Abstract: A method for modeling a digital design of a denture for a patient, the denture includes a gingival part and a teeth part including a set of denture teeth, where the method includes obtaining a digital 3D representation of the patient's gum; obtaining virtual teeth models corresponding to the denture teeth; virtually arranging the virtual teeth models in relation to the digital 3D representation of the patient's gum; and generating a virtual outer gingival surface of the gingival part of the denture.

Abstract: A dental pipette. The dental pipette includes a container having a chamber configured to receive and retain fluids therein. A nozzle positioned at one end of the container is in fluid communication with the chamber via a conduit. A plurality of apertures disposed on the nozzle enable fluids within the chamber to be dispensed from the nozzle. A plurality of bristles extend radially outwardly from the nozzle and taper in length from one end of the nozzle to a second end of the nozzle forming a cone-like construction. The apertures and bristles are positioned at intervals and assist with the cleaning of teeth, gums, and the like. A hollow, beveled tip disposed at one end of the nozzle facilitates easy insertion under the gum line and in between teeth. Usage of the dental pipette provides protection from gum infection, bone loss, and tooth loss.

Abstract: The present invention provides dental amalgam recycling systems, useful for recycling particles from a dental liquid effluent drawn, for example, from a suctioning device.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention may be a teeth cleaning device including: a first support structure comprising a first dentature channel configured to receive at least a first portion of a dentature of a user; a plurality of teeth cleaning pads located within the first dentature channel; a plurality of air bladders operably coupled to the teeth cleaning pads; an air-flow subsystem operably coupled to the air bladders; and a control unit operably coupled to the air-flow subsystem, the control unit configured to: (1) pressurize the air bladders with external air in a pressurization mode; and (2) transfer air between select ones of the air bladders in a cleaning mode.

Abstract: A teeth cleaning device including: a first support structure comprising a first dentature channel configured to receive upper teeth; a second support structure comprising a second dentature channel configured to receive lower teeth; a first set of teeth cleaning pads located within the first dentature channel and a second set of teeth cleaning pads located within the second dentature channel; a first set of air bladders operably coupled to the first set of teeth cleaning pads and a second set of air bladders operably coupled to the second set of teeth cleaning pads; and a control unit operably coupled to an air-flow subsystem which is coupled to the bladders, the control unit configured to: (1) operate the air-flow subsystem to produce a first cleaning motion; (2) operate the air-flow subsystem to produce a second cleaning motion; and (3) operate the air-flow subsystem to produce a third cleaning motion.

Abstract: An osteotome for sinus lift procedures includes a body interchangeable with various handles. The body includes a shaft that is releasably received into the handle, and a tip portion. The tip portion may be directly utilized for ridge expansion/bone compression, or a succession of tip members may instead be received thereon to provide suitable diameter escalation to create the socket. A conduit in the tip portion interconnects with a conduit in a hydration port and a conduit in a tip member. A hose couples the hydration port to a syringe, to deliver fluid out the tip member to lift the membrane. Graduated syringe markings permit delivery of measured fluid quantities to control the amount of lift. A second hydration port is coupled, to a graduated cylinder through a valve, which is opened after lifting is complete, to measure the fluid released. A loss of fluid measured indicates a sinus tear.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis (1) for the repair of an inguinal hernia comprising: a textile (2) of elongate shape, a resilient frame (3) connected to said textile, characterized in that said frame comprises a convex cranial segment (3c), a caudal segment (3d), a lateral corner segment (3b) joining together the convex cranial segment and the caudal segment, and a folding segment (5) joining a medial end of said convex cranial segment to a point located on the caudal segment while leaving the region of the medial end of the textile free of any frame, said frame being able to adopt an unstressed configuration, in which said textile is deployed, and a stressed configuration, in which said convex cranial segment, said caudal segment and said folding segment are substantially collected together and aligned on one folding direction, said textile forming thereby at least one fold along said folding direction.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to tissue matrix products. The products can include tissue matrices that have openings such as holes or perforations located at certain positions to improve various functions without substantial loss of strength or other important properties. The openings can facilitate implantation of the tissue matrices in surgical procedures thereby speeding operation times and potentially improving surgical results.

