Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for controlling movement of a distal end of a surgical instrument. In general, the methods and devices can allow for controlling movement of surgical tools, and in particular for causing mimicked motion between an external control unit and a surgical tool positioned within a patient's body. In one embodiment, a surgical system is provided having a master assembly including an input tool and a slave assembly including a surgical instrument. The master assembly and the slave assembly can be configured to be electronically coupled together such that movement of the master assembly can be electronically communicated to the slave assembly to cause mimicked movement of the slave assembly.

Abstract: A prophylactic kit apparatus configured to be used with only a single patient includes a plurality of sealed modules and a housing configured to contain those sealed modules such that only one of the plurality of sealed modules can be removed from the housing at a time. Each of the plurality of sealed modules contains at least one prophylactic agent to be used in service of the patient. These sealed modules are to be used in a particular order and the housing is further configured to facilitate the removal of the sealed modules in only that particular order.

Abstract: An illuminated microsurgical surgical instrument that allows for illumination of the interior of a body cavity during a surgical procedure is provided herein. The surgical instrument may include an elongate tubular member having a distal end for insertion through tissue, the elongate tubular member having an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and a wall thickness. A longitudinal slot extending from the distal end of the elongate tubular member is formed in the elongate tubular member. The surgical instrument further may include an optical fiber extending within the longitudinal slot toward the distal end of the elongate tubular member. The optical fiber may be affixed within the longitudinal slot by an adhesive. The optical fiber may be positioned such that a distal tip thereof is protected from damage by a distal edge of the elongate tubular member during insertion of the instrument into the body cavity.

Abstract: A computer system that provides situational awareness and feedback during a surgical procedure is described. During operation, the computer system generates stereoscopic images at a first 3-dimensional (3D) location in an individual, where the stereoscopic images include image parallax and are based on data having a discrete spatial resolution and a predefined surgical plan for the individual. Then, the computer system provides the stereoscopic images to a display. When a surgical tool is advanced, location information of the surgical tool is updated in the stereoscopic images displayed are updated. Alternatively or additionally, When location information indicates a deviation from the predefined surgical plan during the surgical procedure, the computer system generates revised stereoscopic images that indicate: the deviation has occurred an update to the predefined surgical plan and/or how to return to the predefined surgical plan.

Abstract: A disposable marker for use in preparation for medical procedures. The marker is made of plastic or such similar material that does not show up on an x-ray monitor. The marker includes one or more metallic elements that have an elongated aspect disposed in proximity to the marker tip. As such, a clinician may introduce the marker into an x-ray field and view it in space by following the metallic element an x-ray monitor.

Abstract: A medical or a dental instrument comprises an operative portion (101) for operations according to the purpose of use of the instrument, a center portion (103) mechanically connecting to the operative portion, and a radio frequency identifier (106) located on the center portion and capable of being read from a distance of the instrument. The instrument further comprises a tubular handle portion (104) provided to surround the radio frequency identifier and at least a part of the center portion, the tubular handle portion being cast on the instrument so that the material of the tubular handle portion is adhered to the material of the center portion. Thus, the tubular handle portion acts not only as the handle portion but also as at least a part of a fixation system attaching the radio frequency identifier to the instrument. An instrument of such construction is easy to keep hygienic.

Abstract: A method is for manufacturing a cartridge (10, 27, 30) for containing and meterably dispensing a reservoir (11) contained flowable dental material (36). The reservoir (11) is connected to a cannula section (14) for dispensing the dental material (36). A separate functional element (15) is connected to the cannula section (14). The cartridge (10, 27, 30) is manufactured together with the functional element (15) according to a multicomponent injection molding method. The functional element (15) is designed as a detachable closing element. The functional element (15) and the cartridge (10, 27, 30) are positioned during the manufacture such that the functional element (15) is mounted at least partially in the cannula section (14). The functional element (15) has a plug part (16) for closing the cannula section (14) and a cannula duct (24) of the cannula section (14) is filled at least partially with the plug part (16).

