Abstract: A prosthetic valve comprises a valve body, comprising a tubular frame and a plurality of leaflets; an upstream support, comprising a second frame; and a flexible sheet that couples the upstream support to the valve body. The prosthetic valve is compressible into a delivery tool such that the prosthetic valve is in a compressed state in which the second frame and the tubular frame are arranged in series within the tool, and the valve body has a compressed body-diameter. The prosthetic valve is deployable from the tool such that the prosthetic valve automatically expands into an expanded state. In the expanded state, the second frame defines an inner perimeter, the sheet extends inwardly from the inner perimeter to the valve body, and the prosthetic valve defines a conduit through the upstream support and the valve body. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A system for expanding a device in a conduit or orifice of a human body includes a balloon member that is movable from a first configuration to a second configuration. External surfaces of the balloon member can collectively have a non-cylindrical cross-section relative to a main axis of the balloon member, such that the external surfaces of the balloon member generally conform to the anatomical shape of the conduit or orifice when the balloon member is in the second configuration.

Abstract: A dual member stent-valve for transcatheter delivery to a native heart valve needing replacement. A first component is attached to the native annulus upstream of the native leaflets maintaining native leaflet function, and is held to the native annulus by barbs that are activated by a torus balloon after the first component is fully expanded. The torus balloon can be implanted along with the support frame. A limiting cable restricts further expansion of the first component and holds a second component that contains the replacement leaflets.

Abstract: Systems and methods for creating a geometric design definition for 3D models designed to fit physical or digital template objects is disclosed. The 3D models can transform to fit specific physical or digital objects which are different from but topologically isomorphic to the original template objects based on visual or mathematical inputs. To validate the fit, the generated 3D model can be compared with the specific physical or digital objects for which the 3D model is generated to fit, and the geometry of generated 3D model can be adjusted to improve the fit if the generated 3D model is not validated. The accuracy of the fit of the generated 3D models can be improved iteratively.

Abstract: An orthopedic prosthetic joint comprising a joint couple having a first bearing surface made of a poly aryl ether ketone (PAEK) and a second joint component having a second bearing made of a polymer that is softer than the PAEK such as UHMWPE the first and second bearing surfaces in sliding engagement with one another.

Abstract: An expandable intervertebral spacer has a plurality of arms. The arms can be retracted or extended. The spacer has a width that is narrower than the width between the nerve roots near the posterior approach to an intervertebral space. Once inserted into the intervertebral space, the arms can be deployed. The deployed arms expand the height and width of the spacer. Once deployed, the spacer stabilizes two adjacent vertebrae. The arms are interconnected mechanically to deploy simultaneously.

Abstract: An expandable interbody fusion implant device has a frame, two ramp assemblies and two overlying base plates driven by two independent drive shafts. The two ramp assemblies include a distal ramp assembly and a proximal ramp assembly. Each ramp assembly has a translating ramp, a first pivoting hinged ramp and a second pivoting hinged ramp. The two overlying base plates include a first base plate overlying a second base plate. Each base plate is hinged to the distal ramp assembly and the proximal ramp assembly at an end of one of said pivoting hinged ramps of each ramp assembly. The two independently driven drive shafts include a first drive shaft for translating the distal ramp assembly and a second drive shaft for translating the proximal ramp assembly to independently expand the implant proximally or distally or both.

Abstract: An expandable interbody fusion implant device has a frame, two ramp assemblies and two overlying base plates driven by two independent drive shafts. The two ramp assemblies include a distal ramp assembly and a proximal ramp assembly. Each ramp assembly has a translating ramp, a first pivoting hinged ramp and a second pivoting hinged ramp. The two overlying base plates include a first base plate overlying a second base plate. Each base plate is hinged to the distal ramp assembly and the proximal ramp assembly at an end of one of said pivoting hinged ramps of each ramp assembly. The two independently driven drive shafts include a first drive shaft for translating the distal ramp assembly and a second drive shaft for translating the proximal ramp assembly to independently expand the implant proximally or distally or both.

