Abstract: One variation of a method for augmenting a surgical field with virtual guidance content includes: accessing a scan representing a tissue of a patient; combining the scan with a generic virtual anatomical model to define a custom virtual anatomical model of the tissue; defining a cut trajectory along an intersection between a virtual model of a surgical implant and the custom virtual anatomical model of the tissue; aligning a virtual cut surface to the cut trajectory to locate the virtual model of the surgical guide relative to the custom virtual anatomical model; accessing an image of a surgical field; detecting the tissue in the image; aligning the custom virtual anatomical model to the tissue detected in the image; defining a target real location for a real surgical guide in the surgical field; and generating a frame depicting the target real location of the surgical guide in the surgical field.

Abstract: One variation of a method for augmenting a surgical field with virtual guidance content includes: accessing a scan representing a tissue of a patient; combining the scan with a generic virtual anatomical model to define a custom virtual anatomical model of the tissue; defining a cut trajectory along an intersection between a virtual model of a surgical implant and the custom virtual anatomical model of the tissue; aligning a virtual cut surface to the cut trajectory to locate the virtual model of the surgical guide relative to the custom virtual anatomical model; accessing an image of a surgical field; detecting the tissue in the image; aligning the custom virtual anatomical model to the tissue detected in the image; defining a target real location for a real surgical guide in the surgical field; and generating a frame depicting the target real location of the surgical guide in the surgical field.

Abstract: A surgery navigation system according to the present invention includes: a positioning module including: a transceiver unit, configured to transmit a frequency modulated signal; multiple positioning marks, which are separately disposed on each vertebra of a spine and configured to transmit the positioning mark frequency signal to the transceiver unit after receiving the frequency modulated signal; and a surgical instrument, which transmits the instrument frequency signal to the transceiver unit after receiving the frequency modulated signal; and a processing unit, which obtains a distance between the positioning marks and the transceiver unit through calculation according to a difference between the positioning mark frequency signal and the frequency modulated signal, and obtains space coordinates of the spine through calculation according to the distance; and obtains a distance between the surgical instrument and the transceiver unit through calculation according to a difference between the instrument freque

Abstract: The present invention relates to a guiding tube for placing medical implants within body tissue, comprising an elongated, dimensionally stable tubular body encompassing an inner channel adapted to receive a medical implant, wherein the tubular body comprises at least one electromagnetic element, which is configured to exert an electromagnetic force on at least one magnetic element of the medical implant inserted into the inner channel. The present invention further relates to a corresponding medical implant for being placed within body tissue, particularly a stimulation lead, specifically a deep brain stimulation lead comprising at least one directional electrode, having an elongated body portion that is adapted to be inserted into an inner channel enclosed by a tubular body of a guiding tube, wherein at least one magnetic element provided on or in the body portion.

Abstract: A surgical navigation system comprises a computer system, a tracking system and a projector. The computer system includes instructions for performing a surgical plan. The tracking system is electronically connected to the computer system and has a viewing area in which markers can be located within a three-dimensional space relative to the viewing area. The projector is electronically connected to the computer system and has a beam projectable into the viewing area to display a step of the surgical plan based on a location of a marker. A method for guiding a surgical instrument comprises tracking a surgical instrument within a three-dimensional space using a computer-operated tracking system, matching the surgical instrument to a step in a surgical plan for conducting the surgical procedure using the surgical instrument, and projecting a visual instruction into the three-dimensional space for the step in the surgical plan related to the instrument.

Abstract: Methods and system perform tool tracking during minimally invasive robotic surgery. Tool states are determined using triangulation techniques or a Bayesian filter from either or both non-endoscopically derived and endoscopically derived tool state information, or from either or both non-visually derived and visually derived tool state information. The non-endoscopically derived tool state information is derived from sensor data provided either by sensors associated with a mechanism for manipulating the tool, or sensors capable of detecting identifiable signals emanating or reflecting from the tool and indicative of its position, or external cameras viewing an end of the tool extending out of the body. The endoscopically derived tool state information is derived from image data provided by an endoscope inserted in the body so as to view the tool.