Abstract: A physical model of at least a portion of a patient's dentition has model dental surfaces corresponding to real dental surfaces of the patient's dentition. The physical model includes one or more targets, each configured for facilitating placement of an orthodontic appliance on the model at a desired location. The targets lack mechanical stops that are outwardly protruding from the original model dental surfaces. Also provided are a method of manufacturing a physical model for use in indirect bonding procedures, a method for indirect bonding for use in an orthodontic procedure, a method for providing an indirect bonding transfer tray for use in an orthodontic procedure, and a system for providing a physical model for use in indirect bonding orthodontic procedures.

Abstract: An orthodontic bracket includes a bracket body, a slide member, and a resilient member. The slide member is slidable relative to the archwire slot. The resilient member is coupled to and is slidable with the slide member. The resilient member is configured to engage a first portion of the bracket body in the opened position and a second portion of the bracket body in the closed position. The second portion is different from the first portion. The resilient member imposes a biasing force on the slide member in the direction of movement toward the archwire slot when the slide member is in the closed position. The resilient member may be configured to impose a biasing force on the slide member in the direction away from the archwire slot when the slide member is at a position intermediate the opened and closed positions.

Abstract: A dental abutment, or a dental implant having an integrated abutment, in which the occlusal part of the abutment to which the dental prosthesis is to be cemented features a shoulder having a reverse margin. At the point where the shoulder meets the outer profile of the gingival part of the abutment, the shoulder is at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the abutment, thereby causing any cement ejected during mounting of the prosthesis to be ejected in a direction away from the gingiva.

Abstract: Systems for generating in-focus color images are provided. Related methods and devices are also provided.

Abstract: A disposable saliva ejector with a single planar, double leaf shaped plate design embossed on the inner faces of the leaf plates with a series of arced ribs and then folded about its midpoint. A tab and slot arrangement joins the two plates when operationally folded. The arced ribs form a series of channels equidistant about the perimeter of the device. A trough runs along the linear axis of both of the plates to direct any fluid and debris that is sucked into the channels into a connected suction tube. Placement of the saliva ejector within the mouth lies along the interior of the patient's cheek, keeping the oral cavity clear of viewing obstructions.

Abstract: An electric motorized toothbrush with a pair of bristle units spaced apart from each other by a gap and a third bristle unit bordering the gap by being closer to each of the bristle units of the pair than the bristle units of the pair are to each other. A motorized gear transmission, via associated spindles, rotates the pair of bristle units in opposite directions and either rotates or reciprocates the third bristle unit. The bristle units of the pair include a respective cylinder and bristles that extend radially outward from the respective cylinder and the bristles may be of varying lengths. The bristles rotate in a direction away from the gum line while the teeth are inserted into the gap.

Abstract: The invention concerns methods and a device for the determination of the centric position of a human set of teeth with improved precision. This is needed for the adjustment of an articulator in the production of dentures. For this purpose a plurality of successive bite movements or displacement movements of the lower jaw are recorded in form of electronic signal data and evaluated for the determination of the centric position.

Abstract: A system and method of treating and protecting an injured claw of an animal. A claw cap is provided. The claw cap is an elastomeric cap that defines an interior compartment. A medicated compound may be provided within the interior compartment of the claw cap. The injured claw is advanced into the claw cap through the open end of the claw cap. The injured claw is exposed to the medicated compound within the interior compartment of the claw cap. The claw cap then engages the exterior of the injured claw with a friction fit. The claw cap remains on the injured claw as the animal resumes normal activities. The claw cap is removed once the medication has affected a significant degree of healing.

Abstract: A dilator/manipulator for use in treating pelvic organ prolapse, including a support member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an adjustable width, and a handle extending upwardly at an angle from the support member. Also included are methods for surgically correcting pelvic organ prolapse with the use of such a dilator/manipulator.

Abstract: To increase the resistance to liquid and substance flow through a lumen of a tubular organ, a cuff comprising a flexible, mesh base member is appended to an exterior wall of the tubular organ such that it only partially surrounds the tubular organ. Ultimately, tissue ingrowth through the mesh base member integrates the cuff into the wall of the tubular organ. When the cuff is applied to the urethra of an incontinent patient, the increased resistance to flow renders the patient continent while still allowing normal voiding. The base member may also support an optional expandable component, e.g., a balloon-like element that can be selectively inflated and/or deflated to restrict the lumen of the tubular organ by a desired degree.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a package for a surgical repair kit, the package including at least a first area configured and dimensioned to receive a surgical mesh and a second area configured and dimensioned to receive an implantable plug.