Abstract: A device and method for repair of a patient's aorta is disclosed. The device includes a first component including an outer diameter equal to a first diameter, a second component attached to a distal end of the first component, and a plurality of third components positioned in a chamber defined in the second component. The second component includes a proximal surface extending outwardly from the distal end of the first component, and a plurality of openings defined in the proximal surface. Each third component includes a passageway extending inwardly from an opening of the plurality of openings defined in the proximal surface. Each passageway is sized to receive a tubular conduit, and the proximal surface has an outer edge that defines a second diameter greater than the first diameter.

Abstract: A positioning and installation tool for a fixation implant is inserted through a single, simple drill hole and positioned in place. The device controls the degree to which the implant is deployed and prevents accidental disengagement of the device from the implant before deployment has completed. The device also guides the components of the implant involved in active tendon compression at the aperture of the bone tunnel. The implant is deployed simply by rotating a knob, thereby creating an anchor point of high stiffness and fixation strength. When deployment has completed, the inserter is disengaged from the affixed implant by simply pulling a release mechanism.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing fixation of soft tissue (for example, ligament) to bone by employing a novel multi-piece device. The novel multi-piece device is a ligament fixation system consisting of a larger collar that is initially impacted into a bone aperture, and a smaller plug/bullet-shaped part that is impacted into the larger collar. During ligament repair/reconstruction, the graft is inserted into a bone tunnel with sutures from the graft extending outside the tunnel. The sutures are passed through a collar of the multi-part device and the collar is then inserted into the bone tunnel. The graft suture strands may be tensioned. Subsequently, the smaller plug/bullet-shaped part is impacted into the collar thereby maintaining the tension on the graft sutures. The plug/bullet-shaped part is tightened after the desired tension on the suture is achieved.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods and devices suitable for producing a transplantable cellular suspension of living tissue suitable for grafting to a patient. In applying the method and/or in using the device, donor tissue is harvested, subjected to a cell dissociation treatment, cells suitable for grafting back to a patient are collected and dispersed in a solution that is suitable for immediate dispersion over the recipient graft site.

Abstract: A intraocular lens system includes an artificial capsular bag adapted for implantation within a natural capsular bag of an eye and an intraocular lens adapted to be received within the artificial capsular bag. At least a portion of the intraocular lens tilts and moves forwards within the artificial capsular bag under gravitational force with respect to a cornea and retina of the eye to create myopia.

Abstract: An intraocular lens insertion apparatus includes an apparatus body configured to include a housing member for housing an intraocular lens and an insertion tube member for ejecting the intraocular lens into an eyeball of a patient, a plunger configured to move in the apparatus body, and a hook member formed on the apparatus body for a user of the intraocular lens insertion apparatus to hook a finger when the user moves the plunger. The plunger is moved to a side of the insertion tube member, the intraocular lens housed in the housing member is pushed by a distal end of the plunger, and the intraocular lens is ejected from the insertion tube member, and a connecting member configured to connect an operability enhancing member for enhancing an operability of the plunger when the plunger is moved with the apparatus body is provided for the apparatus body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for replacing a heart valve that is diseased owing to inflammation and/or an infection. The system has: a stent system with at least one expandable stent; and a replacement heart valve which is secured to the at least one stent and has at least two heart valve leaflets. The at least one stent has a coating with an antimicrobial substance or an antimicrobially effective carrier material, preferably on the inner side and/or the outer side.

Abstract: Valves constructed from low porosity leaflets are disclosed. The valves disclosed herein may be integrated into a variety of structures, such as valved conduits and transcatheter stents, and may be constructed of one or more layers. Embodiments herein are also directed to methods of using the same and methods of making the same.

