterior chamber through the scleral spur of the eye into the suprachoroidal space and positioned in a first position such that a first portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the anterior chamber and a second portion of the fluid passageway communicates with the suprachoroidal space to provide a fluid passageway between the suprachoroidal space and the anterior chamber.

Abstract: Implants and methods for treating ocular disorders are provided. One method involves introducing an implant into an anterior chamber of an eye. The implant is implanted into eye tissue adjacent the anterior chamber such that a proximal end of the implant resides in the anterior chamber following implantation. A therapeutic agent is eluted from the implant into the eye. Desirably, the release of the therapeutic agent from the implant is controlled. The controlled release of the therapeutic agent can be at a chosen rate and/or for a selected duration which can be episodic or periodic. The therapeutic agent can be an antiproliferative agent, an anti-inflammatory drug, or a compound for treating glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Abstract: An electronic SLO/OCT ophthalmoscope is equipped with a femtosecond (fs) laser for intra- or preretinal therapeutic use in the posterior segment of the eye. In one application the retina photoreceptor mosaic or Bruch's membrane is disrupted in such pattern that minimizes loss of visual functioning but reduces metabolic load of the outer retina. Using a beam splitter, one embodiment combines the SLO/OCT scanning beams with the therapeutic fs beam and an aiming beam. The therapeutic channel uses an independent x/y positioner and micro-deflector. Because the duty cycle is appropriate, a second embodiment can use the SLO/OCT scanners to also simultaneously scan a modulated therapeutic laser beam. A biometric OCT probe can be integrated in both configurations for focusing purpose. A method is disclosed to represent focus relevant tilting of the retina in the posterior pole.

Abstract: An apparatus for treatment of an eye comprises a source of pulsed laser radiation, and a control device for controlling a focus of the laser radiation to generate an incision figure. The incision figure defines a corneal flap, a first auxiliary channel and a second auxiliary channel. The corneal flap is connected to adjoining corneal tissue in a hinge region, and has a flap underside parted-off from adjoining corneal tissue by a bed incision. The first auxiliary channel extends from the hinge region to an outer surface of the eye and is adapted to remove gases that develop during the generation of the bed incision. The second auxiliary channel extends along an edge of the bed incision, is connected to the first auxiliary channel, and extends beyond the hinge region. The control device is configured to generate the second auxiliary channel prior to the bed incision.

Abstract: A method for ophthalmic intervention on an eye of a patient includes: imaging a first and a second registration fiducial in reference to temporary geometric markers on the eye of the patient, the registration fiducials being formed on an inner annulus of a patient interface housing within a field of view of an imaging device; imaging a third registration fiducial formed on the inner annulus of the patient interface housing, the third registration fiducial being angularly spaced from the first and second registration fiducials; and processing image data generated via the image device so as to determine an angular orientation of the eye relative to the patient interface housing and an up or down orientation of the patient interface housing relative to the eye based on the location of the third registration fiducial.

Abstract: An antimicrobial medical dressing provides a combination of antimicrobial agents in various concentrations that protect against microorganisms, absorb exudates, and promote healing. The antimicrobial agents may include compositions of ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, and/or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.

Abstract: A pressure bandage comprising an elastic band having a first end comprising a pocket member and a second end that is removably attachable to the first end. An inflatable bladder is placed in the pocket member and provides a substantially uniform pressure over a wound area when the band is placed on a patient and the bladder is inflated. The bladder is connected to a tube element which is used to inflate the bladder to the desired pressure. The elastic band may include a shoulder strap and may wrap over a patient's shoulder, across the patient's chest, and under the patient's opposite arm. The bottom side of the elastic band (facing the patient) may be made of a soft, absorptive material, and the bottom side of the pocket member may include an expandable mesh.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel process for preparing an absorbent article, wherein the process comprises providing a first sheet layer (2); conforming said first layer on a first roll C2, whereby longitudinal corrugations are formed on the layer; conforming said corrugated layer (2) on a second roll C3, whereby a pattern of pockets (4, 4a) is obtained; providing a pre-metered amount of SAP particulate material (6); providing a second sheet layer (7) material and affixing it for sandwiching with the first sheet layer; and finishing the absorbent article.