Abstract: A prosthesis including a support structure for enhancing kink and/or crush resistance. The support structure is connected to an outer surface of the prosthesis and includes at least two components, one of which has a lower melting point than the other. The component with the lower melting point is used to connect the support structure to the outer surface of the prosthesis.

Abstract: An endovascular apparatus is provided for treating the effects of vascular disease including aneurysms and arterial blockages using a percutaneous, minimally invasive technique. In one embodiment the endovascular apparatus includes a tubular sleeve having a cranial end, a first caudal branch, and a second caudal branch such that the tubular sleeve is shaped like an upside down “Y.” The apparatus further includes at least one expandable attachment device attached to the tubular sleeve for securing the endovascular apparatus to an interior wall of a vessel. The at least one expandable attachment device includes a plurality of telescoping segments similar to the telescoping segments of a presentation pointer. Accordingly, during percutaneous insertion of the endovascular apparatus into a patient the attachment device can be collapsed into a small profile.

Abstract: Adjustable length surgical screws and inserters for adjustable length surgical screws and methods of using the screws and inserters are provided. In general, a fixation device such as a surgical screw can be configured to have an adjustable length. The fixation device can have one or more break points along a longitudinal axis thereof. In an exemplary implementation, the fixation device can include a plurality of break points. The plurality of break points can be formed at different predetermined axial positions along the fixation device's longitudinal axis. The fixation device can be configured to break at each of its one or more break points, for example breaking along a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the fixation device.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides devices and methods relating to surgical breast procedures. The devices can include a holder and backing to assist in positioning a biological material adjacent to a tissue expander or implant.

Abstract: An intraocular lens (IOL) system includes an active lens element to provide dynamic optical power for active accommodation. The active lens element has mechanical indentations disposed along a perimeter of the active lens element and the mechanical indentations form structurally weakened locations in the active lens element. A first pair of the mechanical indentations defines terminal ends of a first folding line extending between the first pair of the mechanical indentations, and the first pair of the mechanical indentations promotes folding of the active lens element along the first folding line. The IOL system also includes control circuitry coupled to the active lens element to control the active lens element during the active accommodation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a valved stent that can provide a valve function without blocking a branch blood vessel, and also can provide a valve function with minimum covering of blood vessel tissue in a stent indwelling section. Specifically, a cylindrical stent body 4 is provided. A leaflet 5 that can open/close a blood vessel 2 in a blood flow direction is provided. The leaflet 5 is composed of connective tissue and protrudes radially inward from the stent body 4. An inside and an outside of the stent body 4 radially communicate with each other. The stent does not block a branch blood vessel 8. An area of the blood vessel covered with the stent is reduced.

Abstract: The invention includes methods of and apparatus for endovascularly replacing a heart valve of a patient. One aspect of the invention provides a method including the steps of endovascularly delivering a replacement valve and an expandable anchor to a vicinity of the heart valve in an unexpanded configuration; and applying an external non-hydraulically expanding or non-pneumatically expanding actuation force on the anchor to change the shape of the anchor, such as by applying proximally and/or distally directed force on the anchor using a releasable deployment tool to expand and contract the anchor or parts of the anchor. Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus including a replacement valve; an anchor; and a deployment tool comprising a plurality of anchor actuation elements adapted to apply a non-hydraulically expanding or non-pneumatically expanding actuation force on the anchor to reshape the anchor.

Abstract: Devices for treating mitral valve regurgitation, including a distal expandable anchor, a proximal expandable anchor, and a fixed length connecting member extending from the proximal expandable anchor to the distal expandable anchor, where at least one of the proximal and distal anchors includes first and second arm segments that extend from one end of the device toward the connecting member and the other anchor when in a collapsed delivery configuration, and where the at least one of the proximal and distal anchors that comprises the first and second arm segments has an expanded configuration in which the first and second arm segments extend radially outwardly such that the first and second arm segments extend away from one another toward the connector, and meet one another at a location axially spaced from the end of the device.