Abstract: An intervertebral prosthetic implant having a first endplate having a first surface configured to substantially engage with a first vertebral body and a second surface having an extension with a concave contact surface, the concave contact surface being spaced apart from the second surface. A second endplate is provided with a first surface configured to substantially engage with a second vertebral body and a second surface comprising a convex contact surface, and the second endplate having a securing element positioned along and above the second surface defining a first and second window on opposing sides of the second surface. The securing element extends along the width and length of the lower endplate and configured with an access hole. An extension portion extends from the first surface of the first endplate through the access hole of the securing element and contacts the second surface of the second endplate.

Abstract: A modular anchor bone fusion cage is provided. The cage includes a spacer configured to fit into a space between the faces of two bones that are to be fused together. A fusion plate having at least a main body portion is coupled to the spacer by a connector. Fasteners extend through the fusion plate to engage the bone. At least some of the fasteners also extend through the spacer to engage the opposed faces of the bone. A cover plate is coupled to the fusion plate to inhibit the fasteners from backing out prior to fusion of the bones.

Abstract: A cup impactor (1, 1?, 1?) is provided, adapted to assist a surgeon in controlling implantation of a cup prosthesis (9). The impactor has an impactor body (8), a drive train assembly (71), an impactor nose (38), and a clamping handle (5). The impactor body (8) has on its proximal end, an impaction plate (7) connected thereto, and an impactor handle (6) formed thereon for handling by the surgeon and, on the distal end, an impactor cup support portion (8a) having a receiver recess (8b) therein. A drive train assembly (71) has a prosthesis engaging interface (11) at a distal end thereof, and a proximal end on which a positioning knob (2) is formed. The assembly (71) received and rotatably mounted in the receiver recess (8b) of the body (8) so as to expose the prosthesis engaging surface (11). An impactor nose (38) mounts on the distal end of the impactor body (8), through which the prosthesis engaging interface (11) extends.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of inserting an implant comprising providing an expandable vertebral implant. The method further may comprise providing an angling inserter tool. The angling inserter tool comprises a handle portion, a base portion, and a tip assembly, the base portion being disposed between the handle portion and the tip assembly. The method further may comprise distally advancing a central shaft of the tip assembly with rotation into an opening in the expandable vertebral implant to secure the angling inserter tool to the expandable vertebral implant. The method further may comprise positioning the expandable vertebral implant in a patient's spine. The method further may comprise for causing the tip assembly to angulate with respect to a longitudinal axis of the angling inserter tool, wherein the internal shaft is coaxial with an outer cylinder of the base portion.

Abstract: Tools, devices and systems that include a generally cylindrical, hollow shaft, and a suction canister are provided with advantageous interconnectivity features and functions that enable ease of manufacturing, lowered manufacturing costs, and allow for a platform of different shaft embodiments and canister embodiments that may be manufactured in different combinations to form an array of unique instruments. The interconnectivity may be irreversible or reversible, and the connection features maintain an air tight seal between the components. Tools, devices and systems are also provided that include collection functionality that can be employed to manipulate the volume of tissue collected while using a tissue collection feature/function. This may be undertaken to restrict total volume of the collection chamber in a way that allows for continuous suction flow rate to take place while collecting the desired amount of tissue.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cartilage slicing apparatus which enables cartilage pieces to be sliced with a form and thickness so as to be used in surgery.

Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a lower limb articulation for bipedal locomotion, which includes a first element a second element and articulation devices for articulating the first and second elements relative to one another, the articulation devices including an articulation mechanism including first and second linking devices mounted in series, as well as devices for guiding and locking in position one of the first and second elements relative to the other one of the first and second elements when the lower limb comes to rest on a surface, the devices for locking in position including a potential trough.