Abstract: Provided are a disposable diaper production method and a disposable diaper production device by which cutting positions of respective side pieces can be accurately managed. A partly-finished product is conveyed in a longitudinal direction in a state in which both side portions in the width direction of the cutting position of respective side panel pieces are held for each set of the two side panel pieces when the respective side panel pieces are cut off by a cutting unit. A controller controls driving rates of a cutting motor and a conveying motor to rotate driving blades at a rate faster than the conveying rate of the partly-finished product.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprising an absorbent core having at least two longitudinally extending channel-forming areas and a wetness indicator. The core wrap comprises a top side and a bottom side, which are attached to each other through areas substantially free of absorbent material, so that when the absorbent material swells upon absorption of a liquid the core wrap forms channels along these areas substantially free of absorbent material. The wetness indicator is placed between the channel-forming areas or between at least one channel-forming area and at least one longitudinally extending side edge of the article, as seen for the exterior of the article.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article includes a bodyside liner, an outer cover, an absorbent body disposed between the liner and the outer cover, a front waist region, a back waist region, a crotch region extending between and interconnecting the front and back waist regions, and a tear away section configured to be torn from the absorbent article when at least a threshold force is applied to the tear away section. The front and back waist regions are attached to each other by side panels at least partially defining leg openings and a waist opening of the absorbent article. The tear away section extends from the waist opening to a respective leg opening and is defined by at least one line of weakness. The tear away section has a tear strength greater than the threshold force.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed, in part, to an absorbent article comprising a liquid management system (LMS) and an absorbent core disposed at least partially intermediate a topsheet and a backsheet. The LMS defines one or more channels therein. The one or more channels of the LMS may at least partially overlap or not overlap with channels defined in the absorbent core.

Abstract: Absorbent laminates and multi-layer, folded absorbent cores comprising the absorbent laminates for use in absorbent articles are presented. Specifically, multi-layer, folded absorbent cores are presented that are formed from an absorbent laminate comprising an absorbent layer between two tissue layers, in which the absorbent core includes a central channel running longitudinally along the core and crenellations profiled along the thickness of the core and providing enhanced liquid distribution across the core surface area or profile and improved liquid absorption into the laminate.

Abstract: An absorbent article having improved leakage protection when the wearer of the absorbent article is lying on their side. The absorbent article has a surge layer in liquid communication with a portion of the garment facing region and a portion of a side edge of the absorbent core.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent core composite for a disposable absorbent article. The absorbent composite has a first fabric, a body side second fabric, and a plurality of aggregates of superabsorbent particles (SAP) situated between the first fabric second fabric. About each of a plurality of the SAP aggregates, an arrangement of spaced apart bond sites secure the second fabric to the first fabric and form a pocket in which the SAP aggregate is secured between the first fabric and the second fabric. The body side second fabric is a bulky nonwoven including fibers that entangle at least some particles in the SAP aggregate.

Abstract: The invention relates to fasteners comprising a flexible planar backing provided with a fastening element on its upper side and/or on its lower side, wherein the fastener consists of at least one generally Y-shaped one-piece section defined by two opposing arms, which are separated from each other by a recess, and by a third arm joined to the two opposing arms and extending away from said recess, wherein the shape and size of said third arm correspond to the shape and size of said recess.

Abstract: A lightweight flexible patient litter includes, in one example, spaced compression longerons each foldable at spaced legs, a bed between the compression longerons, and a longitudinal truss structure on each side of the litter each including a longeron, its spaced legs, and one or more flexible tension members connected thereto. One or more lateral truss structures may each include opposing legs on each side of the litter and one or more flexible tension members connected thereto. A bed truss structure may include one or more tension members.

Abstract: The present disclosure may relate to a wheel that may include first and second exoskeleton plates. The wheel may also include first and second roller guide assemblies that each include one or more bearings, a roller guide coupled with the one or more bearings, and a shaft spanning the first and second exoskeleton plates and coupled with the roller guide such that the roller guide rotates around the shaft. The wheel may also include a tire and a centerless rim coupled with the tire. The centerless rim may be configured to have a shape that corresponds to a shape of the roller guide, and the roller guide may be configured to contact the centerless rim as the centerless rim rotates. The wheel may also include a first limiter to maintain contact between the centerless rim and the roller guide, and a second limiter.