Abstract: Tissue shaping devices adapted to be disposed in a vessel near a patient's heart to reshape the patient's heart. The devices include a first anchor and a second anchor adapted to be deployed by a catheter to engage a vessel wall while the first anchor is adapted to resist the compression of a first part of the first anchor and resist the expansion of a second part of the first anchor in response to a compressive force on the first part.

Abstract: Devices and methods for the repair of the functioning of heart valves are provided. A device may comprise a first section having a generally spiral shape and a second section connected to the first section. A method involves positioning the device such that chords associated with the heart valve are positioned within the path of the generally spiral shape of the first section and positioning the second section on an opposite side of the heart valve. The first section may be turned in a manner such that the chords move closer to the center of the first section. The first section draws the chords closer together, thereby pulling the valve leaflets closer together in order to facilitate their coaptation and proper closing.

Abstract: A method of inflating an implantable penile prosthetic includes providing the prosthetic with a lockout valve. The lockout valve is located in an inlet flow path between a reservoir containing liquid and a pump attached to the implantable penile prosthetic. The lockout valve has a core, an inlet flange connected to the core, a lockout flange connected to the core, an inflation channel formed through the core, a deflation pathway that is separate from the inflation channel and formed through a diameter of the core, and a one-way check valve disposed in the deflation pathway of the core. When a suction force is applied downstream from the reservoir, the core rotates, thus displacing the inlet flange and moving the liquid contained in the reservoir across the lockout valve and into the pump.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a joint replacement coupling comprising joint members with opposing joint surfaces, wherein one of the members has a magnetic portion therein which comprises an array of magnets, and the other of the members has a conduction portion therein that comprises a conductive surface. The magnets are arranged to produce a magnetic field that contacts the conduction portion. The conduction portion is optionally positioned so that at least a portion of the conductive surface contacts the magnetic field so that relative motion between the opposing joint surfaces induces current loops in the conductive surface and produces a repulsive force against the magnetic portion, thereby reducing friction between the joint surfaces, optionally separating the joint surfaces.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of forming a polymer component and comprises blending polymer particles with antioxidant to form a mixture in which the antioxidant coats the polymer particles, irradiating the polymer particles to cross-link the polymer particles therein and forming the irradiated mixture into a consolidated component. The invention also relates to a method of forming an articular surface for a prosthesis and a prosthesis having a polymer articular bearing surface wherein at least one pre-determined portion of the bearing surface is provided with cross-linked polymer bonds.

Abstract: A method for treating arthritis of a joint includes identifying a bone lesion in a bone adjacent to the joint; and implanting in the bone a reinforcing member in or adjacent to the bone lesion. A kit for conducting the method includes: (a) at least one reinforcing member having a proximal face adapted to face the joint, a distal face adapted to face away from the joint, and a wedge-shaped edge adapted to pierce bone, wherein the at least one reinforcing member is planar and sterile; and (b) a container adapted to maintain the at least one reinforcing member sterile. Another kit includes: (a) a sterile fluid; (b) a syringe for injecting the fluid into a bone; (c) a curing agent adapted to cure the fluid to polymerize and/or cross-link; and (d) a container adapted to maintain the sterility of contents of the container.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a modular assembly for an arthroplasty in a long bone and methods for achieving an anatomically accurate reconstruction. A modular arthroplasty assembly includes the components of: a convertible offset coupler bounded on a first side by an implant surface adapted to receive an implant component, and bounded on an opposite second side by a bone anchor engagement surface, prosthesis component and a bone anchor configured to be inserted in bone and adapted for engagement with the convertible offset coupler. Together, the components of the system, including the array of selectable engagement orientations of the components, enables adaptation to the existing anatomy of the patient and the ability to most closely achieve the native anatomy of the healthy shoulder joint so as to provide the patient with the most natural use of the joint.