Abstract: Provided herein are expandable devices, rail systems, and motorized devices. In one embodiment, an expandable device comprises an expandable sac having a tool housed therein. The expandable device is optionally configured for operation while inside a body cavity. The expandable device optionally comprises at least one rail in the sac, and at least one railed device coupled to the rail for movement there on. Movement of the railed device on the rail is provided by, for example, a motor such as an electromagnetic motor or an inch-worm type motor. Expandable devices can be used, for example, to perform minimally invasive medical procedures requiring access to a body cavity. Expandable devices can also be used, for example, to provide safe and stable transport of instruments to the body cavity.

Abstract: A variety of systems and methods are described which enable quantitative information to be extracted regarding automated procedures, including those performed at a high speed that may require a user input, without having to interrupt the procedure. In addition, these systems and methods serve to provide information on one or more parameters of the automated procedure, whereby they may be modified, if required, to improve the automated procedure or the results from such a procedure. The systems and methods provided are especially useful in automated hair transplantation procedures.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for detecting unexpected movement of a surgical instrument during a robot-assisted surgical procedure are provided. The surgical robot system may be configured to measure forces and torques experienced by the surgical instrument during the surgical procedure and determine if the forces and torques are within an acceptable range. The robot system is further configured to notify the user of the presence of the unexpected movement.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use with a robotic system that has a control unit and a shaft portion that includes an electrically conductive elongated member that is attached to a portion of the robotic system. The elongated member is configured to transmit control motions from the robotic system to an end effector.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use with a robotic system that has a control unit and a shaft portion that includes an electrically conductive elongated member that is attached to a portion of the robotic system. The elongated member is configured to transmit control motions from the robotic system to an end effector.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for use with a robotic system that has a control unit and a shaft portion that includes an electrically conductive elongated member that is attached to a portion of the robotic system. The elongated member is configured to transmit control motions from the robotic system to an end effector.

Abstract: Provided is an operation input device for inputting a manipulation command to a manipulator having an end effector for observing or medically treating an affected site. The operation input device includes a grip section that is holdable by changing a method of holding the grip section with the same hand of an operator and an operating section that is provided in the grip section and that is operated with a single finger, which is the same before and after the holding method is changed, so as to manipulate a main function of the end effector.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a housing, a processing circuit, a user feedback feature, and a surgical instrument interface feature. The user feedback feature is in communication with the processing circuit. The surgical instrument interface feature includes a structural interface feature and an electrical interface feature. The structural interface feature is configured to fit in a portion of a body of a surgical instrument. The portion of the body of the surgical instrument is configured to receive an ultrasonic transducer. The electrical interface feature is in communication with the processing circuit and is configured to interface with a complementary electrical interface feature of the surgical instrument. The complementary electrical interface feature of the surgical instrument is configured to couple with an ultrasonic transducer. The processing circuit is configured to receive data relating to a number of uses of the surgical instrument via the electrical interface feature.

Abstract: The invention provides a retractor having a lighting module which is removeably attached to a paddle of the retractor. The retractor is able to provide improved illumination of a workspace within the body by attaching the light source directly to the paddle. As the light source is removeable from the paddle, it enables the light source to be removed after use and discarded while the retractor can be re-used. Furthermore, as the light source is removeably attached at a distal end of the paddle, the illumination is provided closest to the workspace, regardless of the length of the paddle.

Abstract: Provided herein are systems, devices, assemblies, and methods for localization of a tag in a tissue of a patient. For example, provided herein are systems, devices, and methods employing a detection component that is attached to or integrated with a surgical device, where the detection component detects a signal from a tag in a patient, where the tag is activated by remote introduction of a magnetic field.

Abstract: A computer-assisted medical device includes an articulated arm with a plurality of joints and a control unit coupled to the articulated arm. The control unit is configured to send a command to a plurality of brakes in the articulated arm to begin a release of the plurality of brakes in a predetermined staggered manner. In some embodiments the predetermined staggered manner prevents the simultaneous release of the plurality of breaks. In some examples, the predetermined staggered manner causes each brake in the plurality of brakes to release within a predetermined time of each other. In some embodiments, the first predetermined staggered manner causes each brake in the first plurality of brakes to release within a predetermined time of each other. In some embodiments, the first predetermined staggered manner causes each brake in the first plurality of brakes to begin a gradual release within a predetermined time of each other.