Abstract: A prosthetic or exoskeleton component for a prosthesis or exoskeleton includes a shock-absorbing unit. The shock-absorbing unit contains a damping device that can be controlled by way of a control device. A detection device has a sensor unit for receiving a signal. The detection device is configured to detect uneven ground depending on the acquired signal and to control the damping device in response to the detected uneven ground such that a damping property of the damping device can be adjusted on the basis of a signal of the detection device.

Abstract: A method of reducing blood flow within an aneurysm includes: injecting a contrast agent into a blood vessel including an aneurysm; expanding a stent, from a delivery device, across the aneurysm; and confirming that a stagnated area forms in the aneurysm. The stagnated area can form a crescent shape, a mushroom shape, a hemispherical shape, and/or a flat side. Upon confirming that the stagnated area forms in the aneurysm, the delivery device can be withdrawn from the blood vessel. The stagnated area can include the contrast agent. If the stagnated area does not form in the aneurysm, a second occluding device may be deployed.

Abstract: A vascular intervention device delivery system includes a thumbwheel rotatably mounted in a handle. A termination assembly is mechanically connected to the handle. A catheter extends through the termination assembly and has a proximal end attached to the handle, and a distal carrier segment for mounting a vascular intervention device. A retractable sheath is movable from a first position covering the distal carrier segment to a second position retracted proximally to uncover the distal carrier segment. A pull extends between the thumbwheel and the retractable sheath, and through the termination assembly. A stability sheath that receives the pull and the inner catheter has a proximal end that terminates in the termination assembly.

Abstract: A protective sleeve for a balloon catheter includes an insertion aid for a guide wire. The insertion aid is integrated in the protective sleeve at a distal end of the protective sleeve. In addition, a balloon catheter includes a protective sleeve which at least partially surrounds a balloon. An insertion aid for a guide wire is integrated in the distal end of the protective sleeve.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides for an assembly and methods of use to deploy a segmented medical device to a body vessel. The assembly includes a multiportion medical device which has a plurality of detachable components, a balloon catheter, and a retention member at the distal end of the balloon of the balloon catheter so as to alter the inflation profile of said balloon, such that microsliding of the device over the exterior of the balloon is prevented or minimized.

Abstract: A method of performing angioplasty includes accessing an artery, inserting a tubular balloon into to the artery in a low-profile operating mode, the tubular balloon constrained in a generally helical shape, and forming a lumen within the generally helical shape by expanding the tubular balloon into a high-profile operating mode. A system for creating a lumen is also disclosed.

Abstract: An orthopedic device has various frame elements concealed by a sleeve defining pockets into which such frame elements are located. The orthopedic device includes a strap tightening assembly adapted to secure a plurality of straps simultaneously. The frame may include flexible edge features located along a periphery thereof.

Abstract: A rib belt has a dragging belt and two patches. The dragging belt is length adjustable and has two opposite ends. The two patches are respectively connected to the two opposite ends of the dragging belt. Each one of the two patches has an adhesive face. The dragging belt drags the two patches in a stretching manner to resist a contracting force caused by muscle contraction.

Abstract: The nonviolent shield is used for restraining an agitated standing individual, while protecting that individual from a violent fall or similar jerking associated with a restraining intervention. The nonviolent shield comprises a rectangular flexible cargo net; an elongated body-height central cushion attached to the cargo net along a median of the cargo net, and two elongated body-height side cushions attached to the cargo net in a spaced-apart parallel relationship with the central cushion. The present nonviolent shield also has handhold areas of the cargo net bordering the central cushion. In another aspect, the central cushion has a movable portion on an upper segment thereof so that the central cushion is brought with firmness against the torso of the individual to be restrained, and with lightness against the face and head of that individual.