Abstract: Valves constructed from low porosity leaflets are disclosed. The valves disclosed herein may be integrated into a variety of structures, such as valved conduits and transcatheter stents, and may be constructed of one or more layers. Embodiments herein are also directed to methods of using the same and methods of making the same.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis and delivery systems are provided for replacing a cardiac valve. The heart valve prosthesis includes a self-expanding frame includes a portion having a crimp that provides additional flexibility to the self-expanding frame in the collapsed configuration.

Abstract: A method is provided for the transcatheter delivery of an intracorporeal device and includes establishing a device delivery pathway in a patient. The device delivery pathway extends at least from an entry point into the patient to an exit point from the patient. A method is also provided for the transcatheter retrieval of an intracorporeally implanted device and includes establishing a device delivery pathway in a patient, wherein the device delivery pathway extends at least from an entry point into the patient to an exit point from the patient. A delivery device is also provided for the transcatheter delivery of an intracorporeal device through a device delivery pathway in a patient, the delivery device comprising a catheter comprising a radial separation mechanism, or a delivery catheter and detachably coupling with an intracorporeal device.

Abstract: Delivery devices for delivery of a stented prosthetic heart valve. Various delivery devices include an outer sheath assembly including an outer sheath connected to a capsule that is advanced proximally to retain the prosthetic valve, which is secured over an inner shaft assembly of the delivery device. The delivery device further includes a bumper to provide a smooth transition of the capsule over the prosthetic valve during loading and recapture procedures. The bumper is expandable from a first position to a second position in which a distal end of the bumper is expanded to increase its diameter. The bumper can be biased in the second, expanded position so that the bumper automatically transitions to the expanded position upon retraction of the outer sheath.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a delivery system for percutaneous heart valve repair, the delivery system including a steerable sheath configured to provide percutaneous access into a heart and to deliver an implant. The system may also have a steering mechanism configured to manipulate and orient the implant, a ball joint mechanism configured to connect the steerable sheath to the steering mechanism, a main knob assembly configured to advance and retract a multilumen shaft assembly, a stabilizing tool including a plurality of prongs configured to engage the implant within the heart to make an intimate contact with the heart tissue using a stabilizer and a tongue assembly, and a back assembly including: the actuation mechanism, a suture routing mechanism, a tip lock mechanism, and a back cover configured to protect all sutures being cut by mistake.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for the treatment or repair of regurgitant cardiac valves, such as a mitral valve. An illustrative annuloplasty device can be placed in the coronary sinus to reshape the mitral valve and reduce mitral valve regurgitation. An improved protective device can be placed between the annuloplasty device and an underlying coronary artery to inhibit compression of the underlying coronary artery by the annuloplasty device in the coronary sinus. In addition, the protective device can inhibit compression of the coronary artery from inside the heart, such as from a prosthetic mitral valve that exerts radially outward pressure toward the coronary artery. The annuloplasty device can also create an artificial inner ridge or retaining feature projecting into the native mitral valve region to help secure a prosthetic mitral valve.

Abstract: A device and method for repairing a mitral valve leaflet 2, 3. The device 10 includes a body 16 having an annular wall 18 and at least one aperture 22 through the annular wall 18. A deployment assembly 24 mounted on the body includes at least one grasping wire 28 arranged for sliding movement in the aperture 22. Movement of the deployment assembly 24 to a deployed position relative to the body causes a free end of the grasping wire 28 to project out from the annular wall 18 through the aperture 22, and movement of the deployment assembly to a retracted position relative to the body causes the free end of the grasping wire 28 to not project out from the annular wall 18. In the deployed position, the grasping wire 28 may grasp and gather tissue of the leaflet 2,3.

Abstract: A training kit is provided for practicing aortic valve reconstruction. The aortic valve reconstruction training kit is provided with a blood vessel model and multiple valve leaflet models, and the blood vessel model has a base-capped or base-uncapped cylindrical form having an opening formed on at least the top part thereof. The blood vessel model also has a valve ring part which is formed in the middle of the cylinder and to which the valve leaflet models can be sutured. By using the training kit, it becomes possible to practice a suturing technique that is believed to be the most difficult in aortic valve reconstruction, namely, a technique of accurately suturing a new valve leaflet to a valve ring part, to which an abnormal valve leaflet has been attached, of a cylindrical aorta while viewing the inside of the aorta from above.