Abstract: The invention relates to a flexible application aid for the treatment of wounds. The application aid can be used in particular for the debridement and/or cleansing of wounds, including the skin surrounding the wound. The application aid according to the invention including a flexible or elastically deformable application wand, facilitates debridement of superficial to deep wounds without the risk of injury to the wound.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method includes obtaining a digital 3D representation of a patient's jaw comprising a first and second target location, providing a digital first dental element and a digital second element, respectively being digital 3D representations of a first dental element for placement on the first target location and a second dental element for placement on the second target location, arranging the digital first dental element on the digital representation of the first target location and the digital second dental element on the digital representation of the second target location, determining contact surfaces of the first and second dental element based on an insertion direction of the digital control guide design, and generating a digital control guide design comprising a digital 3D representation of the gum facing surface of the control guide based on a part of the contact surfaces of both the at least first and second dental element.

Abstract: A combination includes a dental handpiece and a prophy angle. The dental handpiece includes a nosecone threadably connected to the dental handpiece. The prophy angle includes a proximal body that matingly attaches to the nosecone. A plurality of elongated torque members are formed on each of the prophy angle proximal body and the nosecone. Each of the torque members is a male torque member or a female torque member and each male torque member formed on one of the prophy angle proximal body and the nosecone matingly couples with a female torque member formed on the other of the nosecone and the prophy angle proximal body. The prophy angle, including the plurality of elongated torque members formed on the prophy angle, is formed to also be attachable to a known standard doriot-style nosecone. Other specific features of the handpiece and prophy angle are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of automatically producing or reproducing a customized AGP (Anterior Guidance Package) equipped splint for a patient with or without a severe malocclusion is provided. The method of automatically producing or reproducing an AGP equipped splint according to current invention comprises of combining Virtual Articulation, CAD (Computer Aided Design)-CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) method with AGP and special retentive piece technology. The method of the current invention enables a patient with or without a severe malocclusion to receive his/her customized AGP equipped splint or a replacement thereof automatically without visiting the dentist again and again.

Abstract: A dental template for positioning an object on teeth of a patient and method for fabricating the same. The method includes creating a digital model of the patient's teeth, creating a simplified template model based on the digital model, and fabricating the dental template based on the simplified template model. The template model is simplified by removing certain features of the patient's tooth anatomy. The dental template can be located on a patient's teeth using four or fewer positioning teeth.

Abstract: Systems for dental/orthodontic treatment can include a cervical collar, a brace, a mount, and an upper support. The brace can extend from an anterior section of the cervical collar to the upper support, which can be positioned to engage a forehead of a dental/orthodontic treatment patient. The mount can be engaged to and positioned on the brace, and can be configured to receive one or more elastics extending from fixation points within the mouth of the patient.

Abstract: Appliances and related methods use a resilient retention member that is retained in a recess within a body that is optionally made from a suitably translucent ceramic material. The retention member, optionally in combination with one or more side walls of the recess, provides two or more regions for accommodating a protrusion. The protrusion, in turn, is part of a sliding door which can be opened or closed depending on the equilibrium position of the protrusion with respect to the two or more regions. Based on the engagement between the protrusion and the retention member, these appliances can provide discrete opened and closed door positions to facilitate archwire ligation.

Abstract: A method of forming an implant to be implanted into living bone is disclosed. The method comprises the act of roughening at least a portion of the implant surface to produce a microscale roughened surface. The method further comprises forming a nanoscale roughened surface on the microscale roughened surface. The method further comprises the act of depositing discrete nanoparticles on the nanoscale roughened surface though a one-step process of exposing the roughened surface to a solution including the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles comprise a material having a property that promotes osseointegration.

Abstract: Provided is a dental cord using a nanofiber multiple yarn having a large specific surface area and a large number of three-dimensional pores, thereby effectively impregnating a drug such as a hemostatic agent, and a method of manufacturing the dental cord. The dental cord includes: a nanofiber multiple yarn which is obtained by plying and twisting at least two nanofiber tape yarns and which is impregnated with a drug, wherein the at least two nanofiber tape yarns are integrated by nanofibers made of fiber moldability polymer materials and having an average diameter of less than 1 ?m, to thus be formed of a nanofiber web having three-dimensional micropores.