Abstract: Disclosed is a medical endovaginal device, including an elongated element defining a direction of development and having, at its proximal end, a head arranged to be introduced inside the vagina and, at its distal end, engagement element with the extreme portion of the penis during sexual intercourse.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a system for improving a user's breathing includes a mask configured to be positioned on a user's face to deliver gas to the user, a first oral appliance arch configured to be worn in the user's mouth on the user's mandibular dentition, a first tension element coupled to the first oral appliance arch, an adjustment device coupled to the mask, and a control system. The adjustment device is configured to receive the first tension element and to adjust the position of the first tension element to adjust the forward position of the first oral appliance arch, such that the when the mask is positioned on the user's face and the first oral appliance arch is worn on a user's mandibular dentition, the forward position of the user's mandible is adjusted.

Abstract: An intrauterine device (IUD) with a restricted movement of a string(s), the strings can be either a single string or two or more strings or a filament, emerging from the spherical bulge of IUD. The strings of IUD are of a differential strength so that the strings are soft and the hanging portion of the strings, “feelable” in the vaginal cavity, does not cause discomfort to the woman, nor bruise the organ of the partner during intercourse, at the same time the strings in the endocervical canal are relatively stiffer and not have the tendency to get curled up progressively. The strings optionally have marks to facilitate cutting by a surgeon to an accurate length.

Abstract: A wearable cooling and heating system for placement at a body region of a user, including a retention mechanism defining an internal side, and an external side; a temperature modulation subsystem, coupled to the retention mechanism, including a temperature-controllable substrate arranged at the internal side of the retention mechanism, a shield, defining a shield cavity, the shield arranged at the external side of the retention mechanism and coupled to the temperature-controllable substrate, and a heat exchanger in thermal contact with the temperature-controllable substrate and arranged within the shield cavity; a control module, retained by the retention mechanism, communicatively coupled to the temperature modulation subsystem, wherein the temperature modulation subsystem is operable between a cooling mode and a heating mode by the control module, wherein the cooling mode includes generating a low temperature at the temperature-controllable substrate, and wherein the heating mode includes generating a high

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for monitoring phototoxicity caused by vitreous visualization device (“VVD”) illumination during ophthalmic surgery. The systems and methods determine the cumulative amount of optical energy incident on the retina, which corresponds to phototoxicity, the distance between a cutter of the VVD and the retina, and areas where the vitreous has been removed, or any combination thereof. The disclosure further provides a method for monitoring and preventing phototoxicity caused by VVD illumination during ophthalmic surgery. The method may further include determining the distance between a cutter of the VVD and the retina, and determining areas where the vitreous has been removed based on focus areas of the retina that the plurality of light spots has contacted.

Abstract: A penetrating canaloplasty for treating angle-closure glaucoma that retains the advantages of canaloplasty, namely, internal drainage and non-bleb-dependence; the sclera is tightly sutured so as to avoid ocular hypotension and shallow anterior chamber complications; bleb-related complications such as postoperative infection and dry eye are avoided; since the inner wall of the Schlemm's canal is resected, it is possible to improve long-term success rate; indications are widened, including angle-closure glaucoma and all of glaucoma patients applicable to trabeculectomy. Traditional trabeculectomy forms blebs via outer filtering to reduce intraocular pressure, and the existence of blebs can influence postoperative living quality of patients.

Abstract: Methods are provided for using an intraocular shunt deployment device to deploy an intraocular shunt from the device and into an eye.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a sleep mask eye cover to reduce effects of ambient light for a sleeper; an elastic band to secure the apparatus to the sleeper during operation; a pair of earplug leashes comprising a first end and second end, wherein the pair of earplug leashes are fixedly attached via the first end to the elastic band at a first and second position adjacent to the sleeper's ears; and a pair of ear plugs removably coupled to the second end of the pair of earplug leashes, wherein the pair of ear plugs may be inserted into the sleeper's ears to reduce ambient noise.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed within herein relate to a wound dressing, suitable for use in negative pressure wound therapy, comprising a body of porous material, the body of porous material comprising a plurality of cuts which provide regions of flexibility within the body. Further embodiments relate to methods of manufacturing and method of use of such wound dressings. In addition, the wound dressing can comprise a retaining mechanism removably coupled to the material and configured to retain the material in the expanded conformation.