Abstract: A device for measuring heart valve for sizing a heart valve reinforcement ring, includes a handle having a first shaft and a second shaft; an inner ring coupled to the first shaft; an outer ring coupled to the second shaft; and a trigger mechanism configured and arranged to force the inner ring and outer ring together wherein an outer surface of the inner ring engages an inner surface of the outer ring; the inner surface of the outer ring and the outer surface of the inner ring having reciprocal mating surfaces configured and arranged to grip sutures therebetween when coupled together.

Abstract: Implantable apparatuses and method of implanting the apparatuses are disclosed that provide a person with a neopenis including a penile prosthetic implanted into a neophallus. The neopenis is situated anatomically in a position of that of a location for a penis of a natal male. The neopenis is suitable for penetrative intercourse.

Abstract: Implantable apparatuses and method of implanting the apparatuses are disclosed that provide a person with a neopenis including a penile prosthetic implanted into a neophallus. The neopenis is situated anatomically in a position of that of a location for a penis of a natal male. The neopenis is suitable for penetrative intercourse.

Abstract: A tibial augment for use with a knee joint prosthesis, composed of annular members of different stock sizes, each size being configured to fit within a cavity formed in a human tibia. The augment may include a stepped distal surface. A provisional (temporary) tibial augment used to ensure a proper fit for the permanent augment is also provided. The provisional may include grooves configured to cooperate with a set of ribs on a tong-like holder used for removing the provisional from the cavity. A pusher for use implanting the tibial augment is also provided. In addition, a system for creating a cavity in a human tibia is also described. The system preferably includes a guide with a slot therein and a set of osteotomes that are inserted to within different portions of the slot. Methods for using the tools and/or implanting the prosthetic devices discussed above are also described.

Abstract: A knee joint implant is capable of resolving issues of conventional cementless or uncemented implants. The knee joint implant improves fixing force of the implant in a vertical direction and provides improved initial fixation for the implant.

Abstract: A talar implant, comprising: a superior surface, defined by an arc having at least one first radius; an inferior surface, defined by an arc having at least one second radius, a lateral side; a medial side; a posterior portion having a first width; and an anterior portion having a second width; wherein the implant is configured to restore a tibio-talar joint tension, wherein the superior surface is separated from the inferior surface by a thickness, wherein the at least one first radius is smaller than the at least one second radius, wherein the center of the arc having at least one first radius is offset from the center of the arc having at least one second radius in at least one plane of the talar implant, and wherein the anterior portion further comprises an extension configured to provide support.

Abstract: An intervertebral disc prosthesis designed to be substituted for fibrocartilaginous discs ensures a connection between the vertebra of the vertebra column or the end of the latter. The prosthesis includes a pair of plates spaced from each other by a nucleus. The prosthesis has increased stability by providing the nucleus with a translation or rotation stop, or by inducing an angular correction between its plates contacting vertebra, or a combination of these characteristics. The stop includes parts external to the nucleus and contact surfaces perpendicular to their contact directions. Surgical methods and instrumentation for implanting the prosthesis are also described.

Abstract: An intervertebral scaffolding system is provided having a laterovertically-expanding frame operable for a reversible collapse from an expanded state into a collapsed state, the laterovertically-expanding frame having a stabilizer, one or more tensioners, or a combination of the stabilizer with one or more tensioners. The stabilizer slidably engages with the distal region of the laterovertically-expanding frame and both the stabilizer and the one or more tensioners are configured for retaining the laterovertically-expanding frame from a lateral movement that exceeds the expanded state. The expanded state, for example, can be configured to have an open graft distribution window that at least substantially closes upon the reversible collapse.

Abstract: An implant assembly including a curved mesh cage and angled endplates. The implant assembly offers a safe and secure mesh cage while providing lordosis/kyphosis angling at the center of the construct instead of at the end of the cage only. One or more angled endplates may be included which allow the surgeon to make a construct unique to the patient's anatomy. The endplates press-fit into corresponding holes in the mesh cage for a secure fit.