Abstract: A system for stabilizing a cervical spine segment includes a pair of uncinate joint stabilizers for stabilizing a respective pair of uncinate joints. Each uncinate joint stabilizer is elongated along a lengthwise dimension and is configured for placement in the respective uncinate joint with the lengthwise dimension substantially oriented along an anterior-to-posterior direction of the cervical spine segment. Each uncinate joint stabilizer has height configured to define spacing of the respective uncinate joint. Each uncinate joint stabilizer includes a generally cylindrical portion with cylinder axis in the lengthwise dimension. The generally cylindrical portion has threads for threading the uncinate joint stabilizer into the respective uncinate joint along the anterior-to-posterior direction. The threads are interrupted by one or more fenestrations configured to accommodate bone graft material, bone growth, and/or tissue displaced from the respective uncinate joint by the uncinate joint stabilizer.

Abstract: Implants and methods for augmentation, preferably by minimally invasive procedures and means, of body tissue, including in some embodiments repositioning of body tissue, for example, bone and, preferably vertebrae are described. The implant may comprise one or more chain linked bodies inserted into the interior of body tissue. As linked bodies are inserted into body tissue, they may fill a central portion thereof and for example in bone can push against the inner sides of the cortical exterior surface layer, for example the end plates of a vertebral body, thereby providing structural support and tending to restore the body tissue to its original or desired treatment height. A bone cement or other filler can be added to further augment and stabilize the body tissue. The preferred implant comprises a single flexible monolithic chain formed of allograft cortical bone having a plurality of substantially non-flexible bodies connected by substantially flexible links.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant, alone and in combination with an insertion tool for inserting same and a method for inserting same. The implant has upper and lower parts which have universal movement relative to each other. Each of the upper and lower parts also has a surface engaging an adjacent vertebrae. Each part has a keel extending from said surface into a cutout in the adjacent vertebrae, and each keel has an anterior opening recess therein. An insert tool has a pair of arms which are received in the recess of the keels through the anterior opening to securely hold and insert the implant. Projections and matching indentations in each arm and the base of its recess securely attached each arm within its keel.

Abstract: Embodiments herein are generally directed to spinal implants, systems, apparatuses, and components thereof that can be used in spinal fusion and/or stabilization procedures, as well as methods of installation. The spinal implants may include an intervertebral spacer and a plate member.

Abstract: An expandable implant is disclosed having an adjustable height for insertion between two adjacent bony structures or joint surfaces, for example between two adjacent spinal vertebrae. The implant includes at least one gear associated with at least one threaded shaft. Rotation of the gear engages the threaded shaft to expand the implant. The implant can be inserted in a collapsed configuration and expanded in situ. The invention also provides methods for using the implant to facilitate arthrodesis or fusion of adjacent joint surfaces or spinal vertebrae.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems, devices, and methods for guiding placement, orientation, and fixation of an orthopedic implant. Examples include a surgical guide having a first surface structured to fit within a prosthetic cup, at least one guide hole through the first surface, and an alignment structure having a contour formed from data indicative of the patient anatomy. The contour of the alignment surface is complementary to a portion of the patient anatomy in a unique orientation that aligns the guide hole with tissue suitable for receiving a fastener. The alignment structure preferably includes an arm with a first end coupled to a rim of the guide and a second end coupled to the contour. In certain implementations, the guide includes a plurality of alignment structures. Further disclosed are methods of making and using a surgical guide for aligning an orthopedic implant.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an adjustable corpectomy device which fits within the intervertebral distracted channel. The device includes a means for engaging an extendable member to accommodate the distracted channel. The corpectomy implant device is defined by a main body, a first expandable plate, and an opposing second expandable plate. Each expandable plate is adapted to fit within the main body in a compressed state, and extends away from the main body in a non-compressed, expanded state.

Abstract: A method for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis into a space between two vertebrae involves inserting the prosthesis partway into the space under constraint to prevent endplates of the prosthesis from articulating, releasing the prosthesis from constraint, and inserting the unconstrained prosthesis farther into the space. In some embodiments, the method involves grasping the prosthesis with a grasping device to insert the prosthesis partway under constraint, loosing the grasping device to release the prosthesis from constraint, and pushing the prosthesis farther into the disc space using the grasping device and/or one or more separate pusher devices. A system includes a grasping device, at least one separate pushing device, and optionally a vertebral spreading device and/or a vertebral midline indicator device.