Abstract: A compression apparatus for a wound, the apparatus having: a base comprising a base opening with access to the wound; a housing removably attached to the base; an inflatable member within the housing; wherein the inflatable member is fillable with an inflation medium such that the inflatable member expands within the housing opening and expands through the base opening to apply a compressive force on the wound.

Abstract: A corn dressing for application to a corn. The dressing comprises an adhesive layer having a skin-facing surface and a non-skin-facing surface. The non-skin-facing surface is provided with a backing layer and the dressing comprises a central portion and a border portion surrounding the central portion and a central hole or depression. The central portion comprises a core surrounding the central hole or depression. The core is pressure resistant and is embedded in the adhesive layer.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a stretchable sheet that is a laminate of a non-stretchable first sheet layer, a non-stretchable second sheet layer, and an elastic film disposed between the first and second sheet layers, and the elastic film is stretchable at least in the front-back direction. The first sheet layer is bonded to the second sheet layer at a large number of joints directly or through the elastic film and the joints are arrayed at intervals. The stretchable sheet is contracted by a contraction force of the elastic film and can be stretched by an external force applied in the front-back direction. The leg portion is also contracted by a contraction force of the elastic film and can be stretched by an external force applied in the width direction. The leg portions and adjoined regions have different joint area rates and thereby have different stretching stresses.

Abstract: Using a conveyance roller having an outer peripheral surface which is capable of conveying two sheets with an elastic element sandwiched therebetween, in a longitudinal direction of the sheets, and formed with a convex section; and a clamping and pressing device, the sheets with the elastic element sandwiched therebetween are ultrasonic-welded together under pressing. The convex section is formed in a shape extending along a line intersecting a conveyance direction of the conveyance roller, and the convex section is provided with a plurality of grooves at positions spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction thereof, wherein each of the grooves extends in the conveyance direction of the conveyance roller to allow a portion of the sheets on which the elastic element is disposed, to be inserted therein.

Abstract: A sensor system for detecting a property of or within an absorbent article may comprise an absorbent article and an auxiliary article.

Abstract: An array of packages may comprise three or more different sizes of disposable absorbent articles. The Product Length-to-Waist Silhouette of an array of three or more absorbent articles may be from about 0.9 to about 1.1 or from about 0.5 to about 0.7.

Abstract: An absorbent article in the form of pants includes: an absorbent core having two longitudinal edges and two transverse edges, and a pant part. The pant part includes a covering layer, a front section, a back section and an intermediate crotch section, wherein the front and back sections are connected to one another along two opposing longitudinal lateral edges to form a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. The absorbent core is arranged at least in the crotch section and connected to the covering layer on the side of the covering layer that is intended to face the wearer. The pant part includes at least one low-opacity area, which has an opacity that is lower than 50%. The article also includes a liquid-tight coloured barrier layer placed between said absorbent core and covering layer.

Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide an EMG signal controller or a wheelchair using an EMG signal controller to allow full vehicular direct drive control, and wheelchair accessory control, by using one or more EMG sensors applied to certain muscles of a subject, and translating the movement of the muscles of the subject that the EMG sensors are connected, to electrical signals causing for the operation of a motorized wheelchair. The controller and wheelchair are designed specifically for paralyzed individuals with limited motion, but may be used by any subject with or without any physical or nervous system disabilities. The present invention further provides an emergency stop which is activated in the event that the subject using the wheelchair experiences a seizure or other neurological shock.

Abstract: A motorized wheelchair for disabled or elderly users has a frame, a seat for the disabled driver, a handlebar, a motor provided with an acceleration apparatus, a wheel assembly and a braking apparatus of the wheels. The wheelchair has a bivalent control device that is capable of being interfaced with the acceleration apparatus of the motor and with the braking apparatus of the wheels.