Abstract: Injection molded prosthetic limb systems and related methods are disclosed. Example prosthetic hands include a plurality of segments, wherein each segment is comprised of an injection molded plastic.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot includes a heel member and a forefoot member. An ankle member receives the heel member and forefoot member shaft so as to allow the heel member and forefoot member to translate independently of one another.

Abstract: An actuator-damper unit for use in orthotic or prosthetic devices. The actuator-damper unit includes a housing which may be fastened on the orthotic or prosthetic device and in which a cylinder is formed. A first piston is displaceably mounted in the cylinder and is coupled to a piston rod. The piston rod is disposed, via a first end, on the first piston and may be coupled, via a second end, to the orthotic or prosthetic device. The first piston separates two fluid chambers in the cylinder from each other and forms a piston-cylinder unit, wherein at least one further piston is coupled to the first piston in order to form at least one further, variable-volume fluid chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for achieving a best possible prosthetic fit in a prosthesis system for an amputee includes a sensor array embedded in a gel like substance slipped over a residual limb in a socket configuration with respect to a prosthesis system. Such an apparatus can also include data collection and transmission mechanism such as a microcontroller that communicates with the sensor array and which data from the sensor array to a computing device for processing and interpretation of the data in order to statically and dynamically assess a quality of fit of the prosthesis system for the amputee.

Abstract: A production method for a medical linear member is provided which is not abraded upon production and which includes a flat shape in a cross section. The method includes the steps of: forming a first spiral body (1) of an oval shape in a horizontal section by spirally winding a base body (3), in which a plurality of wires (2) formed of a shape-memory alloy is arrayed, around a winding core (4); subjecting the first spiral body (1) to first shape-memory treatment; cutting the first spiral body (1) into a first predetermined length; forming a second spiral body (5) of a flat shape in a horizontal section by compressing the first spiral body (1) in a direction along a short diameter; subjecting the second spiral body (5) to second shape-memory treatment; and removing the winding core (4) from the second spiral body (5).

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: A vascular intervention device delivery system includes a handle comprised of a first shell connected to a second shell. A thumbwheel, which includes a radially outward thumb surface and a spool, is rotatably mounted in the handle. A catheter has a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal carrier segment for mounting a vascular intervention device thereon. A retractable sheath is movable from a first position covering the distal carrier segment to a second position retracted proximally uncovering the distal carrier segment. A pull extends between the thumbwheel and the retractable sheath. A rim of the pull and an internal surface of the first shell define a pull avoidance volume. The first shell includes a plurality of ribs positioned in the pull avoidance volume and oriented transverse to a pull pathway around an idler wheel, and the ribs block entry of the pull into the pull avoidance volume.

Abstract: A delivery catheter comprises an inner shaft and an outer sheath. A stent-graft is held on a region of the inner shaft. An enlarged diameter distal region of the outer sheath constrains the stent-graft. Its retraction allows the stent-graft to deploy. A finger wheel on a handle is used to retract the outer sheath and is coupled to a sliding block with cable(s). The sliding block is coupled to the outer sheath and is held within a sliding track. The wheel can be actuated to tension the cable(s) and deform latch(es) coupled to sliding block, freeing them from slot(s) in the sliding track and allowing retraction of the sliding block and the outer sheath. A reinforcement sleeve is coupled to a smaller diameter proximal region of the outer sheath. A gap between the outer sheath distal region and the reinforcement sleeve allows the distal outer shaft region to be retracted.