Abstract: A tooth implantation technique and a subperiosteal implant manufacturing method for the solution of extreme atrophy of a tooth bone are disclosed, primarily using steps of tomography, data transformation, software design, 3D printing of a physical model, making a subperiosteal implant wax form, wax form scanning and design, and manufacturing with a CNC milling machine, so as to make a subperiosteal implant that fits with a patient, thereby improving the shortcomings in a conventional manufacturing procedure of an implant.

Abstract: A method, a system and a user interface for generating a digital design for use in the manufacture of a molding-shell for a patient's teeth, where the molding-shell and the teeth together enclose a volume for forming a dental restoration, include obtaining a digital 3D representation of the patient's teeth, the digital 3D representation including a tooth part relating to one or more teeth for which the dental restoration is formed; obtaining a set of one or more digital teeth anatomies; arranging the set of digital teeth anatomies and the digital 3D representation according to a preferred relative arrangement; and generating the digital design where a first portion of the digital design is derived from the digital teeth anatomies and a second portion of the digital design is derived from the tooth part of the digital 3D representation.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tooth replacement forming device (10) comprising an abutment on or to which a dental structure made of dental material, especially ceramics, can be fastened. The abutment is mounted on the implant using a detachable connection, in particular a screw connection, the abutment being provided with an implant connection, a collar, and a tubular portion to be connected to the dental structure. The disclosed device (10) is characterized in that a surrounding auxiliary element made of a residue-free material is arranged in such a way as to rest against the tubular portion.

Abstract: The present application describes a method for designing and manufacturing a denture device for a patient. A method is described for designing a virtual denture and manufacturing a functional fitting replica denture from the virtual denture. An apparatus comprising a functional fitting replica denture is prepared having denture teeth having a fit substantially similar to the final denture. The methods and apparatus described herein reduce the number of visits required to manufacture the final denture.

Abstract: A set of artificial teeth for a denture comprises a maxillary unit and a mandibular unit. When set up in lingualised occlusion, at least one of following occurs: the palatal cusp of the upper 4 (1) fits into the distal fossa of the lower 4 (6), the palatal cusp of the upper 5 (2) fits into the distal fossa of the lower 5 (7), the mesial palatal cusp of the upper 6 (3) fits into the central fossa of the lower 6 (8), the distal palatal cusp of the upper 6 (4) fits onto the marginal ridge of the lower 6 (9) and the mesial palatal cusp of the upper 7 (5) fits into the central fossa of the lower 7 (10).

Abstract: A toothbrush (10) includes a brushhead (18), a first force sensor (30A) for measuring a first force exerted by the brushhead at a first angle relative to a tooth and a second force sensor (30B) for measuring a second force exerted by the brushhead at a second angle relative to the tooth, the second angle being different than the first angle, and a processing unit (26). The processing unit is structured to: (i) receive first information indicative of the first force as measured by the first force sensor, (ii) receive second information indicative of the second force as measured by the second force sensor, and (iii) determine information regarding a current brushing angle of the brushhead based on the first information and the second information.

Abstract: Feedback data useful in prosthodontic procedures associated with the intra oral cavity is provided. First, a 3D numerical model of the target zone in the intra oral cavity is provided, and this is manipulated so as to extract particular data that may be useful in a particular procedure, for example data relating to the finish line or to the shape and size of a preparation. The relationship between this data and the procedure is then determined, for example the clearance between the preparation and the intended crown. Feedback data, indicative of this relationship, is then generated, for example whether the preparation geometry is adequate for the particular type of prosthesis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for modeling the mandibular kinematics of a patient, comprising: acquiring at least one stereoscopic image of the face of the patient by means of a stereoscopic camera, constructing, from said stereoscopic image, a three-dimensional surface model of the face of the patient, identifying characteristic elements of the face of the patient on said stereoscopic image or on said three-dimensional surface model of the face of the patient, from said characteristic elements, determining, on said stereoscopic image, respectively said three-dimensional surface model of the face of the patient, reference points, axes and planes of the face of the patient, obtaining a three-dimensional model of the maxillary dental arch and a three-dimensional model of the mandibular dental arch of the patient, registering the three-dimensional models of the dental arches with respect to the reference planes of the three-dimensional surface model of the patient, recording the mandibular kinematics of t