Abstract: A system for changing the width of a person support apparatus includes a bed controller for receiving a command signal indicating a command for width alteration, a first motor controlled by the bed controller for driving an extension of a first deck section of the support apparatus thereby altering the width of the first deck section, and a second motor controlled by the bed controller for driving an extension of a second deck section of the support apparatus thereby altering the width of the second deck section. The bed controller controls the first motor and the second motor in a manner that causes the first deck section to reach a first deck section width alteration limit at a first time and the second deck section to reach a second deck section width alteration limit at a second time, wherein the first time and the second time are not equal.

Abstract: It is disclosed a localized topical hyperbaric therapeutic instrument, comprising: a primary airbag, which is a chamber with an opening at an end; an oxygen generating device, which comprises an oxygen generator and a first pressure controller, wherein the oxygen generator has an oxygen outlet which communicates with the primary airbag through a first air inlet line and supplies oxygen into the primary airbag, and wherein the first pressure controller controls an amount of oxygen supplied to the primary airbag by the oxygen generator; a massage device; a heating piece, which is arranged in the primary airbag and generates heat; a treatment unit, which is arranged in the primary airbag in a detachable manner, disposed at a position corresponding to the heating piece, and comprises medical ingredients which are volatile upon heating.

Abstract: An electrical connection system that can feed power, signal, data, and communication lines into a rotating patient support system in a infant warming device.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing a surgical table base with sufficient stiffness and adjustable support members with force feedback are described herein. In some embodiments, a base for a surgical table includes a base body to which other components of a surgical table can be coupled. A surgical table, and optionally a patient supportable by the surgical table, and any equipment to be carried by the surgical table, collectively representing a table load to be carried by the base body to support the surgical table on a surface. The base further includes a support assembly coupled to the base body to support the base body on the surface. The support assembly includes at least four support members. Each support member has a surface-engaging end and can transmit a portion of a total load represented by the weight of the base and the table load through the surface-engaging end to the surface. The surface-engaging ends of any three of the four support members define a plane.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing a surgical table base with sufficient stiffness and adjustable support members with force feedback are described herein. In some embodiments, a base for a surgical table includes a base body to which other components of a surgical table can be coupled. A surgical table, and optionally a patient supportable by the surgical table, and any equipment to be carried by the surgical table, collectively representing a table load to be carried by the base body to support the surgical table on a surface. The base further includes a support assembly coupled to the base body to support the base body on the surface. The support assembly includes at least four support members. Each support member has a surface-engaging end and can transmit a portion of a total load represented by the weight of the base and the table load through the surface-engaging end to the surface. The surface-engaging ends of any three of the four support members define a plane.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing a surgical table base with sufficient stiffness and adjustable support members with force feedback are described herein. In some embodiments, a base for a surgical table includes a base body to which other components of a surgical table can be coupled. A surgical table, and optionally a patient supportable by the surgical table, and any equipment to be carried by the surgical table, collectively representing a table load to be carried by the base body to support the surgical table on a surface. The base further includes a support assembly coupled to the base body to support the base body on the surface. The support assembly includes at least four support members. Each support member has a surface-engaging end and can transmit a portion of a total load represented by the weight of the base and the table load through the surface-engaging end to the surface. The surface-engaging ends of any three of the four support members define a plane.

Abstract: An inversion apparatus includes a support frame configured to movably support an inversion table. The support frame includes a forwardly extending foot platform that helps a user mount the apparatus when the apparatus is in an operative configuration, and that facilitates upright storage of the apparatus when the apparatus is in a compact configuration. The support frame also includes front and rear legs that pivot relative to one another to transform the apparatus between configurations.

Abstract: A motion assistance apparatus including a first support configured to support a waist of a user, a side frame connected to the first support and configured to cover at least a portion of a side of the waist, and a joint assembly connected to the side frame such that a location of the joint assembly is adjustable in a longitudinal direction of the side frame, and configured to be located at a part of a hip joint of the user is disclosed.