Abstract: A method couples a body worn apparatus and a prosthetic with the body of a person. The body worn apparatus has a plurality of activation elements arranged in at least one suit bundle, and a substrate supporting the plurality of activation elements. The method also activates the at least one suit bundle to move the prosthetic.

Abstract: Prosthetic limb covers and systems comprising a front shell and a back shell having self-aligning and self-closing features are provided. A prosthetic capture bracket is configured to capture the structural component of a prosthetic device to internally secure the shells to a prosthetic limb.

Abstract: Prosthesis devices can include sockets having adjustable features. In one example, a socket includes one or more panels that can move outwardly or inwardly relative to a receptacle portion of the socket. The panels can be moved by tightening a tensioning line.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a stent graft comprising (a) a self-expandable stent structure having a first end and a second end, wherein the self-expandable stent structure defines a lumen, (b) at least one restraint configured to be coupled to an exterior surface of the stent graft in a compressed condition, and wherein the at least one restraint is configured to be broken to permit the stent graft to transition to an expanded condition, and (c) a first plurality of anchoring projections coupled to the exterior surface of the stent graft adjacent to the first end of the self-expandable stent-structure.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an endoluminal prosthesis, and more particularly, to a stent graft assembly and method for treating branched vessels. The assembly comprises a first prosthesis having an overall shortened length comprising a main body formed of biocompatible graft material having a tapered proximal end. A bifurcated portion extends distally from the main body. The bifurcated portion comprises a first tubular portion defining a first lumen and a second tubular portion defining a second lumen. The assembly further comprises a second prosthesis having a tubular body of biocompatible graft material with a flared distal end portion. The flared distal end portion of the second prosthesis is configured to sealingly engage with the tapered main body of the first prosthesis.

Abstract: A medical device includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold has a structure that produces a low late lumen loss when implanted within a peripheral vessel and also exhibits a high axial fatigue life. In a preferred embodiment the scaffold forms ring structures interconnected by links, where a ring has 12 crowns and at most two links connecting adjacent rings.

Abstract: A tubular prosthesis having a succession of turns around a longitudinal axis includes connectors between adjacent turns distributed around the circumference of the prosthesis. Each turn includes struts interspersed by inflection zones located at the axial ends of each turn such that, when the prosthesis expands radially, gaps open up between adjacent struts of each of the turn. The inflection zones are distributed regularly around the circumference so that the gaps are substantially the same size as each other around the circumference of the turn. The prosthesis may include a turn that exhibits a stagger zone within which the gap between adjacent struts is of an individual size different from that common to the other gaps of that turn. The inflection zones in that turn that lie circumferentially next to the stagger zone are displaced out of facing relationship with corresponding zones of inflection in the adjacent turn.

Abstract: A thin-walled scaffold includes a radiopaque marker connected to a link. In a first example, the marker is retained on the strut by a head at one or both ends by swaging. In a second example of a thin-walled scaffold the link is modified to avoid interference during crimping. In a third example a distal end of the thin-walled scaffold is modified to improve deliverability of the thin-walled scaffold. These features are combined in a fourth example.

Abstract: A convertible nephroureteral catheter is used in the treatment of urinary system complications, particularly on the need for a single surgically delivered device to treat patients who must be seen by an interventional radiologist (IR). In many current procedures, patients need to return to the operating room to remove a previously delivered nephroureteral catheter to exchange this catheter with a fully implanted ureteral stent delivered though the same access site at the flank. The present convertible nephroureteral catheter reduces the need to return for a second surgical procedure. Two weeks after initial implantation, the proximal portion of the convertible nephroureteral catheter extending out from the body may simply be removed. A simple action at the catheter hub allows this proximal portion to be removed, leaving behind the implanted ureteral stent within the patient's urinary system. Other medical procedures, devices, and technologies may benefit from the described convertible catheter.