Abstract: Apparatuses, components, devices, methods, and systems for determining jaw movement are provided. An example patient assembly for capturing motion data of a patient includes a clutch configured to be worn by the patient on a dentition of the patient. The clutch includes a dentition coupling device configured to couple to the dentition of the patient and includes an extension member configured to protrude out from the patient's mouth. The clutch also includes a position indicating system rigidly connected to the dentition coupling device. An example position indicating system emits a plurality of light beams. Some examples also include an imaging system and a motion determining device. An example imaging system captures a plurality of image sets that each include at least one of a plurality of screens upon which the light beams project. An example motion determining device processes the captured image sets to determine the motion of the patient's dentition.

Abstract: A small animal bed for use with small animal subjects for sedatation during experimental procedures. In some embodiments, the bed uses flow of heated air through the bed to keep the small animal warm during the imaging process. The imaging bed can also incorporate an integrated anesthesia delivery system and exhaust to remove the unused anesthesia from the small animal bed. Various embodiments include a table platform, as well as a nose cone adapter for fitting multiple subjects simultaneously.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating urinary incontinence, comprising a node; a support section adapted for providing urethral support attached to the node; and, an anchoring section adapted for resisting movement of the apparatus attached to the node; wherein the node is no longer than 30% of the entire length of the apparatus comprising the node, support section and the anchoring section together.

Abstract: A method of reshaping a body part including the step of injecting a quantity of filler material into a subperiosteal plane of a facial region thereby depositing a body of filler between the periosteum and bone of the facial region. The method includes the step of piercing a periosteum of the facial region with a syringe. The method includes the step of drawing backwards a plunger of the syringe to ascertain whether a tip of a needle of the syringe is within a blood vessel. The filler may include a hyaluronic acid gel. The method of reshaping a body part includes the step of applying pressure to the body of filler to adjust a shape of the body of filler. The step of injecting is repeated in the following order of priority: first the temporal line of fusion, second the zygoma, third the malar, and fourth the jaw line.

Abstract: A percutaneous transluminal angioplasty device having an embolic filter mounted to the catheter shaft at a location distal to the angioplasty balloon and downstream from the blockage to capture embolic particles that may be set loose into the blood stream as the angioplasty procedure is performed. The embolic filter is normally collapsed against the catheter shaft to facilitate introduction and withdrawal of the device to and from the operative site. Once the angioplasty balloon is properly positioned, however, means operatively associated with the embolic filter are actuated to erect the filter to operatively position a filter mesh across the lumen of the vessel.

Abstract: An intraocular lens focuser (114) to be implanted in a human eye includes a resiliently deformable force applicator (140) to apply a focussing force to an accommodating intraocular lens and an attaching portion configured to enable attachment of the lens focuser in the eye. The force applicator is configured such that, in use, when a ciliary muscle of the eye is relaxed to place the accommodating intraocular lens in a distance vision condition, the force applicator is in a deformed condition and when the ciliary muscle contracts to place the accommodating intraocular lens in a near vision condition the force applicator resiles towards a relaxed non-deformed condition to at least assist in placing the accommodating intraocular lens in the near vision condition.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides intraocular artificial lenses having a variable optical strength and methods of treating an eye disorder, such as presbyopia, using same. In some embodiments, the intraocular artificial lens comprises two optical elements that are moveable along the optical axis in relation to each other, for example in response to the accommodative process of the eye.

Abstract: A device for controlling the functioning of a cardiac prosthesis, the device for controlling includes a control path, the control path having a control system designed and arranged to monitor and regulate the electrical supply of a cardiac prosthesis; a first insulating system designed and arranged to electrically insulate the cardiac prosthesis from the electrical supply; and a controller designed and arranged to monitor and regulate the electrical supply.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis includes a valve frame (2), on which frame several valve leaflets (8) are fastened, as well as a fastening region which connects axially onto the valve frame (2), for fastening in a blood vessel. The fastening region includes a stabilizing ring (14, 14?, 14?, 14??, 14??) which defines a given shape and a given diameter and is connected to the valve frame (2) is a force-decoupled manner.