Abstract: A hybrid seating cushion made up of a cushion base and a cushion insert. The cushion base has a seating surface in which a void in or extending through the cushion base is formed. A cushion insert such as an air bladder or fluid sack is positioned within the void. A lip or upper surface around an opening in the void overhangs at least a portion of the cushion insert, thereby minimizing the size and corresponding negative effects of a transition area where the base and the insert overlap.

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

Abstract: A powered ambulance cot and methods of raising and lowering the cot as well as loading and unloading the cot are disclosed. The cot includes a support frame and legs, each leg having a wheel. An actuator of an actuation system interconnects the frame and legs, and is configured to effect changes in elevation of the frame relative to the wheel of each of the legs. A control system controls activation of the actuation system, and detects both the actuator at a first location relative to the frame, where the first location is remote from a second location and which situates an end of the actuator that is remote from each wheel closer to the frame, and a presence of a signal requesting a change in elevation of said support frame to thereby cause the legs to move relative to the support frame.

Abstract: Realized is a pedal mechanism that does not lock and does not provide an operation feeling unless operated in a determined order. The pedal mechanism has first and second pedals 105 and 106, first and second plates 108 and 109, and a locking bar 115. The radius of the second plate 109 is smaller than that of the first plate 108, and the second plate does not come into contact with the locking bar in a state where a circular-arc region of the first plate supports the locking bar 115. Therefore, the second pedal does not give an operation feeling even when stepped on, and the second plate cannot be locked. In a locked state where the locking bar is located in a cutout region of the first plate, the locking bar contacts the second plate, the second pedal provides an operation feeling, and the second plate can be locked.

Abstract: Disclosed is a sequential compression massage device using a stacked member which repeatedly applies compression force to a human body (10). The message includes: a driving unit for rotatably supporting a shake rod on an upper plate and a lower plate connected to each other through a guide rod; a pressing unit for maintaining a plurality of pressing plates in a stacked state on the driving unit by positioning the guide rod and the shake rod (34) in the pressing plates; and a control unit for sequentially shaking the pressing plates. Thus, the reliability and durability are improved in such a manner that the plurality of stacked pressing plates cause shake movement without causing a user inconvenience, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the prevention and alleviation of venous circulation disorder.

Abstract: A multi-function lower limb ambulation rehabilitation and walking assist device is provided. Through a suspension unit to support the user, the tolerance of the user's leg is reduced. For users of different weights, it can be used for a walking rehabilitation training of the lower limbs to achieve the best training effect. An exoskeleton rehabilitation device has a hip joint linear actuator, a knee joint linear actuator, a first actuator, a second actuator, a third actuator, and a fourth actuator to drive the one-legged the exoskeleton rehabilitation device which is safe, comfortable, reliable, practical and convenient. An indoor and outdoor navigation auxiliary device can be used as a blind guiding device. Through a display unit, a navigation and positioning system displays the orientation of the user in a virtual map corresponding to the real operation environment and a desired location point.

Abstract: An improved white cane includes an elongate body having a proximal end adapted to be held by or secured to a human user and a distal tip, and a noise generator located proximate the distal tip, the noise generator being configured to generate sound within a range of frequencies audible to humans. The user is able to interpret differences in reflected sound as the white cane is moved about the user's surroundings to obtain more information about the surroundings than could be obtained using a normal white cane. Additionally, the information about the surroundings may become available to the user before that information might otherwise have been available to the user using a standard white cane.

Abstract: Multipurpose tactile warning panels for use in pedestrian walkways and in particular tactile warning panels that are designed and built with multifunction/multipurpose capabilities that serve the visually impaired and enable the deployment of smart city technology by integrating tactile warning systems and subsurface enclosures that can withstand pressures of five (5) tons up to and exceeding sixty (60) tons and incorporate small cells, beacons, sensors, Fog Computing, electric energy generation, rechargeable power supplies, wireless M2M communication and a plethora of other smart city technologies.