Abstract: A novel caloric bypass device that is inserted through the oral cavity and into the digestive tract of a human is disclosed. The device is deliverable as either a unitary or modular structure that preferentially directs a significant volume of the high calorie fluidic components of the chyme through the digestive tract, preventing exposure to the absorptive tissues of the digestive tract and, in some forms, stimulates negative feedback to the patient when simple sugars and carbohydrates are consumed. Also disclosed is a novel method of reducing or restricting caloric intake using this device to prevent or minimize contact with the absorptive tissues of the digestive tract.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices are described for fabricating, providing, and using an orogastric tube. The orogastric tube may have, among other things: a proximal end section; a distal end section opposite the proximal end section and having a flexible, resilient curved portion; at least one sump channel extending from the proximal end section along a pre-determined length of the orogastric tube into the distal end section; at least one suction channel extending from the proximal end section along a pre-determined length of the orogastric tube into the distal end section; and optionally at least one balloon channel extending from the proximal end section along a pre-determined length of the orogastric tube to the distal end section. The optional balloon channel is in communication with an expandable balloon in the distal end section; and a main channel encloses a pre-determined length of the sump channel, the suction channel, and, if present, the balloon channel.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a custom or pre-fabricated ankle foot orthosis providing tri-planar control of the ankle foot structure. The ankle foot orthosis comprises a brace body composed of reinforcement strips and a closure mechanism.

Abstract: A process for treating femoral fractures in children includes diagnosing a patient with a femoral shaft fracture and enclosing the affected limb in a splint. The process further includes scanning the unaffected limb with a three-dimensional scanner and obtaining measurements of the unaffected limb that may be used to form a brace for the affected limb. In addition, the process includes fabricating an orthosis to support the affected limb based on the scan and measurements taken of the unaffected limb, and applying the orthosis to the affected limb.

Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to systems, devices, and methods for compressing the pelvis with alternating compressive air compartments by encircling the hip region of the patient. In some examples, a device may be applied to a person with a traumatic pelvic injury. A main body may include a strong flexible material such as neoprene and may have the general shape of a wide belt or pelvic girdle. The interior or exterior aspect of the binder may be composed of one or many straps that extend from one end of the binder and are looped through buckles on the other end of the binder and may therefore allow for tightening of the binder upon itself for compression. The end of the strap may contain a fastening device to affix the end of the strap to itself after the strap has been looped through the buckle.

Abstract: A defecation treatment device comprises a discharge means and an excrement containing means. The discharge means comprises a discharge tube, which has an excrement inlet formed on an end thereof such that the end is inserted into the anus, thereby sucking excrement. The excrement containing means comprises a flexible pack, which is coupled to the other end of the discharge tube so as to contain the excrement sucked into the discharge tube, a case, which contains the pack, which is coupled to the other end of the discharge tube, and which has an air outlet formed thereon so as to discharge inner air to the outside such that excrement can be contained in the pack, and a pump capable of discharging air in the case through the air outlet.

Abstract: An ostomy appliance may include a wafer base plate to be coupled to a stoma of a patient and having a base layer with an opening positioned inwardly adjacent edges of the base layer, and first fastening pads carried by the base layer. The ostomy appliance may include an ostomy bag assembly to be coupled to the wafer base plate and having a bag with an opening to receive waste from the stoma of the patient, the opening being positioned inwardly from adjacent edges of the bag, and second fastening pads carried by the bag and configured to couple to the first fastening pads so that corresponding portions of the bag are retained against adjacent portions of the wafer base plate as the bag fills with the waste.

Abstract: An external incontinence collection device that includes a novel one-way valve system for preventing backflow from a collection receptacle. The incontinence collection device also includes novel drainage valve structures that improve the drainage functionality.

Abstract: A thermal control unit for delivering temperature-controlled fluid to one or more patient pads that are in contact with a patient is disclosed. The thermal control unit includes a fluid circuit with an inlet and outlet, a heat exchanger, a pump, and a controller. A fluid quality monitor is included in some embodiments to monitor a cleanliness of the circulating fluid and issue an alert if the cleanliness falls below a threshold. A valve may be included that is controlled by the controller based upon a measurement of the cleanliness of the circulating fluid and/or the passage of a predetermined amount of time. A second valve may also be included in some embodiments that selectively diverts fluid to an additional filter. The additional filter is used to determine if a cleaning action taken with respect to the circulating fluid was effective or not.