Abstract: An expandable support member comprising an ECM composition that is configured to engage an interior region of a prosthetic valve and capable of transitioning from a pre-deployment configuration, where the support member is capable of being positioned at an interior valve region of the valve when the valve is disposed at a cardiovascular valve structure, to a post-deployment configuration when the support member absorbs a first bodily fluid and expands, where an outer surface region of the valve is placed in intimate contact with host cardiovascular tissue of the cardiovascular structure at a first position and seals perivalvular leaks present at the first cardiovascular structure position.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve having a cuff attached to a stent provides a seal for preventing paravalvular leakage. The cuff may be constructed from known sealing materials to fill in and around paravalvular leakage gaps, while continuously collapsing down into a low profile volume within the stent. The cuff is coupled circumferentially about the stent by members which may be in the nature of dimension and/or shape memory material having a tensioned and relaxed state. The members may be in the form of elongated elastic members or coiled members. When in the tensioned state, the cuff is located within the stent volume to provide a low profile prosthetic heart valve. Upon relaxing of the members, the cuff is pulled over the abluminal surface of the stent to form a cuff seal circumscribing the stent for preventing paravalvular leakage.

Abstract: A heart valve stent having a section with a heart valve implant and several proximally disposed tissue anchors, also comprising a plurality of anchoring threats, each with a proximate end fastened to the stent or valve and a distal end attached to tissue within a heart chamber to provide tension between the heart chamber tissue and the stent.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described herein for use in the delivery of a prosthetic mitral valve. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes an epicardial pad configured to engage an outside surface of a heart to secure a prosthetic heart valve in position within the heart. The epicardial pad defines a lumen configured to receive therethrough a tether extending from the prosthetic valve. The epicardial pad is movable between a first configuration in which the epicardial pad has a first outer perimeter and is configured to be disposed within a lumen of a delivery sheath and a second configuration in which the epicardial pad has a second outer perimeter greater than the first outer perimeter. The epicardial pad can be disposed against the outside surface of the heart when in the second configuration to secure the prosthetic valve and tether in a desired position within the heart.

Abstract: Prosthetic heart valve devices with tethered anchors and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A heart valve device configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology can include, for example, a valve support for carrying a prosthetic valve. The valve support can be configured to be implanted at an annulus of a native mitral valve. The device can further include at least one elongated flexible member extending from the valve support in a ventricular direction, and an anchor coupled to the valve support via the elongated flexible member. The anchor can be shaped to wrap around an exterior area of an apical portion of the heart. In addition, the anchor can inhibit retrograde migration of the valve support.

Abstract: Demineralized bone matrix (DBM) compositions, methods of making and methods of treatment with the same are provided. The DBM compositions are made from mechanically entangled bone material that does not contain a carrier. The coherent mass of mechanically entangled demineralized bone fibers can be obtained by needle punching with barbed needles, entanglement with water or air jets, or by applying ultrasonic waves to the demineralized bone fibers. A coherent mass of mechanically entangled demineralized bone fibers can also be obtained by application to demineralized bone fibers of moisture, heat and pressure provided by pressure rollers. A method of making a bone material for hydration with a liquid is also provided. The method includes subjecting demineralized bone fibers to mechanical entanglement to obtain a coherent mass of demineralized bone fibers in the absence of a carrier. A method of treating a bone cavity with a mass of mechanically entangled demineralized bone fibers is also provided.

Abstract: A bioactive filamentary structure includes a sheath coated with a mixture of synthetic bone graft particles and a polymer solution forming a scaffold structure. In forming such a structure, synthetic bone graft particles and a polymer solution are applied around a filamentary structure. A polymer is precipitated from the polymer solution such that the synthetic bone graft particles and the polymer coat the filamentary structure and the polymer is adhered to the synthetic bone graft particles to retain the graft particles.